API Trading

Get the best of both worlds:

A streamlined, API solution designed specifically for IBKR clients


Comprehensive IBKR Integration

The API integrates seamlessly with your IBKR account, providing full access to IBKR's complete suite of offerings.

Modern and Scalable Architecture

Built for performance, Lightspeed Connect employs WebSockets for efficient, lightweight data transport and JSON messaging for clarity and simplicity in development.


Direct API Access

Lightspeed Connect operates independently of IBKR’s TWS or IB Gateway, allowing clients to enter and manage trades separately while establishing real-time synchronization with updates.

Paper Trading and Back Testing

A certification environment that allows simulated trading to validate API integration. Additionally, we offer guidance on back testing solutions.

Flexible Market Data Solutions

Customize a market data solution tailored to your needs, or leverage our market data integration.

Streamlined Onboarding and Use

Designed for ease of setup and use, minimizing time spent on integration and ongoing maintenance.

Most Popular FAQs

Overview and Access

The Lightspeed Connect API, offered by Lightspeed Financial Services Group LLC, an introducing broker to Interactive Brokers (IBKR), is a high-performance, WebSocket-based interface for IBKR clients. It enables real-time trading of equities, options, and futures without requiring TWS or IB Gateway. Seamlessly integrated with your IBKR account, it provides a lightweight solution for algorithmic trading, backed by dedicated support and developer resources to streamline your workflow.

An introducing broker (IB), like Lightspeed Financial Services Group LLC, enhances the IBKR experience by offering specialized technology, such as the Lightspeed Connect API, not available directly from IBKR. Your account remains with IBKR, providing full access to its trading infrastructure, while Lightspeed delivers advanced API capabilities. New or existing IBKR clients can easily connect to Lightspeed for a more efficient trading experience.

Start in the Certification Environment by reviewing our Getting Started Guide generate your API key, and testing sample orders. Once ready, contact us at apitrading@lightspeed.com to activate live access for your IBKR-linked account.

Yes, the Certification Environment offers a fully simulated platform, separate from IBKR’s paper trading, where you can test integrations, orders, and strategies risk-free. It includes test order and detailed error reporting to help developers refine their setups alongside IBKR’s tools.

The Certification Environment is a full-featured sandbox for simulated trading for assets like equities, options, and futures. It includes test orders, detailed error logs, and realistic execution scenarios.


Additional FAQs


Why is the API built on WebSockets?


WebSockets (WSS) with JSON deliver a lightweight, high-performance solution for real-time trading, simplifying integration compared to alternatives like FIX. This design ensures speed and reliability, meeting the demands of algo traders without unnecessary complexity.


Is WebSockets the only protocol available?


Yes, the API uses WebSockets exclusively, optimized for real-time, low-latency communication. Unlike other platforms offering FIX or sockets, Lightspeed Connect’s WSS-based approach balances simplicity and performance, ideal for most algorithmic workflows.


What are the advantages of not using TWS/IB Gateway?


By bypassing TWS/IB Gateway, the API eliminates Java dependencies and GUI overhead, enabling faster, more efficient automation directly with IBKR’s infrastructure. This streamlined design is a key benefit for systematic traders seeking performance.

What order types are available? 


Lightspeed Connect supports standard and advanced order types, including Brackets, OCA, and Multileg Options for sophisticated strategies. Most any IBKR order type, like conditional orders can be implemented upon request after thorough testing to ensure reliability. Contact apisupport@lightspeed.com to discuss specific order type requirements.


How does the API handle order routing?


The API offers flexible routing options, including SMART routing to optimize execution by selecting the best venue, and direct routing to major exchanges like NASDAQ, NYSE, AMEX, ARCA, and BATS. Routing availability depends on your account entitlements, ensuring efficient and cost-effective trades.


Do I need separate platforms for different instruments?


No, Lightspeed Connect unifies trading in a single API, supporting equities, options (single and multileg, up to four legs), and futures. This consolidated approach simplifies your workflow, eliminating the need for multiple platforms.

 

How does the API keep me updated on my account?


Real-time updates are delivered via messages like PositionStatus, AccountSummaryStatus, and LedgerInfoStatus, covering positions, balances, margin requirements, and financial metrics (e.g., Equity with Loan Value). This ensures you have a clear, up-to-date view of your account.


Can I monitor margin requirements in real time?


Yes, the API provides real-time margin updates through MonetaryInfoStatus messages, including Initial and Maintenance Margin Requirements.

How can I access market data for trading?



The API integrates with trusted third-party providers like Databento and Polygon offering real-time quotes, historical bars, market depth data (e.g., Level II feeds) and other market data. Its WebSocket architecture enables proper streaming, keeping you informed for timely trading decisions.

Are fees different from IBKR’s standard rates?


Fees for Lightspeed Connect currently align with IBKR’s published rates, with no additional costs at the moment. This cost parity ensures you can leverage the API’s advanced features without unexpected expenses, making it a seamless addition to your IBKR account.


What support is available for developers?


We offer full developer support, including our Getting Started Guide, sample code, and the WS_Adapter for easier integration. It handles sessions, reconnections, and event logic, saving you time. For help, contact apitrading@lightspeed.com or request a live demo.

 

Who is automated trading for?

Lightspeed Connect API @IBKR is an automated trading solution for all

Designed with versatility in mind for the individual trader, professionals and configurable for various trading platforms and software firms

Individuals and professionals

Algo and quant traders can leverage API trading to automate their trading strategies, saving time and enabling them to capitalize on market opportunities without constant monitoring. Many of these features have only been available to professional traders with high participation costs.

Advanced Order Types

Real-time dashboard for positions and orders

Multi-Asset Trading: Stocks, Futures, and Options

Custom web portal


Developer-friendly API

Flexible routing options

Integrated margin and risk controls

Extended market hours


API trading pricing

Take advantage of some of the industry's lowest and most competitive trading rates. Active traders who meet monthly trading volume thresholds can qualify for deeply discounted commissions.

Equities

From as low as:

$0.001

Per share


Options

From as low as:

$0.20

Per contract


API set-up tutorial

Getting started with Lightspeed Connect

Enhance your API trading experience and request a demo today.

© 2025 Lightspeed Financial Services Group, LLC. All rights reserved.

Equities, equities options, and commodity futures products and services are offered by Lightspeed Financial Services Group LLC (Member FINRA, NFA and SIPC). Lightspeed Financial Services Group LLC's SIPC coverage is available only for securities, and for cash held in connection with the purchase or sale of securities, in equities and equities options accounts. You may check the background of Lightspeed Financial Services Group LLC on FINRA's BrokerCheck.


Options trading entails significant risk and is not appropriate for all investors. Certain complex options strategies carry additional risk. Before trading options, please read Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options


ETFs are subject to market fluctuation and the risks of their underlying investments. ETFs are subject to management fees and other expenses.

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