Trader is a futures automated trading system built around native CTP protocol connectivity.
The tool solves the problem of executing algorithmic trading strategies against Chinese futures markets by providing a direct connection to the CTP (China Trader Platform) API. Its architecture chains together a C++ extension that wraps the native Thost API, a Python gateway layer that distributes market data and order responses through a local message bus, strategy execution logic that consumes these events, and a Django-based dashboard for monitoring and visualization. Configuration is centralized in a single YAML file at the project root, and the system can push logs directly to WeChat Work for real-time alerts.
The tool is suited for traders and quant developers working with Chinese futures exchanges who need low-latency strategy execution with direct API access. It requires Windows with MSVC and CMake for building the native extension, or Linux with equivalent build tools. The project expects users to supply their own CTP credentials and broker connection parameters. This is not a high-level trading platform but rather a framework for developers comfortable working with protocol-level details and C++ extensions.
Development activity shows consistent maintenance of the core trading pipeline and infrastructure. The codebase remains actively refined with attention to the native gateway layer and strategy execution paths. Configuration and deployment tooling receive regular updates to support operational requirements. The project maintains test coverage for the CTP native interface and continues to evolve the Django dashboard components.
