SPADILLE®Markets & Investment FAQ Centre

Clear answers. No market jargon.

Markets, AIF, PMS
and algo—explained.

Understand investment structures, algorithms, brokers, APIs, common myths and responsible first steps before committing capital.

54 clear answers

Reviewed 28 July 2026
01Algo basicsWhat is algorithmic—or algo—trading?

Algo trading means software follows a written set of rules to decide when to send, modify or cancel an order. The rules can use price, time, volume or indicators. It is automation—not a guarantee of profit.

02Start hereIs algo trading the same as investing?

No. Investing usually focuses on building wealth over a longer period. Trading usually seeks shorter-term price opportunities. An algorithm can support either approach, but the objective, risk and holding period should be clear first.

03Start hereHow should a beginner start investing?

Begin with goals, time horizon, emergency savings and the amount of loss you can tolerate. Use a regulated intermediary, understand the product and costs, diversify, start small and review statements. Do not act on a website FAQ as personal advice.

04Start hereHow should a beginner start with algo trading?

First learn market orders, limit orders, stop-losses, costs and slippage. Write one simple strategy, test it on historical and unseen data, paper-trade it, set hard risk limits and only then consider small live exposure through a compatible broker.

05Start hereHow much money do I need?

There is no universal minimum. It depends on the instrument, broker rules, lot size, margin and strategy risk. The right question is whether the capital can support sensible position sizing after all costs—without using money needed for essential expenses.

06Algo basicsDo I need to know coding?

Not always. Some approved platforms offer rule builders. But you still need to understand the strategy, data, costs, risk controls and what happens when technology fails. A no-code screen does not remove financial risk.

07Algo basicsWhat is a trading strategy?

It is a complete set of rules covering what to trade, when to enter, position size, when to exit, maximum loss and when not to trade. An indicator alone is not a complete strategy.

08Algo basicsWhat is backtesting?

Backtesting applies strategy rules to historical data to see how they would have behaved. It is a research tool, not proof of future returns.

09Algo basicsWhat is paper trading?

Paper trading simulates orders without risking real money. It helps test workflow and discipline, but may not reproduce live fills, slippage, rejected orders or emotional pressure.

10BrokersWhat does the broker do in algo trading?

The broker provides the regulated account and exchange connection through which orders are placed. The broker also applies permitted risk and compliance checks, reports order status and provides records such as contract notes.

11BrokersCan I trade on NSE or BSE without a broker?

A normal retail investor places exchange orders through a SEBI-registered stock broker. An app, strategy vendor or API tool is not a substitute for that broker relationship.

12BrokersIs an algo provider the same as a broker?

No. A provider may supply strategy or technology; a broker supplies the trading account and exchange route. Check the current status of every party independently and understand who is responsible for support, data, orders and complaints.

13BrokersWhat does SPADILLE offer brokers?

SPADILLE presents an institutional-style framework for strategy research, risk planning, analytics, market education and controlled workflow design. Any broker integration or live execution must be separately authorised, technically integrated and compliant.

14BrokersCan the same algorithm work with every broker?

Not automatically. Brokers can differ in API format, symbols, order types, rate limits, authentication, margins and error messages. A strategy must be tested for the specific broker connection before use.

15APIsWhat is a trading API?

An API is a controlled way for software to request data or send instructions to another system—for example, asking a broker for positions or submitting an order. It is a connection, not a trading strategy.

16APIsWhat is an API key, and should I share it?

An API key identifies software accessing an account. Treat keys, tokens, passwords, PINs and OTPs as secrets. Never paste them into a public form, chat or screenshot. Revoke and replace a key immediately if it is exposed.

17APIsWhat is the difference between REST and WebSocket data?

REST usually asks for a snapshot when needed. A WebSocket keeps a connection open so updates can arrive continuously. Streaming is useful for live systems, but it still needs reconnection, stale-data and rate-limit controls.

18APIsDoes connecting an API mean trades happen automatically?

No. The software must still contain an enabled order workflow, valid permissions and risk checks. SPADILLE’s public website does not request broker credentials or place orders.

19APIsWhat happens if the internet or API fails?

Orders may be delayed, rejected or left in an unexpected state. A serious system needs visible connection status, reconciliation with the broker, retry limits, alerts and a safe manual stop procedure.

20Myths · Myth checkMyth: A good algo guarantees profit. Is that true?

No. Every strategy can lose. Markets change, costs rise, liquidity disappears and historical patterns can stop working. Claims of guaranteed or unusually consistent returns are a warning sign.

21Myths · Myth checkMyth: Every algo uses artificial intelligence. Is that true?

No. Many useful algorithms are simple rules such as moving averages, breakouts or scheduled rebalancing. Calling a product “AI” does not make it accurate, safe or compliant.

22Myths · Myth checkMyth: Faster software always earns more. Is that true?

No. Speed matters only for strategies that genuinely depend on it. A bad decision made faster is still a bad decision. Data quality, risk limits, execution quality and discipline often matter more.

23Myths · Myth checkMyth: A stop-loss guarantees the exact exit price. Is that true?

No. A stop-loss is a risk instruction, not a price guarantee. In fast or gapping markets, the actual fill can be worse than the trigger level.

24Myths · Myth checkMyth: A strong backtest proves the strategy works. Is that true?

No. A backtest can look excellent because rules were fitted to the past, costs were omitted or future information leaked into the test. Unseen-data and live monitoring are essential.

25Myths · Myth checkMyth: Automation means I can switch it on and forget it. Is that true?

No. Automation still needs monitoring, data checks, broker reconciliation, software updates and risk review. Unattended systems can repeat an error very quickly.

26Risk & safetyWhat are the main risks in algo trading?

Market loss, overfitting, bad data, unexpected costs, insufficient liquidity, software defects, connection failure, rejected orders, excessive leverage and unauthorised account access.

27Risk & safetyWhat risk limits should a strategy have?

At minimum: maximum loss per trade and day, maximum position and exposure, permitted instruments and hours, order-frequency limits, stale-data protection and a kill switch. Limits should be set before trading starts.

28Risk & safetyWhat is position sizing?

Position sizing decides how many units to trade based on account capital, planned entry, stop level and acceptable loss. It prevents one idea from taking an uncontrolled share of the portfolio.

29Risk & safetyWhich costs should I include?

Include brokerage and applicable exchange charges, taxes and duties, bid–ask spread, slippage, data or platform charges and financing or margin costs where relevant. Small costs can materially change a high-turnover strategy.

30Risk & safetyHow can I spot an algo-trading scam?

Be cautious of guaranteed returns, pressure to act immediately, unverified apps or links, demands to transfer money to personal accounts, requests for OTPs or passwords, and claims that losses are impossible. Verify the intermediary independently.

31Risk & safetyAre prices shown on a public website always live?

No. They may be delayed, indicative, cached or temporarily unavailable. Always check the source, market status and last-update time. Use broker or exchange-authorised data for trading decisions.

32Risk & safetyCan SPADILLE hold my money or broker credentials?

SPADILLE’s public website does not hold client funds, ask for broker credentials or place live orders. Its public calculators, market references and strategy tools are educational and research-oriented.

33India rulesIs retail algo trading regulated in India?

Yes. SEBI issued a framework for safer retail participation in algorithmic trading, with implementation through exchanges and brokers. Requirements and timelines can change, so confirm the latest process with your broker and the relevant exchange before going live.

34India rulesWhat does an empanelled algo provider mean?

It means the provider appears in the relevant exchange process or list for the stated purpose. It is not a promise of returns. Verify the latest exchange list and the provider’s exact scope before relying on the claim.

35India rulesWho may give personalised investment advice?

Personalised recommendations should come from a properly registered professional acting within the permitted scope. General education, a calculator or a backtest is not the same as advice suited to your finances.

36India rulesWhat should I do if I have a broker or market-service complaint?

First use the intermediary’s official grievance channel and keep records. If unresolved, use the applicable exchange or SEBI grievance process, including SCORES where relevant. Never send account secrets while seeking support.

37Start hereWhat should I check before the first live trade?

Confirm the instrument, quantity, order type, maximum loss, market status, data freshness, broker connection and emergency stop. Recheck that paper and live settings are not being confused.

38AIFWhat is an Alternative Investment Fund (AIF)?

An AIF is a privately pooled investment vehicle that raises capital from eligible investors under a defined investment policy. Depending on its category and mandate, it may invest in venture capital, private equity, credit, infrastructure, special situations, public markets or complex trading strategies.

39AIFHow do Category I, II and III AIFs differ?

Category I generally includes strategies considered economically or socially desirable, such as venture capital and infrastructure. Category II commonly includes private equity, private credit and similar funds that do not ordinarily use leverage except for permitted operational needs. Category III may use more complex or market-oriented strategies and may employ leverage within applicable limits.

40AIFWho is an AIF designed for?

AIFs are intended for sophisticated investors who can evaluate higher complexity, longer holding periods, limited liquidity and the possibility of substantial loss. Eligibility, suitability and the ability to meet capital calls should be assessed before committing.

41AIFWhat is the minimum investment in an AIF?

The general regulatory minimum is ₹1 crore per investor, subject to specific exceptions and any higher minimum stated by the fund. Investors should rely on the current placement memorandum and applicable rules at the time of investment.

42AIFCan I withdraw from an AIF whenever I want?

Not necessarily. Many AIFs are close-ended and may have multi-year tenures, capital-call schedules, lock-ins or restricted transfer and redemption rights. Liquidity terms must be reviewed before investment; an AIF should not be treated like a bank deposit or an open-ended mutual fund.

43AIFWhat should I review before investing in an AIF?

Review the manager’s experience, investment team, strategy, portfolio construction, valuation policy, conflicts, leverage, fees, expenses, liquidity, exit process, reporting, service providers and downside history. Read the complete offering and legal documents, not only a presentation.

44PMSWhat is Portfolio Management Services (PMS)?

PMS is a professionally managed investment arrangement based on an agreed mandate. Unlike a pooled mutual fund, securities are generally held for the client through the prescribed account and custody structure, enabling portfolio-level reporting and a mandate tailored to the service terms.

45PMSWhat is the difference between discretionary and non-discretionary PMS?

In discretionary PMS, the portfolio manager makes investment decisions within the agreed mandate. In non-discretionary PMS, the manager recommends actions but executes them with the client’s consent. Advisory services provide advice while the client retains execution responsibility.

46PMSWhat is the minimum amount for PMS?

The current regulatory minimum is ₹50 lakh, although an individual provider or strategy may require more. A higher minimum does not make a strategy suitable; objectives, risk capacity, liquidity needs and costs still require careful assessment.

47PMSWhich PMS fees and costs should I understand?

Review management and performance fees, hurdle and high-water-mark terms, brokerage, custody, fund-accounting charges, taxes, transaction costs and exit terms. Ask for a worked illustration showing the effect of all charges under different return scenarios.

48PMSDo I own the securities in a PMS portfolio?

The portfolio is generally maintained for the client through the prescribed demat, bank and custody arrangements, subject to the service agreement. Confirm account ownership, authority, custody, voting, corporate-action and withdrawal processes in the final documents.

49PMSHow is PMS different from an AIF?

PMS is generally a separately managed portfolio under an individual mandate, while an AIF pools commitments from multiple investors into a fund or scheme. They differ in ownership structure, strategy flexibility, liquidity, documentation, reporting, fees and minimum investment.

50Why SPADILLEWhy consider SPADILLE for AIF and PMS solutions?

SPADILLE combines institutional research discipline, algorithmic intelligence and risk-first governance. The engagement is designed around mandate clarity, evidence-led product and manager evaluation, transparent costs, documented suitability and structured portfolio oversight.

51Why SPADILLEWhat does SPADILLE provide across AIF and PMS?

SPADILLE provides opportunity assessment, strategy and manager due diligence, suitability-led solution design, onboarding coordination, risk review and reporting support. The exact contracting entity, service scope and responsibilities are defined in the engagement documents.

52Why SPADILLEHow does algorithmic intelligence improve the process?

Structured analytics can improve consistency when comparing strategies, exposures, drawdowns, liquidity, concentration and performance behaviour. It supports professional judgement and monitoring; it does not replace due diligence or remove investment risk.

53Why SPADILLEDoes SPADILLE recommend the same solution to every investor?

No. A professional process begins with objectives, investment horizon, liquidity needs, risk capacity, existing exposures and applicable eligibility. AIF or PMS should be considered only when the proposed mandate is appropriate for the investor.

54Why SPADILLEDoes SPADILLE guarantee AIF or PMS returns?

No. Neither professional management nor analytical technology can guarantee returns. Capital can decline, liquidity can tighten and past performance may not recur. Any representation of assured or risk-free market returns should be treated with caution.

Continue learning

Move from clarity to responsible research.

Primary references

Verify rules at the source.

Regulations, broker processes and exchange requirements can change. These official references—not a marketing page—should guide operational decisions.

Compliance & investor protection

Regulatory information, safeguards & disclaimer

Please read this section before using SPADILLE information, tools or services, or entering into any regulated engagement.

Regulatory registrations

Stock broker — SEBI INZ000199727: BSE Cash/F&O/CD (Member ID 827); NSE Cash/F&O/CD (Member ID 14083); MSEI Cash/F&O/CD (Member ID 12003); MCX Commodity Derivatives (Member ID 15366); and NCDEX Commodity Derivatives (Member ID 392).

Depository participant: CDSL IN-DP-874-2025. Portfolio manager: SEBI INP000011054. Research analyst: SEBI INH000001332. Investment adviser: SEBI INA000012931.

Mutual fund distributor: AMFI ARN-16250 (initial registration 03-12-2025; current ARN validity through 02-12-2040). PFRDA: 35026049. Alternative investment fund: SEBI IN/AIF1/25-26/2127.

The applicable contracting entity, registration, permitted scope, charges and governing documents must be confirmed before an engagement. Independently verify current status with the relevant regulator, exchange, depository or industry body.

Investor safeguards

  • Never share a password, PIN, OTP, TPIN, API key, recovery code or complete account credential with anyone, including a person claiming to represent SPADILLE.
  • Do not transfer money, securities or digital assets to a personal or unverified third-party account. Confirm beneficiary and payment details through official documents and channels.
  • Reject claims of guaranteed or assured returns, capital protection, risk-free trading, privileged access or pressure to act immediately.
  • Read the client agreement, disclosure documents, fee schedule, risk factors, exit terms and conflict disclosures before proceeding. Retain copies and review statements promptly.
  • Public-site market information may be delayed, indicative or sourced from third parties. Verify source, timestamp and entitlement before relying on any value or alert.
  • Report suspicious contact through SPADILLE's official channel. Raise an unresolved eligible securities-market grievance on SEBI SCORES after first approaching the concerned entity.

Risk & legal disclaimer

Unless expressly delivered under a separate executed engagement within the applicable regulated capacity, this website provides general information and education only. It is not personal investment advice, a research recommendation, an offer or solicitation, a suitability determination, or a promise of any outcome.

Securities and market-linked products involve risk, including the possible loss of capital. Past performance is not indicative of future results. No return or capital protection is assured. Illustrations, calculators, models, scenarios and backtests are hypothetical, depend on assumptions and may omit taxes, costs, liquidity, slippage or operational constraints; actual results can differ materially.

Data and third-party content may be delayed, incomplete or revised and should be checked against the authoritative source. SPADILLE does not provide legal or tax advice through this website. Users should obtain independent professional advice appropriate to their objectives, risk capacity, circumstances and jurisdiction.

Registration with SEBI, membership of an exchange or depository, or registration with AMFI or PFRDA does not guarantee performance, eliminate risk or constitute regulatory endorsement of a strategy, product, service or statement on this website.

Market Brief