I’m exploring whether a specific entry method can be developed in NinjaTrader’s Chart Trader (or as a custom add-on that integrates with it), and I’m looking for guidance on feasibility and best approach.
The entry logic is something I use in other markets and would like to bring into NinjaTrader:
Concept: Trigger-Trail Entry
Instead of placing a traditional limit order at a level, I want the platform to activate a trailing entry when price touches the level, and only execute once price reverses back through the trail.
Example:
- ES trading at 6900
- I want a long entry if price pulls back to 6800
- Instead of placing a buy limit at 6800, once price touches 6800:
- A trailing buy trigger activates
- If price continues down, trail follows by a fixed offset (e.g., 4–6 ticks)
- When price reverses and crosses back up through the trailing line → place long order + load ATM
- Same logic mirrored for short trades
Why this logic
Often price tags a level, flushes a few ticks through, hits stops, then reverses strongly. Traditional limit entries get wicked out.
This method reduces the probability of getting stopped on the first flush and often gives a better pullback entry — especially for scalping ~4–6 ticks.
I’ve used this successfully in crypto with automation scripts, but I have not seen this functionality built into NinjaTrader.
Questions:
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Is this possible to integrate into Chart Trader directly, or would I need a separate panel/add-on that issues orders?
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Does the Chart Trader API allow embedding of custom entry logic like this alongside ATM brackets?
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Are there any documented examples or recommended design patterns for extending Chart Trader UI + logic (not just buttons, but order logic execution)?