Insights
The Quantly blog
Plain-language guides on metrics, strategy design, and platform research - written for investors who want systematic edge without writing code.
Learn · Oct 5, 2026
What is algorithmic trading?
Algorithmic trading uses programmed rules to place orders automatically. Learn how it works, common strategy types, benefits and risks, and how it differs from discretionary investing and high-frequency trading.
Learn · Oct 4, 2026
K-1 ETFs explained
Some ETFs send Schedule K-1 instead of a simple 1099-DIV. Learn why, which fund structures use K-1s, tax filing implications, and what to watch for in taxable and IRA accounts.
Learn · Oct 4, 2026
What is the Sharpe ratio?
The Sharpe ratio measures risk-adjusted return: how much extra return you earn per unit of volatility. Learn how to read it, what counts as good, and how it shows up in backtests.
Learn · Oct 1, 2026
What is max drawdown?
Max drawdown measures the worst peak-to-trough decline in your equity curve. Learn why it matters for risk, how to read it in a backtest, and how it pairs with Sharpe and Calmar.
Learn · Sep 28, 2026
What is backtesting?
Backtesting simulates how a trading strategy would have performed on historical data. Learn the steps, common pitfalls like overfitting, and how to backtest systematically without writing code.
Learn · Sep 25, 2026
Paper trading for algorithmic strategies
Paper trading lets you run automated strategies with simulated money in real market conditions. Learn when to use it, how it differs from backtests, and what to check before going live.
Learn · Sep 20, 2026
No-code algorithmic trading explained
No-code algo trading lets you design and automate systematic strategies with visual tools instead of programming. Learn core building blocks, who it fits, and how to evaluate platforms.
Learn · Sep 18, 2026
What is beta?
Beta measures how much an investment moves with the market. Learn how to interpret beta above or below 1, hedging intuition, and using beta in backtests and portfolio design.
Learn · Sep 17, 2026
What is alpha?
Alpha is return above what market exposure (beta) would explain. Learn the intuition, how it appears in regression, and why backtest alpha often shrinks live.
