NinjaTrader Data Fees: How Much are They, and How Do They Work?​

When it comes to trading, every dollar counts – especially when those dollars are tied up in data fees. NinjaTrader is a favorite among day traders and active investors, but its data fee structure can be as nuanced as your latest Fibonacci retracement. We’ll dive into how NinjaTrader’s data feeds work, their pricing and how they compare to competitors. Keep reading if you’ve ever wondered whether NinjaTrader is worth the investment.

How Do NinjaTrader Data Feeds Work?

NinjaTrader doesn’t generate data but partners with third-party providers to deliver real-time, delayed, historical and simulated market data directly to your platform. The flexibility allows traders to fine-tune their setup based on strategy and budget.

CME Market Data

CME, CBOT, NYMEX and COMEX data feed options are split into two tiers for non-professional users:

• Level I (Top of Book): $12 per month for all four exchanges or $4 per month per exchange.
• Level II (Full Depth): $41 per month for the bundle or $16 per month per exchange.
  Professional users pay $135 per month per exchange, a steeper investment but worth it for institutional traders.

ICE Market Data

The ICE U.S. feed costs $140 per month per exchange for all users. While pricier than CME feeds, ICE offers unique instruments, making it indispensable for certain trading strategies.

Eurex for NinjaTrader Continuum

Eurex feeds cost $23 per month for non-professional users and $80 per month for professional users. Eurex is vital for traders eyeing European markets.

NinjaTrader’s data feeds are highly customizable, letting you cherry-pick the exact exchanges and depth you need.

What Are the Data Fees for NinjaTrader?

Data fees depend on the market and your professional or non-professional trader classification. Here’s a breakdown:

NinjaTrader also supports integrations like CQG and Rithmic for data routing, which incur additional costs ranging from $0.15 to $0.25 per contract, depending on the service.

Comparing NinjaTrader Data Fees with Competitors

Here’s how NinjaTrader stacks up against other popular trading platforms:

For traders who value granular control and professional-grade data, NinjaTrader offers significant advantages, though platforms like Thinkorswim may appeal to casual investors looking for cost-effective tools.

Free Trials and Data Access

NinjaTrader offers a 14-day free trial with real-time market data, making it a great starting point for new users. You’ll have full platform access, including simulated trading, during the trial. Keep in mind:

• Limitations: The trial account is strictly for simulated trades, so you can’t execute live orders.
• Upside: You can explore NinjaTrader’s advanced analytics and SuperDOM tools without spending a dime.

Impact of Data Fees on Trading Decisions

Data fees can significantly influence your trading strategy and profitability:

• Scalpers and Day Traders: High-frequency traders often require Level II data, which adds to costs but provides critical insights for short-term trades.
• Swing Traders: Can often make do with Level I data, reducing monthly expenses.
• Profitability: High fees can erode profits if you’re not executing enough trades to justify the cost.

Balancing the cost of data feeds with the value they provide is essential.

How to Choose the Right Data Package

Picking the perfect data package depends on your trading style and budget. Here’s what to consider:

• Trading Style: Active day traders may need Level II data for deeper insights, while swing traders can rely on basic feeds.
• Preferred Markets: Choose feeds that align with your focus, whether futures, forex or equities.
• Budget: Be realistic about what you can afford – high-tier data might not be necessary for part-time traders.
• Platform Features: If you require integrations like CQG or Rithmic, factor in those additional costs.

Final Thoughts on NinjaTrader Data Fees

NinjaTrader’s customizable data feeds cater to various traders, offering competitive rates for advanced features. While the costs can add up, especially for professionals, the platform’s flexibility and precision make it a top choice for serious market participants. For beginners, the free trial provides a risk-free introduction to its capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions