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New user, simple algorithm, weird result

This is an example algorithm that I found. It is really simple and is just supposed to catch Netflix during periods of volatility. Why did it come up with these crazy returns? It fluctuated between enormous percent returns. I assume this is a bug or problem, but is the problem with Quantopian itself or is it a problem with my code?

3 responses

Philip,

Interesting idea.
The result you experienced is due to your algorithm logic being placed in your handle_data() function.

Because you are using minute data, this function is called every minute, and your algorithm gains a bigger position than your portfolio has cash. This can be avoided by issuing orders only if there is not currently an open order.

I've updated the algorithm to not trade if there is currently an open order.
Here's the updated backtest. As you can see, the result is much more reasonable.

Best,
Lota

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Hi Philip,

Lotanna's solutions is a good one. Here's a tutorial video that explains why. This is from the Quantopian Tutorial Series, check it out!

Disclaimer

The material on this website is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation to buy, or a recommendation or endorsement for any security or strategy, nor does it constitute an offer to provide investment advisory services by Quantopian. In addition, the material offers no opinion with respect to the suitability of any security or specific investment. No information contained herein should be regarded as a suggestion to engage in or refrain from any investment-related course of action as none of Quantopian nor any of its affiliates is undertaking to provide investment advice, act as an adviser to any plan or entity subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, individual retirement account or individual retirement annuity, or give advice in a fiduciary capacity with respect to the materials presented herein. If you are an individual retirement or other investor, contact your financial advisor or other fiduciary unrelated to Quantopian about whether any given investment idea, strategy, product or service described herein may be appropriate for your circumstances. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Quantopian makes no guarantees as to the accuracy or completeness of the views expressed in the website. The views are subject to change, and may have become unreliable for various reasons, including changes in market conditions or economic circumstances.

Thank you for the help.