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Can Triangular Arbitrage Be Performed Manually or Does It Require Automation?

While theoretically possible, triangular arbitrage is practically impossible to perform manually. The window of opportunity is typically measured in milliseconds, far too fast for human reaction and order placement.

Automation via high-frequency trading bots is essential for detection, calculation, and simultaneous execution of the three legs. Manual attempts would almost certainly fail to execute or result in losses due to price movement.

How Do High-Frequency Trading (HFT) Firms Exploit Order Book Imbalances for Arbitrage?
How Does ‘Latency Arbitrage’ Affect the Execution Quality for non-HFT Traders?
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What Role Does Transaction Speed Play in the Profitability of Arbitrage Strategies Involving Derivatives?