IBKR Setup

Overview

FlashAlpha integrates with Interactive Brokers (IBKR) to enable direct order execution from the platform. This guide covers setup and configuration.

Prerequisites

Before connecting:

1. Active IBKR Account - Paper or live trading account
2. Account Permissions - Options trading enabled
3. Market Data - Subscriptions for markets you trade

Connection Methods

OAuth Authentication (Recommended)

Secure, token-based authentication.

1. Go to Settings → Broker Integration
2. Click Connect Interactive Brokers
3. You'll be redirected to IBKR login
4. Log in with your IBKR credentials
5. Authorize FlashAlpha's access
6. You'll be redirected back to FlashAlpha

Permissions granted:

• Read account information
• Read positions
• Place/modify/cancel orders
• Read order status

Client Portal API

Alternative for users who prefer local gateway.

1. Download IBKR Client Portal Gateway
2. Run the gateway on your machine
3. In FlashAlpha, select Local Gateway
4. Enter gateway URL (default: https://localhost:5000)
5. Click Connect

Account Configuration

Select Trading Account

If you have multiple IBKR accounts:

1. Go to Settings → Broker Integration
2. Under Trading Account, select the account
3. Click Save

Paper vs. Live

Toggle between paper and live trading:

1. In broker settings, find Trading Mode
2. Select Paper Trading or Live Trading
3. Confirm your selection

Permissions & Security

What FlashAlpha Can Do

• View account balances
• View current positions
• Place new orders
• Modify existing orders
• Cancel orders

What FlashAlpha Cannot Do

• Withdraw funds
• Change account settings
• Access other linked accounts (unless authorized)

Revoking Access

To disconnect FlashAlpha:

1. Log into IBKR Account Management
2. Go to Settings → API Settings
3. Find FlashAlpha in authorized apps
4. Click Revoke Access

Troubleshooting

Connection Failed

Causes:

• IBKR servers temporarily unavailable
• Session expired
• Network issues

Solutions:

1. Click Reconnect
2. Clear browser cache
3. Try again in a few minutes
4. Contact support if persistent

Orders Not Executing

Causes:

• Insufficient buying power
• Position limits reached
• Market closed
• Invalid order parameters

Solutions:

1. Check account buying power
2. Verify market hours
3. Review order details
4. Check IBKR message center

Positions Not Showing

Causes:

• Sync delay
• Filter hiding positions
• Connection issue

Solutions:

1. Click Refresh Positions
2. Check position filters
3. Verify connection status

Data Mismatch

Causes:

• Delayed data feed
• Different data sources

Solutions:

1. FlashAlpha uses IBKR data when connected
2. Ensure market data subscriptions are active
3. Compare with IBKR TWS for verification

Best Practices

Use Paper Trading First

Test strategies in paper trading before going live.

Set Position Limits

Configure maximum position sizes in FlashAlpha settings.

Review Before Executing

Always review order details in the confirmation dialog.

Monitor Orders

Watch for partial fills, rejections, or modifications.