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Date/Time: Sat, 20 Apr 2024 13:42:28 +0000



Completely different results between back-/ forward testing with same multi TF algorithm

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[2013-06-25 17:29:00]
BataviaTrader - Posts: 63
I have been hesitating a lot to post a request for support as I know you are very busy these days with all the new plans. But I'll give it a try at last.

I have developed a strategy for automated trading, using the spreadsheet.

When backtesting it gives great results. However, forward testing gives completely different results. I am not talking slippage and spread here. But it triggers much more trades in forward testing (live data) and not profitable, using the same algo.

To give you an idea:
Forward testing yesterday on the ES resulted in a profit factor 0.52 (8 trades, of which 3 profitable)
Doing a backtest of yesterday resulted in just 1 profitable trade. Same product (ES), same algo, everything the same.

I am using 2 times frames for the algorithm.

Please advice if you have a chance. Thank you in advance.


additional explanation:

There are 3 tabs in my chartbook:
1st tab: Main Chart (TF M25), with referenced chart (TF M5) below the main chart (using Study/Price overlay)
2nd tab: the referenced chart
3th tab: spreadsheet with the Buy and Sell algo etc.

I have also noticed this:

If For All Charts in Chartbook (in replay window) is enabled, results of backtesting is miserable
If For All Charts in Chartbook (in replay window) is disabled, results of backtesting are very good

So my question also is how do I get forward / live testing with good results? Where is it refering to, if it is not to the second chart? Where are those good results coming from?


Date Time Of Last Edit: 2013-06-25 20:47:08
[2013-06-27 02:00:49]
vegasfoster - Posts: 444
You have to enable For all Charts in Chartbook or the value referenced on the higher time frame chart will be the close value on the higher time frame chart and not the value that existed in real time on the lower time frame chart. In other words your results will be better because your strategy is in essence looking into the future. If you run a bar based backtest, then I think you will have the same type of issue. If you simply plot a higher time frame on a lower time frame and manually walk through the chart you will have the same issue as well.
[2013-06-28 03:29:21]
Sierra Chart Engineering - Posts: 104368
Everything you need to know about this subject can be found on or is linked to from this page:
http://www.sierrachart.com/index.php?l=doc/doc_Backtesting.php

Refer to the list of links at the top of the page.
Sierra Chart Support - Engineering Level

Your definitive source for support. Other responses are from users. Try to keep your questions brief and to the point. Be aware of support policy:
https://www.sierrachart.com/index.php?l=PostingInformation.php#GeneralInformation

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