IBKR Gateway Python

Overview

Use ibkr_core modules in Python scripts or notebooks to fetch market data, read account data, and manage orders with safety rails.

Workflow

1. Confirm safety mode and connectivity.

   • Ensure IBKR Gateway or TWS is running on the configured host/port.
   • Keep TRADING_MODE=paper and ORDERS_ENABLED=false unless explicitly asked to enable live trading.
   • For offline testing, set IBKR_MODE=simulation and use get_ibkr_client from ibkr_core.simulation.

2. Create and connect a client.

   • Use IBKRClient(mode="paper") or get_ibkr_client() (respects IBKR_MODE).
   • Call client.connect() and client.disconnect().

3. Use market data, account, and order helpers.

   • Market data: get_quote, get_quotes, get_historical_bars, get_streaming_quote, get_quote_with_mode
   • Account: get_account_summary, get_positions, get_pnl, get_account_status, list_managed_accounts
   • Orders: preview_order, place_order, get_order_status, cancel_order, get_open_orders, cancel_order_set
   • Pass account_id when targeting a specific account; omit to use the first managed account.

4. Prefer preview-first order flow.

   • Call preview_order before place_order.
   • If ORDERS_ENABLED=false, place_order returns SIMULATED.

References

• references/python-usage.md for import lists and code examples.
• ibkr_core/models.py and docs/SCHEMAS.md for field names and order types.
• notebooks/02_market_data.ipynb, notebooks/03_account_status.ipynb, and notebooks/04_orders.ipynb for end-to-end workflows.