From idea to execution: how Nicola Capatti built a breakout strategy in Python for cTrader

When it comes to algorithmic trading, the language you choose can shape the entire development experience. For Nicola Capatti, creating his automated breakout bot, Breakout v5, was an opportunity to explore the power of Python inside cTrader - and the results were more than positive.

Why Python?

Nicola decided to rely entirely on the built-in cTrader Python API, without pulling in third-party libraries. This approach kept his codebase simple, clean, and fully compatible with the platform.

“The API already provides everything needed for working with market data, executing trades, handling indicators, and managing risk. So keeping the code native ensured compatibility and simplicity.”

Compared to C#, Python felt lighter and faster for prototyping. Its intuitive syntax helped Nicola focus on trading logic rather than boilerplate code. In his words, 

“Python made the whole process smoother and allowed me to iterate on ideas much more quickly.”

📌 Did you know? Python is brand-new in cTrader. See the full story of its launch and upcoming Mac support →

Python opens new earning opportunities in cTrader Store

We’re excited to announce a major milestone: Python is now officially supported in cTrader Algo. Until now, cBots and indicators could only be written in C#. With this release, developers and traders gain a second native language inside the platform - and one of the world’s most popular

Blog cTrader Store. Algos, Indicators, WebView pluginsSofia Savchenko

But the real advantage is accessibility:

• The learning curve is much lower.
• Even traders without prior coding experience can get started.
• Python’s readability makes it easier to experiment, adapt, and learn on the go.

In short: Python makes algo trading open to a wider audience.

Building the Breakout v5 Bot

The strategy itself is based on a simple yet powerful idea: trading when the market breaks recent highs or lows. Breakout v5:

• Identifies swing highs and lows within a configurable lookback period.
• Executes trades when price breaks those levels.
• Applies multiple filters - spread and volatility checks, plus session restrictions.
• Allows full parameter customization: stop loss, take profit, risk percentage, and more.

This flexibility makes the bot adaptable to different trading styles and market conditions.

Breakout v5 Bot

$120

View Product

Check out our Help Centre guide on how to create a trading bot in Python - it includes a short video walkthrough showing the full process from setup to first execution.

From discretionary to systematic

The inspiration for Breakout v5 came from Nicola’s own experience trading discretionary breakout setups. By turning it into a cBot, he was able to add strict risk management rules and automated filters, transforming a manual approach into a repeatable, systematic one.

Final thoughts: Python lowers the barrier

Nicola’s journey shows why Python is becoming increasingly popular in algorithmic trading. For developers and traders alike, it combines simplicity, flexibility, and speed, making it easier to bring trading ideas to life.

And most importantly - you don’t need to be a professional developer to start coding in Python. If you’ve ever wanted to build your own trading strategy, this is the easiest way to begin.