Level 2 data, also known as market depth or order book data, provides detailed information about the current buy and sell orders for a particular security on an exchange. It reveals the quantity and price at different bid and ask levels, allowing traders to gauge market liquidity, identify supply and demand dynamics, and make more informed trading decisions.
Level 2 data is typically provided in real-time, showing the most up-to-date information about the order book. Traders can see the standing buy and sell orders at various price levels and observe how they change over time. Real-time access to this data enables traders to react quickly to changing market conditions and adjust their trading strategies accordingly. The transparency also helps traders gauge market sentiment, identify potential support and resistance levels, and assess the likelihood of price movements.
Level 2 data enables order flow analysis, which involves tracking the incoming orders and their impact on the order book. By monitoring the addition or removal of buy and sell orders, traders can infer the buying or selling pressure in the market.
Traders who have access to Level 2 data can make more informed trade execution decisions. By analyzing the depth of the order book and identifying significant buy or sell imbalances, traders can gauge the potential impact of their orders on the market and adjust their trading strategies accordingly.