A Practical Guide to Integrating the ApeX API

The ApeX API allows traders to connect their automated trading bots and custom applications directly to ApeX Pro, a decentralized and self-custodial trading platform. By leveraging this API, users can automate trades, conduct real-time market analysis, and deploy advanced trading strategies with greater precision. It supports widely-used programming languages such as Python, Java, and Node.js, making it accessible for developers and traders at various skill levels.

This guide provides a step-by-step overview of how to get started with the ApeX API, covering key setup processes and common trading operations.

Getting Started with the ApeX API

Before you begin interacting with the API, you'll need to complete two essential steps: obtaining your Stark Key and generating your API credentials.

Obtaining Your Stark Key

Your Stark Key is a unique identifier required to perform trades and withdrawals via the API. Follow these steps to retrieve it:

Log into your ApeX account and click on your user profile, located near your wallet address.
From the dropdown menu, select API Management.
Click on Stark Key to view your key. Note that this key is permanent and cannot be modified once generated.
Review the Terms and Conditions carefully. Click Next to proceed only if you agree.

It's important to understand that your Stark Key grants full trading and withdrawal permissions. Keep it confidential to protect your account.

Generating API Credentials

Once you have your Stark Key, you can generate your API key:

From the API Management page, click on Generate API.
Choose a name for your API and specify your IP access preference. You can select either:
- Unrestricted Access: Allows connections from any IP address.
- Restrict to Trusted IPs Only: Limits access to specific IP addresses for enhanced security.
Confirm your settings to generate the API key.

Important: Your API Key Passphrase and API Key Secret will only be displayed once during this process. Store them securely in a private location, as they cannot be retrieved later.

Treat your API credentials like your account password—avoid sharing them with anyone. Once saved, click Done to return to the API management dashboard. You can always review your API details by clicking View.

Connecting to the API Using Python

Python is one of the most common languages used for algorithmic trading due to its simplicity and robust library support. Here’s how to establish a connection using the official Python3 package.

Installing the Required Package

Use the package installer pip to install the ApeX API connector. If you don’t have pip installed, refer to the official Python packaging guide for instructions.

Run the following command in your terminal:

pip install apexpro

Establishing a Connection

After installation, you can create an HTTP session to interact with the ApeX Pro platform. Start by importing the necessary modules:

import apexpro.constants as constants
import apexpro.http_public as http_public

Then, initialize the HTTP session using the HttpPublic class. Specify whether you want to connect to the Testnet or Mainnet environment:

session = http_public.HttpPublic(constants.APEX_HTTP_MAIN)

This session will allow you to access public market data and execute operations once authenticated.

Executing Trades via API

Automating trade execution is a powerful feature of the ApeX API. Below is a simplified workflow for placing orders programmatically.

Placing a New Order

To submit a trade, use the HttpPrivateStark class along with your API credentials and order parameters:

Import the required module:

import apexpro.http_private_stark_key_sign as http_private

Initialize the private HTTP session with your API key, secret, and Stark Key.
Use the create_order_v2 method to place an order. You’ll need to specify:
- Trading symbol (e.g., BTC-USDC)
- Order side: buy or sell
- Price and quantity
- Order type (e.g., limit or market)

Example code structure:

private_session = http_private.HttpPrivateStark(api_key, api_secret, stark_key)
response = private_session.create_order_v2(symbol="BTC-USDC", side="BUY", price=45000, size=0.001)

Canceling an Existing Order

To cancel an open order:

Import the standard private module:

import apexpro.http_private as http_private

Initialize the HttpPrivate class with your credentials.
Use the delete_order method with the specific order ID and symbol.

Example:

cancel_response = private_session.delete_order(order_id="12345", symbol="BTC-USDC")

Reviewing Open Orders

You can fetch a list of your current open orders using the open_orders_v2 method:

open_orders = private_session.open_orders_v2(symbol="BTC-USDC")
print(open_orders)

This returns detailed information about each active order, including size, price, and time of placement.

Advanced API Features

Beyond order management, the ApeX API supports a variety of functions that can enhance your trading strategy:

Fetching funding rates: Monitor periodic funding payments for perpetual contracts.
Accessing market depth: Retrieve order book data to assess liquidity.
Candlestick data: Obtain historical price data for technical analysis.
Ticker information: Access real-time price updates for all trading pairs.

These features allow for the development of sophisticated trading tools, including automated strategy backtesters, liquidity analyzers, and risk management systems.

👉 Explore more strategies with advanced API integration

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ApeX API?
The ApeX API is a programming interface that allows users to connect automated trading systems, applications, and scripts to the ApeX Pro decentralized exchange. It supports trading, data retrieval, and account management via code.

Is the ApeX API free to use?
Yes, using the ApeX API does not incur additional charges beyond standard trading fees. However, users are responsible for any costs related to their own application hosting or development.

How do I keep my API keys secure?
Always restrict API key access to trusted IP addresses, use strong passphrases, and never share your keys publicly. Store credentials in encrypted environments and avoid hardcoding them in applications.

Can I use the API without programming knowledge?
Basic programming skills are required to integrate and use the API effectively. familiarity with Python, JavaScript, or similar languages is recommended.

What is the difference between Mainnet and Testnet?
Mainnet is the live trading environment where real assets are traded. Testnet is a testing network that uses mock funds—ideal for development and strategy testing without financial risk.

Does the API support withdrawals?
Yes, the API allows for withdrawals and trading, provided you’ve secured the necessary permissions with your Stark Key and API credentials.

The ApeX API opens up opportunities for automated and high-performance trading on a decentralized platform. By following this guide, you can set up your integration, start executing trades programmatically, and explore advanced market data features.

Always test your applications in a safe environment and ensure you understand the risks involved in automated trading. Happy building!