> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.hello.trade/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.hello.trade/about/readme.md).

# About HelloTrade

## Overview

HelloTrade is a self-custody brokerage and trading platform for global markets, running on Monad.

We’re building one place to trade 10,000+ markets onchain – stocks, crypto, commodities, ETFs and FX – with up to 50× leverage, 24/7.

The platform is mobile-first with institutional-grade performance.

## Access

We are already live in closed alpha with a core set of initial markets to stress test the platform.

We are opening access deliberately, onboarding enough traders to put real volume through the system before progressing to beta and later, public launch.

To get early access:

1. Join the waitlist at [hello.trade](https://www.hello.trade/)
2. Follow us on [X (Twitter)](https://x.com/hellotradeapp)\
   (Turn notifications on for invite code drops)

## Architecture

HelloTrade employs a hybrid architecture combining the performance of centralized exchanges with the security of decentralized settlement and custody:

* **Performance:** Extremely performant matching engine with <10ms latency on order cancellations
* **On-Chain Settlement**: Non-custodial settlement where all margin operations and positions are tracked on-chain in smart contracts
* **Multi-Protocol Access**: WebSocket and REST interfaces

This design ensures institutional-grade performance while maintaining the transparency and security guarantees of blockchain-based settlement.

## Markets & Liquidity

### 24/7 Trading

Markets trade continuously, even when underlying assets are closed. The exchange operates in different modes based on market conditions:

* **Normal hours**: Full liquidity with standard pricing mechanisms
* **Scheduled closures**: Weekend and holiday trading with price bands to limit volatility
* **Market halts**: Adaptive response to LULD halts, news events, and regulatory actions
* **Corporate events**: Handling of stock splits, M\&A, earnings, and delisting events

## Risk Management

The platform uses a cross-margin system with a single USDM collateral pool supporting positions across all instruments. Leverage up to 50x is available.

A multi-layer liquidation system protects the exchange and its participants:

1. Order book liquidation
2. Liquidation queue with vault participation
3. Insurance fund
4. Auto-deleveraging (ADL) as a final backstop