The TradeMatcher software is software that is designed to take a data file of trade transactions and process that data to create a file of matched transactions in a format that matches the IRS Schedule D.
The TradeMatcher is the least expensive, most powerful and flexible tool we know of which can do this job. We have intentionally tried to create a product that removes the negative aspects of other products that perform this task. There is no annual subscription, no lock in or remote communication of your data or other privacy threat. You get the software, it resides on your computer and you maintain complete and total control over the process.
In order to perform the overall goal, this software has two principal functions. First, it serves as a data preprocessor which transforms trade data from whatever format your brokerage supplies to the format the program requires internally in order to do the matching. Second, the matching engine portion of the program takes that preprocessed data and matches the trades and creates the final result files.
Script Driven
We have been supplying software to match trades since 1997. This started as an offshoot from our other trading software and to serve our own needs as traders. However, those earlier versions of our trade matching products were limited to Datek and Ameritrade accounts and required a yearly purchase to accomodate the brokerages' frequent changes. The TradeMatcher is now driven by a script file so that it is flexible and can maintain its use year after year. Because it contains a powerful scripting capability, it can be used universally for virtually any brokerage. While that scripting power is available, and while it protects users against obsolescence, common scripts are provided and the ordinary user most likely will have no need to learn to write his or her own script.
Open Format
Additionally, the format the matching engine requires is fully revealed. This means that individuals can manipulate their trade data with other tools they may already have should they wish (and by tools we mean spreadsheets, word processors or text editors). With these common tools it is possible to manually convert transaction data to get it into the format the matching engine needs. Again, such an option is available, but is not expected of the user. If you choose to do so, consult the format information below.