Semi-static conditions in low-latency C++ for high frequency trading: Better than branch prediction hints

Abstract

Conditional branches pose a challenge for code optimisation, particularly in low latency settings. We present a novel language construct, referred to as a semi-static condition, which enables programmers to dynamically modify the direction of a branch at run-time by modifying the assembly code within the underlying executable. Subsequently, we explore scenarios where the use of semi-static conditions outperforms traditional conditional branching, highlighting their potential applications in real-time machine learning and high-frequency trading (HFT). Throughout the development process, key considerations of performance, portability, syntax, and security were taken into account.