> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://tradewatch.io/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Introduction

> TradeWatch REST API introduction and core concepts.

The TradeWatch REST API is organized around **REST**. It features predictable resource-oriented URLs, accepts form-encoded request bodies, returns JSON responses, and utilizes standard HTTP response codes and verbs.

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## Getting Started

To begin integrating with TradeWatch, we recommend the following workflow:

1. **Choose your API Type:** If your application requires real-time streaming data rather than one-off snapshots, consider using our [WebSocket API](/websocket-api/introduction). You can compare the differences in our [API Types guide](/platform/api-types).
2. **Authentication:** All requests require an API Key. Follow our [Authentication guide](/platform/authentication) to retrieve and implement your credentials.
3. **Explore SDKs:** Speed up your development using our official libraries. Check the [SDKs Introduction](/sdks/introduction) for supported languages like Python, TypeScript, and more.

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## Core Concepts

### Connection Details

* **Base URL:** `https://api.tradewatch.io/`
* **Format:** JSON (UTF-8)
* **Authentication:** [API Key](/platform/authentication)

### Handling Responses

All responses are returned in JSON format. When working with large datasets, please refer to our [Pagination documentation](/platform/pagination) to ensure you are retrieving all records efficiently.

To ensure platform stability for all users, we enforce [Rate Limits](/platform/limits). If you are building a web-based frontend, please review our [CORS policy](/platform/cors) for configuration details.

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## Asset Classes

The REST API provides access to a wide range of financial instruments. Jump to a specific reference to see available endpoints:

* **[Currencies](/api-reference/currencies):** Forex pairs and global exchange rates.
* **[Cryptocurrencies](/api-reference/crypto):** Comprehensive data for major digital assets.
* **[Stocks](/api-reference/stocks):** Global equity market data and symbol lists.
* **[Indices](/api-reference/indices):** Major global market indices and benchmarks.
* **[Commodities](/api-reference/commodities):** Energy, precious metals, and soft commodities.

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## Account & Support

Monitor your API consumption and subscription status through the [Usage Statistics](/api-reference/account/usage-statistics) endpoint.

If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding your implementation, please visit our [Support Page](/platform/support) or contact us at [hello@tradewatch.io](mailto:hello@tradewatch.io).