Retrieve Contract Low Data Instantly with QM_ContractLow

The QM_ContractLow function in MarketXLS allows you to request the "contract low" metric for a given symbol (e.g., for a future contract or other financial instrument) directly within Excel. By leveraging this function, you can effortlessly monitor and analyze the lowest contract price available from the QuoteMedia data feed. This is especially handy for traders and analysts who rely on real-time or on-demand data updates to make informed decisions.

Why Use This Function?

• Simplifies Data Retrieval: Pulls contract low data straight into Excel without switching between multiple platforms.
• Real-Time Updates: Works in conjunction with MarketXLS refresh features to keep your data current when scheduled or manually refreshed.
• Seamless Integration: Fits neatly into your existing Excel workflows, pivot tables, or custom dashboards.
• Quick Insights: Allows you to track when contract lows change and make timely decisions.
• Flexible Usage: Returns either a value or other helpful status messages that guide you about license status, data unavailability, or refresh necessities.

How to Use in Excel

=QM_ContractLow(symbol)

1. Type “=QM_ContractLow(” in any cell.
2. Provide a valid symbol within quotes (for example, “=QM_ContractLow("AAPL")”) or refer to a cell containing the symbol.
3. Press Enter, and MarketXLS will process the request. If it’s your first time requesting this data, you may see “Please Refresh” or “Refreshing” until the data loads.

Once the data is fetched or cached, the cell updates to display the contract low value. If the symbol is invalid or not found, you may see “NA”. If there are licensing or configuration issues, the function will guide you with specific messages.

Parameters Explained

Example Usage

Basic Examples

1. Direct Symbol Entry:
   • Cell A1: =QM_ContractLow("AAPL")
   Explanation: Returns the contract low for Apple’s symbol. If it’s not found in the QuoteMedia feed, the function may show “NA”.

2. Cell Reference:
   • Cell A2: "TSLA"
   • Cell B2: =QM_ContractLow(A2)
   Explanation: Fetches the contract low for the ticker symbol in cell A2. If the data is being refreshed, you may see "Refreshing" temporarily.

3. Invalid Symbol:
   • =QM_ContractLow("XYZ123")
   Explanation: Likely returns "NA" if no data is found or if the symbol is not recognized.

Advanced Scenarios

• Integrating with Other Excel Functions:
Use the returned values in advanced formulas, such as combining them with portfolio trackers, pivot tables, or nested IF statements. For instance, you could track if the contract low is below a specific threshold and trigger an alert.

• Real-Time Monitoring:
When combined with MarketXLS’s auto-refresh settings, you can keep a live dashboard of multiple symbols. If data is not immediately available, the function might display "Please Refresh" or “Refreshing,” prompting you to ensure MarketXLS is up to date.

• Historical Comparisons:
Use multiple cells in Excel to store or reference prior values. Compare the current contract low against historical data for deeper analysis.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

1. Why am I seeing “NA”?

   • The symbol may not exist, or the data is unavailable. Double-check your ticker symbol, or ensure that data for that particular security is provided by QuoteMedia.

2. What does “Refreshing” mean?

   • MarketXLS is currently fetching data for that symbol. Wait for it to complete the request, or manually refresh when possible.

3. I got “Please Refresh.” How do I fix that?

   • Click Refresh All on the MarketXLS ribbon, or use the MarketXLS interface to update your data sources.

4. Why do I see a licensing or configuration error?

   • Make sure your MarketXLS license is valid and that you’ve configured your QuoteMedia subcription under the Data Subscriptions settings.

5. Can I use this with multiple symbols at once?

   • Absolutely. Reference multiple cells with different ticker symbols, or use array formulas for bulk operations.

By following these detailed instructions and examples, you can seamlessly integrate the QM_ContractLow function into your Excel workflow. It’s an efficient way to keep track of important contract lows for stocks, futures, and more—enabling quicker, data-driven decisions.