What is Bloomberg?

Bloomberg is a comprehensive software tool designed for financial professionals, offering a suite of applications such as Bloomberg Terminal, BQuant, and various APIs like the Trading System API and Enterprise Solutions API. These tools provide access to financial information, trading capabilities, data analytics, and integration options.

As a service, Bloomberg functions as an essential platform for financial data and analysis, requiring the use of cookies and JavaScript to deliver its content effectively. Its service encompasses the delivery of massive amounts of financial data, which is crucial for a wide range of financial services and decision-making processes.

Bloomberg is also known for its extensive data offerings, particularly its Reference Data, which includes detailed information on securities, legal entities, corporate actions, and more. It provides over 200 billion pieces of financial data daily, covering 13 million instruments and 6.5 million entities, using over 8,500 reference data fields. This data can be seamlessly integrated with Bloomberg's other services like research, ESG, pricing, and risk offerings.

Bloomberg Plugins for Excel

Accessing Bloomberg Terminal Functions in Excel

The Bloomberg Excel add-in enables users to utilize Bloomberg terminal functions directly within an Excel environment. This integration is particularly helpful for users who require access to bulk data from Bloomberg's extensive financial database.

Installation of Bloomberg Excel Add-In

Users can install the Bloomberg Excel add-in by closing any open Excel instances and running the Bloomberg Office Add-ins installer. This ensures that the add-in is properly integrated into the Excel application for immediate use.

Using Templates and Function Builder

The add-in also provides the capability to install pre-defined templates, streamlining the process of data analysis. Additionally, the function builder is a tool within the add-in that allows for easy access to data by guiding users through the creation of Bloomberg functions in Excel.

Spreadsheet Builder and Worksheet Functions

The Spreadsheet Builder feature simplifies the process of importing Bloomberg data into a spreadsheet by automatically generating the necessary functions. For more proficient Excel users, the add-in offers consolidated worksheet functions, which can be customized through optional parameters. This customization facilitates the organization and delivery of Bloomberg data in the spreadsheet format preferred by the user.

Customization and Data Download

Worksheets can be personalized using Bloomberg worksheet functions, giving users a powerful alternative to the manual copying and pasting of data. This allows for a more efficient workflow when downloading data from Bloomberg into Excel spreadsheets.

Common Use Cases

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  Use case 1: Importing real-time financial data into an Excel spreadsheet for analysis using BDP worksheet functions
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  Use case 2: Creating custom financial models and analyses with worksheet functions tailored to user requirements
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  Use case 3: Downloading large sets of financial data using BDS worksheet functions for comprehensive data analysis
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  Use case 4: Tracking historical market trends by importing historical data with BDH worksheet functions
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  Use case 5: Monitoring download limits to manage data usage and ensure compliance with Bloomberg terminal restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I import Bloomberg data into Excel?

To import Bloomberg data into Excel, you can use the Spreadsheet Builder feature which assists with a step-by-step process, or you can create custom formulas with Worksheet Functions such as BDP, BDH, and BDS, specifying both the security and the data item.

What should I do if I encounter an error code in Bloomberg Excel API?

When you encounter an error code, look it up through the Bloomberg ribbon tab in Excel or in Bloomberg software using a specific command to understand the issue. Common errors include authorization issues, invalid field or security, or exceeded array size limit. Report persistent issues to the Business Library via a support form.

Are there any download limits when using Bloomberg Excel API?

Yes, there are daily and monthly download limits when using Bloomberg Excel API. When these limits are reached, error codes are returned.

Can I copy and paste data from Bloomberg to Excel?

Yes, users can copy and paste data from Bloomberg to Excel without using Ctrl + C. However, using the 'Text to Columns' feature in Excel may be necessary after pasting the data.

How do I find the correct data field to use with Bloomberg functions in Excel?

To find the correct data field, use the Field Search tool in Excel, which helps you locate fields by category or keyword.