Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems and methods for algorithmic trading strategies and/or systems and methods for use in executing an order directed to a security traded in a market. More particularly, one embodiment of the present invention relates to a method implemented by a programmed computer system for use in executing an order directed to a security traded in a market, comprising: calculating a plurality of expected market impacts associated with execution of the order over a plurality of different time periods; calculating a plurality of expected price risks associated with execution of the order over the plurality of different time periods; calculating a plurality of expected total costs associated with execution of the order over the plurality of different time periods, wherein the plurality of expected total costs are calculated using the plurality of expected market impacts and the plurality of expected price risks; and trading the security via execution of the order over a time period at which the expected total cost is optimal (e.g., minimized).