In this article, we’ll dive into the 12 best prop trading firms we observe on the market right now. Many prop trading firms often offer a variety of unique perks and opportunities to prove your trading capabilities in a variety of markets. There are a lot of proprietary trading firms out there, and it’s often difficult for traders to know where they should turn in the prop trading market. If you’re new to the world of prop trading, it’s important to learn the benefits of prop trading firms, and find which ones offer the most to potentially help advance your trading career.
This list of leading proprietary trading firms aims to be concise, easy to read, and focused on highlighting the main factors you should consider when looking at the best prop firms.
Let’s delve deeper:
Who Are The Best Prop Trading Firms?
- Best For Stocks Trading (US Only): Funder Trading
- Best For Futures Trading (US & Intl): Apex Trader Funding
- Best For Options Trading (US ONLY): Funder Trading
- Best For Forex Trading: FundedNext
#1 – Funder Trading
Overview:
Funder Trading stands first in our list of the top prop trading firms in 2024 due to multiple reasons but notably it is the only prop trading firm that offers options funding and includes coaching for every trader signed up.
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Location:
United States
What Can You Trade:
Stocks or Options
Profit Share:
100% Up To $6,000 then 80/20
Highlights:
Sole Place To Get Options Funding – The ONLY prop firm that lets you get stocks AND options funding without needing any certification or upfront trading capital (This is quite distinctive)
Focus on Education & Customer Support – All members get live coaching included for free, and education to help you pass the challenge & Funder is known for its responsive US based customer service team
Designed For Even The Most Beginner Traders – Funder focuses only on stocks & options, two asset classes most traders are familiar with
Summary:
Funder Trading claims our top position in our best proprietary trading firm rankings, due to its user-centric strategy for traders. The majority of traders who have used some of these prop trading companies often know how complicated they can be. Prop trading firms may offer minimal customer service, over the top complexity, and lack of education. These are among some of the commonly-named drawbacks of prop trading. Funder’s day trading platform is designed for the everyday trader, by regular traders.
We especially like that Funder Trading is the only prop firm in 2024 that offers options funding without needing any certification or upfront trading capital. That’s a pretty big deal for this form of trading, especially with the popularity of options trading over the last few years.
Funder Trading is also very unique in its approach to traders that sign up for their trading platform. All traders that sign up get both funding attempts and coaching packaged together. Why? Most traders need help and education if they truly want to pass the challenge and get funded. Funder Trading leans into that and gives every trader that joins live coaching and hefty education library as well.
If there was only one firm to try in the prop trading industry, Funder Trading would be our winner.
Pros:
- Only prop firm offering options funding without needing certification or upfront capital
- Heavy focus on education and customer service to help traders get funded
- US based and less risky than most prop firms out there
- Traders get 100% of profits back up to $6,000 then an 80/20 split
Cons:
- Funder Trading is selective and traders have to apply to see if they get accepted first
Want To Apply For Funder Trading? Click Here To Learn More
#2 – Apex Trader Funding
Overview:
Apex Trader Funding is the best futures prop trading firm on this list for a variety of reasons, but most notably because it boasts the highest pass rate for its evaluation program out of all the futures prop firms on this list. It is also by far the most friendly option for beginner futures traders. They offer a straightforward path to live trading with a selection of evaluation options which you can qualify in as little as 7 days. You will trade mini or microcontracts in the evaluation period, and once the evaluation has been passed, you will move to a funded account and get paid for your trading skills.
Traders receive 100% of their first $25,000 earned per account with up to 20 accounts active at once and 90% after that, meaning this platform pays the most of any futures prop trading account. There are no daily drawdowns, you can trade on holidays and use your own system to get the best results.
Moreover, there’s no cap on payouts and you will see real-time data that can help you make the best decisions. Traders will use Rithmic or Tradovate, and can choose from one of several different accounts that will come with a particular number of contracts, a profit goal, trailing threshold and more.
Headquarters:
United States
What Can You Trade:
Futures
Profit Share:
100% of the first $25k then 90/10
Highlights:
Variety of Funded Programs – They offer a range of funded prop trading programs with different accounts sizes, many more than other futures prop trading firms
Quick Evaluation Process – Through a structured evaluation, traders can qualify in as little as 7 days
Robust Educational Platform – A strong emphasis on education, with resources and a community to help nurture and develop aspiring traders.
Summary:
Apex Trader Funding is a prominent player in the prop trading sector, which primarily attracts novice futures traders. They stand out for their user-friendly approach to live trading, and the several evaluation options they offer. With an 90/10 profit share ratio, Apex Trader Funding provides a variety of funded trading programs designed to accommodate different trading habits styles and preferences. The firm places a strong emphasis on education, while offering a supportive community and several resources to nurture and develop aspiring traders. This makes Apex Trader Funding a compelling choice for those looking to enter the world of futures trading.
Pros:
- Provides a straightforward, one-step evaluation path to live trading.
- By far the highest evaluation pass rate in the space
- High first payout to get started on the right foot
- No scaling or failing by going over contract size
- No daily drawdowns
- Strong emphasis on education to nurture aspiring traders.
Cons:
- Primarily focused on futures trading, which may not cater to traders interested in other asset classes.
- Their evaluation may be challenging for some traders.
#3 – MyFundedFutures
Overview:
MyFundedFutures is a prop trading firm that has gained attention for its accessible approach to funding futures traders. The firm offers a clear path to funding for traders, with an emphasis on flexible trading strategies and a supportive learning environment.
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Location:
United States
What Can You Trade:
Futures
Profit Share:
90/10
Highlights:
Accessible Funding Path – MyFundedFutures provides an accessible route for traders to get funded, with a focus on simplicity and transparency in its evaluation process. It’s one step challenge has a 25% pass rate in the first step.
Flexible Trading Strategies – The firm allows a range of trading strategies, giving traders the freedom to trade in a manner that suits their style and strengths.
Supportive Learning Environment – Emphasis on education and a supportive learning environment, including resources and community support.
Fastest Industry Payouts – MyFundedFutures has the fastest payouts in the futures prop trading space which has become more and more important with some of the other futures prop trading firms taking weeks to payout.
Summary:
MyFundedFutures stands out for its accessible approach to funding traders in the futures market. It’s a newcomer to the market, but is catching fire with a lot of prop traders as it is addressing a lot of the major issues a lot of the futures prop trading firms have. With its flexible trading strategies and a supportive learning environment, the firm offers a conducive platform for both new and experienced traders to grow and succeed.
Pros:
- Offers an accessible and transparent path to funding for futures traders.
- Allows a variety of trading strategies, providing flexibility to traders.
- Strong emphasis on education and a supportive learning environment.
- One of the highest profit shares in the industry (90/10)
Cons:
- The focus is solely on futures trading, limiting opportunities for those interested in other markets.
- Might require some level of experience in futures trading to successfully navigate the evaluation process.
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#4 – Funded Next
Overview:
In our opinion, Funded Next is the best forex prop trading firm now that FTMO has left the US. It boasts up to $4 million in its funding program, has multiple challenge options to select from that make the passing rules not as stringent as some other competitors.
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Main Office:
USA, UAE, UK, and Bangladesh.
What Can You Trade:
Forex.
Profit Share:
Starts at 75/15
Highlights:
Vast Capital Access – Traders have the opportunity to access up to $4 million in capital, starting with amounts up to $200,000 and scaling up upon demonstrating trading proficiency and meeting targets.
Diverse Funding Models – With four distinct funding models, including Two-step Stellar, One-step Stellar, Evaluation, and Express, traders have multiple pathways to accessing funded accounts. This flexibility allows traders to choose a model that aligns with their trading abilities and goals.
Strong Community and Educational Resources – Funded Next fosters a vibrant community on Discord, where traders can exchange ideas and learn from each other. Additionally, the firm provides educational resources, news updates, podcasts, and more, creating a conducive environment for learning and growth.
Summary:
Funded Next is a relatively new prop trading firm, having launched in March 2022, but has quickly established itself as one of the more reputable prop firms for Forex, with very a solid track record. With its generous profit-sharing model, personalized service, and a strong community, Funded Next offers an attractive platform for both novice and seasoned forex traders. With their diverse funding models, these kinds of prop firms allow you to consider multiple pathways to accessing funded accounts, catering to new and experienced prop traders. Moreover, the opportunity to access significant capital, potentially up to $4 million, is a huge draw for traders aiming to scale their trading activities. While it specializes in forex trading, the firm’s association with the renowned broker Eightcap and its continuous efforts to keep its platform user-friendly and updated make Funded Next a compelling choice for forex prop traders worldwide.
Pros:
- Access to substantial capital, scaling up to $4 million.
- Diverse funding models providing multiple pathways to funded accounts.
- Strong community and educational resources for continuous learning and interaction.
Cons:
- Limited to forex trading, which might not appeal to traders interested in other asset classes.
- The firm is relatively new, which might concern some traders looking for long-established prop firms.
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#5 – Topstep
Overview:
Topstep is very well known and reputable prop trading platform. It is definitely an established player in the space but not as good of an opinion as Apex Trader Funding which we mentioned above.
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Location:
United States
What Can You Trade:
Futures
Profit Share:
80/20
Highlights:
Comprehensive Evaluation – The evaluation period at Topstep is designed to help traders prove their trading skills and risk management abilities. It consists of a Trading Combine and a Funded Account stage, ensuring that only skilled traders make it through to trade the funded capital.
Education & Performance Coaching – Although most of this is an additional charge, Topstep provides a plethora of educational resources on their trading platform to help traders improve their trading skills. Additionally, they offer performance coaching services to provide personalized advice and strategies for traders.
Community Support – Topstep has a strong community of traders who support each other through forums and social media groups. This community helps traders to share experiences, strategies, and get support from fellow traders.
Summary:
Topstep secures the #4 spot on our list due to its robust screening and the opportunity it provides to start trading a funded prop trading account without risking personal capital. The two-phase evaluation, consisting of a Trading Combine and a Funded Account stage, is rigorous but fair, ensuring that only skilled traders are able to access the funded capital for this trading pit.
Although most of this is an additional charge, one notable highlight of Topstep is its focus on education and performance coaching. Traders have access to a wealth of educational resources to improve your trading experience. Additionally, the performance coaching services provide personalized advice to help traders develop strategies and manage risks effectively.
Pros:
- Offers a fair and comprehensive assessment to prove your trading skills and access a funded account
- A strong focus on education and performance coaching to help traders improve their skills
- Supportive community of traders to share experiences and strategies
Cons:
- Only trading in Futures and Forex trading available, limiting options for traders interested in other asset classes
- The qualifying can be challenging and may not be suitable for complete beginners
- Coaching is an additional charge, unlike Funder Trading where it is included
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#6 – FTMO
Overview:
FTMO is number 6 on our list because it tends to have more of an international focus, again on tougher asset classes including Forex and commodities. That being said, if you are outside of the US, this is one of the highest rated firms out there.
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Location:
Prague, Czech Republic.
What Can You Trade:
Forex, Commodities, Indices, Cryptocurrencies.
Profit Share:
Starts at 80/20
Highlights:
Robust Evaluation System – To ensure only skilled traders gain access to its funded accounts, FTMO employs a two-step evaluation program. This process, which includes the FTMO Challenge and Verification stage, assesses traders on profitable trades and adherence to rules.
Supportive Environment – FTMO provides a supportive trading environment with educational resources, trading tools, and a community of traders. This aids in enhancing the trading skills and knowledge of both aspiring and seasoned traders.
Scaling Opportunities – With consistent success, traders have the opportunity to manage increased capital, thereby heightening their profit potential.
Summary:
FTMO claims the #6 position on our list due to its commendable approach toward nurturing skilled traders. The firm’s evaluation system is meticulous yet fair. It ensures that only deserving candidates have access to funding, plus it offers opportunity to scale and manage more capital with consistent success is another notable feature, offering traders the potential for increased earnings. FTMO’s reputable standing as an award-winning prop trading firm further underscores its commitment to fostering a conducive and rewarding trading ecosystem for its traders.
Pros:
- Meticulous evaluation system to ensure only skilled traders gain access to funded accounts.
- Supportive trading environment with ample educational resources and community engagement.
- Opportunity to scale and manage more capital with consistent success.
Cons:
- The qualifying process can be challenging, and not suitable for traders who are unwilling to adhere to the firm’s trading rules.
- Limited to Forex, Commodities, Indices, and Cryptocurrencies, which might not appeal to traders interested in other asset classes such as stocks and derivatives.
- The fee range for the trading challenges may be a barrier for some traders, especially beginners.
- Not A US Based Company
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#7 – FX2 Funding
Overview:
FX2 Funding is distinguished in the proprietary trading industry for its commitment to helping undercapitalized traders. They offer an efficient and straightforward path to obtaining funding, primarily focused on Forex trading.
Location:
United States
What Can You Trade:
Forex
Profit Share:
80/20
Highlights:
Competitive Profit Splits – Offering favorable profit splits, allowing traders to retain a good portion of their earnings.
Simple Evaluation Process – The vetting process is streamlined, and enables traders to advance to live accounts swiftly.
No Time Limits – Traders can get their funded in one day, one month, or one year
Summary:
FX2 Funding is committed to assisting undercapitalized traders by providing them with the essential funding needed to thrive in their trading endeavors. This mission statement is backed by their generous 80/20 profit share ratio, allowing traders to keep a significant portion of their earnings. FX2 Funding streamlines the evaluation process, enabling traders to swiftly progress to live accounts. It makes their program an appealing choice for those looking for a rapid transition to live trading.
Pros:
- Competitive profit splits enhance earning potential (up to 85%).
- Streamlined one-step, evaluation process accelerates the transition to live trading.
- No time limits – you can get funded in as little as one day
Cons:
- Limited to Forex trading, which may not appeal to those interested in trading other asset classes.
- Lack of extensive educational resources compared to other prop firms.
#8 – Top Tier Trader
Overview:
Top Tier Trader embraces traders of all levels, offering funded trading opportunities alongside a structured pathway to trading success. With a strong emphasis on education and ongoing support, they aim to create a conducive environment to grow and develop healthier trading habits.
Location:
United States
What Can You Trade:
Various Assets
Profit Share:
75/25
Highlights:
Funded Trading Opportunities – Providing funded trading opportunities to both new and experienced traders.
Structured Educational Pathway – They offer a structured educational pathway to ensure traders have the necessary knowledge and skills.
Ongoing Support – Continuous support to help traders navigate the trading landscape and improve their strategies.
Summary:
Top Tier Trader provides funded trading opportunities and a structured educational pathway for traders of all levels, fostering an environment conducive to growth and success. Their profit share ratio is set at 75/25, ensuring that traders can retain a significant portion of their earnings. They provide continuous support in their efforts to help traders navigate the trading landscape and refine their strategies. Top Tier Trader is a versatile prop trading firm, making it an excellent choice for those looking to develop and excel in the trading world.
Pros:
- Offers funded trading opportunities to both new and experienced traders.
- Structured educational pathway enhances trading knowledge and skills.
- Ongoing support to help traders improve their strategies.
Cons:
- Profit share ratio may be less favorable compared to other prop trading firms.
- The range of tradable assets could be limited compared to larger prop trading firms.
#9 – Trade the Pool
Overview:
Trade the Pool specializes in equities trading, offering a variety of trading approaches and strategies to its traders. The firm aims to provide a platform where traders can find the strategies that work best for them.
Location:
United States
What Can You Trade:
Stocks
Profit Share:
80/20
Highlights:
Specialization in Equities – The firm specializes in equities, providing a focused platform for stock traders.
Variety of Trading Strategies – Offering a variety of trading methods to cater to different trader preferences.
Summary:
This proprietary firm specializes in equities trading. It provides a supportive environment for traders to explore and hone their skills in equities trading. They offer a diverse range of styles and strategies, along with an 80/20 profit share ratio. The firm caters to stock traders, providing them with a focused platform for their trading endeavors. Trade the Pool’s emphasis on specialization in equities, along with the availability of multiple trading styles and strategies make it an excellent choice for those interested in excelling in the world of stock trading.
Pros:
- Specialization in equities provides a focused platform for stock traders.
- Offers a variety of trading styles and strategies to cater to different trader preferences.
Cons:
- Specialization in stocks may not appeal to traders interested in other asset classes.
- Lack of a structured educational program compared to other prop trading firms.
#10 – The 5ers
Overview:
This proprietary firm is known for its unique funding model, catering to both experienced and beginner traders interested in Forex, indices, and metal trading. They provide the capital and support needed for traders to excel in these markets.
Location:
Israel
What Can You Trade:
Forex, Indices, and Metals
Profit Share:
50/50
Highlights:
Diverse Trading Opportunities – Caters to Forex, indices, and metal trading, offering a range of trading opportunities.
Unique Funding Model – The firm offers a distinct funding model, providing the necessary capital for traders to engage in trading activities.
Summary:
Based in Israel, The 5ers distinguishes itself in the world of proprietary trading with its unique funding approach. This model accommodates both novice and experienced traders interested in Forex, indices, and metal trading. The firm’s profit sharing arrangement provides traders with the necessary capital and support, enabling them to engage in a broad range of trading.
Pros:
- Unique funding model provides the necessary capital for trading.
- Offers a range of trading opportunities in Forex, indices, and metals.
Cons:
- The profit share ratio may be less favorable compared to other prop trading firms.
- Limited to Forex, indices, and metal trading, which may not cater to traders interested in other asset classes.
#11 – FXIFY
Overview:
FXIFY caters to experienced traders, offering competitive profit splits and a variety of trading opportunities across different financial markets. They aim to provide a platform where seasoned traders can maximize their trading potential.
Location:
United Kingdom
What Can You Trade:
Various Assets
Profit Share:
70/30 (can go up to 90%)
Highlights:
Competitive Profit Splits – Offering competitive profit splits to enhance the earning potential of traders.
Variety of Trading Opportunities – Providing a range of trading opportunities in various financial markets.
Summary:
Headquartered in the United Kingdom, FXIFY caters to experienced traders. It offers competitive profit splits and a diverse array of trading opportunities that span across various financial markets. Their profit share ratio starts at 70/30, but can go up to 90%, as the platform aims to bolster traders’ earning potential. This makes FXIFY an appealing choice for seasoned traders seeking a supportive environment to refine their trading strategies, while maximizing their profit potential. This could be a great thing to pair with Vantage Point as you can see in our Vantage Point AI review here
Pros:
- Competitive profit splits enhance the earning potential.
- Offers a variety of trading opportunities across different financial markets.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for beginner traders due to a lack of structured educational support.
- The profit share ratio may be less favorable compared to other prop trading firms.
12 – OneUp Trader
Overview:
OneUp Trader is a reputable firm in the prop trading arena, offering traders an opportunity to trade a funded account without risking personal capital. They are known for their straightforward evaluation process and supportive trading community.
Location:
United States
What Can You Trade:
Futures
Profit Share:
80/20
Highlights:
Straightforward Evaluation Process – The evaluation process is designed to be straightforward, allowing traders to showcase their skills and progress to a funded account.
Supportive Trading Community – OneUp Trader has a supportive community where traders can share experiences, learn from each other, and improve their trading strategies.
Diverse Range of Trading Scenarios – They offer a diverse range of trading scenarios to cater to different trading styles and strategies.
Summary:
OneUp Trader secures a notable position in the prop trading space with its straightforward evaluation process and supportive community. Like many prop firms, they provide an opportunity for traders to trade a funded account without risking personal capital, making it a viable option for traders looking to improve their skills and earn while trading.
Pros:
- Straightforward evaluation process facilitates a smooth transition to a funded account.
- Supportive trading community provides a platform for learning and sharing experiences.
- Diverse range of trading scenarios caters to different trading styles and strategies.
Cons:
- Primarily focused on futures trading, which may not cater to traders interested in other asset classes.
- The evaluation process, while straightforward, may still pose a challenge for complete beginners. https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/iron-condor-strategy-heres-what-you-need-to-know
Conclusion
To recap everything about, here is how we would categorize these top proprietary trading firms:
Top Overall: Funder Trading
Best Futures Prop Trading Firms
Best For Stocks & Options: Funder Trading
Best For Non-US Based Traders: FTMO
Best For Beginners: Funder Trading
