Proprietary trading firms, or prop trading firms, provide traders with access to capital, allowing them to trade without using their own money. This setup offers a chance to trade with larger positions, utilize professional-grade tools, and earn significant profits based on performance. Many experienced traders prefer prop firms as they eliminate personal financial risk while offering potential high rewards.

With prop trading becoming increasingly popular, numerous firms have emerged, each catering to different markets, including forex, stocks, futures, and cryptocurrencies. Some firms conduct rigorous evaluations before funding traders, while others offer instant access to capital. In this guide, we explore the top proprietary trading firms, their features, and key aspects to consider when selecting the right one.

Understanding Proprietary Trading irms

A proprietary trading firm is a financial institution that provides capital to traders. Instead of risking personal funds, traders use company money and share a percentage of their profits with the firm. Depending on the firm, profit splits can range from 20% to as high as 90% in favor of the trader.

Unlike traditional retail trading, where individuals bear all financial risk, prop firms absorb losses within set limits. Most firms require traders to pass an assessment phase before granting access to capital, ensuring that only skilled and disciplined traders qualify.

Top Proprietary Trading Firms

1. FTMO

• Funding: Up to $200,000 per trader
• Profit Share: 80/20, scalable up to 90%
• Markets: Forex, commodities, indices, crypto
• Evaluation Process: Two-phase challenge (FTMO Challenge & Verification)
• Why Choose FTMO? Low fees, flexible withdrawals, strong educational resources

FTMO is a leading prop firm recognized for its generous funding and structured evaluation process. It provides traders with competitive profit splits and access to premium trading tools.

2. Topstep

• Funding: Up to $150,000
• Profit Share: 90/10 (first $5,000 profit is 100% trader’s)
• Markets: Futures (CME, NYMEX, CBOT, COMEX)
• Evaluation Process: Two-step Trading Combine
• Why Choose Topstep? Strong educational support, real-time data, access to trading coaches

Topstep is best suited for futures traders who want a structured pathway to funding, complete with coaching and educational support.

3. The 5%ers

• Funding: Up to $4 million in a scaling program
• Profit Share: 50/50
• Markets: Forex
• Evaluation Process: Instant funding model (no challenge required)
• Why Choose The 5%ers? No evaluation required, rapid account growth potential

Unlike many firms, The 5%ers allow traders to get funded instantly, making it an attractive choice for forex traders who prefer immediate capital access.

4. Maverick Trading

• Funding: Varies based on trader performance
• Profit Share: Competitive structure based on experience
• Markets: Options, equities, forex
• Evaluation Process: Training and testing phase required
• Why Choose Maverick Trading? Strong training programs, career development opportunities

Maverick Trading operates more like a career-based prop firm, offering extensive training and growth opportunities for dedicated traders.

5. Earn2Trade

• Funding: Up to $200,000
• Profit Share: 80/20
• Markets: Futures
• Evaluation Process: The Gauntlet challenge
• Why Choose Earn2Trade? Comprehensive education, mentorship, clear funding criteria

Earn2Trade is ideal for futures traders seeking both funding and professional training.

6. OneUp Trader

• Funding: Up to $250,000
• Profit Share: 80/20
• Markets: Futures
• Evaluation Process: Single-step evaluation
• Why Choose OneUp Trader? No minimum trading days, immediate withdrawals, flexible loss limits

With a simple evaluation process and no rigid trading requirements, OneUp Trader is a great choice for futures traders looking for quick access to capital.

7. Fidelcrest

• Funding: Up to $400,000
• Profit Share: 80/20, scalable up to 90%
• Markets: Forex, stocks, indices, crypto
• Evaluation Process: Two-phase challenge
• Why Choose Fidelcrest? High leverage, significant capital access, trader-friendly policies

Fidelcrest offers some of the highest funding limits in the industry, making it an attractive option for experienced traders aiming for large-scale trading.

Advantages of Trading with a Prop Firm

1. Capital Access – Prop firms enable traders to manage larger positions and scale effectively.
2. Leverage & Risk Management – High leverage is provided, with built-in risk controls to protect traders and firms.
3. Advanced Trading Tools – Traders benefit from institutional-grade software, data, and analytics.
4. Education & Mentorship – Many firms provide training programs to refine trader skills.
5. Growth Opportunities – Traders can scale their accounts as they prove their consistency and profitability.

Choosing the Right Proprietary Trading Firm

Important Factors to Consider:

• Market Offerings: Ensure the firm supports your preferred assets (forex, stocks, futures, etc.).
• Profit Splitting: Evaluate how much profit you keep after the firm’s percentage.
• Evaluation Difficulty: Some firms require rigorous tests, while others offer direct funding.
• Leverage & Risk Management: Assess the firm’s policies on drawdowns and risk limits.
• Fees & Costs: Look at challenge fees, platform expenses, and any recurring charges.
• Educational Support: Beginners should consider firms with mentorship programs.
• Withdrawal Flexibility: Understand how and when you can withdraw profits.

Challenges in Proprietary Trading

• Strict Risk Limits – Firms enforce daily loss caps to protect capital.
• Profit Splitting – While traders earn well, a portion goes to the firm.
• Market Volatility – Sudden price swings can lead to rapid losses.
• Evaluation Phases – Some firms have challenging assessment processes.
• Consistency Expectations – Firms favor traders with stable, long-term performance.

Tips for Success in Proprietary Trading

1. Follow a Structured Strategy – Define clear entry, exit, and risk management rules.
2. Practice Risk Management – Avoid overleveraging and adhere to position sizing rules.
3. Stay Disciplined – Emotional trading often leads to unnecessary losses.
4. Utilize Firm Resources – Take advantage of educational programs and mentorship.
5. Review Trade Performance – Analyze past trades to improve future decision-making.
6. Adapt to Market Conditions – Keep up with economic news and adjust strategies accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Proprietary trading firms provide traders with an excellent opportunity to scale their strategies, gain access to substantial capital, and refine their skills in a professional environment. Success in this field depends on choosing the right firm, maintaining strong risk management, and continuously improving trading performance. With the right approach, prop trading can be a rewarding and sustainable career path.