The prop trading landscape is constantly evolving, with some firms closing their doors or exiting the US market. This leaves US traders with a critical question: Where can they find a reliable prop trading partner? This comprehensive guide explores the top 6 prop trading firms currently welcoming US clients. We’ll delve into their unique offerings, highlighting how they cater to diverse trading styles and aspirations.
Best US Prop Firms in 2024
1. Apex Trader Funding
Established in 2008, Apex Trader Funding has solidified its position as a trusted choice for traders of all experience levels. Their hallmark lies in their flexible account sizes, catering to a wide spectrum of traders, from beginners with $25,000 accounts to seasoned professionals with $300,000 accounts. This commitment to inclusivity extends to their generous profit splits, allowing traders to keep 100% of their first $25,000 in profits. Additionally, Apex Trader Funding offers the flexibility to trade on multiple platforms, including Rithmic, Tradovate, Ninjatrader, and Tradingview, empowering traders to choose their preferred trading environment.
Key Highlights:
- Flexible account sizes ranging from $25,000 to $300,000
- Generous profit splits, with traders keeping 100% of their first $25,000 in profits
- Support for multiple trading platforms: Rithmic, Tradovate, Ninjatrader, and Tradingview
2. Topstep
With a reputation for excellence, Topstep (founded in 2012) has earned its place among the top prop trading firms in the US. Their sleek platform provides traders with advanced analytics on their trading performance, enabling them to make informed decisions and optimize their strategies. Topstep’s profit targets are tiered, aligning with different account sizes, ensuring that traders at all levels have achievable goals. The firm’s support for over 13 platforms and daily payouts of 50% of the account balance further demonstrate their commitment to trader success. However, it’s important to note that Topstep has a contract limit of 5 for a 50K account, which may be a consideration for some traders.
Key Highlights:
- Advanced trading analytics and performance tracking tools
- Tiered profit targets aligned with account sizes
- Support for over 13 trading platforms
- Daily payouts of 50% of the account balance
3. Darwinexzero
If you’re seeking a unique and innovative approach to prop trading, Darwinexzero (founded in 2012) is worth exploring. This regulated broker and asset manager deviates from the traditional prop firm model, offering a monthly fee structure similar to futures models. They begin with a calibration stage to assess your trading skills and then allocate capital based on your performance. This approach aligns with the concept of identifying and nurturing promising traders, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.
Key Highlights:
- Unique monthly fee structure similar to futures models
- Calibration stage to assess trading skills and allocate capital
- Focus on identifying and nurturing promising traders
4. City Traders Imperium
Founded in 2018 by experienced traders with a deep understanding of the market, City Traders Imperium has quickly gained recognition for its exceptional offerings. They boast the highest pass rate among prop firms, a testament to their commitment to selecting talented traders. City Traders Imperium also offers up to 100% profit share on initial profits, providing traders with a significant incentive to succeed. Their flexible approach includes no minimum trading days, no time limits, and quick payouts, allowing traders to focus on their strategies without unnecessary restrictions. However, it’s important to note that City Traders Imperium restricts certain trading strategies, such as HFT, latency arbitrage, and martingale strategies.
Key Highlights:
- Highest pass rate among prop firms
- Up to 100% profit share on initial profits
- Flexible approach with no minimum trading days, no time limits, and quick payouts
- Restriction of certain trading strategies: HFT, latency arbitrage, and martingale strategies
5. Funded Trading Plus
A rising star in the forex and CFD prop trading scene, Funded Trading Plus offers a compelling 80% profit split. They cater to diverse trading styles with three program options: One Phase, Two Phase, and Instant. Their flexible approach allows traders to utilize Expert Advisors and avoid mandatory stop losses, maximizing control over their strategies.
Key Highlights:
- Adaptability: No maximum trading days and program options for different preferences.
- Technology: Support for Expert Advisors.
- Transparency: 80% profit split.
- Speed: Weekly payouts.
6. E8 Market
While a newer player compared to some, E8 Market (established in 2021) has carved a niche in forex and CFD prop trading. They also offer an attractive 80% profit split. E8 Market focuses on efficiency, streamlining the evaluation process with clear profit and loss targets. Their in-house technology ensures smooth trading operations.
Key Highlights:
- Transparency: 80% profit split.
- Efficiency: Streamlined evaluation process.
- Technology: In-house platform for a seamless trading experience.
- Regular payouts: Bi-weekly payouts.
In summary, while each firm presents unique strengths and operational nuances, all aim to provide US prop traders with viable options amidst an evolving market landscape. Whether through generous profit-sharing models, advanced trading platforms, or regulatory advantages, these firms offer avenues for traders to thrive and succeed in today’s competitive prop trading environment.