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FTMO
Prop Firm

⭐ 4.9 (3,261 traders)

Coupon Code
MYFB19

4.9

Overall Rating
Platforms

MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader and DXtrade

Payments

Wire transfer/ Bank Transfer, Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Credit/Debit Card, Crypto

Broker

N/A

FTMO Review Rules, Challenge Steps, Fees, Payouts, Tips to Pass and Withdraw

If you’re looking at FTMO, you probably want a clear answer to one thing, is it worth the rules and the fee to get access to a bigger account. FTMO is a long-running prop firm founded in 2015, and it’s known for clear rules, a two-step evaluation (Challenge then Verification), and a payout process that’s quick once you’re eligible.

This review breaks down exactly how the FTMO Challenge works, what you must hit to pass (profit targets and minimum trading days), and what usually trips traders up. You’ll also see the key risk limits in plain English, including the 5 percent daily loss and 10 percent max loss on standard accounts, plus the news-trading restriction window on Classic accounts (and why the Swing account rules are different).

We’ll cover fees too, including what you pay upfront to start an evaluation and how that fee gets returned if you become funded and earn your first reward. Then we’ll walk through payout terms, like the 14-day payout cycle, typical processing times, and common withdrawal methods (bank transfer, Skrill, and crypto).

At the end, you’ll have a simple plan to pass the evaluation without gambling, manage drawdown day to day, and withdraw profits cleanly once you’re funded. If you can follow rules and trade with discipline, FTMO can be a solid fit.

What FTMO is in 2026, and what you really get as a trader

FTMO in 2026 is best understood as a Modern Prop Trading firm with a structured tryout. You trade on a simulated account (not a live brokerage account), prove you can follow risk rules, and then you can earn a reward share if you keep trading within those limits. You don’t deposit trading capital, but you do pay an evaluation fee to enter the Challenge.

It’s been operating since 2015 and is based in Prague, which matters because longevity is rare in prop trading. FTMO also has a large global footprint (served in well over 100 countries) and a strong public review profile (a high Trustpilot rating is commonly cited). On top of that, FTMO reports a very large cumulative amount paid out in rewards (hundreds of millions), which is a meaningful trust signal if you’re comparing firms.

Markets and platforms you can trade (Forex to crypto, MT4 to cTrader)

FTMO covers most of the markets retail traders care about, so you can keep your strategy focused without hunting for a firm that supports your instrument list. At a high level, you can trade:

  • Forex (major and minor pairs)
  • Indices
  • Commodities (like metals and energy)
  • Stocks as CFDs
  • Crypto as CFDs

Platform choice is practical, since it affects your execution tools, charts, and automation options. FTMO supports:

  • MetaTrader 4 (MT4): simple, widely used, lots of indicators and EAs
  • MetaTrader 5 (MT5): more features, more order types, modern tester tools
  • cTrader: clean interface, strong order and depth-of-market tools
  • DXtrade: a browser-first option many traders like for quick access

You can generally expect web and mobile access depending on the platform you choose, which helps if you manage trades away from your desk.

Account sizes, profit split, and scaling, how big can it get

Most traders start with an evaluation size between $10,000 and $200,000. If you pass the two-step process, your reward split typically starts at 80%, and it can increase to 90% as you meet long-term performance goals.

Two limits matter when you plan your path:

  • Max allocation (initial): FTMO caps how much you can run at once per trader or per strategy (commonly referenced up to $400,000 total initial allocation).
  • Scaling plan (long-term): If you stay consistent over time and meet the requirements, the account can grow, with scaling that can reach $2,000,000.

Scaling is not automatic. It’s tied to steady performance and a clean track record, including being net profitable over the review period and completing withdrawals, which shows you can produce results without breaking rules.

Is FTMO legit and safe, what “safe” means here

“Safe” with FTMO doesn’t mean the same thing as a regulated brokerage account. FTMO is not your broker, and it’s not a regulated investment account where you deposit and trade your own funds. The safety angle is more practical:

  • No personal trading deposit: You’re not wiring in a balance that can be lost in the market.
  • Clear, published rules: Objectives and drawdown limits are spelled out upfront.
  • Identity checks and agreements: You verify who you are before getting paid.
  • Anti-cheating controls: Firms like FTMO monitor for rule-breaking and abusive tactics.

Also note that FTMO restricts access from certain sanctioned jurisdictions. A commonly listed set includes Iran, Syria, Myanmar, and North Korea, plus individuals on international sanctions lists.

FTMO Challenge and Verification steps, full breakdown with pass benchmarks

FTMO’s evaluation is a two-step test of both profit and discipline. The profit targets are clear, but the real hurdle is staying inside the drawdown limits day after day. You can take your time (there’s typically no strict maximum trading days), but you must trade at least 4 separate days in each step. Pass both steps, and you become an FTMO Trader, which is the point where you can start requesting reward payouts under the firm’s payout cycle.

Step 1, the FTMO Challenge rules you must hit

In the Challenge, you’re proving you can hit a target while keeping risk under control. For the common Standard setup, the benchmarks are:

  • Profit target:10%
  • Minimum trading days:4
  • Two drawdown limits:Maximum Daily Loss and Maximum Loss (both are equity-based)

Here’s the math on a $100,000 account (Standard risk), which makes the rules easy to see:

Rule Benchmark (Standard) $100,000 Example
Profit target 10% $10,000
Maximum Daily Loss 5% $5,000
Maximum Loss 10% $10,000
Minimum trading days 4 4 trading days

Two details matter more than most traders expect:

Maximum Daily Loss resets each day. It’s calculated from your account’s equity at the start of that trading day, then it resets the next day. If you start the day at $100,000 equity, your daily loss limit is $5,000. If you drop to $95,000 at any point that day (including floating loss), you’re at the line.

Maximum Loss is always “on.” This is the overall equity drawdown limit from the initial balance. On $100,000 Standard, you can’t go below $90,000 equity at any time, even for a moment.

Most traders don’t fail because 10% is “too hard.” They fail because they push size after a bad start, then the drawdown rules end the attempt before the strategy has time to work. Think of the profit target as the finish line, but the drawdown limits as guardrails, if you hit the rails, the run is over.

Step 2, Verification, same style, lower pressure

Verification is the second step, and it’s usually where traders either calm down and pass, or they sabotage themselves by trying to sprint.

For the common Standard setup, the key change is:

  • Profit target: commonly 5%
  • Minimum trading days:4
  • Risk rules: the same drawdown limits still apply (Maximum Daily Loss and Maximum Loss)

On that same $100,000 account, your goal is typically $5,000, but your daily loss limit is still $5,000 and your max loss limit is still $10,000. That’s why “finish fast” thinking can backfire. One oversized trade can do real damage.

A simple mindset that helps in Verification:

  • Trade clean, not often. Fewer, higher-quality setups beat forcing action.
  • Respect the daily limit like it’s a hard stop. If you’re down, protect the account and come back tomorrow.
  • Don’t change your system to speed up. Verification rewards consistency, not hero trades.

Pass Verification and you move into the funded stage (becoming an FTMO Trader), where you can request reward payouts once you meet the eligibility timing in the payout schedule.

Classic vs Swing accounts, which one matches your style

Your account type changes what’s “comfortable” to trade, even if the core drawdown rules are similar.

Classic account (higher leverage, more restrictions)

  • Leverage: often up to 1:100
  • News trading: restricted around high-impact releases on instruments heavily affected (trading is blocked roughly 2 minutes before to 2 minutes after the release, including opening and closing)
  • Holding over weekend: typically not allowed (fits short-term styles)

Swing account (more freedom, lower leverage)

  • Leverage: often up to 1:30
  • News trading: allowed without the same restriction window
  • Holding overnight and weekend: allowed (built for position trading)

Quick decision rules:

  • If you mostly day trade and scalp, and you don’t need to trade major news releases, Classic usually fits better.
  • If you hold trades overnight or through weekends, or you build plans around big economic news, Swing is the safer match, even with lower leverage.

FTMO rules that matter most, drawdowns, news limits, and banned tactics

Most FTMO failures aren’t about a “bad strategy.” They happen because a trader breaks a rule without realizing how strict the math is. If you understand equity-based drawdowns, the Classic news window, and the small list of banned tactics, you’ll avoid the easiest ways to get disqualified.

Daily loss vs maximum loss, how the drawdown math works

FTMO’s two big risk limits on Standard are simple on paper: 5% Maximum Daily Loss and 10% Maximum Loss. The part that catches people is how they’re measured.

Both are equity-based, which means FTMO counts your balance plus any open profit or loss. If you have trades running and they go against you, that floating loss still counts.

Here’s a simple example on a $100,000 Standard account:

  • Start of day equity: $100,000
  • Daily loss limit (5%): you can’t drop below $95,000 equity at any point that day
  • Maximum loss limit (10%): you can’t drop below $90,000 equity at any time, any day

Now imagine this sequence:

  1. You open a trade and it goes to - $4,000 floating. Your equity is $96,000, you’re still safe.
  2. You add to the position, it dips more, now you’re - $5,200 floating. Your equity hits $94,800.
  3. Even if you “haven’t closed the loss,” you just broke the Maximum Daily Loss rule, because equity went under $95,000.

That’s why people get clipped by the daily rule. They think, “I’ll close it later,” but the rule doesn’t care about later.

A few details to keep straight:

  • Maximum Daily Loss resets daily. It’s based on the day’s starting equity, then it resets the next trading day.
  • Maximum Loss never resets. It’s an overall equity floor tied to the initial balance.
  • Aggressive risk (when offered) may come with bigger loss limits and higher profit targets (for example, 10% daily and 20% max loss, with targets that can be higher too). The same equity logic still applies, so bigger limits don’t mean loose rules.

If you treat the daily loss like a circuit breaker, you’ll last longer and finish more evaluations.

News trading rules, the easiest way to get disqualified by mistake

On FTMO Classic accounts, news trading is a common hidden trap. The restriction applies to high-impact news events (think major economic releases that can spike spreads and cause fast moves). During these events, FTMO blocks trading on instruments that are heavily affected (often including major currency pairs tied to currencies like USD, EUR, AUD, and NZD).

The restricted window is short but strict: 2 minutes before to 2 minutes after the release.

What can violate it is broader than most traders expect:

  • Opening a market order in the window
  • Closing a trade in the window (even “taking profit”)
  • Modifying a trade in the window (stop-loss or take-profit changes)
  • Placing or adjusting pending orders that could trigger around the release

The safest routine is simple:

  • Check an economic calendar at the start of your day.
  • Set alerts for high-impact releases tied to what you trade.
  • Flatten positions early if a restricted event is coming up.
  • Pause order changes until the window has passed.

If you want to trade news without tiptoeing around a four-minute rule, the FTMO Swing account exists for that. It removes the Classic news restriction, which is a big deal for traders who build plans around macro releases.

What strategies are allowed, and what crosses the line

FTMO allows a lot of normal trading styles, as long as you’re not trying to exploit platform behavior.

Commonly allowed:

  • Scalping and day trading
  • Expert Advisors (EAs) and automation (as long as the behavior is fair)
  • Hedging
  • Martingale-style position sizing, in general (it’s risky, but not automatically banned)

What crosses the line are tactics that depend on “getting something for free” from execution quirks, errors, or delayed data. Examples include:

  • Arbitrage built on latency (trying to win because quotes update slower somewhere)
  • Trading that assumes guaranteed fills or uses mechanics that don’t reflect real conditions
  • Exploiting platform errors, server delays, or outdated third-party pricing
  • Any approach that depends on mistakes rather than market movement

Also watch the multi-account rules. If you’re running more than one account:

  • Don’t use accounts to hold opposite positions to “force” one account to pass.
  • Don’t clone the same strategy across multiple accounts to sidestep limits, because FTMO applies a strategy allocation cap concept (commonly referenced as a maximum total allocation per trader or per strategy).

If your edge comes from analysis and risk control, you’re fine. If your edge comes from a loophole, it won’t last here.

FTMO fees, spreads, commissions, and total cost to get funded

FTMO’s cost structure is pretty simple once you separate what you pay upfront (the one-time evaluation fee) from what you pay while trading (spreads, commissions, and overnight swaps). The big upside is that there’s no deposit, and if you become funded and earn a reward, FTMO typically refunds your evaluation fee with your first payout.

Challenge fee table, what you pay for each account size

The evaluation fee is a one-time payment to start the FTMO Challenge (and then move to Verification). Pricing can vary by account currency, account type (Classic vs Swing), and any account options available at checkout. In most cases, the smallest account starts at $10,000, with pricing you’ll see advertised from about €89. In other listings, the $10,000 option is shown closer to €155 for the Standard setup, depending on the offering.

Here’s a readable snapshot of common sizes (use this as a baseline, not a promise):

Challenge size Typical fee you may see (EUR)
$10,000 ~€89 to €155
$25,000 ~€250
$50,000 ~€345
$100,000 ~€540
$200,000 ~€1,080

Because pricing can change, check FTMO’s checkout page for the exact total in January 2026, including your selected account type and currency.

What this means for your total cost: if you pass and get your first reward, the evaluation fee is usually returned, so the long-term “entry cost” is more about whether your strategy can handle trading costs without breaking drawdown rules.

Commissions and swaps, what they mean for your strategy

FTMO uses a raw spread plus commission setup on many markets, which often means tighter spreads, then a clear commission line item.

A simple example helps. On many forex pairs, the commission is commonly listed as about $3 per lot round turn (opening + closing). If you trade 1.00 lot EUR/USD and then close it:

  • Commission cost: about $3 total for the full round trip
  • Spread cost: depends on market conditions (often low in calm hours, wider during shocks)

Swaps are the other cost traders forget. Overnight swaps apply when you hold positions past the daily rollover, and they can add up for swing-style holding periods. If you plan to hold trades for days, treat swaps like “rent” on the position and account for them in your expected return.

A few practical reminders:

  • Spreads can widen around major news, low-liquidity hours, and sharp moves.
  • Some symbols have different fee models, for example metals or stock CFDs may use percentage-based commissions instead of the per-lot forex commission.

Free Trial and tools, the cheapest way to practice the rules

If you want the lowest-cost way to get comfortable with FTMO’s rules, start with the Free Trial. It’s designed to mirror the evaluation environment, so you can test your routine before paying any fee.

You also get access to tools that help you trade “within the lines,” including:

  • Account MetriX: tracks objectives like drawdown and profit targets in real time
  • Account analysis and stats: shows patterns in your performance (wins, losses, risk)
  • Trading journal: helps you spot repeat mistakes, not just bad trades
  • Position size, pip, and margin calculators: keeps risk consistent across pairs
  • News indicator and calendar tools: helps you avoid rule issues around high-impact releases
  • Mentoring or coaching options (where available): useful if you keep failing from the same rule break, not from the strategy itself

Payout terms and withdrawals, when you get paid and how to avoid delays

Getting paid is the whole point of passing the evaluation, so it helps to know the timing, the methods, and the small mistakes that can slow everything down. With FTMO, withdrawals run on a set cycle (not “anytime”), and you’ll want your account, identity, and payment details ready before your first request.

Reward split and payout schedule, what to expect in your first month

FTMO’s reward split typically starts at 80% for the trader. If you keep performing and meet scaling conditions over time, the split can increase up to 90%. Think of it like earning a bigger cut after you prove you can stay consistent.

A simple example makes the take-home clear:

  • If your account is up $5,000 at payout time, an 80% reward share is $4,000 to you.
  • If you later qualify for 90%, that same $5,000 becomes $4,500 to you.

Payouts run on a bi-weekly (14-day) cycle. You can request your reward share starting from the 14th calendar day after your first trade on the funded stage. In practice, this means your “first month” often looks like: trade, wait for eligibility, request, then repeat every two weeks if you stay profitable.

Two ground rules are non-negotiable:

  • You must be in profit for the period you’re requesting.
  • You must be within all rules (drawdowns, restricted practices, and any account-specific limits). A payout doesn’t override a rule break.

How to request a payout step by step (and what can slow it down)

When your payout date arrives, treat the request like booking a flight. The smallest typo can cause back-and-forth.

Here’s the usual flow:

  1. Confirm you’re eligible (at least 14 days from the first trade, and you’re in profit).
  2. Submit the payout request inside your FTMO area.
  3. Choose a withdrawal method: bank transfer, Skrill, or crypto (commonly BTC, LTC, USDT).
  4. Complete identity checks if prompted (this may include ID and address documents).
  5. Confirm details (recipient name, wallet address, bank account, and currency).
  6. Wait for processing. FTMO often processes withdrawals quickly (commonly in hours, not days), but your bank, e-wallet, or crypto network can add extra time.

FTMO may cover some fees on their side, but payment rails can still charge their own costs (bank fees, intermediary fees, e-wallet fees, or blockchain network fees).

Common reasons payouts get delayed:

  • Missing verification documents or unreadable scans
  • Name mismatch (your FTMO profile vs your bank or e-wallet account)
  • Incorrect banking details (IBAN, SWIFT/BIC, account number)
  • Wrong crypto address or using the wrong network for the token
  • Extra compliance review (unusual activity or details that need confirmation)

If you want fewer headaches, keep your withdrawal method consistent and double-check details before submitting.

Taxes and records, keep it simple but do not ignore it

Rewards are income in most places, and the rules vary by country. Keep it simple and stay organized:

  • Save payout confirmations and monthly statements.
  • Track dates, amounts, and methods in a spreadsheet, even a basic one.
  • Keep notes on fees charged by banks or payment providers, since they can affect your net amount.

For the cleanest answer on what you owe and when, talk to a local tax professional who understands trading-related income in your country. This section is general info, not tax advice.

Tips to pass FTMO and keep the account, a simple playbook

Passing FTMO is less about finding a magic setup and more about staying inside tight guardrails. The profit targets (10% then 5% on Standard) are doable, but the equity-based drawdowns are what end most attempts. Treat this like flying a plane: small corrections, strict limits, and no hero moves when conditions get rough.

Risk plan that fits FTMO drawdowns (position size, stops, daily cap)

Start by building a risk plan that respects the two numbers that matter most on Standard accounts: 5% Maximum Daily Loss and 10% Maximum Loss, both measured by equity (open losses count).

A simple framework that works for most styles:

  • Risk 0.25% to 1% per trade
    • 0.25% to 0.5%: scalpers and high-frequency traders (more entries)
    • 0.5% to 1%: day traders and swing traders (fewer, higher-conviction entries)

Then add a personal “circuit breaker” that triggers before FTMO does:

  • Hard daily stop at 2.5% to 4%, depending on your style and win rate
  • When you hit it, stop trading for the day, no exceptions

This buffer matters because FTMO’s daily loss is unforgiving. One spread spike, a slip, or an open trade drifting can touch the limit even if you “planned” to cut later.

Keep stops honest:

  • Place the stop where your idea is wrong, not where your account survives.
  • Don’t move stops wider. That’s how a normal loss becomes a rule break.
  • Use FTMO’s position size calculators (or your platform’s) every time you switch pairs or assets, so your dollar risk stays stable.

Smaller size often becomes the fastest path to passing because it keeps you in the game long enough for your edge to show up. You can’t recover from disqualification.

Consistency and psychology, how to avoid the “one big day” trap

A huge green day feels good, but it often comes from oversized risk. The next day, traders try to repeat it, then the account snaps back and hits the daily loss.

Replace “one big day” thinking with a steady target:

  • Aim for a small daily average, like 0.25% to 0.75%
  • Think in weekly chunks, not single sessions

A practical rule that helps: trade your best setup only. If you can’t clearly explain why a trade matches your plan, skip it. Fewer trades usually means fewer emotional mistakes.

Build a quick routine around tracking behavior, not just entries:

  • Log each trade in a journal, include a 1 to 10 score for stress and confidence
  • Write one line on why you took it, and one line on whether you followed rules
  • Review in Account MetriX each day, watch your drawdown and exposure like a dashboard, not an afterthought

When you have a drawdown day, protect tomorrow. Cut size in half, or stop early. You’re not trying to “win it back,” you’re trying to stay eligible to trade.

News and weekend checklist for Classic and Swing traders

News and weekend mistakes are some of the easiest ways to fail without a “bad trade.” Use a checklist, and you’ll avoid most of the chaos.

Before each session, do this:

  • Check the economic calendar
  • Mark high-impact events tied to your pairs or indices
  • Plan what you’ll hold, and what you’ll flatten

If you’re on a Classic account, respect the news restriction window. FTMO restricts trading around high-impact releases, roughly 2 minutes before to 2 minutes after. In that window, don’t:

  • Open trades
  • Close trades
  • Modify stops or targets
  • Place or adjust pending orders

If you trade a Swing account, you get more freedom around news and can hold overnight and over the weekend. Still, manage the real risks:

  • Spreads can widen into news and market close
  • Weekend gaps can skip over stops
  • Swaps can add cost to long holds

For weekends, only hold if your plan expects it and your size is light enough to survive a gap.

What to do after you get funded, protect the account and scale up

Your first 30 days funded should be boring. Don’t scale up just because you “made it.”

A clean approach:

  1. Trade the same risk you used to pass, or smaller.
  2. Focus on rule-perfect execution, not speed.
  3. Take your first withdrawal as soon as you’re eligible (FTMO runs a 14-day payout cycle, starting from 14 days after your first trade).

After that, work toward scaling slowly. FTMO’s scaling is performance-based and typically reviewed over time (often referenced as a 25% increase every four months). Plan to meet the common requirements:

  • Be net profitable by 10% or more over the period
  • Complete at least two withdrawals
  • Keep a positive balance at review time

If you run multiple accounts, remember the allocation limits. FTMO commonly caps total allocation per trader or strategy (often cited around $400,000). Keep strategies distinct, and avoid anything that looks like forced hedging across accounts.

The goal is simple: protect the downside, take clean payouts, then let size grow as a byproduct of consistency.

Conclusion

FTMO is best for traders who can follow rules without improvising, especially Forex and index traders who want bigger buying power without putting personal trading capital at risk. The core rules are simple but strict: stay under the 5% daily loss and 10% max loss on Standard (both equity-based), meet the 10% Challenge target and 5% Verification target, and hit at least four trading days in each phase. On Classic accounts, respect the high-impact news freeze (about two minutes before and after), Swing is the better fit if you hold overnight, trade news, or keep positions over the weekend.

Costs are straightforward: you pay a one-time Challenge fee (commonly from about €89 to €155 for $10k up to about €1,080 for $200k), then you deal with real trading costs like spreads, commissions, and swaps. If you pass and earn, the fee is typically refunded with your first reward, which makes discipline the real price.

Payouts run on a 14-day cycle, starting 14 days after your first funded trade, with common methods like bank transfer, Skrill, and crypto.

Action plan: take the Free Trial, pick Classic or Swing, build a risk plan with a personal daily stop, then start the Challenge and trade small until the rules feel automatic. Thanks for reading, share what you trade and which account type you’re leaning toward.

 

FTMO Prop Firm Trading Spreads: What They Cost You and How to Handle Them

A spread is the gap between the buy price and the sell price. It’s the first cost you pay the moment you enter a trade, and it can be the quiet reason a “good setup” ends up red.

That matters even more in prop firm trading, where you’re trying to hit profit goals while keeping risk tight. FTMO, founded in 2015, is a modern prop trading firm with millions of customers across 140+ countries. Trading happens in a simulated environment where strong performance can earn rewards. This post breaks down how spreads affect FTMO-style trading and how to plan around them.

What FTMO trading spreads are, and why they can make or break your results

Think of the spread like a toll booth. Every time you enter, you pay it. When you exit, you feel it again because you had to climb back from that small loss to reach true break-even.

Spreads hit different styles in different ways:

  • Scalping often aims for small targets, so a slightly wider spread can swallow a big chunk of the move.
  • Day trading can handle normal spread changes, but tight stops get clipped more easily when spreads widen.
  • Swing trading feels spreads less per trade, yet it still affects entries, stop placement, and overall expectancy.

You don’t need to memorize exact FTMO spreads because they change by symbol and market conditions. What matters is the habit of checking the spread before you commit, especially if your stop is tight or your target is small.

Spread vs commission, and the real “all-in” cost per trade

Some accounts look cheap because the spread is tight, but they add a commission. Others show a wider spread with lower or no commission. The only number that matters is the round-trip cost (in and out).

Example: if EURUSD shows a 0.8 pip spread and you pay a 0.4 pip equivalent commission per side, your all-in cost is about 1.6 pips for the full trade. Compare that to a 1.4 pip spread with no commission, and the “tighter” option may not be cheaper.

What changes FTMO spreads in real time (sessions, news, and liquidity)

Spreads move with liquidity. When more traders and market makers are active, pricing is usually tighter. When activity drops, spreads can stretch.

Common times to watch:

  • London and New York sessions often have better liquidity on major FX pairs.
  • Rollover can bring sudden widening, even with no headline news.
  • Late Friday can thin out and get jumpy.

Instruments behave differently, too. Major FX pairs tend to be steadier than exotic pairs. Indices and metals can widen around opens and news. If crypto is available on your platform, it can vary a lot by time of day.

High-impact news: when spreads can widen and stops can slip

Events like CPI, NFP, and rate decisions can widen spreads fast. Stops may fill worse than expected. If your edge depends on clean, tight execution, consider smaller size, wider stops (only if risk stays controlled), or skipping the trade. Protecting rule compliance can matter more than catching a spike.

How to trade FTMO-style challenges with spreads in mind (simple rules that help)

Build your plan around conditions that fit your strategy. Focus on liquid symbols, and trade during active hours when spreads are more stable. Avoid entering right at rollover. Use limit orders when it makes sense, since they can help control entry price.

Backtest with realistic spreads, not “perfect” ones. Before placing a tight stop, check the average spread you’ve been seeing that session. FTMO supports MT4, MT5, cTrader, and DXtrade, so pick the platform where spread is easy to monitor.

FTMO also offers education, community spaces, and 24/7 support in many languages, which helps when you need clarity on trading conditions.

A quick “spread safety” checklist before you click Buy or Sell

  • The current spread matches what you’ve seen most of the session.
  • The time of day supports good liquidity for this market.
  • No major news hits in the next 30 minutes.
  • Your stop isn’t so tight that a small spread jump ruins it.
  • Your target is big enough to pay the spread and still be worth it.
  • Your order type still makes sense after you factor in costs.

Conclusion

Spreads are a normal trading cost, and they change with liquidity. In FTMO-style trading, managing spreads is part of staying consistent and protecting your rules. Trade the markets and hours where spreads fit your approach, and track your all-in cost over a solid sample of trades. When the “toll booth” gets expensive, patience is also a strategy.

FTMO Prop Firm Trading Rules: How to Follow Them Without Stress

Prop firm rules can feel like a tightrope. One small slip, and your run ends early. FTMO prop firm trading rules are there to measure skill, not luck, so it pays to understand them before you place real pressure on your decisions.

FTMO has been around since 2015 and focuses on simulated trading where strong performance can earn performance-based rewards. Before paying for anything, you can also practice with Free Trials, which is the simplest way to learn the rules in real market conditions.

This guide breaks the rules into clear buckets: objectives, risk limits, trading behavior, and a few practical habits that keep you consistent.

Know the FTMO rule set: Challenge, Verification, and the funded stage

FTMO generally follows a three-step flow. You pick an FTMO Challenge, meet the trading objectives, then move through Verification. After that, you trade an FTMO Account under the same kind of risk and behavior rules.

It’s all built around simulated trading, with rewards tied to how well you follow the plan, not how wild your best trade looks. FTMO has a large global user base (millions of customers across 140+ countries), supports MT4, MT5, cTrader, and DXtrade, and offers 24/7 support in many languages. Those details matter because you’re not alone, and help is available when a rule isn’t clear.

What “trading objectives” usually mean (targets, time rules, and consistency)

Objectives often include a profit target, a minimum number of trading days, and limits meant to discourage all-in behavior. Think of it like a driving test, they want steady control, not one perfect stunt.

Always confirm the current objectives for your exact account type, since conditions can differ.

Why the rules are stricter than a personal account

A personal account lets you break your own rules in private. A prop evaluation is built to test discipline under pressure. FTMO also offers learning and community support through its Academy, YouTube content, and an active Discord community, which can help with psychology and routine.

FTMO risk limits that can fail your account, and how to avoid them

When traders search “FTMO trading rules,” they usually mean loss limits. The big ones are daily loss limit and maximum loss limit. Another common point is how equity and balance are treated. Balance reflects closed trades, equity includes floating profit or floating loss from open trades.

So even if you haven’t closed a losing position, a large open drawdown can still put you near a limit. To stay safe, set a daily stop, cut position size after a hit, and be careful around high-volatility news when spreads and slippage can widen.

Daily loss vs max loss, simple examples without the math

Daily loss example: you take two quick losses in the morning, then try to “win it back” with a bigger trade. The drawdown stacks fast, and you hit the daily limit before lunch.

Max loss example: you avoid blowups, but you keep taking small losses for days. The slow leak adds up, and you eventually hit the overall limit.

Smart safeguards: alerts, position sizing, and “stop trading” rules

A few habits go a long way:

  • Price and equity alerts so you see risk building early
  • Hard stop-loss orders on every trade
  • Fixed risk per trade (small enough to survive a bad streak)
  • A personal stop rule (stop after a set number of losses) and a simple journal note

Trading behavior rules: what is allowed, what can get you flagged

Beyond drawdown, prop firms also watch trading behavior. Common areas to review in the Terms and Conditions include copy trading from signals, account sharing, restricted automation, or tactics that try to exploit pricing or execution.

Staying consistent and transparent helps protect your eligibility and keeps reward withdrawals smooth when you meet requirements.

EA and bot trading: what to check before you run automation

Some automation may be allowed with conditions. Verify what’s permitted, how the strategy is sourced, and whether changing settings mid-run could be an issue. Test it on a Free Trial first, then keep settings stable.

News trading, weekend holds, and platform differences (MT4, MT5, cTrader, DXtrade)

Volatile periods can interact with rules through spreads, slippage, and fast moves. Pick the platform you can manage best, and practice the same workflow you’ll use later.

Conclusion

FTMO prop firm trading rules are easiest when you sort them into three groups: objectives, loss limits, and behavior rules. Read the current rule page, use a Free Trial to rehearse, set your daily and overall risk caps, then trade small and steady. Treat it like a repeatable process, not a bet, and the rules start to feel simple.

Drexil
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Personally, I tried many challenges with other famous prop firms.Slippage has been the main reason I lose the challenge. With FTMO, trading condition are just next to real market ones. I really appr... See more

Joanna
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Just passed the first step of becoming a funded trader and I’m really happy with my experience at FTMO so far. The challenge is well structured, rules are clear, and the trading conditions feel f... See more

Sue Dof
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The way support system is, it's unreal so fast. They are really amazing with everything especially with theirs trading rules, it's very easy and simple if you compare with any other prop firm. Lastly,... See more

Jason Johny
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The experience was great. The most trusted firm out there and has been for many years. I've used many prop firms before and I always tell people FTMO should be your first choice. Trading condit... See more

Ethan Ethan
6 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

They go above and beyond here, I just had a look at my total paid money and it’s now $64600 only since around 6 months ago I posted it in the discord payment proof channel where hundreds of traders po... See more

Rv
5 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Hello This is the firts time i buy een challenge from ftmo untill now i dont have any complains or issues i 'm now in the verification phase 2 of the acc ftmo sends quikly the info after you ch... See more

customer
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I have great experience with FTMO. Its rules are excellent and teach how to do risk management while trading. I have learned a lot through FTMO learning tutorials and testing those skills on free tria... See more

Happy
5 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FTMO gives opportunity for small traders to make big. I have just passed a challenge. I am on my way to next steps. God willing, i will manage an account. Then I can write my experience. During Chal... See more

NC
5 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I've been trading with FTMO for a year now and I feel very happy. FTMO always pay the rewards and give the refund for the fee based on what you paid if you've got some discount. When there are some ru... See more

ss. customer
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Thank you FTMO, it’s really a privilege and a real game changer for traders to have access to serious companies like FTMO that provide professionals with capital to trade full time. I am truly grate... See more

So Kuk Law
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Verified

FTMO is a very good company with a great customer service team. I brought a 10k account without using for a year because I thought that was not starting to use it maybe keep longer time but one day my... See more

René Hitka
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Unlike other companies, the attitude towards me as an individual was very professional. I asked about maximum lot size position I can open on MetaTrader 5, and I got answers to even more question... See more

Alan Chen
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The ftmo credentials get sent out quickly after purchase and after you pass your challenges. They also have a dashboard where you can see how you’re doing with the daily loss, max loss, and target pro... See more

Marieke van der Veen
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Got my first reward and the initial purchase cost back within 3 days even though it was during the holidays. The eval steps take time but you don’t have a trailing drawdown and no consistancy rule.

Syed Ziaullah Shah
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great firm… recently got another payout… numerous times paid, no issues at all… Evaluations are pricey, but worth every penny… Great job FTMO guys…

Basil Thankachan
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I’ve had a great experience with FTMO so far. The trading conditions are realistic, the platform is stable, and the rules are clearly explained. What I like most is their transparency and fast custome... See more

Maarten
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

They do what they promise you they do. It's all very straightforward and a smooth experience. If you have questions they answer quickly, either in their discord or live chat from their website. Can co... See more

Julian Puzio
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FTMO always asks if I need any help they are always available, I have never had any issues, I recomend FTMO to anyone that would like to start their feet wet , just go slow and steady.

Ted
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FTMO is a fair prop firm, I received my first payout, as well as my initial refund with no problems whatsoever. I would suggest reading the terms and conditions carefully, follow the rules strictly an... See more

Tomas Dahlström
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Got my payout. The first one on my first attempt. Even got my challange fee back as promised, on my account. Almoast forgot that so that became a happy suprice. They are serious and you have optio... See more

Fernando Cotrim Vlogs
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FTMO is an exceptional prop firm with over 10 years of experience. Their structure, rules, and risk management have pushed me to become a more disciplined and confident trader. The platform is top-tie... See more

Kittipong Wongwan
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FTMO is its user-friendly rules and evaluation system. The trading objectives, profit targets, and drawdown limits are clearly defined, which helps traders plan and manage risk effectively.

Bradley Evans
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great propfirm, they have helped me along my journey with no hidden rules and have done exactly what they said. I have just received my first payout from them via bank transfer and also a refund of... See more

Denis Janoudi
5 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

i joinde becaus i wanted a real path to live funding,not just staying on simulated forever.Paid to trade actually takes that seriously.If you are consistent,you can get moved into real live funding.Th... See more

HIRO
5 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I purchased a swing account and passed the two-step challenge phase. I’ve now completed my first payout and withdrew around $2,600. There was no video interview or anything like that required be... See more

banksster
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The principle of a prop firm is clear. The earning is generated by the 99% of the traders who do not make it. This is the business case. Period. Now there are many of these companies. FTMO seems to be... See more

Witoon L.
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Trading with FTMO has been awesome. They give you all the tools to level up your skills, and the whole setup is smooth. The app works well, the platform is reliable, and the support team is super help... See more

Janga
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Hello, I would like to share my positive feedback about my experience with FTMO. I successfully passed my FTMO challenge and received both my payout and the refund for the account I purchased. Th... See more

thilu wanathunga
4 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

In the prop firm industry, trust is essential. One thing I truly appreciate about FTMO is that it is a firm I can trust. The rules are fair, and if you follow and respect them, you can certainly be su... See more

Denelio Martin
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FTMO is the best prop firm. I have been using them for a year and have had 0 issues. Excellent customer service with live chat support. Payouts requested and recived in less than a day and last... See more

angelo perticara
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I finally got my funded 160k account. I have already requested and received my first payout. Everything went without problems and communication is also flawless. Ftmo is by far the best in its profess... See more

Appiah Sika
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FTMO is a transparent, reliable and honest company. They complie by what they say. I am honored to be associated with them. Will be sign up to be affiliate soon.

Hasnain Khan
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FTMO ke liye Trustpilot par dene ke liye yahan short aur effective reviews hain. Aap apni pasand ke hisaab se koi bhi select kar sakte hain: Option 1: Payout aur Reliability par focus (Best... See more

customer
4 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

What I value most about FTMO is their reliability. Customer support is fast and clear, rules are well defined, and there are no surprises. You always know where you stand as a trader. Definitely one o... See more

luis canete
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

My experience with FTMO has been very positive. I have already received my profit share twice, which shows that their payout process is reliable and transparent. The platform is stable and user-friend... See more

Tiến Trần
5 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Among the various proprietary trading firms, FTMo is the most reputable. Their payouts are processed very quickly and they strictly adhere to their refund policy. The support team is also very respons... See more

iulia muresan
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

What a gem of a company! Their rules are nothing but a great way to built discipline and learn how to protect your capital. Their customer service has been amazing and always incredibly helpful an... See more

Shaheed Charles
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I’ve been trading with FTMO for some time now and my experience has been consistently positive. The rules are clear, payouts are reliable, and the overall structure encourages disciplined trading. I’v... See more

Jayrin Jiko
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

This is my FIRST time using FTMO and I have to say; I never thought it would be so fun being with these guys. We all need to understand that there is discipline and management involved in any t... See more

Soheil iraji meymandi
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I’ve had a very positive experience with FTMO so far. The trading conditions are clear and transparent, the rules are well-defined, and the Verification stage feels fair and trader-friendly. I also... See more

Michael
3 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I was ecstatic when I could trade with FTMO back in the US. FTMO has become a top-tier prop firm, characterized by clear rules, fair evaluations, and excellent trading conditions. The platforms are r... See more

PoetryAndHorizon
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The evaluation process lasted for three years. It went through stages where the platform itself disappeared, but FTMO remained the most important. We hope that FTMO will accompany us as we grow togeth... See more

Rash ali
4 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I been with FTMO for four months now and it has been an excellent experience. The platform is transparent, professional, and very supportive, especially for swing traders. I have also passed my second... See more

van duong
5 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FTMO is the real deal! Just received my first payout and the refund of the fee—the process was incredibly fast and hassle-free. Their support team is also super responsive and professional, making the... See more

Dragana Lovrinović
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

FTMO is one of the best prop trading firms I have used. The rules are clear, the platform is professional, and the evaluation process is fair. I am happy with FTMO, their customer support team is awes... See more

customerوقاص
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Verified

My experience with FTMO has been very positive so far. The rules are clear, the trading conditions are fair, and the Verification stage is much more relaxed with a 5% profit target and no time limit... See more

Yeurii Felizz
2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

My experience with FTMO has been very positive. The rules are clear, transparent, and well explained, which makes it easier to trade with confidence. The trading objectives are fair, and the platform

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