5 Best Futures Funded Trading Accounts
The best Futures funded account in 2024 - Fidelcrest
Best Futures funded accounts in 2024 are:
Fidelcrest - 30-day trading periods with CFDs on Futures, metals, stocks
Topstep - Futures trading with simulated accounts and funding opportunities
Earn2Trade - Established Gauntlet Mini program for Futures trading evaluation
FTMO - Leverage up to 1:100 for diversified Futures trading
Elite Trader Funding - Futures and CFDs for diverse trading strategies
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For ambitious traders seeking to take their skills to the next level, funded trading accounts offer an appealing path to potentially lucrative returns without excessive personal financial risk. These accounts provide traders with capital to trade futures markets in exchange for a profit split if the trading is profitable. In selecting the best funded trading account for your needs, key factors to consider include the funding tiers available, the profit split terms, the maximum loss limits before a reset occurs, and the evaluation durations to qualify for the various funding tiers.
The top 5 futures funded accounts highlighted in this article have strong reputations, offer generous and flexible terms for experienced traders, provide extensive risk parameters to protect the trading capital, and give traders access to a range of global derivatives markets across sectors like stocks, commodities, currencies and more using robust electronic platforms and advanced charting tools.
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What are the profit-sharing arrangements?
Most programs share profits between the trader and funding company, typically 80% for the trader and 20% for the company. Rules around targets, account closures or suspensions also affect profit-sharing.
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How long is the evaluation period?
Evaluation periods typically last 1-2 months. Some accelerated programs offer funding within 2 weeks.
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What type of trading experience is required?
Beginner traders with demonstrated skills and discipline can sometimes be accepted, but most programs strongly prefer applicants with 1-2 years verifiable trading experience and profits.
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Can funded accounts be opened from any location?
Eligibility depends on residence and compliance with local laws. Most reputable programs accept global traders but country restrictions may apply in some cases.
What are Futures funded accounts?
Funded Futures accounts are a specific kind of trading setup. In this arrangement, a third-party trader manages a trading account on behalf of a company. These accounts offer traders important things like risk money, extra buying power, and leverage to make profits in the Futures markets. The provided capital in funded accounts can be different depending on the trading plan. It can be as low as $25,000 or even as high as $1,000,000.
Further, there are different types of funded accounts for different types of trading and they can be adjusted to suit traders who deal with options and futures. To get this funding, traders must meet specific trading goals and generate profits according to the plan.
Best Futures funded accounts in 2024
| Parameter | Fidelcrest | Topstep | Earn2Trade | FTMO | Elite Trader Funding |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Minimum Deposit |
€99 |
$49 |
$90 |
From €155 |
$80 |
Leverage |
Up to 1:100 |
2:40 |
No |
Up to 1:100 |
Individually |
Supported Instruments |
Forex, CFDs on Futures, metals, stocks |
Futures (CME) |
Futures and micro-Futures |
Futures, Forex, Metals, Indices, CFDs |
Futures, Currencies, Cryptos, etc |
Funding Evaluation |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Trading Platforms |
Proprietary platform |
Multiple (TSTrader, NinjaTrader, etc.) |
Multiple supported platforms |
Proprietary platform |
NinjaTrader, Tradovate, Rithmic, etc |
Additional Features |
Leverage trading, use of EAs, 1000+ instruments |
Trader development, coaching, daily live videos, analytics |
Various funded trading programs |
Educational resources, risk management tools, and more |
Wide range of supported platforms and instruments |
Fidelcrest - 30-day trading periods with CFDs on Futures, metals, stocks
Fidelcrest operates within 30-day trading cycles, commencing when you open your first position. These cycles require all positions to be closed at the end, where the final profit or loss is determined. Within each cycle, traders have the flexibility to employ various strategies, including news trading, swing trading, overnight position holding, and utilizing stop-loss orders.
Fidelcrest's accounts all offer leverage trading with a maximum ratio of 1:100. Traders can also deploy EAs if permitted by the respective platform. To ensure a structured trading environment, the firm imposes strict rules, as outlined in the Trader Agreement. These rules cover aspects such as the maximum allowable daily loss and the minimum number of trading days.
One of the notable features of Fidelcrest is its broad range of financial instruments available for trading, including CFDs on Futures, metals, stocks, and more, totaling over 1,000 assets.
Fidelcrest offers 13 distinct account types, categorized based on experience, risk tolerance, and investment capacity. Both of its main trading programs, MicroFX+ and ProFX+, provide leverage trading up to 1:100. The MicroFX+ program is designed for beginners, allowing traders to test strategies and enhance risk management skills with account fees ranging from €99 to €199. On the other hand, the ProFX+ accounts cater to experienced traders with access to larger capital, with account fees ranging from €349 to €1,499.
Topstep - Futures trading with simulated accounts and funding opportunities
Topstep provides a platform for Futures trading in 2023. Through their Trading Combine program, traders can access simulated accounts ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 in buying power. This program allows traders to demonstrate their skills and risk management abilities. Upon completing the evaluation phase, traders gain access to funded accounts, enabling them to trade with real capital and without personal risk. Topstep offers various funded account plans and profit-sharing options, providing traders with opportunities to engage in Futures trading. Their approach merges evaluation with funded trading, offering a pathway for traders to explore Futures trading while minimizing barriers to entry.
Earn2Trade - Established Gauntlet Mini program for Futures trading evaluation
Earn2Trade offers Futures trading opportunities with its Gauntlet Mini™ program. This program assesses traders based on specific rules, evaluating their consistency and profitability over 15 days. It provides a path for skilled traders without significant capital to join the ranks of professional Futures traders.
Earn2Trade offers multiple funded trading programs, including the innovative Trader Career Path, which allows traders to scale their careers without monthly subscription fees after the initial evaluation. The 80%/20% profit-sharing model provides traders with a substantial portion of their profits, and the platform offers valuable resources such as trading lessons, webinars, and Journalytix.
FTMO - Leverage up to 1:100 for diversified Futures trading
FTMO primarily focuses on Forex trading but offers leverage opportunities for Futures trading with leverage of up to 1:100. This feature allows traders to access substantial buying power, making it appealing for Futures enthusiasts seeking amplified trading potential. While FTMO specializes in Forex, it also allows traders to explore various financial instruments, including metals, cash indices, cryptocurrencies, and equities via contracts for difference (CFDs). This diversity enhances trading strategies and market access.
Traders who succeed in FTMO's evaluation process gain access to funded trading accounts. Although forex is FTMO's forte, its expansion into Futures trading provides opportunities for traders to capitalize on market movements and unlock their trading potential.
Elite Trader Funding - Futures and CFDs for diverse trading strategies
Elite Trader Funding specializes in Futures trading and offers access to a diverse range of instruments, including metals, cash indices, Futures contracts, cryptocurrencies, and equities via CFDs. This breadth of options allows traders to diversify their strategies and explore multiple markets.
Elite Trader Funding features various evaluation programs tailored to different trading styles and risk levels, such as the 1-Step Evaluation, End of Day Drawdown Evaluation, Fast Track Evaluation, Static Drawdown Evaluation, and Diamond Hands Evaluation. Successful completion of these evaluations leads to funded accounts with profit-sharing arrangements. The profit split structure offers traders an incentive to achieve consistent success in Futures trading.
Pros and cons of a Futures funded account
👍 Pros
• Tailored capital for Futures trading
Futures funded accounts provide traders with capital that is specifically tailored toward Futures trading. This helps them to take larger positions in the Futures market and gives them a chance at higher profit potential
• Leverage advantage
These funded accounts offer leverage, and it gives traders the control to take part in more significant positions with comparatively less capital, thereby increasing potential gains
• Customized risk management
Funded accounts help to incorporate risk management in Futures trading. This aids traders in effectively managing risk and staying safe from the complexities of the Futures market
• Structured objectives
Traders who are selected for the funded accounts must meet predetermined targets and objectives. This structure helps build discipline while developing the intricacies of Futures trading strategies
• Access to Futures-centric resources
Futures funded traders have access to advanced tools, research, and technology that is vital in Futures trading. This helps them to make more informed decisions in the market
👎 Cons
• Profit sharing dynamics
Almost all funded accounts have profit-sharing agreements, impacting the profits the traders get to keep
• Implications of losses
As Futures trading is generally considered risky, losses can hinder both the initial capital that a Futures trader gets and the overall funded account. This can subsequently lead to limited trading opportunities
• Evaluation duration
Before you get a Futures funded trading account, you must pass an evaluation period. These periods can be time-consuming or long, and they can introduce an element of uncertainty
• Performance pressure
Futures traders who are aiming to meet predefined profit targets within set timeframes might have to deal with performance pressure, and this can lead to impulsive decisions in the Futures market
How to find the best Futures funded account?
Finding the best Futures funded account requires careful consideration of key factors tailored to Futures trading. Here are specific points to assess when evaluating prospective accounts.
Futures trading compatibility
Before applying, make sure that the funded account is designed for Futures trading, offering resources and support that align with the complexities of the Futures market
Profit sharing terms
You should understand the profit-sharing structure of a funded account, including the portion of the profits that you get to keep from successful trades. This helps you to gauge the account’s profitability
Risk management tools
Evaluate the account’s risk management features, such as predefined risk limits and position sizing. This would help you to manage risk effectively and plan your trades better
Access to specialized tools
Check the availability of advanced charting tools and other technology that is needed for Futures trading. This would help you have accurate analysis and aid in decision-making
Support for Futures strategies
Confirm that the funded account accommodates a diverse range of Futures trading strategies, allowing flexibility to implement your preferred approaches
Funding firm reputation
Research the reputation and track record of the funding firm offering the account, considering factors like reliability, transparency, and trader feedback
Account costs and fees
Understand any associated costs, fees, or commissions tied to trading within the funded account, assessing their impact on potential profits
How to get a Futures funded trading account?
Securing a Futures funded trading account involves a strategic process tailored to the nuances of Futures trading. Here are specific points to guide you through obtaining such an account:
Research and selection
Identify reputable trading firms that offer Futures funded accounts, considering their specialization in Futures trading and the resources they provide
Account eligibility
Review the eligibility criteria for the funded account program, ensuring that you meet the required trading experience, skills, and knowledge
Application submission
Complete the application process as specified by the trading firm. Provide accurate information about your trading background and preferences
Evaluation period
If applicable, undergo an evaluation phase specific to Futures trading. Follow the outlined trading objectives and demonstrate your ability to navigate the complexities of Futures markets
Account setup
After you have passed the evaluation stage, set up the funded trading account with the trading firm. This involves providing necessary documentation, personal details, and any required agreements
Glossary for novice traders
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1
Broker
A broker is a legal entity or individual that performs as an intermediary when making trades in the financial markets. Private investors cannot trade without a broker, since only brokers can execute trades on the exchanges.
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Trading
Trading involves the act of buying and selling financial assets like stocks, currencies, or commodities with the intention of profiting from market price fluctuations. Traders employ various strategies, analysis techniques, and risk management practices to make informed decisions and optimize their chances of success in the financial markets.
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Leverage
Forex leverage is a tool enabling traders to control larger positions with a relatively small amount of capital, amplifying potential profits and losses based on the chosen leverage ratio.
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CFD
CFD is a contract between an investor/trader and seller that demonstrates that the trader will need to pay the price difference between the current value of the asset and its value at the time of contract to the seller.
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Risk Management
Risk management is a risk management model that involves controlling potential losses while maximizing profits. The main risk management tools are stop loss, take profit, calculation of position volume taking into account leverage and pip value.
Team that worked on the article
Chinmay Soni is a financial analyst with more than 5 years of experience in working with stocks, Forex, derivatives, and other assets. As a founder of a boutique research firm and an active researcher, he covers various industries and fields, providing insights backed by statistical data. He is also an educator in the field of finance and technology.
As an author for Traders Union, he contributes his deep analytical insights on various topics, taking into account various aspects.
Dr. BJ Johnson is a PhD in English Language and an editor with over 15 years of experience. He earned his degree in English Language in the U.S and the UK. In 2020, Dr. Johnson joined the Traders Union team. Since then, he has created over 100 exclusive articles and edited over 300 articles of other authors.
Mirjan Hipolito is a journalist and news editor at Traders Union. She is an expert crypto writer with five years of experience in the financial markets. Her specialties are daily market news, price predictions, and Initial Coin Offerings (ICO).