FTMO Full Review & Discount Code 2026
Last Updated: March 19, 2026 — Verified Active Deals
The Original Prop Firm — Proven Track Record Since 2015
Save on evaluations + get crypto & bank transfer payouts
Why FTMO Remains the Benchmark for Prop Trading
When people talk about "the original prop firm," they're talking about FTMO. Founded in 2015 in Prague, FTMO pioneered the modern two-phase evaluation model that most firms now copy. They've spent over a decade refining their process, building trust with traders globally, and maintaining one of the most legitimate operations in the industry.
FTMO's reputation is built on transparency, fair rules, and consistency. Their evaluation challenge is straightforward: prove you can trade profitably under realistic conditions, and you get funded. No tricks, no hidden fees, no sudden rule changes. This simplicity is why FTMO is often recommended to first-time prop traders.
What sets FTMO apart from newer competitors is regulatory credibility. They operate under European regulations, offer multiple payment methods (bank transfer, cryptocurrency), and have built a community of over 100,000+ active traders. If you value legitimacy and a proven track record, FTMO is the benchmark.
The FTMO Two-Phase Challenge Explained
Phase 1: Reach a 10% profit target while maintaining a 5% maximum daily drawdown and 10% maximum account drawdown.
Phase 2: Replicate your Phase 1 success with the same profit target and drawdown restrictions.
This two-phase approach ensures you're not just lucky once — you can consistently execute your trading plan. Most traders pass Phase 1 within 30-60 days if they have a solid strategy. Phase 2 typically takes another 30-60 days.
The advantage of FTMO's challenge is clarity. You always know exactly what you need to hit and what will disqualify you. No surprises, no moving goalposts.
FTMO Account Sizes & Challenge Fees 2026
| Account Size | Challenge Fee | Profit Target | Max Daily DD | Max Overall DD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,000 | $59-$99 | $1,000 | 5% | 10% |
| $25,000 | $99-$149 | $2,500 | 5% | 10% |
| $50,000 | $149-$199 | $5,000 | 5% | 10% |
| $100,000 | $199-$299 | $10,000 | 5% | 10% |
| $150,000 | $299-$399 | $15,000 | 5% | 10% |
| $200,000 | $399-$499 | $20,000 | 5% | 10% |
Note: Prices vary by promotional period. Check propfirmdealfinder.com for current FTMO deals and potential discounts.
FTMO's Unique Account Types: Challenge vs Swing
FTMO Challenge: The standard 2-phase evaluation. You must hit specific profit targets before you get funded. This is the most popular option.
FTMO Swing Account: For traders who want a more relaxed evaluation process. You get more time and slightly easier drawdown requirements. Ideal for position traders and swing traders who take longer-term trades.
Choosing the right account type matters. Day traders typically thrive on Challenge accounts. Swing and position traders often perform better with Swing accounts. FTMO lets you pick based on your style.
Payouts, Profit Splits & Payment Methods
Profit Split: Up to 90% (you keep 90%, FTMO takes 10%)
Monthly Fees: $0 after passing (FTMO makes money only from your profits)
Payment Methods:
- Bank Transfer (SEPA, International Wire)
- Cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT)
- PayPal alternative services
FTMO's multiple payment options are a huge advantage. Want to reinvest profits immediately via crypto? You can. Need a bank transfer to your account? Done. This flexibility is why traders love FTMO.
Payouts are processed monthly. Generate profit on January 15th? You'll see it in your account by early February.
Important: FTMO Does Not Accept US Traders
This is a critical limitation. FTMO does not currently allow traders from the United States to participate in their program due to regulatory restrictions. If you're based in the US, you'll need to look at alternatives like Apex Trader Funding, TopStep, or Earn2Trade instead.
If you're outside the US, FTMO is an excellent choice and remains one of the most legitimate prop firms available.
Pros & Cons: The FTMO Reality Check
✓ PROS
- Founded 2015 — proven legitimacy
- Regulated in Europe
- Simple, transparent rules
- Up to 90% profit split
- Crypto & bank payouts
- No monthly fees after passing
- Large global community
- Two account types (Challenge/Swing)
- Clear profit targets
- Flexible trading hours
⚠ CONS
- NO US traders (major limitation)
- Strict drawdown rules (5% daily)
- Two-phase requirement (time-consuming)
- Limited asset classes (forex, stocks)
- No daily/weekly payouts
- Minimum $10k account
- No leverage above certain levels
- Passing rate ~25-35% (competitive)
- Challenge resets if you fail
- No scaling program like Apex
How to Get Started with FTMO
Step 2: Click the "View Current FTMO Deal" link
Step 3: Sign up and select your account size ($10k-$200k)
Step 4: Pay the challenge fee (typically $59-$499 depending on size)
Step 5: Receive your trading credentials and demo account
Step 6: Complete Phase 1: hit your profit target before hitting your drawdown limit
Step 7: Move to Phase 2 and replicate your Phase 1 success
Step 8: Pass both phases and become funded. Start trading the live account and request payouts monthly
About FTMO
Founded: 2015
Headquarters: Prague, Czech Republic
Regulation: European financial oversight
Active Traders: 100,000+
Mission: "We at FTMO believe that many retail traders are capable of trading profitably. The problem is that access to the needed capital is limited."
Why Traders Choose FTMO: Legitimacy and simplicity. FTMO invented the modern two-phase challenge model that most competitors now copy. They've proven over 10+ years that they honor their commitments to traders. For international traders outside the US, FTMO is often the first choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About FTMO
Ready to Start Your FTMO Challenge?
FTMO is the proven choice for international traders. Simple rules, legitimate operation, proven payouts.
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