The path to financial freedom is paved with challenges, and for traders and investors, choosing the right proprietary trading firm can make all the difference. The focus falls on three notable names in the industry: Top Step, FTMO, and the up-and-coming Accelerated Prop Group (APG). Each offers a unique approach to helping you unlock the door to the next generation of prop trading.
But What are the Benefits of Prop Trading?

Prop firms are not only more collaborative but also offer better risk management than traditional firms. As well as this, prop traders have access to larger amounts with which to trade.

APG’s low barrier to entry and 24/7 internal support network are helping to make prop trading a safer and more profitable place. Read on to find out more!
APG: The Next Generation Prop Trading Firm
APG is the new kid on the block, but it's quickly turning heads with its innovative features and market-leading methods. They've crafted a two-step Evaluation Process that sets them apart from the competition. Most prop firms impose a 30-day time limit to pass evaluations, but not APG. This flexibility is a breath of fresh air for traders. With APG, the old saying ‘time is money’ takes on a new meaning.

Additionally, APG offers little to no spreads, ensuring minimal interference in your trades. In what is a huge feature, APG provides quicker access to your profits by offering bi-weekly payments. No more waiting 30 days for your money!
The leverage is another winning point; APG offers 1:100 leverage, higher than the 1:60 typically offered by other firms. Plus, their pricing is more affordable, giving you better value for your money.
Finally, APG University offers comprehensive training and courses for those who are new to the prop trading world. Tailored mentorships offer tips on trading psychology and risk management to name a few…
Explore APG’s Proprietary Trading Courses and Take the First Step towards Success here.
Top Step: The Path to a Better Lifestyle
Top Step's vision and mission focus on transforming traders into better traders with healthier habits. They've funded thousands of traders globally, paying out millions in withdrawals. Their accolades, including being on the Inc. 5000 list and recognized by Crain's as one of the best places to work in Chicago, speak to their success.
Top Step's approach involves the Trading Combine, an experiential learning and evaluation program for futures traders. However, it's essential to note that their Maximum Loss Limit (MLL) calculation differs from APG.
While other prop firms often calculate MLL based on unrealized profits intraday (high water mark), Top Step calculates it based on your end-of-day balance, offering more trading room. The Trading Combine encourages discipline and skills growth in simulated markets.

FTMO: Learning by Doing
FTMO is another established name in the prop trading world. Their 2-step Evaluation Process involves the FTMO Challenge and Verification stages, which traders must pass to access an FTMO Account. Once qualified, traders can earn up to 90% of their profits, a tempting proposition, and one that is matched by APG but not Top Step.
The Path to Financial Freedom
As traders look to the next generation of proprietary trading, they are presented with various choices. APG stands out with its flexible evaluation process, more frequent payouts, and enhanced leverage and pricing, making it perhaps the most enticing option for those wishing to get into proprietary trading.
Top Step focuses on nurturing improved trading practices, emphasizing healthy habits. Meanwhile, FTMO offers a comprehensive 2-step evaluation process, coupled with significant profit-sharing potential.
Each of these three firms boasts unique strengths tailored to different trader preferences and objectives. It's essential to consider one's individual trading style, goals, and priorities when selecting the most suitable prop trading firm. Ultimately, the road to financial freedom is a personal voyage, and these firms could be the key that unlocks the door.
For more information: Visit APG's website
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Editors’ Picks
EUR/USD holds around 1.1750 after weak German and EU PMI data
EUR/USD maintains its range trade at around 1.1750 in European trading on Tuesday. Weaker-than-expected December PMI data from Germany and the Eurozone make it difficult for the Euro to find demand, while investors refrain from taking large USD positions ahead of key employment data.
GBP/USD climbs above 1.3400 after upbeat UK PMI data
GBP/USD gains traction and trades in positive territory above 1.3400 on Tuesday as the British Pound benefits from upbeat PMI data. Later in the day, crucial data releases from the US, including Nonfarm Payrolls, Retail Sales and PMI, could trigger the next big action in the pair.
Gold retreats from seven week highs on profit-taking; all eyes on US NFP release
Gold price loses momentum below $4,300 during the early European trading hours on Tuesday, pressured by some profit-taking and weak long liquidation from the shorter-term futures traders. Furthermore, optimism around Ukraine peace talks could weigh on the safe-haven asset like Gold.
US Nonfarm Payrolls expected to point to cooling labor market in November
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics will release the delayed Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) data for October and November on Tuesday at 13:30 GMT. Economists expect Nonfarm Payrolls to rise by 40,000 in November. The Unemployment Rate is likely to remain unchanged at 4.4% during the same period.
NFP preview: Complex data release will determine if Fed was right to cut rates
The long wait is over, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the US will release nonfarm payrolls reports for both November and October at 1330 GMT on Tuesday. The overall NFP figure for October is expected to be -10k, however, it is expected to be influenced by a massive 130k drop in federal department workers.
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