Prop Firm Comparison: Where They Truly Differ
The table below lists each firm’s hard numbers. This article highlights the differences that actually change your trading experience—so you can spot which firm fits your strategy in seconds.
FTMO
ActiveCZ5+ yrs
FTMO is a Czech Republic-based, globally recognized proprietary trading firm, established in 2015. It offers a structured evaluation program to identify talented traders and fund them with accounts up to $200,000, rewarding up to 90% profit split. FTMO provides education, coaching, and premium trader programs with wide platform and asset coverage.
Blue Guardian Capital (BGC)
ActiveAE2–4 yrs
Blue Guardian Capital is a UAE-based proprietary trading firm operating for about 4 years, offering multiple challenge models with varying leverage on different asset types. Commissions are applied on FX, Metals, and other commodities, while indices and crypto trading have no commission.
Key Differences
Note: Information is for reference only; please visit the firm’s official website for the most accurate and up-to-date details.
Criteria
FTMO
ActiveCZ5+ yrs
Blue Guardian Capital (BGC)
ActiveAE2–4 yrs
Scaling:
Yes, structured multi-step evaluation followed by scaling and premium program
Yes, leverage scaling up to 1:100 on most assets
Max Allocation:
Up to $200,000 initial funded account balance
Up to $400,000
Model / Profit Targets:
FTMO Challenge, Verification phase, FTMO Rewards Account with simulated trading and performance rewards
Instant, 1-Step, 2-Steps, 3-Steps
Time Limits:
Time-bound challenges but unlimited trading days during funded account phase
Not explicitly stated
DD (Daily/Overall):
Daily loss and maximum loss limits strictly enforced to build discipline
Varies by asset; Forex 1:30-1:100 leverage, Metals/Indices/Other commodities 1:10-1:20, Crypto 1:2 leverage
Max Loss:
As per risk management rules in challenge phases
Not explicitly stated
News Trading:
Allowed with specific guidelines
Not explicitly stated
Payout:
Up to 90% profit split; fast and easy withdrawals; mobile app available
Payment methods listed but no detailed terms
Split:
Up to 90% profit split
Not explicitly stated
Platforms:
Mt5 / CustomplatMetaTrader 5, FTMO proprietary platform
Not explicitly stated
Tradable Assets:
Forex, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Forex, Metals, Indices, Crypto, Other Commodities
Commissions & Spreads:
N/A
$5 per lot FX, Metals, Other Commodities; No commission for Indices and Crypto
Country Access:
N/A
North Korea, Syria
Pros & Cons
FTMO — Pros
- Profit split up to 90%, competitive with top-tier firms.
- No hard time maximums beyond minimum-day rules per track.
- Multiple tracks (1-step and 2-step) are available across account sizes.
- Frequent payout cycles with fast processing reported.
- Scaling plan is available after meeting targets.
- Supports MT4, MT5, cTrader, and TradeLocker.
- Broad instrument coverage across FX, indices, commodities, metals, stocks, and crypto.
FTMO — Cons
- Minimum trading-days requirement applies during evaluation.
- Daily and total drawdown rules are strict and enforced.
- News-trading restrictions may apply depending on phase and instrument.
Blue Guardian Capital (BGC) — Pros
- Multiple paths including Instant, 1-step, 2-steps, and 3-steps.
- Broad asset coverage across FX, metals, indices, crypto, and other commodities.
- Leverage scales up to 1:100 on many assets, favoring active intraday styles.
- Zero commissions on indices and crypto with transparent $5/lot on FX and metals.
Blue Guardian Capital (BGC) — Cons
- Key terms like profit split, time limits, and max-loss are not clearly disclosed.
- News-trading rules are unspecified, reducing predictability for news strategies.
- Country access limitations may restrict some traders.
- Platform availability is not explicitly stated, which may limit platform choice.
Model & Time Limits: Pace vs. Pressure
- Instant / One-step models favor traders who want quick funding and minimal phases—usually higher fees but faster start.
- Two-phase models trim upfront cost and add verification, but Time Limits can add pressure if you need more trades to realize edge.
- No time limit or lenient windows reduce forced trades; tight windows reward fast, high-activity approaches.
Risk Rules: DD (Daily/Overall) & Max Loss
- Stricter Daily DD = tougher for scalpers during volatility; looser Daily DD = more room for heat intraday.
- Higher Overall DD / Max Loss cushions swing holds; lower buffers suit disciplined, tight-stop systems.
- News Trading allowed favors event traders; restricted news reduces gap risk but limits catalysts.
Payout & Split: Cash Flow vs. Percentage
- Earlier first payout (7–14 days) + frequent cycles = smoother cash flow—even if the split is slightly lower.
- Higher splits shine only if timing, caps, and fees don’t slow you down.
- When two firms tie on split, choose the one with fewer payout frictions (methods, fees, thresholds).
Scaling / Max Allocation: Real Path vs. Big Number
- Clear, incremental scaling (defined profit targets & min days) beats a flashy Max Allocation you’ll rarely reach.
- Shorter milestones reward consistent returns; longer gates suit patient compounding.
Platforms & Tradable Assets: Execution Fit
- Multiple platforms (MT4/MT5/cTrader/TradingView) = flexibility. Single-platform firms can be fine if execution is stable.
- Broader asset lists (indices, FX, commodities, crypto, stocks) unlock more setups; narrow menus force concentration risk.
Commissions: Quiet Edge Eroder
- Lower per-lot/contract commissions preserve edge for active traders; higher costs can negate a better split.
- When two firms feel identical, pick the cheaper fill—it compounds every session.
Restricted Countries: Eligibility & Payout Practicalities
- Check Restricted Countries first—eligibility, KYC friction, and payout rails differ by region.
- If your country is borderline, choose firms with clear guidance and multiple withdrawal methods.
Pros & Cons: How to Read Them Quickly
- Generous drawdown but stricter news → great for non-event strategies.
- Fast payouts but higher commissions → suits low-turnover setups.
- Big scaling but tight time limits → favors high-activity traders.
Make the Call in 5 Checks
- Model & Time — need speed (instant/1-step) or flexibility (no/lenient limits)?
- Risk Rules — DD & Max Loss align with your drawdown profile?
- Payout Mechanics — first payout timing & cycle fit your cash flow?
- Scaling Reality — milestones you can actually hit?
- Costs & Execution — commissions + platform stability ok for your style?
Then use the table’s Discount link, check Trustpilot sentiment, and Visit website for fine print.
FAQs
What’s the fastest path to first payout?
Firms with early first payout windows (often 7–14 days) and weekly/bi-weekly cycles. Confirm fees and caps.
Which firms suit news/event traders?
Those explicitly allowing news trading or with clearly defined windows. If restricted, plan around releases.
How do I break a tie between two similar firms?
Pick the one with looser Daily DD, cheaper commissions, or simpler payout rules—whichever matters most to your P&L.
