If you’re looking to break into proprietary trading, choosing the right firm is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. With various models, funding structures, and education programs available, the right firm can set you up for success—or leave you struggling with excessive fees and little support.
As a successful prop trader, I spent months researching the best firms before making my choice. Now, as part of Proptradingrecruiting.com, I want to help others make informed decisions. Below, I’ll break down the top 5 proprietary trading firms for stock and options traders, comparing their education, costs, funding, mentorship, and profit splits.
Let’s dive into the details.
What to Look for in a Proprietary Trading Firm
Before choosing a prop firm, consider these key factors:
✔ Education & Training: Does the firm provide structured training for traders at different levels?
✔ Profit Split & Fees: What percentage of profits do you keep, and what are the monthly costs?
✔ Funding Amounts: How much capital is available, and are there restrictions?
✔ Platform & Tools: Does the firm offer cutting-edge trading platforms and software?
✔ Mentorship & Support: Is there ongoing coaching, or are you left on your own?
✔ Reputation & Reviews: What do other traders say about their experience?
With these criteria in mind, let’s look at the best proprietary trading firms for stock and options traders.
Comparison of the Top Proprietary Trading Firms
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the top 5 prop firms:
| Prop Firm | Education | Cost | Funding Available | Profit Split | Ongoing Mentorship | Rating (Trustpilot) | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maverick Trading | ✅ Structured Training + 1-on-1 Coaching | $4,000+ Initial Fee | Up to $500K | 70-80% | ✅ Personalized Mentorship | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8) | MaverickTrading.com |
| T3 Trading Group | ✅ Basic Training | No Upfront Cost | Varies | 50-90% | ❌ Limited Ongoing Support | ⭐⭐⭐ (3.5) | T3Trading.com |
| SMB Capital | ✅ Intensive Training (Paid) | $5,000+ for Training | Firm Capital (Discretionary) | Varies | ✅ Elite Coaching Program | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.2) | SMBTraining.com |
| FTMO | ❌ No Training Provided | $155+ Challenge Fee | Up to $400K (Scaling) | 80-90% | ❌ No Mentorship | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5) | FTMO.com |
| Seven Points Capital | ✅ Trader Development Program | No Upfront Cost | Firm Capital | 50-90% | ✅ Senior Trader Mentorship | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3) | SevenPointsCapital.com |
1. Maverick Trading – The Best Choice for Stock & Options Traders
Website: MaverickTrading.com
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
Maverick Trading is one of the most respected proprietary trading firms for stock and options traders. With over 25 years of experience, they offer an elite training program, hands-on coaching, and significant funding opportunities.
What Makes Maverick Trading Stand Out?
✅ Structured Training: Their training program is one of the most comprehensive in the industry, covering risk management, options strategies, and advanced execution.
✅ Large Capital Allocations: Funded traders receive up to $500,000 in capital.
✅ Ongoing Mentorship: Unlike many firms, Maverick provides 1-on-1 coaching to help traders refine their strategies.
✅ Profitable Business Model: While there’s an upfront investment ($4,000+), traders keep 70-80% of their profits with access to a scalable account.
Maverick Trading also pays a bonus equal to the amount of your membership fee once you make that amount of profit for the firm.
Maverick Trading is ideal for serious traders who want long-term success rather than a quick-funding challenge.
2. T3 Trading Group – Flexible Profit Split but Limited Support
Website: T3Trading.com
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3.5/5)
T3 Trading Group is a FINRA-registered firm that provides traders with capital and keeps compliance in check. However, it lacks the structured education and mentorship of firms like Maverick Trading.
✔ No Upfront Fees but traders must pass evaluations to get access to capital.
✔ Flexible Profit Split (50-90%), but lower-tier traders receive only 50% of profits.
❌ Limited Ongoing Mentorship, which makes it harder for new traders to grow.
T3 is best for experienced traders who don’t need guidance.
3. SMB Capital – High-Quality Training at a Premium Price
Website: SMBTraining.com
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.2/5)
SMB Capital is known for its intensive training programs but has one of the highest barriers to entry.
SMB Capital is known for its intensive training programs but has one of the highest barriers to entry.
✔ Elite Training Program (costing $5,000+).
✔ Access to Firm Capital after successful training.
✔ Strong Mentorship Program but at an added cost.
❌ High Initial Cost makes it less accessible to new traders.
Ideal for traders who want top-tier education but can afford the upfront costs.
4. FTMO – Best for Traders Who Prefer Challenges
Website: FTMO.com
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
FTMO is unique in that it requires traders to pass a challenge to get funded.
✔ No Upfront Training Costs – just a challenge fee ($155+).
✔ High Profit Split (80-90%).
❌ No Mentorship or Coaching, making it difficult for new traders.
Best for highly skilled traders who don’t need support.
5. Seven Points Capital – Strong Mentorship, but Selective
Website: SevenPointsCapital.com
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5)
Seven Points Capital offers a structured trader development program and firm-backed funding.
✔ Strong Mentorship from experienced traders.
✔ No Upfront Fees, but traders must pass rigorous evaluations.
❌ Lower Profit Split (50-90%).
Great for intermediate traders looking for mentorship without upfront costs.
Final Verdict: Which Prop Firm is Best?
For traders looking for long-term success, capital, and mentorship, Maverick Trading stands out as the best choice. Their structured training, high funding, and coaching support give traders a real chance at success.
✅ Want to start your prop trading career? Learn more about Maverick Trading.
