What is a Prop Firm?
A Prop Firm (short for Proprietary Trading Firm) is a type of trading company that operates in financial markets using its own capital. These companies seek talented and skilled traders to utilize their knowledge and expertise for profit by providing significant capital.
For example, imagine you are an experienced trader looking for an opportunity to trade with high capital and without the need for initial investment. In this situation, you can approach Prop Firms and collaborate with them.
What is Prop Trading? Prop Trading (Proprietary Trading) is a type of activity in financial markets where investment firms provide their capital to professional individuals known as "traders." These traders use their market analysis knowledge and skills to engage in various trades in financial markets such as stocks, Forex, or cryptocurrencies.
In Prop Trading, the profits and losses resulting from trades are shared between the company and the trader based on an agreement. This way, the trader has a high motivation to earn profits since a portion of the profit belongs to them. On the other hand, the company benefits from the expertise and skills of the trader and reduces its investment risk by sharing the profits.
In fact, Prop Trading can be considered a form of organizational investment aimed at profiting from market fluctuations. Companies operating in this field typically leverage the knowledge and expertise of professionals known as "Prop Traders." These individuals, who possess market analysis knowledge and trading skills, are responsible for executing trades using the company's capital.
Interestingly, contrary to popular belief, Prop Traders are not necessarily salaried employees. In many cases, they earn based on a percentage of the profits from the trades. This means that the interests of the company and the trader are aligned, and both parties are committed to profitability in the market.
Overall, Prop Trading is recognized as a specialized activity within financial markets. Understanding the nature and complexities of this type of trading requires adequate knowledge and experience in the financial field.
Advantages of Prop Trading
Prop Trading (Proprietary Trading) is a type of trading in which a company or financial institution provides capital to traders so that they can trade in financial markets. In return, the profits and losses resulting from the trades are shared between the company and the trader.
Prop Trading offers several advantages for professional traders, some of the most important of which are highlighted below:
Capital Provision:
One of the main advantages of Prop Trading is the provision of necessary capital for traders. Prop trading companies provide capital to traders, allowing them to trade with a larger volume of funds, thereby increasing their potential for profit.
Access to Professional Infrastructure:
Prop trading companies typically have advanced hardware and software infrastructure. This infrastructure includes powerful trading platforms, technical and fundamental analysis software, and access to real time market data streams. Utilizing these resources can help traders make more informed trading decisions.
Educational and Supportive Environment:
Many Prop trading companies offer educational and support programs for their traders. These programs may include courses on market analysis, risk management, and trading psychology. Additionally, some companies provide access to shared trading rooms for brainstorming and exchanging experiences among traders.
High Earning Potential:
Given the use of company capital and the ability to trade with high volumes, Prop Trading can offer high earning potential for professional traders. However, it is important to note that earning a high income in this field requires sufficient knowledge, skills, and experience in financial markets.
Learning and Experience Opportunity:
Working at a Prop trading company can be an excellent opportunity for learning and gaining experience, especially for beginners. Traders in this environment can benefit from the knowledge and experience of more seasoned traders and apply their skills in real market conditions.
Keep in mind that Prop Trading comes with high risks and is suitable only for professional traders who possess sufficient knowledge, skills, and experience in financial markets. Before entering this field, you should thoroughly understand the risky nature of financial markets and only invest the capital you are willing to lose. If you are looking for an opportunity to enter the exciting and profitable world of financial markets, Prop Trading at FeneFX is the best option for you. By taking advantage of the benefits of this platform, you can achieve significant earnings without the need for initial capital and relying solely on your knowledge and skills.
Disadvantages of Prop Trading.
While Prop Trading can bring significant potential profits, it also comes with considerable risks.
Trading Restrictions:
Some Prop trading companies impose restrictions on their traders. These restrictions may include limitations on the size of trading positions, the types of assets they can trade with, and specific trading strategies.
Intense Competition in the Job Market:
The Prop trading job market is highly competitive. Many individuals are eager to enter this field, and the competition for job opportunities in these companies is fierce. Even after being hired, Prop traders must consistently demonstrate outstanding performance to maintain their position.
History of Prop Trading
Prop Trading (Proprietary Trading), with a long history, has gone through many ups and downs over time. The roots of Prop Trading can be traced back to the early formation of financial markets.
In the past, traders traditionally and physically traded assets in trading halls. Some brokerage firms and banks also operated in these markets with their own capital, and this activity was considered the foundation of Prop Trading.
The Communication Revolution and Transformation in Trading
With the emergence of new communication technologies in the 1980s, a massive transformation took place in financial markets. Electronic trading systems replaced traditional trading halls, and the speed and volume of trades significantly increased. This allowed Prop Trading to expand on a much larger scale.
The Emergence of Hedge Funds and Legal Challenges
The 1990s saw the emergence and growing popularity of "hedge funds." These funds, using complex trading strategies, became a serious competitor to Prop Trading firms. During this period, some of the risks associated with Prop Trading came under the scrutiny of regulatory bodies, and limitations were imposed on the activities of these companies.
Global Financial Crisis and Shift in Approach
The global financial crisis of 2008 had a profound impact on many financial activities, including Prop Trading. In the aftermath of this crisis, some banks and financial institutions, due to high risk exposure, withdrew from Prop Trading activities. However, this type of activity continued to survive, and specialized Prop Trading firms began to emerge.
The Rise of New Technologies and Modern Prop Trading
The 2010s saw the increasing influence of new technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, in the financial world. This led to the development of advanced trading algorithms and new strategies in Prop Trading. The emergence of new financial assets such as cryptocurrencies created new opportunities for Prop Trading in the modern world.
A Growing Outlook
Today, Prop Trading continues to be recognized as an attractive and challenging activity in the financial markets. Despite legal and competitive challenges, it is expected that this field, relying on new technologies and the emergence of new financial markets, will continue to grow and evolve.
Prop Trading Regulations
Prop Trading (Proprietary Trading), despite its many attractions, is a regulated activity with a defined framework. The activities of Prop Trading companies are subject to the laws and regulations of financial regulatory bodies. These laws are designed to maintain market stability and prevent systemic risks. Obtaining the necessary licenses and complying with legal requirements are among the most important pillars of Prop Trading companies' operations.
Trader Employment Conditions
Prop traders are usually individuals with high knowledge, skill, and experience in the financial markets. Prop trading companies use selection processes and specialized tests to attract and hire these individuals. A successful trading history, proficiency in financial analysis, and risk management are some of the key criteria for recruiting Prop traders.
Contracts Made
The relationship between Prop trading companies and traders is regulated by specific, predetermined contracts. These contracts clearly and precisely define the rights and obligations of both parties. Terms such as profit and loss sharing, the amount of capital provided to the trader, trading restrictions, and contract termination conditions are common clauses in these contracts.
Risk Management and Trading Discipline
Risk management and maintaining trading discipline are fundamental principles in Prop Trading activities. Prop trading companies typically impose restrictions such as maximum position sizes and risk reward ratios to control risk. Additionally, continuous monitoring of traders' performance and adherence to trading discipline principles are key actions in managing risk within this field.
Confidentiality and Professional Ethics
Prop traders are required to maintain the confidentiality of the company's and their own account information. Furthermore, they must act in the best interests of the company and adhere to professional ethical standards in financial markets. The regulations governing Prop Trading are designed to create a secure, transparent, and professional environment for operations in this field. Understanding and adhering to these laws by both Prop trading companies and traders is essential for ensuring success and sustainability in this challenging field.
What is the Difference Between a Prop Firm and Prop Trading?
The field of financial trading is a dynamic and evolving world, constantly introducing new terms. Two common terms that are often confused are "Prop Firm" and "Prop Trading." Understanding the distinction between these two concepts is very important for those involved in or interested in financial markets.
Key Differences Between Prop Firm and Prop Trading
Nature:
A Prop Firm is an investment company, while Prop Trading is a type of trading activity.
Role:
A Prop Firm provides capital, while a Prop Trader uses that capital to execute trades.
Profit:
The way profits are shared differs between these two concepts. A Prop Trader usually pays a percentage of the profit to the Prop Firm, whereas all profits generated from the Prop Firm’s activities belong to the company.
Understanding the distinction between a Prop Firm and a Prop Trader is crucial for those interested in financial market activities. Each of these concepts plays a different role and has a distinct place in the financial trading ecosystem. We hope that this explanation has cleared up any potential confusion on the matter.
There is also a general similarity between Props:
Risk:
In Prop Firms, the risk of loss is borne by the Prop Firm.
How Traders Are Hired in Prop Trading Companies
Prop Trading (Proprietary Trading) has become a popular career path in recent years, attracting significant attention. In Prop Trading companies, it is the company itself that invests in professional traders and provides them with the opportunity to trade in financial markets.
Thus, a trader uses their knowledge and skills to trade on behalf of the company and, in return for the profits generated, receives a percentage as their share. The process of hiring traders in Prop Trading companies typically involves the following steps:
Searching for Prop Trading Companies
The first step is to find companies that operate in the Prop Trading field and whose conditions and requirements align with your expectations. For this, you can search online and review specialized financial websites to compile a list of these companies.
What is FeneFX Prop Trading?
FeneFX Prop Trading is a program that allows talented and interested individuals in financial markets to trade in various markets such as Forex, stocks, and commodities with the company’s capital, under the supervision of experienced professionals.
Advantages of FeneFX Prop Trading:
Company Credibility:
When withdrawing profits, quick and direct settlements without challenges are provided, making FeneFX a high credibility Prop Firm. Every week, several random withdrawal slips from traders’ profits are transparently published.
No Unwritten Rules:
At every stage of FeneFX Prop Trading, the company is fully committed to its own rules, and all operations are conducted within those rules. There are no additional rules beyond those mentioned on the rules page.
Earning with Low Initial Capital:
In FeneFX Prop Trading, you do not need to invest a large amount of capital. Instead, you can start with a low initial investment and earn substantial profits if successful.
High Profit Percentage:
In FeneFX Prop Trading, the trader receives 90% of the profits, while the company receives 10%.
Safe and Reliable Trading Experience:
With a 4 year track record in financial markets, FeneFX has become a trusted and safe opportunity for traders. The company operates under the supervision and adherence to the regulations of recognized financial institutions. Moreover, financial transparency, efficient customer services, and a strong history of customer satisfaction are some of the benefits of choosing this company as your Prop Trading partner.
Access to Advanced Tools:
FeneFX Prop Trading provides access to advanced tools for both technical and fundamental analysis, enabling traders to make well informed trading decisions.
Opportunity for Unlimited Earnings:
Your earnings in FeneFX Prop Trading depend solely on your skill and effort. The more successful you are in your trades, the higher your income.
Receive Capital Without Challenges or Time Limitations:
FeneFX has made it possible for professional Forex traders to receive capital without challenges or time restrictions, and they can withdraw their profits every five days.
Specialized Training and Support:
FeneFX Prop Trading offers the most comprehensive Forex training in Iran, completely free of charge, taught by Master Mohammad Ahangari. Additionally, the company’s experienced support team is always ready to provide guidance and advice.
Trading Account Variety and Flexible Conditions:
FeneFX offers a variety of trading accounts and optimal conditions, providing an ideal platform for traders of all experience levels.
Prop Trading Rules at FeneFX
Understanding the trading rules before engaging in any challenges in FeneFX Prop Trading is essential. These rules are designed to ensure fair and transparent trading for all traders.
Key Terms:
Trade Openings:
Traders are allowed to keep positions open over the weekend.
Fast Scalping:
Closing positions in less than one minute is prohibited, and the minimum required time for closing a trade is one minute.
Abuse:
High volume trades conducted with the intention of exploiting time differences between broker servers are not allowed.
Warnings:
Ignoring three warnings will lead to account suspension.
News:
Trading five minutes before or after major news releases (red news) is prohibited. The primary news source will be the website forexfactory.com.
Balance:
The maximum daily drawdown of 5% is calculated based on the starting balance of the day, and previous day’s profits are not considered.
Capital Increase:
After three withdrawals of 10% profit, a trader can request an increase in balance up to 30% through the support team.
Account Reset:
If the specified profit target is not reached but the account remains profitable, the trader can reset their account for free.
Withdrawals:
Traders can withdraw profits from their real accounts once every 10 days.
Broker Change:
Traders can change their broker by coordinating with the support team.
Hedging:
Hedging on trades within a single account is allowed.
Copy Trading:
Copy trading from one’s own account or others is prohibited.
Robots:
Arbitrage robots are not permitted. Use of trader’s own robots is allowed with support team approval.
Registration and Entrance Exams
After selecting the desired company, there is usually a need to register and pay an initial fee (entrance fee). Following this, the company will conduct exams either online or in person to assess your knowledge and skills in analysis and trading.
Trial Period
Some companies may offer a short trial period. During this period, you will trade with a limited capital under the supervision of the company's team. Your skills and adaptability to the Prop Trading environment will be evaluated.
Contract Signing and Starting the Activity
If you perform successfully in the previous stages, you will sign a contract with the company and begin your official trading activity. At this stage, based on the agreement, an account with a specified amount of capital will be provided for you to trade independently while adhering to the framework set by the company.
How are Profits or Salaries Paid in Prop Trading?
In the world of financial trading, Prop Trading refers to the activity in which investment companies provide professional traders with the opportunity to trade in financial markets using the company's own capital. In this type of collaboration, how profits or salaries are paid to traders is one of the key points of attention.
There are two main models for paying profits or salaries in Prop Trading:
Fixed Salary:
In this model, the company pays the trader a fixed monthly amount regardless of their performance in trades. This model is more common in smaller companies and for beginner traders who are gaining experience.
Percentage of Profit:
In this model, the trader's income depends on their performance in trades and the profit they generate for the company. Typically, a percentage of the net profit from the trader’s trades is considered their share. The percentage of the trader’s share can vary depending on the agreement with the company and their performance over specific periods of time.
These two main models come with their own advantages and disadvantages. The fixed salary model provides more job security for the trader but reduces their incentive to generate higher profits. On the other hand, the percentage of profit model creates more motivation for the trader to succeed and generate profits but comes with market fluctuations and risks.
In addition to the two main models mentioned, some Prop Trading companies may offer a combination of these models. For example, part of the trader’s income may be fixed, while part is a percentage of the profits. Typically, the profit percentage paid to traders ranges from 20% to 90%, depending on the agreement between the trader and the company.
In FeneFX Prop Trading, the trader’s share of the profit can be up to 90%.
Ultimately, the best payment model for a trader depends on various factors, such as their risk tolerance, experience, and skills, as well as the conditions and regulations of the Prop Trading company.
Where Do Prop Trading Companies' Earnings Come From?
Prop Trading companies invest in professional traders, providing them the opportunity to trade in financial markets. In return, traders pay a percentage of the profits from their trades as a commission to the company. However, the question arises: where does the income of Prop Trading companies come from?
The income of these companies primarily comes from two main sources:
Transaction Fees:
As mentioned, traders active in Prop Trading companies pay a portion of their profits from their trades as a commission to the company. The amount of this commission can vary based on the initial agreement between the company and the trader, as well as the trader's overall performance during the trading period.
Subscription Fees:
Some Prop Trading companies charge traders a subscription fee for using their services. This subscription can be either monthly or annual, providing traders with access to various tools and services, such as trading platforms, specialized training, and trading signals.
Selling Tickets to Traders:
Some Prop Trading companies sell tickets to traders to participate in trading challenges instead of charging a subscription fee. In these challenges, traders use demo trading accounts provided by the Prop Trading company. Traders who achieve a specific profit in these challenges can withdraw their profits in cash.
Selling tickets to traders can be a significant source of income for Prop Trading companies, especially if there are many participants in the challenges.
The income of Prop Trading companies depends on various factors such as the number of traders, the volume of trades, and the trading strategies employed by the company.
Summary
Prop Trading can be a great opportunity for traders seeking profits in financial markets. However, before entering this field, you must fully understand its benefits and challenges and be prepared for the hurdles ahead.
Don’t forget that Prop Trading comes with many challenges and difficulties. But with the right mindset, effort, and persistence, you can succeed in this field. FeneFX is always striving to help you achieve your goals by offering high quality education (taught by the renowned Mohammad Ahangari) and appropriate support.