Understanding Proprietary Trading: How It Works & Why It’s Growing

Proprietary trading, or prop trading, is an increasingly popular model where traders use a firm’s capital to trade financial markets. Unlike retail trading, where individuals risk their own money, prop traders operate with firm-funded accounts and share profits based on pre-agreed splits.

A key factor in prop trading is the profit split, which determines how earnings are divided between the trader and the firm. Depending on the company, profit splits typically range from 50/50 to 90/10, favoring traders as they prove consistency and skill. Some firms even offer scaling plans, increasing capital and profit share as traders succeed.

Risk management is another critical aspect. Prop firms set specific rules, including maximum daily losses, drawdown limits, and consistency requirements, to ensure responsible trading. These structures help traders develop discipline while protecting firm capital.

The profitability of prop trading depends on factors like trading strategy, risk management, and market conditions. Skilled traders can leverage access to large capital and competitive profit splits to generate significant income. However, discipline is essential—overleveraging or violating risk parameters can lead to account termination.

For those interested in prop trading, understanding funded account terms, payout cycles, and evaluation challenges is crucial. PropInsider’s in-depth article on profit splits explains the various structures firms offer, while their guide on essential trading terms provides a solid foundation for new traders.

With the right approach, prop trading can be a profitable career path. Aspiring traders should research firms carefully, refine their strategies, and focus on long-term consistency to maximize their potential.