Introducing the 1-Step FTMO Challenge

At FTMO, we are constantly seeking ways to push the boundaries of modern prop trading and provide you with tools that meet your specific needs. We are thrilled to announce the most significant update to our product portfolio: the 1-Step FTMO Challenge.

This new format is designed for traders who value efficiency and are looking for a more direct path to an FTMO Account.

What is the 1-Step FTMO Challenge?

Unlike our classic two-phase version (now referred to as the 2-Step FTMO Challenge), the 1-Step FTMO Challenge simplifies the evaluation process into a single phase. Upon successfully meeting the Trading Objectives of this phase, you become eligible to apply for an FTMO Account and, upon approval, become an FTMO Trader.

Who is the 1-Step FTMO Challenge designed for?

• Experienced Traders: For those seeking maximum speed and efficiency. This model allows you to complete the evaluation process in a short timeframe and receive 90% of the simulated profit right from your very first reward. It is the perfect way to turn your skills into results quickly.
• Beginners: For those looking for a faster way to start their prop trading journey. The model offers a clear structure that naturally guides you towards discipline and a professional approach to the markets from day one.

Key Benefits of the 1-Step FTMO Challenge

The new 1-Step FTMO Challenge introduces parameters optimised to create the best possible environment for your growth:

• 1-Step to 90% of the simulated profit: Unlike gradual scaling, with the 1-Step, you start with 90% simulated profit on your first and all subsequent rewards once you progress to the FTMO Account.
  
• Single-phase evaluation: The journey to an FTMO Account is now faster and more straightforward.
  
• No time limits: You have unlimited time to reach the 10% Profit Target, allowing you to trade according to your strategy without unnecessary pressure. This benefit applies to both the 1-Step and 2-Step models.
• Built on FTMO Standards: The 1-Step FTMO Challenge is built upon the solid foundations and proven FTMO standards trusted by traders worldwide for years.

How the 1-Step FTMO Challenge works in practice

The 1-Step FTMO Challenge is based on clearly set limits and rules that create a stable environment for disciplined and long-term sustainable trading. The core Trading Objectives include:

• Maximum Daily Loss (MDL): This is set at 3% of the initial simulated balance. Crucially, this limit is recalculated at the start of every new trading day, giving you a fresh beginning for each subsequent day of trading.
• Maximum Loss (ML) with EOD Trailing: This rule sets a limit that your equity cannot breach at any time. This boundary is derived from the highest balance you reach at the end of the trading day, rather than from intraday fluctuations (equity) and the total loss limit calculated as 10% of the initial simulated balance. It operates on an End-of-Day (EOD) Trailing basis, meaning the Maximum Loss limit is updated only once a day after the market close (at 23:59:59 CE(S)T).

Example of the End-of-Day (EOD) Trailing Maximum Loss: You start with a $100,000 account. The Maximum Loss amount is $10,000 (10% of the initial simulated capital), setting the initial Maximum Loss limit at $90,000. After the first trading day, your balance at midnight CE(S)T is $104,000. The Maximum Loss limit for the following day increases to $94,000 ($104,000 − $10,000). If the balance at the end of the next day is lower, the limit remains unchanged, as it is always calculated from the highest end-of-day balance achieved.

This mechanism provides you with a clearly defined safety net and protects your achieved profits, teaching you to manage capital strategically with a long-term outlook.

• Best Day Rule: To ensure that our traders’ success is rooted in discipline and a sustainable strategy, we are introducing the 50% Best Day Rule. This means that no single trading day should reach more than 50% of your Positive Days’ Profit in order to fulfil this objective. If the Best Day exceeds the threshold, it is not considered a rule breach and can be resolved by continuing to trade and increasing your Positive Days’ Profit until the proportion falls below 50%. This rule protects against “lucky clicks” and rewards those who demonstrate stable results over multiple days.

One step away from success

The 1-Step FTMO Challenge offers a different evaluation format for traders who prefer a more direct path to an FTMO Account. Clear conditions, disciplined objectives, and 90% of the simulated profit on every reward.