Apex Trader Funding Review: All Pros and Cons of the Prop Firm
- Flexible funding options
- Comprehensive educational resources
- Multiple trading platforms supported
- Real-time data and analytics
- Transparent profit-sharing model
- 24/7 customer support
- High-profit potential
- User-friendly interface
- Fast account setup
- Competitive pricing
- Monthly subscription fees
- Strict risk management rules
- The evaluation process can be challenging
- Possible delays in customer support response
- Not suitable for part-time traders
- Requires consistent performance
- No instant funding option
We reviewed Apex Trader Funding, a prop firm that allows traders to operate significant funds without personal financial risk. In our testing, we looked at the challenges, regulations, customer support, and more. Continue reading to learn more about this platform.
Summary of Our Expert:
6 Apex Customer Reviews And Ratings
What is Apex Trader Funding?
Apex Trader Funding is a proprietary trading firm that provides a platform for traders to access and manage significant investment funds with little initial personal capital. The firm allows individuals to participate in financial markets under a model that emphasises skill and performance over financial background.
Business Model
Apex Trader Funding’s business model is straightforward: it evaluates traders through simulated paid trading tests. To qualify for funding, traders must meet specific profit targets while managing risk guidelines. This process ensures that only skilled traders can manage the firm’s capital, aligning their financial incentives with their trading performance.
History
Founded in 2021 by Darrell Martin, Apex Trader Funding has become one of the top-tier prop firms available in over 150 countries. The firm has built its reputation on transparency and the success of its traders, attracting participants worldwide.
Services Offered
Apex Trader Funding offers multiple must-have services for anyone looking to use a prop firm. Here are their main features:
- Evaluation Program: A one-step evaluation process assesses trading skills with a simulated trading environment featuring actual market conditions. The program includes specific profit targets and risk management rules, and monthly fees range from $147 to $677, depending on account size.
- Funded Accounts: Upon successful evaluation, traders have access to trading capital. Account sizes range from $25,000 to $300,000. With a profit share model, traders keep 100% of the first $25,000 in profits and 90% of additional profits.
- Trading Platforms: Support for multiple trading platforms, including NinjaTrader, rTrader, Rithmic, and Tradovate. Each platform offers unique features such as advanced charting, low-latency trading, and cloud-based access.
- Educational Resources: Comprehensive educational support, including trading guides and strategies.
- Customer Support: 24/7 live chat, email, and a comprehensive FAQ section.
- Trading Instruments: Access to trade various instruments, including futures, commodities, indices, bonds, cryptocurrencies, and forex.
Is Apex Trader Funding legal?
When reviewing Apex Trader Funding, an important aspect to consider is its legal standing and the security it offers traders. We examined the regulatory framework, reputation, and operational restrictions to provide a comprehensive assessment.
Regulation and Legitimacy
Apex Trader Funding operates within the legal frameworks appropriate for proprietary trading firms. Our research indicates that while central financial authorities do not regulate the firm, they adhere to standard business practices expected in the industry. This includes implementing risk management protocols and providing clear terms of service to its users. There are no laws or regulations that prevent prop firms from operating.
Safety and Security
Looking at Apex Trader Funding security, we were happy to see they take considerable measures to ensure the safety of their clients. They implement a range of protections to safeguard trader information and transactions. These include:
- Data Encryption: Apex Trader Funding uses industry-standard SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption to protect data transmitted between traders and the platform. This ensures that all sensitive information, such as personal details and financial data, is encrypted and secure from interception by unauthorised parties.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Apex Trader Funding offers two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security. To access their accounts, traders must provide a second form of verification, such as a code sent to their mobile device, in addition to entering a password.
- Secure Servers: The platform operates on servers protected by advanced firewalls and intrusion detection systems. These help prevent unauthorised access and ensure that trader data is stored safely.
- Account Monitoring: The platform monitors trading accounts and activities to detect suspicious behaviour or unauthorised access attempts. This allows fast action to protect trader accounts if any anomalies are detected.
Reputation
Throughout our review, we found that Apex Trader Funding has built a generally positive reputation among traders. It’s recognised for its transparent profit-sharing model and its support to traders. On Trustpilot, Apex Trader Funding has a score of 4.7 stars from over 7,300 reviews, reflecting its top-tier services to traders.
Prop Trading Account Types with Apex Trader Funding
Apex Trader Funding offers a diverse range of trading accounts to suit different trading strategies and levels of risk tolerance. Below is a detailed breakdown of the account options available.
Overview of Account Types
The following tables provide a clear overview of the different Rithmic and Tradeovate account types offered by Apex Trader Funding, including key details and associated costs. Note that the starting capital, contract amount, profit goal, trailing threshold, and challenge prices vary depending on your chosen challenge.
Rithmic Plan
| Aspect | Rithmic Plan |
|---|---|
| Starting Capital | $25,000 to $300,000 |
| Contracts | 12 (120 Micros) to 35 (350 Micros) |
| Profit Goal | $1500 to $20,000 |
| Trailing Threshold | $1500 to $7,500 |
| Daily Drawdown | None |
| Scaling | None |
| NinjaTrader License ($75 Value) | Included |
| Real-Time Data Fees ($55 Value) | Included |
| Challenge Price | $147 to $657 each month |
Tradovate Plan
| Aspect | Tradovate Plan |
|---|---|
| Starting Capital | $25,000 to $300,000 |
| Contracts | 4 (40 Micros) to 35 (350 Micros) |
| Profit Goal | $1500 to $20,000 |
| Trailing Threshold | $1500 to $7,500 |
| Daily Drawdown | None |
| Scaling | None |
| NinjaTrader License ($75 Value) | Included |
| Real-Time Data Fees ($55 Value) | Included |
| Tradovate License | Included |
| Challenge Price | $167 to $677 each month |
Cost Structure
Each account type includes a non-refundable initial fee intended to cover the simulation phase and account setup cost. The fee varies based on the account’s capital size, ranging from $147 to $657.
The Challenge and Costs of Apex Trader Funding Explained
Apex Trader Funding operates a one-step evaluation process designed to test traders’ proficiency before they can manage significant trading capital. This section provides a detailed explanation of how this evaluation works and the associated costs.
Evaluation Process
To gain funding from Apex Trader Funding, traders must pass a one-step evaluation challenge. This challenge involves trading a simulated account that mirrors actual market conditions. Traders are provided with a set amount of virtual capital. They must achieve specific profit targets within a defined period while sticking to strict risk management rules, including daily and overall loss limits.
Reaching the profit target and demonstrating the ability to manage risks effectively is key to passing the evaluation. Completing this challenge grants the trader access to a funded account to trade real money under similar conditions.
Costs and Fees
The evaluation process requires a monthly fee that varies depending on the trader’s account size. This fee covers the cost of the simulated trading environment, access to trading platforms, and support services during the evaluation phase.
For example, the fee for a Rithmic account with a virtual capital of $50,000 is $167 per month. This fee is recurrent until the trader completes the evaluation challenge or stops participating.
Promo Codes for Rebates
Apex Trader Funding frequently offers promo codes that provide rebates on the monthly fees for their evaluation challenge. These rebates are designed to make the evaluation process more accessible and financially viable for a broader range of traders.
How Promo Codes Work
Traders can apply promo codes during registration to reduce the initial and subsequent monthly fees. These codes are typically available through affiliate partners, during special promotional events, or directly from Apex Trader Funding’s marketing efforts. The discount amount can vary, often offering a reduction of 10% to 50% off the standard fees, depending on the promotional campaign’s specifics.
Example of Current Offers
As of the latest update, Apex Trader Funding offers a 90% discount on all first-time monthly fees for new registrations. This offer is intended to attract new traders to the platform and give them a more affordable entry point into the world of proprietary trading. You can message the live chatbot to access the promo codes, providing you with a direct link to the promotional page.
Payouts on Apex Trader Funding
After completing the Apex Trader Funding evaluation, traders are awarded a funded account and can request withdrawals of their earnings using Apex Trader Funding’s specific payout policy.
Apex Trader Funding payout rules require traders to have traded for at least ten trading days before requesting withdrawals. Traders keep 100% of the first $25,000 and 90% of the additional profits.
Withdrawal requests are allowed twice per month. The first period is from the 1st to the 5th, with payouts by the 15th. The second period is from the 15th to the 20th, with payments by the month’s last day. Withdrawals may take 3-7 business days to process.
What’s the Minimum Withdrawal Amount at Apex Trader Funding?
The minimum withdrawal amount at Apex Trader Funding is $500. This applies to any size of account.
What’s the Maximum Withdrawal Amount at Apex Trader Funding?
At Apex Trader Funding, the maximum withdrawal amount for the first three months of withdrawals varies depending on the account size. The maximum amounts for each account size during these first three payout months are:
| Account Type | Maximum Withdrawal |
|---|---|
| $25k Account | $1,500 |
| $50k Account | $2,000 |
| $75k Account | $2,250 |
| $100k Account | $2,500 |
| $150k Account | $2,750 |
| $250k Account | $3,000 |
| $300k Account | $3,500 |
| $100k Static Account | $1,000 |
Starting the 4th month, after the initial three months of withdrawals, there is no maximum withdrawal limit. Traders can withdraw as much as they want; they must reach the minimum required balance.
What’s Apex Trader Funding Minimum Balance for Withdrawals?
The minimum balance required to request a withdrawal at Apex Trader Funding depends on the account size. Here are the minimum balance requirements for each account size:
| Account Type | Minimum Balance |
|---|---|
| $25k Account | $26,600 |
| $50k Account | $52,600 |
| $75k Account | $77,850 |
| $100k Account | $103,100 |
| $150k Account | $155,100 |
| $250k Account | $256,600 |
| $300k Account | $307,600 |
| $100k Static Account | $102,600 |
What Are Apex Trader Funding’s Withdrawal Methods?
Apex Trader Funding provides ACH payments for US clients and recommends the “INTERNATIONAL OPTION” via Plane.com for countries outside the US. For the first time using the international option, Apex sends a registration link for Plane.com so that the necessary details can be completed before payment.
Trading Platforms
In our review of Apex Trader Funding, we thoroughly tested the various trading platforms they offer to assess their capabilities and user experience. Apex Trader Funding supports four primary platforms: NinjaTrader, rTrader, Rithmic, and Tradovate. Each platform suits different trading needs and preferences, providing traders with versatile tools and features.
NinjaTrader
During our testing, NinjaTrader stood out for its advanced charting capabilities and comprehensive technical analysis tools. The platform supports custom trading strategies through NinjaScript, allowing traders to automate their trades and backtest strategies against historical data.
We found NinjaTrader beneficial for traders who rely heavily on technical indicators and need precise control over their trading activities. Its trade management features and extensive customisation options make it a top choice for serious traders.
rTrader
rTrader impressed us with its modern interface and ease of use. This platform offers direct market access and supports manual and algorithmic trading strategies. We noted that rTrader’s low-latency execution and detailed market data are advantageous for day and high-frequency traders who require fast and reliable trading operations. The platform’s intuitive design makes it accessible for beginners, while its advanced features cater to experienced traders.
Rithmic
Known for its high-performance execution, Rithmic lived up to its reputation in our tests. The platform provides real-time, precise market data and is engineered for speed and reliability, making it ideal for traders. Rithmic’s infrastructure ensures that trades are executed fast and accurately, which can significantly impact trading outcomes. We found Rithmic to be a powerful tool for traders who need the best possible execution speeds.
Tradovate
Tradovate offers a unique cloud-based trading experience, integrating trading, charting, and analysis tools into one seamless environment. Our review highlighted Tradovate’s flexibility and accessibility, allowing traders to access their accounts from any device without requiring software installations. The platform’s subscription-based pricing model is also appealing (included in challenge pricing), providing access to advanced features without hefty upfront costs. Tradovate is well-suited for futures traders seeking a modern, mobile-friendly trading solution.
Which Broker Is Used by Apex Trader Funding
Apex Trader Funding partners with multiple trading platforms, including Rithmic, Tradovate, and NinjaTrader. These platforms provide the technical interface for executing trades but are not the liquidity providers. Apex Trader Funding uses these platforms to connect traders to futures markets like CME, COMEX, NYMEX, and CBOT.
Taxes on Apex Trader Funding
At Apex Trader Funding, traders are classified as independent contractors. They are responsible for their tax reporting and payments on earnings, which are treated as business income. In addition to managing income tax and any applicable local taxes, traders must submit invoices to the prop firm to process their earnings.
Support and Education
Apex Trader Funding is committed to supporting its traders with tools and capital, comprehensive educational resources, and responsive customer support. This dual approach helps traders enhance their skills and resolve any issues promptly.
Customer Support
Apex Trader Funding offers multiple channels for traders to reach out for help:
- Email Support: Traders can send inquiries and support requests by filling out a form at the help desk. The support team will then email you to further assist you.
- Phone Support: 1-855-273-9873 (CST, M-F 9 am to 5 pm)
- Live Chat: The live chat uses an AI bot that provides essential information. During our testing, it wasn’t as helpful for answering particular questions, but it did an excellent job answering inquiries about the platform.
- Help Center: Contains multiple articles on how to use the platform and provides information regarding the challenges, payment, and other important information.
Educational Resources
In addition to customer support, Apex Trader Funding provides a variety of educational materials designed to help traders at all levels improve their trading skills. The educational content can be found in the ‘Tools’ section. It offers free and paid tutorials, strategies, and trading information.
Alternatives
Although we believe Apex Trader Funding is an excellent prop firm for trading, we explored several alternatives to give our readers variety, each with unique advantages for different trading styles:
- The Trading Pit: In our testing of The Trading Pit, we appreciated its strong focus on education. They provide expert webinars and ebooks that help new traders understand the basics and improve their strategies. This firm gives direct feedback on trading actions, assisting traders in learning and adjusting quickly, which is excellent for those new to the field.
- Topstep: Our experience with Topstep showed they are serious about discipline and risk management. They use a challenge system to test traders’ ability to hit profit targets without taking unnecessary risks. Once traders pass this test, they access Topstep’s funds to trade for real profits. This firm is perfect for traders who like clear rules and steps to increase their trading capacity.
- 5%ers: The 5%ers stand out with their clear and generous funding growth plan. They start traders with a small amount of capital, which increases significantly as traders meet profit goals. This system encourages traders to aim high, with the firm covering all losses, reducing the risk of trying bolder strategies.
- Leeloo Trading: Our review found Leeloo Trading to be highly flexible, making it a favourite among traders who prefer less restrictive environments. They offer express challenges so traders can get a funded account in as little as 14 days. Leeloo’s quick evaluation process helps skilled traders get to trading with real money faster than most firms.
Conclusion
Our comprehensive review confirms that Apex Trader Funding is an excellent choice for traders who leverage significant trading capital without initial financial risk. The firm’s evaluation process ensures that only competent and disciplined traders manage its funds. Apex Trader Funding supports various trading platforms, such as NinjaTrader, rTrader, Rithmic, and Tradovate.
Overall, Apex Trader Funding is one of the best in the industry, providing everything a trader needs: capital, advanced tools, and multiple trading instruments. If you have more questions about the platform, consider contacting responsive customer support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Apex Trader Funding?
Apex Trader Funding is a proprietary trading firm that allows traders to access substantial trading funds without investing their money. To qualify for funding, traders undergo a paid evaluation challenge.
How does the evaluation process work at Apex Trader Funding?
Traders must successfully trade a simulated account, meeting specific profit targets while sticking to strict risk management rules. This proves their capability to handle real funds responsibly.
Can traders choose their trading strategy at Apex Trader Funding?
Yes, traders are free to use their trading strategies if they comply with the firm’s risk management rules and the specific guidelines of their chosen trading platform.
What are the costs involved In Apex Trader funding?
Traders pay a monthly fee to participate in the evaluation process, which varies depending on the account size they choose to qualify for. Once the evaluation is passed, there are no additional costs for accessing funded accounts.
Is there support available for traders at Apex Trader Funding?
Yes, Apex provides comprehensive support through email and phone, along with educational resources like trading tutorials to help traders improve their skills. Live chat is also available to get quick information.
