Apex Trader Funding: Comprehensive Review of Rules, Platforms, and Features

Apex Trader Funding, founded in 2021 by Darrell Martin, is a leading prop firm based in Austin, Texas. It specializes in providing futures traders with access to funded accounts, aiming to create a supportive environment with minimal restrictions. The firm has gained recognition for its trader-focused approach and innovative funding model. Below is a detailed breakdown of who they are, their rules, platforms, Performance Account (PA) policies, and critical considerations.


Who is Apex Trader Funding?

Apex Trader Funding was created to address the challenges traders face with traditional proprietary trading firms. Darrell Martin, a seasoned trader, established the company after years of experience in the trading world and dissatisfaction with the restrictions imposed by other firms. His goal was to design a platform that prioritizes traders’ needs, flexibility, and profitability.

Apex Trader Funding emphasizes transparency, community support, and trader development, adhering to the motto: “Traders Helping Traders.”


Trading Platforms

Apex Trader Funding offers traders access to multiple platforms to suit various preferences and trading styles:

  1. NinjaTrader:
    • Known for its advanced charting tools, real-time market analysis, and seamless execution, it is highly favored among futures traders.
  2. Tradovate:
    • A cloud-based trading platform designed for speed and simplicity, offering mobile and web trading capabilities.
  3. TradingView:
    • A web-based platform with comprehensive charting and technical analysis tools, making it a popular choice for visual traders.
  4. R|Trader Pro:
    • A professional-grade platform providing direct market access and advanced order execution tools.

These platforms ensure that traders have access to the tools they need for successful futures trading.


Evaluation Process and Rules

Apex Trader Funding requires traders to complete an evaluation process to qualify for a funded account. This process assesses a trader’s profitability, discipline, and risk management skills.

Evaluation Rules:

  1. Profit Targets:
    • Traders must meet a specific profit target depending on the chosen account size. Targets range from $2,000 for smaller accounts to $15,000 for larger accounts.
  2. Trailing Drawdown:
    • A trailing drawdown dynamically follows the highest account balance achieved during the evaluation, encouraging disciplined risk management. It adjusts only when the account reaches new profit highs.
  3. Consistency Rule:
    • Traders are expected to show consistent performance throughout the evaluation. Significant variances in contract sizes or trading volume without justification may lead to disqualification.
  4. Time Flexibility:
    • There are no minimum trading days required, allowing traders to progress at their own pace.

Account Sizes:

  • Evaluation accounts are available in various sizes, ranging from $25,000 to $300,000. The cost of the evaluation increases with the account size.

Performance Account (PA) Rules

Upon successful completion of the evaluation, traders receive a Performance Account with guidelines designed to foster long-term trading success.

  1. Profit Sharing:
    • Traders retain 100% of the first $25,000 in profits earned on each account.
    • Beyond $25,000, the profit split is 90/10, with traders keeping 90%.
  2. Consistency Requirements:
    • Traders must maintain a consistent approach to contract sizes and risk exposure. Abrupt changes in strategy may violate the consistency rule.
  3. Scaling Plan:
    • Initially, traders can utilize up to half of the maximum allowable contracts for their account size. Once a specified profit threshold is reached, the full contract allocation becomes available.
  4. Risk Management:
    • Stop losses and responsible position sizing are mandatory to ensure account longevity. Traders who consistently violate risk rules risk account suspension.
  5. Withdrawal Rules:
    • Traders can request their first payout after 10 trading days and upon meeting the required account balance.

Payout Structure

Apex Trader Funding offers one of the most competitive payout systems in the industry:

  • Initial Payout:
    • Traders retain 100% of their first $25,000 in profits, making it an attractive choice for those seeking immediate returns.
  • Subsequent Payouts:
    • Profits beyond the initial $25,000 are shared, with traders receiving 90%. This high profit split ensures traders keep the majority of their earnings.
  • Frequency:
    • Payouts are processed promptly, providing traders with reliable access to their funds.

Trading Conditions and Flexibility

Apex Trader Funding imposes minimal restrictions on trading strategies and styles, creating a flexible environment for traders.

  1. News Trading:
    • Traders are allowed to trade during news events, a feature that accommodates those who capitalize on market volatility.
  2. Holiday Trading:
    • Trading is permitted during holidays, enabling continuous strategy execution.
  3. Multiple Accounts:
    • Traders can manage up to 20 funded accounts, allowing for diversification of strategies and risk management.
  4. Scalping and Automation:
    • Scalping strategies and the use of Expert Advisors (EAs) are supported, catering to traders who rely on algorithmic trading.

Things to Know and Consider

While Apex Trader Funding provides an excellent platform for futures traders, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Trailing Drawdown:
    • The trailing drawdown rule can be restrictive for traders who experience temporary drawdowns due to market fluctuations. This dynamic rule requires careful risk management.
  2. High Competition:
    • The flexibility and benefits offered by Apex Trader Funding attract a large number of traders, increasing competition within the platform.
  3. Platform Costs:
    • While Apex Trader Funding provides access to advanced platforms, traders are responsible for subscription fees to platforms like NinjaTrader, which can add to the overall cost of trading.
  4. Focus on Futures:
    • Apex Trader Funding specializes in futures trading, which may not appeal to traders who prefer forex, stocks, or cryptocurrency markets.

Conclusion

Apex Trader Funding stands out as a leading proprietary trading firm for futures traders. With its trader-centric approach, flexible trading rules, competitive payout structure, and access to advanced platforms, it offers a supportive and profitable environment for traders at all levels.

However, traders should carefully consider the trailing drawdown rule and platform costs before committing. For those willing to navigate these challenges, Apex Trader Funding presents a strong opportunity for growth and success in futures trading.

about The Firm ​

Apex Trader Funding

Apex Trader Funding, founded in 2021 in Austin, Texas, is a leading futures-focused prop firm. They offer funding from $25,000 to $300,000 with a one-step evaluation. Traders keep 100% of the first $25,000 in profits and 90% thereafter. The firm supports platforms like NinjaTrader and TradingView and is known for quick payouts, averaging $7 million monthly. Apex has paid over $100 million to traders, emphasizing flexibility and trader success.

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