6 Best Prop Trading firms in UK

Prop trading firms in the UK allow traders to use the company’s capital to trade various financial instruments. These firms offer unique benefits that make them attractive to different types of traders. The growing interest in prop trading stems from its dynamic nature and lucrative opportunities. Finding the best prop trading firms in the UK can be challenging due to the numerous options available. Each firm offers different funding arrangements, profit-sharing mechanisms, trading platforms, and risk management systems. To assist traders, here is a comprehensive list of the best prop trading firms in the UK, categorized to meet various trading needs, including forex traders and beginners.

The Best Prop Trading Firms in the UK are the following: 

• Prop number one
• Blue guardian
• FTUK
• FTMO
• Fundedbull
• Topstep

When choosing a prop trading firm in the UK, consider the following key features:

• Financial Instruments: The types of assets available for trading, such as Forex, futures, indices, metals, and commodities.
• Profit Sharing: The percentage of profits the trader can retain. 
• Cost: Initial fees or registration costs. 
• Platform: The trading platforms available, such as MetaTrader, Tradovate, or proprietary platforms. 
• Maximum Balance: The maximum funding amount accessible to traders. 
• Evaluation: The process and criteria for evaluating traders before providing funding.
• Refundable Registration Fee: Whether the registration fee is refundable if the trader does not meet the evaluation criteria. 

By considering these factors, traders can make informed decisions and choose the best prop trading firms in the UK that align with their strategies and trading goals.

1.Prop Number One

Prop number one is as a prop trading firm that operates in the United Kingdom and worldwide. Prop number one began operations in 2024. Prop number one offers funded traders account sizes from $7,000, which can scale up to $300,000. Prop number one provides funded traders the use of MetaTrader 4 (MT4),MetaTrader 5 (MT5), cTrader, DxTrade. Prop number one firm offers traders up to 100% profit splits, with a competitive salary of 3,000$ monthly guaranteed to funded traders. Prop number one charges low fees starting at USD 47. Prop number one minimum deposit option attracts both novice and experienced traders. These unique and competitive features position Prop number one of the best prop firm choice for traders resident in the United kingdom.

2. Blue Guardian

Blue Guardian is a proprietary trading firm. Blue Guardian allows traders to open accounts with $10,000 USD minimum. Blue Guardian utilizes the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) platform for trading. Blue Guardian offers traders up to 85% profit split. Blue Guardian imposes no profit target after initial audition, providing flexibility to traders. Blue Guardian charges minimal fees starting at $87 USD. This low fee structure makes Blue Guardian accessible to many traders. The firm charges no withdrawal fees, allowing traders to access earnings without extra costs.

Blue Guardian provides timely payouts, educational content, and advanced trading technology. This support system helps traders improve skills and maximize profits.

Blue Guardian ranks as a competitive proprietary trading firm in the UK. The firm offers favorable terms, low fees, and flexible conditions. 

3.FTUK

FTUK offers funded trading accounts to skilled traders. FTUK provides funding from $10,000 to $6.4 million. Traders can access substantial capital through FTUK. The firm supports trading in Forex, Indices, Commodities, and Cryptocurrencies. Traders gain broad market exposure through FTUK.

FTUK operates a profit-sharing model with up to 80% profit split. Traders can leverage accounts up to 1:100, though some sources indicate 1:50 leverage. FTUK uses a straightforward evaluation process with one-step and two-step programs. Successful traders scale accounts by hitting profit targets. FTUK enables significant growth without minimum or maximum trading day requirements.

FTUK offers MatchTrader, DX Trade, and cTrader trading platforms. These platforms provide robust trade execution options. FTUK caters to instant funding needs through pre-designed programs. The firm maintains rigorous evaluation standards to ensure trader competence. FTUK’s initial cost starts at $99, making it accessible to many aspiring traders.

FTUK maintains transparency with clear contact details. The firm supports trading balances in GBP, benefiting UK-based traders. FTUK has a FirmFunded score of 3.64 out of 5. Traders seeking high scalability and comprehensive market access should understand FTUK’s framework. 

4.FTMO

FTMO operates as a proprietary trading firm based in Prague, Czech Republic. The company offers global traders access to various financial instruments, including Forex, Indices, Metals, Commodities, Stocks, and Cryptocurrencies. FTMO provides traders with up to 90% profit splits.

FTMO supports multiple trading platforms: MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and Dxtrade. These platforms offer advanced analytical tools and user-friendly interfaces for traders of all levels. FTMO offers funded account balances up to $2,000,000. Traders must pass a stringent evaluation process to demonstrate trading skills and risk management. The process includes an initial challenge with profit targets and a verification phase.

FTMO charges a starting fee of €155 for the initial challenge. Successful completion of the challenge and verification leads to becoming an FTMO-funded trader.

FTMO scores 5/5 for safety, reflecting transparent operations and secure trader funds. The company provides GBP accounts for UK-based traders, eliminating currency conversion fees.

FTMO outperforms competitors like FTUK and Blue Guardian in profit sharing and scaling potential, but they didn’t reach the profit share offered by Prop number One trading firm. FTMO offers 90% profit sharing and $2,000,000 scaling, compared to FTUK’s 80% profit split and $90,000 maximum funding, and Blue Guardian’s 85% profit split with lower funding limits.

FTMO’s comprehensive offerings, fair evaluation process, high profit splits, and scalability make it a top choice for UK traders seeking to maximize trading potential.

5. Fundedbull

Fundedbull offers proprietary trading services to UK traders from its Singapore base. Fundedbull provides an 80% profit split to traders. Fundedbull allows a maximum funding limit of $250,000 USD through a scaling plan. Fundedbull charges evaluation fees starting at $49 USD.

Fundedbull supports trading across forex, commodities, cryptocurrencies, stocks, and indices. Fundedbull likely supports advanced platforms like MetaTrader 4 and 5, though specific platforms are not detailed.

Fundedbull offers significant capital and competitive terms to UK-based traders. Fundedbull provides timely payouts and a supportive trading environment. Fundedbull competes through its profit-sharing model and diverse tradable instruments.

Traders should review Fundedbull’s terms and conditions before joining. This ensures alignment with individual trading goals and styles. Fundedbull represents a viable option for traders seeking prop trading opportunities with substantial funding and diverse trading capabilities.

6.Topstep

Topstep evaluates day traders’ performance through real-time simulated trading accounts. Michael Patak founded Topstep in July 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. Topstep rebranded in 2020 after a merger.

Topstep’s Trading Combine assesses traders’ profitability and risk management. Traders trade various futures contracts in a simulated environment. Successful traders earn a Funded Account to trade using Topstep’s capital.

Topstep offers top futures contracts including E-mini S&P 500, NASDAQ 100, Crude Oil, Gold, and Micro Bitcoin. This range allows traders to optimize strategies across markets.

Topstep supports multiple trading platforms: NinjaTrader, Quantower, and TopstepX. These platforms provide advanced charting tools, real-time data, and execution capabilities.

Topstep provides extensive educational resources. These include group coaching sessions, digital coaching, blogs, podcasts, and YouTube live streams. Traders access a supportive community and performance coaching services to refine skills.

Topstep offers account sizes from $50,000 to $150,000. Each size has tiered profit targets and maximum drawdown limits. This structure ensures fair evaluation and effective risk management.

What to know about Prop Firms in the UK?

Prop firms in the UK enable traders to use the firm’s capital to trade financial instruments. Traders use the firm’s capital instead of their own. For example, a trader earning $100,000 with a 40/60 profit-sharing arrangement keeps $40,000 while the firm takes $60,000. Investment banks, hedge funds, high-frequency trading firms, and commodity trading companies commonly engage in prop trading activities. UK prop firms vary in structure. Some operate physical offices with trading desks and in-person collaboration. Others function entirely online, accepting global traders.

Prop traders must follow risk management protocols, including maximum drawdown limits. Firms generate revenue primarily through profit-sharing arrangements. Some charge subscription or membership fees, though regulators increasingly scrutinize fee-based models. Prop trading offers potential high profits, trading autonomy, advanced technology access, and reduced personal financial risk. However, it also involves consistent performance pressure and possible initial costs for joining or passing trading challenges. Entry requirements range from rigorous screening processes to paying fees and passing trading challenges. UK regulatory changes drive the industry toward live trading account models without upfront costs, creating a more transparent trader-friendly environment.

What is the definition of a prop trading firm in Uk? 

A proprietary trading firm (prop firm) is defined as an entity that trades securities using its own capital to generate profits. Prop firms leverage their capital to speculate on various markets without managing client funds. Prop firms trade financial instruments including stocks, bonds, currencies, commodities, and derivatives. They profit through strategies like directional trading and market-making.

Prop firms provide traders with capital, technology, and risk management systems. This allows traders to execute high-frequency and high-volume trades. Prop firms generate revenue through profit-sharing arrangements with traders. Prop traders must adhere to strict risk limits to mitigate potential losses. Prop firms benefit from their traders’ expertise and performance.

Various types of prop firms operate in the UK, including Forex, Futures, and Stock/Options firms. These firms focus on different market segments and instruments. Prop firms can be physical locations or operate remotely with global traders.

How are Prop firms regulated in the United Kingdom?

Proprietary trading firms in the United Kingdom operate under a complex regulatory framework. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) oversees prop trading activities. The FCA enforces compliance with legislative requirements, including the European Union’s Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II).

MiFID II mandates compliance for all UK proprietary trading firms. MiFID II restricts exemptions for prop trading firms. It requires market makers and firms using direct electronic access to obtain licenses. MiFID II also mandates trading venues to test algorithms and implement risk management systems.

The Investment Firm Prudential Regime (IFR/D) introduced in 2021 imposes capital and governance requirements on proprietary trading firms. The IFR/D increases capital requirements and adds governance structures. Many firms view these requirements as an unsustainable burden. Compliance ensures financial resilience and proper management. The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) conducts reviews of prop trading regulation. ESMA consults with industry participants to understand the sector. It gathers data to potentially shape new regulatory frameworks. These consultations may lead to new MiFID II authorizations to enhance standards and transparency.

UK prop trading firms must comply with consumer protection, data protection, and sanctions regulations. The overall regulatory environment remains stringent despite lacking comprehensive prop trading-specific measures.

These regulations have led some firms to consider relinquishing MiFID II licenses or relocating outside the EU/UK. Smaller firms struggle to meet high capital and governance requirements. This may reduce market liquidity if many firms cease European trading.

The UK regulatory landscape for proprietary trading firms continues to evolve rigorously. Firms must navigate MiFID II, IFR/D, and ESMA reviews to remain compliant. These measures aim to ensure financial stability and operational transparency of UK proprietary trading firms.

Is Prop Trading Legal in the UK?

Yes, Prop trading is legal in the UK. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulates prop trading. Prop trading firms must follow Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II) rules. MiFID II requires market makers and direct electronic access users to obtain licenses. Compliance rules cover algorithmic trading, market abuse, and risk management. Trading venues must test algorithms and limit unexecuted orders.

Online prop firms operate in the UK under regulatory scrutiny. The FCA monitors these firms to ensure ethical practices. Some online firms have faced scrutiny for unethical conduct. The UK plans to introduce specific regulations for prop trading firms. These regulations will enforce compliance and ethical standards. Regulatory oversight aims to create a safer environment for traders.

Prop trading in the UK involves strict regulatory requirements. These regulations ensure lawful and ethical practices. The rules protect traders and maintain market integrity.

What are the best prop firms that accept UK citizens?

Prop Number One, FTMO are some of the best prop firms that accept UK traders and offer trading in Forex, Indices, Metals, Commodities, Stocks, and Crypto. Prop Number One provides the best profit share in the market with 100%. Prop Number One supports MetaTrader4, MetaTrader5, cTrader, and Dxtrade platforms. FTMO provides a maximum account balance of $2,000,000 with profit splits up to 90%. Joining costs start at €155. Apex Trader Funding is another prop trading firm that accepts UK traders and focuses on Equity Futures, Foreign Exchange Futures, Agricultural Futures, Energy, Interest Rates Futures, and Metals Futures. Apex Trader Funding provides a maximum balance of $300,000 with a 90% profit split. Monthly costs start at $137. Apex Trader Funding supports NinjaTrader, Tradovate, TradingView, and Wealthcharts platforms. These prop firms offer UK traders advantages including larger capital access, advanced trading technology, robust risk management systems, performance-based compensation, and training programs or mentorship opportunities. Traders should consider instrument range, maximum funding, profit split, cost, and supported platforms when choosing a prop firm.

How to get prop firm account as UK citizen

UK citizens obtain prop firm accounts through several steps. Traders research and choose reputable UK prop trading firms like Prop number One, Apex Trader Funding, Funded Trading Plus, or FTMO. Traders understand each firm’s evaluation process. Most prop firms require passing an evaluation or challenge phase. This demonstrates trading skills and risk management proficiency. Next, traders meet eligibility criteria by following firm rules. Criteria may include age requirements, trading experience proof, and financial knowledge. Traders complete the evaluation phase by trading a demo account with virtual funds. They adhere to predefined risk management rules and meet profit targets. 

Traders receive approval for a funded account after passing evaluation. This enables trading with the firm’s capital. Traders maintain account requirements by following firm trading rules and guidelines. This avoids closure or penalties. UK citizens secure and maintain prop firm accounts through these structured steps. They leverage firm capital for enhanced trading opportunities.

Why choose Prop Number One as a prop firm in the UK?

The main benefits of choosing Prop number One as prop firm in the UK are listed below: 

• Prop number one provides attractive Attractive Funding Terms and Profit Splits: Prop Number One offers competitive funding terms for UK traders. The firm provides up to £300,000 in initial funding, based on performance. Traders earn 100% of profits through a generous profit split model. These terms enhance earning potential for successful traders.
• Advanced Trading Platforms: Prop Number One integrates advanced trading platforms to support traders. The firm supports MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, known for reliability and extensive analytical tools. These platforms enable efficient execution of sophisticated trading strategies.
• Comprehensive Support and Resources: Prop Number One provides a wide range of resources and support to traders. The firm offers access to educational materials including webinars, tutorials, and articles covering various trading aspects. A dedicated customer support team assists traders around the clock with any issues.
• Risk Management and Performance-Based Compensation: Prop Number One implements strict risk management policies to ensure disciplined trading. Traders must adhere to a 5% daily loss limit. These measures mitigate risk while allowing optimal performance. The firm rewards performance with competitive profit splits and growth opportunities for managed accounts.
• Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Prop Number One operates in compliance with UK regulatory standards. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) registration ensures a transparent and secure trading environment. This regulatory oversight provides trust and reliability for traders.
• Efficient and Transparent Payouts: Prop Number One provides payout after 21 day. The firm imposes no caps on payouts and ensures secure, timely profit distributions. This transparency enhances trust and satisfaction among traders.
• Customizable Trading Conditions: Prop Number One offers flexible trading conditions tailored to individual needs. The firm allows trading on holidays and supports multiple account handling. This flexibility optimizes individual trading strategies and performance.
• Diverse Trading Instruments: Prop Number One provides access to diverse trading instruments. The firm supports Forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. This range of options allows traders to explore multiple profit avenues depending on market conditions.
• Quick and Efficient Onboarding: Prop Number One designs a quick and seamless onboarding process. The firm typically approves applications within 24 hours, enabling traders to start trading almost immediately. This efficiency minimizes downtime and allows traders to capitalize on market opportunities promptly.

What criteria need to be considered when selecting a prop firm in the UK?

Traders must evaluate multiple criteria when selecting a prop firm in the UK. Profit split ratios determine how firms divide profits, typically ranging from 70/30 to 90/10 favoring the trader. Available trading instruments include futures, Forex, cryptocurrencies, and stocks.

Trading conditions encompass profit targets, leverage, and drawdown limits. These factors significantly impact strategy and risk tolerance. Fees and costs involve subscription fees, trading-related fees, and other commissions.

Evaluation phase conditions vary among firms, including demo trading, interviews, or single-stage evaluations. Reviews and reputation provide insights into firm reliability and trader satisfaction.

Regulatory compliance ensures adherence to local regulations. Safety fosters trust through reputation and operational transparency. Educational resources and support benefit both beginners and experienced traders.

Technology and trading platforms, such as MetaTrader 4/5 or TradingView, enhance the trading experience. Risk management protocols include drawdown limits and fee structure transparency.

Payout structures determine the frequency and terms of profit payouts. Customer support quality gauges the firm’s commitment to assisting traders.

Scaling opportunities enable traders to grow their accounts significantly based on performance. Comprehensive risk management establishes a secure trading environment.

Traders can identify suitable UK prop firms by meticulously evaluating these criteria. This process aligns trading needs, risk tolerance, and financial goals.

How do different trading styles influence the choice of prop firm?

Trading styles significantly influence prop firm selection. Each prop firm offers features aligning with specific trading preferences. Day traders require firms providing high leverage and low commissions. Prop number one supports multiple daily trades without restrictions. Swing traders need firms offering longer holding periods and lower leverage. The Prop number and FTMO provides programs suited for longer-term trades with scalable funding options.

Algorithmic traders depend on firms supporting automated trading systems and robust APIs. Funded Next offers advanced analytics and customizable algorithms for systematic trading. Scalpers demand tight spreads, low commissions, and millisecond execution times. FTMO excels in providing necessary infrastructure, including MetaTrader platforms and competitive profit splits.

News traders require firms with low slippage during high-volatility events and real-time news feeds.Prop number one provides real-time analysis and economic calendars. Forex traders need competitive spreads, 24/5 market access, and the ability to trade various lot sizes. FTUK Prop number One, and Blue Guardian offer MetaTrader platforms, competitive fees, and scaling options.  The choice of prop firm heavily depends on the trader’s specific style, preferred strategies, risk management approach, and resource needs. Each firm provides distinct advantages tailored to different trading methodologies, ensuring traders align with the best-suited environment for their success.

What criteria determine the best prop trading firms in the UK?

Track record and reputation determine the best prop trading firms in the UK. Prop number One, a reputable proprietary trading firm, maintains high user ratings (4.9 out of 5), indicating consistent performance and trustworthiness. Experience and reputation of senior traders affect traders’ learning experiences and firm stability. Firms must align with compatible trading strategies and products. Prop number One specializes in forex trading and provides funding up to $300,000, suitable for experienced forex traders.

Access to advanced trading technology and significant funding are important aspects to consider.  Effective risk management protects traders’ and firms’ capital. Top firms prioritize risk management through stop-loss education and stringent protocols. Competitive profit-sharing models incentivize performance. Prop number one and Funded Trading Plus offers up to a 100% profit split, enhancing traders’ earnings.

Transparent and fair fee structures affect profitability and accessibility. Regular performance evaluations provide feedback and skill enhancement opportunities. Reputable firms adhere to high operational standards to ensure trader security, despite minimal FCA regulation over prop trading firms. Strong trader communities facilitate networking and shared learning. Firms must support diverse trading styles and strategies. The 5ers provide programs suitable for both day traders and algorithmic traders, highlighting adaptability.

What are the best forex prop firms in the UK?

The UK hosts several top forex prop firms catering to diverse trading needs. Prop number, FTMO and Funded Trading Plus are considered the best forex prop firms in the UK.  These firms represent the UK’s diverse and competitive forex prop trading landscape. The firms emphasize high profit splits, substantial funding capital, and considerate fee structures.

What are the best prop trading firms in the UK for beginners?

Prop number One offers beginners traders in the UK to become a funded trader and earn a profit split of 100%. Prop number one supports trading in Forex, Indices, Metals, Commodities, Stocks, and Crypto. Prop number One charges a starting fee of €37. Prop number One provides MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and Dxtrade platforms. Other reputable prop firms in the United kingdom are FTMO, Funded trading plus and Apex Trader Funding. These prop firms support beginners with evaluation programs, advanced platforms, and attractive profit ratios.

What are the best prop trading firms in the UK for swing traders?

Prop number one, Blue Guardian, Funded Trading Plus, and The Trading Pit offer the best prop trading firms in the UK for swing traders.

Prop number one provides flexibility for overnight and weekend position holding. The firm offers the Ability Challenge and the Funded Trader Program. Swing traders benefit from up to 100% profit-sharing. Swing traders should prioritize firms supporting overnight position holding, no-time limit evaluations, and multiple instrument support. Selecting firms with high profit splits, scalable funding options, and advanced trading platforms maximizes profitability and efficiency for UK swing traders.

What are the best prop trading firms in the UK with the highest profit sharing?

The best prop trading firms in the UK with the highest profit sharing model are: Prop number one (100% profit share) FTMO ( up to 90% profit share) and Apex Trader Funding that provides traders with a 90% profit split. Each firm’s specific conditions, funding levels, and trading platform support should be considered to find the best fit for trading needs and strategies.