Alpha Capital Group vs. FTMO – Instant Funding Comparison
Choosing the right proprietary trading firm is a critical decision. This comparison breaks down two prominent players—Alpha Capital Group (ACG), known for its variety and flexibility, and FTMO, the established industry leader— to help you decide which aligns best with your trading style and goals.
Executive Summary: At a Glance
| Feature | Alpha Capital Group (ACG) | FTMO |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Traders who want options: speed, swing, or a traditional path. | Traders seeking the industry’s gold standard, prestige, and a proven track record. |
| Key Strength | Program variety & flexibility (four unique challenges). | Reputation & comprehensive ecosystem (unmatched trust, education, premium program). |
| Funding Speed | Fastest via Alpha One-step (single phase, no min. days). Faster | Two-step process with a 4-day minimum per phase. |
| Profit Split | 80% across all programs. | 80%, scaling up to 90% after the first scaling increase. Higher Ceiling |
| Trust & Reputation | Very good (4.6/5 Trustpilot, established 2021). | Excellent (4.8/5 Trustpilot, established 2015, market leader). Leader |
| Commission Fees | Zero commission on all instruments. Low Cost | $3 per lot on Forex; commissions on other instruments. |
1. Funding Program Options & Flexibility
This is where ACG has a significant edge in catering to diverse trading styles.
Alpha Capital Group (ACG)
- Alpha Pro Challenge: Standard two-step (8% / 5% targets). Ideal for many day traders.
- Alpha Swing Challenge: Two-step with higher Phase 1 target (10%) but lower leverage (1:30). Built for longer holds.
- Alpha One-step Challenge: Fastest path to funding. No minimum trading days. Best for skilled fast performers.
- Alpha Three-step Challenge: Gradual, lower-pressure path (8% / 4% / 4% targets).
FTMO
- Evaluation Program: One established two-step model (10% / 5% targets). Proven and respected, but no alternate paths.
2. Trading Objectives & Rules
| Trading Rule | Alpha Capital Group | FTMO |
|---|---|---|
| Profit Target (Phase 1) | Varies: 8% (Pro), 10% (Swing, One-step), 8% (Three-step) | 10% |
| Profit Target (Phase 2) | Varies: 5% (Pro, Swing), 4% (Three-step) | 5% |
| Max Daily Loss | 5% (Pro, Swing), 4% (One-step, Three-step) | 5% |
| Max Overall Loss | 10% (Pro, Swing), 6% (One-step, Three-step) | 10% |
| Min. Trading Days | 3 days (most), 0 days (One-step) More Flexible | 4 days (both phases) |
| News Trading | Restricted on funded accounts (Pro & One-step) | Prohibited |
| Weekend Holding | Allowed (except on Pro Challenge) | Prohibited Stricter |
| Avg. Trade Duration | 2-minute minimum on all programs | No official rule mentioned |
Analysis: ACG is more lenient in several practical areas (One-step has no minimum days; Swing can hold weekends). FTMO’s standardized model is highly respected, but typically stricter on news trading, weekend holding, and minimum trading days.
3. Payouts & Profit Splits
Profit Split
- ACG: 80% from the start on all programs.
- FTMO: 80% initially, scaling up to 90% after the first scaling increase. Higher Long-Term
Payout Schedule
- ACG: first payout after 14 calendar days then bi-weekly (most programs). One-step includes on-demand payouts.
- FTMO: first payout after 14 calendar days then bi-weekly.
FTMO for potential 90% profit split over time.
ACG for on-demand payouts on the One-step challenge.
4. Costs & Fees
Challenge Fees
Both firms charge a one-time fee for evaluations, scaling with account size. These are generally comparable, with ACG often appearing slightly lower for similar sizes.
Trading Commissions (Major Differentiator)
- ACG: Zero commission on all trades—targets are purely price movement.
- FTMO: commissions apply (e.g., $3/lot on Forex) + other instruments. This impacts cost-heavy strategies.
5. Trust, Support & Education
Trust & Reputation
FTMO is the clear leader: longer operational history (since 2015), higher Trustpilot score, and a massive proven track record of payouts. ACG is strong and reputable, but newer (established 2021).
Education & Ecosystem
FTMO offers an extensive ecosystem (academy content, psychology coaching, performance tools, and deep learning resources). ACG provides good tools and analysis, but FTMO’s depth is unmatched.
Customer Support
Both provide strong support (chat/email/community). FTMO typically supports more languages and offers additional channels like phone support.
Conclusion: Which Firm Should You Choose?
Choose Alpha Capital Group if:
- You want flexibility: one-step, two-step, or three-step paths.
- Speed to funding is critical (Alpha One-step has no min days).
- You’re a scalper/high-volume trader who benefits from zero commissions.
- Your strategy needs weekend holding (Swing challenge).
- You prefer more lenient drawdown structures (One-step / Three-step).
Choose FTMO if:
- Trust and reputation are top priorities (industry benchmark).
- You want the potential to scale profit split to 90%.
- You value deep education resources and psychology coaching.
- You’re comfortable with commissions and a strict standardized evaluation.
- You’re aiming for long-term premium recognition and a “gold standard” prop relationship.
For innovation, speed, and lower costs: Alpha Capital Group.
For prestige, proven track record, and depth: FTMO.
Disclaimer: This comparison is based on the information provided. Trading conditions, fees, and rules are subject to change. Always review the latest terms and conditions on the official websites of Alpha Capital Group and FTMO before making a decision.