The power dynamics in the prop firm industry are about to undergo a major shift. According to a February 2026 analysis by industry specialist media TradeInformer, FundedNext may have overtaken FTMO to become the industry’s largest prop firm.
This article provides a thorough explanation of the comparison between FundedNext and FTMO based on the latest data, changes in industry power dynamics, and what it means for traders.
Shocking Data: Has FundedNext’s Cumulative Payout Surpassed FTMO?
Data from Prop Firm Match
According to data from prop firm comparison site “Prop Firm Match,” FundedNext’s cumulative payout over the past 12 months is approximately $177 million (about ¥26.5 billion). This figure combines both CFD and Futures brands.
Estimates from FTMO’s Financial Statements
Meanwhile, FTMO’s 2024 financial statements from the Czech entity “FTMO Evaluation Global s.r.o.” reveal the following:
- Annual revenue: approximately $323 million (about ¥48.4 billion)
- Estimated trader payouts: approximately $162 million (assuming 50% of revenue)
In other words, FundedNext ($177 million) may have surpassed FTMO (estimated $162 million) in payout amounts.
[speech_bubble type=”std” subtype=”L1″ icon=”shinsho.png” name=”しんしょ君”]Wait, hasn’t FTMO always been #1 in the industry!?[/speech_bubble]
[speech_bubble type=”std” subtype=”R1″ icon=”kaitai.png” name=”かいたい先生”]FTMO has been at the top for 10 years since 2015, but they may have finally been overtaken. This is pretty big news[/speech_bubble]
Signs of FTMO’s Concern? Recent Moves
TradeInformer’s analysis interprets FTMO’s recent actions as “responses to declining market share”:
1. Introduction of One-Step Challenge
FTMO had long offered only a “two-step challenge.” However, they recently introduced a one-step challenge. This is seen as a countermeasure against competitors like FundedNext and PipFarm that offer one-step programs.
2. Regular Discounts on Main Products
They’ve started offering their most popular $100,000 account (normally €540) at a regular 19% discount. This is an unprecedented move for FTMO.
[speech_bubble type=”std” subtype=”R1″ icon=”kaitai.png” name=”かいたい先生”]The fact that FTMO has started discounting is proof of how intense the competition has become. When the industry leader is getting nervous, it’s a good time for traders—more options are opening up[/speech_bubble]
FundedNext vs FTMO: Latest 2026 Comparison
Basic Specifications Comparison
| Item | FundedNext🟦 | FTMO⬛️ |
|---|---|---|
| Established | 2022 | 2015 |
| Headquarters | UAE | Czech Republic |
| Cumulative Payouts | $261M+ | $400M+ (claimed) |
| Last 12 Months Payouts | $177M | Est. $162M |
| Profit Split | 80-95% | 80-90% |
| Cheapest Challenge | $99 ($10k) | $155 ($10k) |
| Challenge Types | 1-step / 2-step | 1-step / 2-step |
| News Trading | Allowed | Conditionally allowed (from 2026) |
| EA Usage | Conditionally allowed | Conditionally allowed (from 2026) |
| Trustpilot Rating | 4.6/5.0 | 4.9/5.0 |
FundedNext’s Strengths
- Cost Performance — Approximately 36% cheaper than FTMO for the same account size
- Up to 95% Profit Split — Maximum rate after scaling is higher than FTMO
- Unrestricted News Trading — News trading allowed without restrictions
- Rapid Growth Momentum — Competing for industry top position just 4 years after establishment
FTMO’s Strengths
- Overwhelming Track Record — 10 years of operation, $400M+ in cumulative payouts
- Industry-Best Reliability — Trustpilot 4.9/5.0
- Stable Payouts — Extremely few reports of payout issues
- Partnership with Oanda — Increased credibility through partnership with regulated broker
[speech_bubble type=”std” subtype=”L1″ icon=”shinsho.png” name=”しんしょ君”]So which one is better?[/speech_bubble]
[speech_bubble type=”std” subtype=”R1″ icon=”kaitai.png” name=”かいたい先生”]Honestly, both are excellent. FundedNext if you prioritize cost performance, FTMO if you prioritize stability. The smartest choice is to use both[/speech_bubble]
How Will Industry Power Dynamics Change?
Major Changes from 2024-2026
- 80-100 Firms Disappeared — Acceleration of small firm consolidation
- Consolidation to Top 3-4 Firms — FTMO, FundedNext, FundingPips, Alpha Capital at the top
- Regulatory Movements — Regulatory discussions by CFTC and ESMA (European Securities and Markets Authority) are progressing
- Technological Innovation — Rise of new platforms like TradeLocker
What It Means for Traders
Intensified competition among major firms is beneficial for traders:
- Lower challenge fees
- Higher profit split rates
- Rule relaxations (EA approval, news trading OK, etc.)
- Faster payouts
Summary
The prop firm industry in 2026 is at a major turning point.
- FundedNext may have surpassed FTMO in payout amounts
- FTMO is countering with 1-step introduction and discounts
- Competition among major firms is a plus for traders
- Small firm consolidation will continue
[speech_bubble type=”std” subtype=”R1″ icon=”kaitai.png” name=”かいたい先生”]What’s important isn’t “which one is #1,” but choosing a firm that matches your trading style. If you’re unsure, trying both is also an option[/speech_bubble]
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