FTMO and E8 Markets both accept South African traders, but they suit different people. This comparison covers the rules, costs, payouts and platforms that decide which firm is the better fit for you, based on each firm’s published terms as of September 2026.
Quick verdict
Choose FTMO if you want a static drawdown and a fixed, stable rulebook. Choose E8 Markets if you want to customise your drawdown and split, and like on-demand payouts.
Side-by-side comparison
| FTMO | E8 Markets | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2015 | 2021 |
| Headquarters | Prague, Czech Republic | United States |
| Evaluation | 2-Step (10% / 5%) or 1-Step (10%) | E8 One 1-step (6%), E8 Signature |
| Daily loss | 5% (2-Step); 3% (1-Step) | 3% (E8 One) |
| Maximum loss | 10% static (2-Step); 10% trailing (1-Step) | 4–14% real-time trailing (E8 One) |
| Consistency rule | None on 2-Step; 50% Best Day Rule on 1-Step | 40% best day on funded E8 One |
| Time limit | None | None |
| Cheapest entry | €89 ($10K) | about $40 ($5K) |
| Profit split | 80%, up to 90% via scaling | 80%, or 90%/100% as a paid option |
| Payout frequency | First after 14 days, then bi-weekly or on demand | On demand once eligible |
| Payout speed | Usually fast | Reported within 1–3 days |
| Platforms | MetaTrader, cTrader, DXtrade | MT5 and others; futures on Tradovate |
| EAs | Allowed | Check current terms |
| Our rating | 4.6 / 5 | 4.1 / 5 |
Evaluation rules and drawdown
FTMO offers 2-Step (10% / 5%) or 1-Step (10%), with a daily loss of 5% (2-Step); 3% (1-Step) and a maximum loss of 10% static (2-Step); 10% trailing (1-Step). E8 Markets offers E8 One 1-step (6%), E8 Signature, with a daily loss of 3% (E8 One) and a maximum loss of 4–14% real-time trailing (E8 One).
The biggest practical difference is the drawdown. FTMO uses a static maximum loss that never moves up with profits, while E8 Markets uses a trailing maximum drawdown that follows your highest balance. After a winning run, the trailing limit leaves you much less room for a pullback. Read our guide to trailing vs static drawdown for worked examples.
Consistency rules. FTMO: None on 2-Step; 50% Best Day Rule on 1-Step. E8 Markets: 40% best day on funded E8 One.
Costs
FTMO starts at €89 for $10K, while E8 Markets starts at about $40 for $5K. Fees are charged in USD or EUR, so South Africans should expect a card conversion fee on top. Check whether each firm refunds the fee with your first payout.
Profit split and payouts
| Firm | Profit split | Payout schedule | Speed and methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| FTMO | 80%, up to 90% via scaling | First after 14 days, then bi-weekly or on demand | Usually fast |
| E8 Markets | 80%, or 90%/100% as a paid option | On demand once eligible | Reported within 1–3 days |
Look beyond the headline split: payout frequency, withdrawal fees and consistency conditions decide how much you actually receive and when. Both firms pay in USD (or EUR), so South Africans should compare conversion costs across payout methods.
Platforms and strategies
| Firm | Platforms | Expert Advisors (EAs) |
|---|---|---|
| FTMO | MetaTrader, cTrader, DXtrade | Allowed |
| E8 Markets | MT5 and others; futures on Tradovate | Check current terms |
If you already use MetaTrader or run automated strategies, check that your platform and EA are supported before paying for a challenge.
What it costs in rand
At an illustrative rate of R18 per US dollar (check today’s rate and your card’s foreign transaction fee):
| Firm | Cheapest entry | Approx. in rand |
|---|---|---|
| FTMO | €89 | about R1,800 (EUR) |
| E8 Markets | about $40 | about R720 |
Card payments to offshore firms count toward your single discretionary allowance, and payouts arrive in foreign currency that you’ll convert to rand. See how to withdraw prop firm profits in South Africa.
Trading from South Africa
Forex traders get the most liquidity during the London–New York overlap, roughly 14:00–18:00 SAST in the Northern summer and 15:00–19:00 in winter. US index futures are busiest after the New York cash open at 15:30 or 16:30 SAST. Payouts are income for SARS, usually declared through provisional tax: see prop firm tax in South Africa.
Which should you choose?
FTMO’s static 2-Step is easier to manage than E8 One’s real-time trailing drawdown. E8’s lower 6% target and on-demand payouts appeal to experienced traders who size positions conservatively.
Visit FTMO Read our FTMO review
Visit E8 Markets Read our E8 Markets review
FTMO vs E8 Markets FAQ
Which is cheaper, FTMO or E8 Markets?
FTMO starts at €89 for $10K, while E8 Markets starts at about $40 for $5K.
Which has the better profit split?
FTMO pays 80%, up to 90% via scaling. E8 Markets pays 80%, or 90%/100% as a paid option.
Which has the easier drawdown rules?
FTMO uses a static maximum loss that never moves up with profits; E8 Markets uses a trailing maximum drawdown that follows your highest balance. Static limits are generally easier to manage.
Can South Africans use both FTMO and E8 Markets?
Yes. FTMO: Yes; fees charged in EUR. E8 Markets: Yes (confirm per track).
Can South Africans use both FTMO and E8 Markets?
Yes. Both firms accept South African residents; confirm eligibility at checkout.
How much does it cost in rand?
At an illustrative R18 per US dollar, FTMO starts at about R1,800 (EUR) and E8 Markets at about R720.