Home › Market News › Busting the Biggest Myths About Prop Trading Firms
If you’ve been digging around the internet for info on prop firms, you’ve probably seen it all. Some say they’re scams. Others think you need to be a trading genius to even stand a chance. And then there’s the crowd that believes prop trading is a shortcut to easy money. With so much noise, it’s not a surprise that new traders can feel overwhelmed before they even get started.
If you’ve spent any time researching prop firms online, you’ve probably seen this one.
Forums, social media threads, and comment sections are full of it:
“Prop firms are all scams.”
“No one ever takes a payout.”
“You’ll never pass the funded evaluation.”
Here’s the truth: not all prop firms are created equal. And yes, there are some sketchy players out there. But the best prop firms build their business on funding traders, not fooling them.
At Topstep, we’ve seen the skepticism, and we understand it. Prop firms do make money when traders pay for evaluations and resets. That’s not a secret. But there’s a difference between making money with traders and making money off them.
The right prop firm creates a structure where traders can learn, grow, and improve their performance without risking their life savings. They offer real capital, clear rules, and a path to progress, not endless roadblocks or hidden fees.
Here’s what to look for:
Topstep was built around those exact ideas. Our rules are straightforward: hit the profit target without hitting your Max Loss Limit. No fine print. No gotchas. If you’re serious about trading, that structure should motivate you.
Because let’s be honest, if you can’t pass a fair, rules-based evaluation, should you really be risking real money in the live markets?
At Topstep, we believe the answer is no. That’s why we’ve built a trading platform that rewards good habits and funds traders who prove they’re ready.
Our success depends on yours. And that’s how it should be.
Another classic. People think prop traders are math prodigies glued to ten screens, rattling off algorithms. In real life? What matters most is discipline, consistency, and a willingness to learn. Not to get preachy, but that’s how you win. You don’t need to ace calculus or have a finance degree. What you do need is the ability to stick to a plan and to keep learning.
Here’s the real secret: Prop firms are built for every level of trader. Beginner to expert. Whether you’re brand new or you’ve been charting since dial-up, there’s a place for you. Prop firms like Topstep design their programs with a range of traders in mind, offering educational resources, mentorship, and flexible evaluation processes so you can grow from wherever you start. You might see some folks who can recite the Greek alphabet backwards, but honestly, you’re just as welcome if you’re still figuring out what Futures is. No need to be a trading genius (but if you are, we’ll save you a spot too).
That’s why Topstep’s Trading Combine is designed to help you sharpen these skills in a real-world, risk-free environment. TopstepTV keeps the latest in the market close by with advice from trading professionals. Our Discord is good as it gets if you need a passionate trading community to help you stay motivated. There’s always something to keep you going, regardless of skill level. You don’t have to be the next Einstein; you just have to want to get better every day.
The truth is, trading can be challenging. Most traders face setbacks before they find their footing. There are no shortcuts, no magic formulas, and definitely no guaranteed payouts. If it were too easy, everyone would be doing it.
But everything worthwhile doesn’t come easy. Most just need a safe place to land the plane and figure out how to get the most out of their trading experience. Topstep offers a safe and proven environment to learn and grow, but you still have to put in the work. We give you all the tools, support, and structure to improve, but you’re the one behind the wheel.
Let’s be real: the trading world doesn’t need more hype or empty promises. Here’s what sets
Topstep apart:
There’s a lot of fluff out there about prop firms, but the truth is with the right approach and the right partner, prop trading can be a real path to growth. Topstep isn’t going to sell you a fantasy. We’re here to help you build discipline, consistency, and confidence without risking your life savings. If you’re ready to cut through the myths and take the leap, Topstep is ready to help you learn, grow, and reach your goals with a platform built to get you funded.
Let’s get to work.
Start My Trading CombineNo. While there are some shady prop firms out there, great firms like Topstep focus on funding traders who prove they’re ready. They offer clear rules, transparent payouts, and a structure that rewards discipline, not hidden fees or moving targets.
Absolutely not. You don’t need a finance degree or to ace calculus. What matters is your ability to follow a plan, stay disciplined, and keep learning. Prop firms like Topstep welcome traders at every level, from beginners to seasoned pros.
No. Trading is challenging and takes work. There are no shortcuts or guarantees. Topstep provides a safe, supportive environment to build your skills and confidence without risking your own savings, but you still have to put in the effort.
Topstep is built on transparency, discipline, and growth. They don’t hide behind fine print or hype. Instead, they give you a structured way to practice, real support, and a clear path from simulation to trading with live capital.
Topstep surrounds traders with tools and mentorship, including daily live coaching on TopstepTV, an active Discord community for strategy sharing, and real-time insights through their platform and Coach T™ to help you improve.
Yes. Topstep’s Trading Combine is designed for traders of all levels. Whether you’re brand new or a pro trader, their platform helps you grow your skills, build consistency, and eventually trade with real capital.
