Are you interested in the world of proprietary trading firms in India? Whether you are an aspiring trader or seeking to expand your knowledge in the field, understanding the landscape of proprietary trading firms is essential.
In the fast-paced and dynamic world of finance, proprietary trading firms play a significant role in the markets. They are known for their expertise, cutting-edge strategies, and ability to navigate complex financial instruments way better than individuals.
However, many proprietary trading firms operate in India, which can make it overwhelming to identify the key players and understand their offerings.
It’s not that all proprietary trading firms are unimportant or useless—it’s just that there are so many and very few of them stand out as truly exceptional.
That’s why, in this article, I have compiled the ultimate guide—an extensive list of proprietary trading firms in India that serve as your go-to reference.
Additionally, you will learn how to become a proprietary trader, some of the trading firms where you can work (the highest paying), and more details that can land you in this lucrative venture.
Before we get started, let’s first look at what a proprietary trading firm is in a nutshell.
What Is a Proprietary Trading Firm?
A proprietary trading firm is a financial institution that trades on its own account using its capital rather than executing trades on behalf of clients. These firms typically employ professional traders who use sophisticated trading strategies and technologies to generate profits from fluctuations in financial markets.
Since these firms often have access to advanced trading technology, they may specialize in specific markets or asset classes.
Additionally, they assume all the risks and rewards of their trading activities and aim to generate substantial returns for their own capital.
Now that you’ve understood what a proprietary trading firm is, let me explain how they make money so that you can get the whole picture right.
How Do Proprietary Trading Firms Earn Money?
Proprietary trading firms make money through trading activity in the market that involves buying and selling certain combinations of stocks and other financial instruments to earn a profit.
In this market environment, prices are determined based on demand and supply, and traders earn by speculating on the cost of these financial instruments.
Another way to earn money is through hedging, which involves buying or selling futures derivative contracts—thus, the main earning is because of the price fluctuation.
If you want to learn how that works, I would like to recommend this BIWS Premium Course on financial modeling.
For example, if a proprietary trader believes that the price of a particular stock is going to go down during the day, he can sell the shares of that stock in the market and buy the same stock at the end of the day when the prices are down.
Thus, he is selling at a higher rate and buying at a lower rate.
This way, the trader can earn considerable differences in intraday trading since the margin requirement is lower. He can trade in huge quantities and capitalize on the price fluctuation in his favor without investing much in the market.
For example:
If a proprietary trading firm buys stocks of XYZ Ltd. trading in the market at $100/- per share and buys 1000 shares of the same, then his total buy value and risk would be equivalent to $100,000/-. The benefit that the proprietary firm will get from this investment is:
Dividends or profits distributed by XYZ Ltd. would be in proportion to his investment, i.e., proportionate to the number of shares invested.
Profit in terms of price appreciation. Let’s say after a month’s time, XYZ Ltd. shares are trading at $150 per share.
So by selling the same in the market for $150, the proprietary trading firm will get a benefit of $50 per share, which is equivalent to $50,000 profit in one month, which is equal to 50% growth, and after deducting the brokerage and other allied costs related to this trade, the proprietary firm can have a growth rate of around 20-25%.
The example above is hypothetical, and the profit can vary. There can even be another side to the story here.
There is a huge risk of losing the same in the case of the reverse happening, i.e., instead of prices surging, they get lower. Therefore, this type of trading requires you to do extensive market research and a survey of that particular stock before engaging in a deal.
Types of Proprietary Trading
The main types of proprietary trading include the following:
#1. Market maker
A market maker is a financial institution or individual that facilitates the buying and selling of securities in a particular market. They play a crucial role in ensuring liquidity and efficiency in the market by constantly providing bid and ask prices for securities.
Market makers typically hold an inventory of securities and are ready to buy or sell those securities at any time.
They profit from the difference between the buy and sell prices, known as the spread. Market makers also help to narrow the bid-ask spread, reducing the cost of trading for investors.
They are essential in maintaining an orderly market and ensuring that there is always a buyer or seller available for a particular security.
#2. Statistical arbitrage
This trading strategy utilizes statistical models and quantitative analysis to profit from pricing inefficiencies in the market. Traders identify and exploit pricing discrepancies in related securities based on historical patterns.
By buying undervalued securities and selling overvalued securities, traders aim to take advantage of the expected price convergence, resulting in profitable opportunities.
#3. Merger arbitrage
This investment strategy involves capitalizing on price discrepancies between a target company’s stock price before and after a merger or acquisition.
It entails purchasing shares of the target company at a lower price before the merger is completed and selling them at a higher price once the merger is finalized, thereby profiting from the difference in prices.
#4. Volatility arbitrage
This trading strategy aims to profit from discrepancies in the implied volatility of financial instruments. It involves buying and selling options or other derivative products to take advantage of differences in market expectations of future price fluctuations.
The strategy relies on the assumption that the market tends to overestimate or underestimate the level of volatility, allowing traders to capitalize on these mispricings and generate profits.
Let’s take a look at some of the prominent proprietary trading firms in India and what they specialize in.
Overview of Proprietary Trading Firms in India
What are some of the big proprietary trading firms in India that you need to know about?
I have handpicked 25 top prop trading firms in India in this section, which you can join as a trader or employee if you truly want to pursue this venture.
Ready to learn? Let’s get started.
1. Zerodha proprietary trading
Zerodha is one of the most well-known proprietary trading firms in India. They offer a range of trading services, including equity, commodity, and currency trading. Their proprietary trading desk allows traders to access advanced trading tools and strategies to maximize their profits. On top of that, they have zero brokerage fees.
2. Edelweiss proprietary trading
Edelweiss is another prominent proprietary trading firm in India. They have a team of experienced traders who use advanced algorithms and trading strategies to generate profits. Edelweiss offers trading in various asset classes, including equities, derivatives, and currencies.
3. Angel Broking proprietary trading
Angel Broking is a leading full-service brokerage firm in India, and they also have a proprietary trading desk. Traders at Angel Broking can access cutting-edge trading platforms and tools to execute trades across multiple asset classes, including stocks, commodities, and currencies.
4. Motilal Oswal proprietary trading
Motilal Oswal is a renowned financial services company in India, and they also have a proprietary trading arm. Their proprietary trading desk provides traders access to advanced trading technologies and strategies to capitalize on market opportunities.
5. Sharekhan proprietary trading
Sharekhan is a well-established brokerage firm in India, and they offer proprietary trading services as well. Traders at Sharekhan can utilize their proprietary trading desk to execute trades in various asset classes, including equities, derivatives, and commodities.
6. SMC Global proprietary trading
SMC Global is a leading financial services provider in India, and they have a proprietary trading division. Traders at SMC Global can benefit from their advanced trading infrastructure and tools to execute trades across different markets and asset classes.
7. Geojit proprietary trading
Geojit is a prominent brokerage firm in India, and they also have a proprietary trading arm. Traders at Geojit can access their proprietary trading desk to trade in equities, derivatives, commodities, and currencies.
8. IIFL proprietary trading
IIFL (India Infoline) is a well-known financial services company in India, and they offer proprietary trading services as well. Traders at IIFL can utilize their proprietary trading desk to execute trades in various asset classes, including equities, derivatives, commodities, and currencies.
9. HDFC Securities proprietary trading
HDFC Securities is a subsidiary of HDFC Bank, and they provide a range of financial services, including proprietary trading. Traders at HDFC Securities can access their proprietary trading desk to trade in equities, derivatives, commodities, and currencies.
10. Jaypee Capital Services Ltd.
Jaypee Capital Services Ltd., established in 1994, is a forward-thinking financial firm that is expanding its presence in new markets and regulatory environments to become a global securities powerhouse.
With a diverse range of services, including securities broking, currency broking, financial advisory, depository custodial services, and serving corporations and institutional investors in both Indian and Global Markets, they are well-positioned to cater to the evolving needs of clients.
11. Estee proprietary trading
Estee’s proprietary trading is an active participant in major Indian exchanges and trades international venues through its US affiliate, Estee Capital LLC. Their main focus is on developing and deploying a variety of innovative quantitative trading strategies across markets and asset classes.
12. Futures First Info Services Pvt. Ltd.
Futures First Info Services Pvt. Ltd. is a renowned proprietary trading firm operating in India, specializing in futures trading. With a focus on leveraging quantitative strategies and technology, Futures First Info Services develops and executes innovative trading models across various futures markets.
13. Trenchant Financial Technologies
Trenchant Financial Technologies is a leading financial technology firm in India, specializing in proprietary trading solutions. With a focus on providing advanced trading technology and infrastructure, Trenchant Financial Technologies empowers traders to execute their strategies with efficiency and precision.
Their proprietary trading platforms offer access to various asset classes and markets, enabling traders to capitalize on market opportunities.
14. Raptor Trading Group
Raptor Trading Group is a prominent proprietary trading firm operating in India, known for its expertise in algorithmic trading. With a focus on leveraging cutting-edge technology and quantitative strategies, Raptor Trading Group develops and implements innovative trading models across various asset classes and markets.
15. Mansukh Securities & Finance Ltd
With a steadfast commitment to meeting the investment and trading requirements of their clients, Mansukh Securities & Finance Ltd diligently caters to a diverse range of needs, including those of Corporates, Business Partners, and High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs). They offer a comprehensive selection of Trading and Investment solutions that can be tailored to align with individual preferences.
Operating from an extensive network of offices spanning over 100 cities across India, Mansukh Securities & Finance Ltd ensures convenient access to their services for a wide clientele. This widespread presence enables them to effectively serve the investment needs of numerous clients listed in their database.
16. India Advantage Securities Ltd.
India Advantage Securities Ltd. is a leading financial services company in India, offering a wide range of services, including proprietary trading. With a focus on leveraging technology and quantitative strategies, India Advantage Securities develops and implements innovative trading models across various asset classes and markets.
17. IKM Investor Services Ltd.
IKM Investor Services Ltd. is a renowned financial institution in India, offering a comprehensive range of services, including proprietary trading. With a focus on providing exceptional trading experiences, IKM Investor Services develops and executes innovative trading strategies across multiple asset classes and markets.
18. Kredent Trading
Kredent Trading is a prominent trading member of multiple prestigious exchanges in India, including the NSE, BSE, MSEIL, MCX, and NCDEX. This broad market access allows traders and investors to explore different investment avenues, diversify their portfolios, and take advantage of market opportunities.
19. Interactive Brokers
Interactive Brokers is a well-established and highly regarded brokerage firm that offers a wide range of services to investors and traders.
One of the standout features of Interactive Brokers is its powerful trading platform, which provides a comprehensive suite of tools and features designed to meet the needs of both beginner and experienced traders.
The platform offers advanced charting capabilities, real-time market data, customizable trading layouts, and a wide range of order types to execute trades efficiently.
20. Adroit Financial Services
With a dedicated team of skilled Arbitrageurs and Traders, Adroit ensures the delivery of premium quality services to clients and customers. Their expansive branch network across India further strengthens their ability to cater to the diverse needs of their clientele. As a result, Adroit stands as a trusted name in the industry, consistently providing reliable and customer-centric financial services.
21. Dolat Capital
Dolat Capital is a reputed financial services firm that offers proprietary trading services in India. With a focus on delivering superior performance, Dolat Capital’s proprietary trading division utilizes advanced quantitative models and strategies to navigate various markets and asset classes.
22. Capstone Securities Analysis Pvt Ltd
Capstone Securities Analysis Pvt Ltd (CSA) is a renowned financial services firm specializing in online trading of US securities, particularly within the bustling NASDAQ, Amex stock, and NYSE markets. Since May 2005, the skilled traders at Capstone have diligently conducted research and execute trades, positioning themselves as industry leaders.
The management firmly believes in fostering the career development of their professionals by offering unparalleled performance incentives in the field. They also provide access to cutting-edge technology and comprehensive training programs, empowering traders to excel in their roles.
What sets Capstone apart is their unique trader recruitment, training, and management program. It serves as an exceptional opportunity for traders to maximize their skills, instilling the essential values of discipline, intellectual achievement, and unwavering focus.
In addition to their trader-centric approach, Capstone takes pride in being a pioneer in delivering intra-day trading and research services to their esteemed clientele. With a team led and operated by industry veterans, the company offers young talent the chance to develop their skills and forge successful careers, enabling them to enjoy lifestyles akin to those of exceptional traders.
23. BLB Limited
BLB Limited, a pioneer in risk-free trading, stands at the forefront of India’s derivative and equity markets as the premier liquidity provider. With a global reputation and a focus on integrating cutting-edge technology with risk-free trading practices, BLB consistently ranks among the top 10 traders, according to BSE Limited. Their average daily traded volume surpasses USD 200 million, a testament to their expertise and market presence.
By combining their extensive knowledge of trading dynamics and market structure with state-of-the-art technology, BLB achieves exceptional trading returns. Renowned for its specialization in Jobbing and Arbitrage, BLB’s success stems from its unwavering capital commitment and astute understanding of the ever-evolving trading landscape.
24. Ariston Capital Services Pvt. Ltd.
Ariston Capital Services, Pvt. Ltd. is a prominent financial firm based in India, offering a wide range of services, including proprietary trading. Their experienced trading teams actively participate in major Indian exchanges and also trade international venues through their affiliations.
25. TransMarket Group L.L.C.
Since its inception in 1980, TransMarket Group L.L.C. has emerged as a privately held powerhouse in global market trading. With a winning combination of unparalleled talent and cutting-edge technology, they have excelled in capturing lucrative opportunities across the globe and effectively managing risk in the financial markets.
The key to their remarkable success lies in their unwavering commitment to discipline, diligent work ethic, and unwavering patience. Embracing a culture of continuous learning, TransMarket Group L.L.C. consistently strives to enhance their expertise, ensuring they remain at the forefront of their industry.
I know some of you might be interested in trying your hand abroad, and just like in any field, the United States sounds like a perfect destination. So, let’s uncover some of the most popular prop firms in the United States in the next section.
The Best Proprietary Trading Firms in The United States
In this section, I’ll highlight the top 25 best prop trading firms that you can join as a trader or employee. Here are some of them:
- Spot Trading
- Jump Trading
- DRW Trading
- Optiver
- TransMarket Group
- Peak6 Investments
- Chicago Trading Company
- Infinium Capital Management
- Wolverine Trading
- Tower Hill Trading
- E8 Funding
- Leveled Up Society
- FundedNext
- Ment Funding
- My Forex Funds
- MyFundedFX
- Nations Trading
- Smart Prop Trader
- SurgeTrader Florida
- The Funded Trader
- Top Tier Trader
- Finotive Funding
- City Traders Imperium
- True Forex Funds
The Best Futures Prop Trading Firms
According to the Traders Union’s, some of the best Futures prop firms are:
| Firm | Best |
| Topstep | Index futures |
| FTMO | Profit split |
| Earn2Trade | Education for the futures trader |
| Fidelcrest | CFDs on futures |
That’s a wrap. However, later in this article, I’ll give you a list of the top prop trading firms where you can work and the salary range you can expect. But for now, let’s change our focus to how to become a proprietary trader.
Now, let’s shift our focus to the next item—becoming a part of this dynamic and rewarding field.
For those of you who are already proprietary traders, this segment serves as a meaningful resource to further enhance your knowledge and skills. You’ll find valuable insights and strategies that can propel your trading journey to new heights.
On the other hand, if you are a job-seeker aspiring to enter the world of proprietary trading, this segment aims to inspire and guide you. You’ll discover the diverse career opportunities available in this field, learn about the qualifications and qualities sought by top firms, and gain insights from experienced professionals who have carved their paths to success.
Let’s get started…
How to Become a Proprietary Trader
Let’s first start by defining what a proprietary trader is. This is a professional who uses a financial firm’s capital in trading to make a direct profit.
They utilize their knowledge of financial markets to analyze stock market trends and then make informed decisions on how to make profits from their initial investments in the market.
They employ various prop trading mechanisms, such as statistical arbitrage, merger arbitrage, or volatility arbitrage, that take advantage of the price difference to buy in the lower market and then sell in the higher market to turn a profit for the firm.
So, becoming a proprietary trader requires you to have and use financial knowledge of hedge funds, stock market conditions, and investment strategies to trade assets for profit.
What Are the Typical Qualifications for Proprietary Trader Jobs?
What does it take to be a prop trader and what qualifications will your employers will be looking at before they hire you? Let’s take a look.
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in business, computer science, or engineering or equivalent experience. On top of that, you need to have taken some certificate courses on Trading in Securities. One can also choose to become a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst).
- Complete at least one internship with a trading firm to learn about the finance industry and make professional connections.
- Comfortable with drawing and mechanical drawing.
- Able to collaborate and multitask.
- Solid time management and critical thinking skills.
- Comfortable with decision making and problem solving using critical thinking skills.
- Strong work ethic.
- Fluency in statistics, systems development, and usage of datasets.
- Can help with onboarding and hedging where necessary.
After that, you can now begin to apply for entry-level proprietary trader roles in a firm of your choice.
Normally, the application process for traders in prop firms is often rigorous, so be sure to study the advantages, disadvantages, trends, and best practices of trading within investment banks to gain an upper hand in the market.
Proprietary trading firms, when hiring people for this job, generally look forward to people having good analytical skills, the ability to study the market and the financials of the companies, and most importantly, knowledge of the trading market.
Job Opportunities at Prop Trading Firms
If you’re drawn to the fast-paced world of finance, where intuition meets data-driven decision-making, prop trading firms offer a wealth of opportunities to explore and contribute your unique skills.
In this section, I’ll list some top roles you can target. Each role is interconnected, working together to achieve a common goal: capitalizing on market opportunities and generating profitable outcomes. To make it easier for you to understand them, I have categorized them into two; front-office and back-office roles.
Front office roles at prop trading firms
#1. Trader
As a Trader, your mission is to navigate the markets, buying and selling securities while effectively managing risk. You have the option to rely on sophisticated models, software, and automated approaches or to trust your intuition and judgment.
In many cases, it’s a skillful combination of both that leads to successful trades. You’re the driving force behind making strategic decisions and capitalizing on market opportunities.
#2. Quantitative researcher
If you are passionate about numbers and mathematical wizardry, this role might be a perfect fit for you. As a Quantitative Researcher, you delve into the depths of financial data to develop intricate mathematical models.
These models form the backbone of trading algorithms and strategies. Your analytical prowess and creative problem-solving skills are crucial in uncovering profitable trading opportunities.
#3. Developer
As a Developer, you play a vital role in bringing the researchers’ models to life. You’re responsible for implementing these models, writing efficient code, and maintaining the software infrastructure that empowers traders to perform their jobs seamlessly.
Your expertise ensures that the trading systems are robust, reliable, and capable of handling the fast-paced demands of the market.
Back office roles at prop trading firms
In addition to the front-line roles we discussed earlier, prop trading firms also have essential back office and support functions that ensure smooth operations and regulatory compliance.
These functions play a vital behind-the-scenes role in supporting the trading activities and overall functioning of the firm:
#1. Operations
The Operations team ensures the efficient execution of trades, manages settlements, and handles the logistics of trade confirmations. Here, you will be required to work diligently to ensure that all transactions are processed accurately and in a timely manner, providing the necessary support to the traders on the front line.
#2. Finance Department
Finance professionals play a crucial role in managing the financial aspects of the firm. Your work here will be to handle budgeting, financial analysis, risk management, and reporting. Your expertise is needed to ensure that the firm’s financial resources are allocated effectively and in alignment with the strategic goals of the organization.
#3. Compliance
As a compliance officer, you’re required to ensure that the firm adheres to all relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards. This includes developing and implementing compliance policies and procedures, conducting risk assessments, and providing guidance to ensure that the firm operates within the boundaries of the law and maintains the highest ethical standards.
#4. Human Resources (HR)
As an HR professional, you handle talent acquisition, employee relations, training and development, and overall workforce management. Your role plays a vital role in recruiting and retaining top talent, fostering a positive work culture, and providing ongoing support to employees.
While these functions may not be directly involved in trading activities, they form the backbone of the firm, providing the necessary support and infrastructure for traders and researchers to thrive.
What Responsibilities are Common for Proprietary Trader Jobs?
Let’s take a look at the responsibilities you will find while working for a prop trading firm:
- Operate specialized maintenance equipment and tools in a responsible and safe manner.
- Maintain accurate and timely records of time, labor, and materials.
- Responsible for effective, efficient, and safe accomplishment of all assigned tasks.
- Provide leadership and supervision to trade team workers as assigned.
- Overlay accounts with pre-defined trading models and executes trades based on product guidelines.
- Report on trading KPIs and incidents with 100% accuracy.
- Explain strategy and optimizations to internal and external partners.
- Inspect work in progress and upon completion in and on the structural systems of a facility and related building services.
- Assist in the delivery of multiple client engagements on time and within budget. maintain active communication with clients in an effort to manage expectations and satisfaction.
- Provide overall care for client accounts to ensure customer satisfaction.
- Make weekly inspections.
Proprietary Traders Working Hours and Lifestyle
Before you consider pursuing a career in any field, it is always important to understand the working time structure so that you can determine if you can manage. Why is it important?
In the fast-paced world of prop trading, the hours can be described as “normal-ish, but very intense and stressful.” While the average workweek is around 50 hours, this can vary depending on factors such as the specific group, firm, and seniority level.
One of the great things about trading is that your hours become less important if you consistently deliver results. The firm’s focus is primarily on your profit and loss (P&L) rather than the number of hours worked. Working extra hours doesn’t necessarily translate into a higher bonus.
That’s why today, instead of actually going to a physical office—and the hours you spend there daily do not account as compared to the results you deliver—you can opt to Work From Anywhere.
This new working arrangement will allow you to maintain a fulfilling career while enjoying the freedom to work from any location.
On top of that, you’ll have better work-life integration, enabling you to strike a balance between your personal commitments, such as traveling and pursuing other careers, and your professional aspirations.
Whether attending to family responsibilities, pursuing hobbies, or engaging in self-care, the ability to choose where you work empowers you to design a life that aligns with your values and priorities.
Additionally, the Work-From-Anywhere Model facilitates global collaboration and the exchange of ideas. As prop trading firms attract talent from diverse locations, professionals have the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from different backgrounds and cultures. For example, you can work with Freelancer as a Matrix Trader Instant Funded FX freelancer.
This fosters a broader perspective, enriches your professional journey, expands your horizons, and enhances your problem-solving skills.
Benefits of Working with a Proprietary Trading Firm In India
Let’s be upfront here. There are tons of benefits you can get by working with a prop trading firm, but they’re reserved for the select few who deserve them.
From my past experience working in this niche, here are some of the benefits you can get:
- Access to advanced technology and trading platforms that can help you make more informed and profitable trading decisions.
- Capital backing and resources provided by the firm, allow you to trade with larger positions and potentially earn higher profits.
- Risk management and support from experienced professionals who can help you navigate volatile markets and minimize losses.
- Opportunity to trade a wide range of financial instruments, including stocks, options, futures, and currencies, providing diversification and potential for greater returns.
- Potential for career growth and development, as proprietary trading firms often offer training programs and opportunities to advance within the firm.
- Ability to trade with lower transaction costs, as proprietary trading firms typically have access to discounted commission rates and fees.
- Flexibility and autonomy in your trading strategies, as proprietary trading firms often allow traders to develop and implement their own unique trading approaches.
- Collaboration and networking opportunities with other traders within the firm, foster an environment of learning and idea sharing.
- Possibility of earning a share of the profits generated by your trading activities, providing additional financial incentives and motivation.
Intrigued? Now, let’s address the elephant in the room—how much money can you make working as a proprietary trader? More in the next section…
Proprietary Trader Salary (US and India)
How much does a Prop Trader make in India? According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for a Prop Trader is ₹68,378 in India.
It is important to note that, most of the time, the salary is linked to the profit percentage. In the case of no profit, you get nothing.
How about in the United States? Let’s see what to expect.
According to Glassdoor, the estimated total pay for a proprietary trader is $153,913 per year in the United States, with an average salary of $100,117 per year. The estimated additional salary is $53,796 per year. Additional pay could include cash bonuses, commissions, tips, and profit sharing.
That’s a wrap. Remember, the key determinant of your salary as a prop trader is your effort to deliver consistent results in terms of profits. That way, you can get job promotions quickly and earn a good commission from the profits you make for the company.
Highest-Paying Prop Trading Firms
Let’s take a look at seven of the highest-paying prop trading firms so you can keep as much of your profits as possible.
#1. TopStepTrader
- Profit Split: 90/10 (100% for first $5k)
- Monthly Subscription Fee: $116-$122 per month
#2. SurgeTrader
- Profit Split: 75/25 or 90/10
- Audition Fee: $250-$6,500
#3. FundedNext
- Profit Split: Up to 90%
- Evaluation Fee: $99-$999
- Profit Split: Up to 90%
- Evaluation Fee: $0-$1399
- Profit Split: Up to 100/0
- One-Time Fee: $99 to $949
Exit Opportunities for a Proprietary Trader
Exit opportunities provide individuals with the chance to explore new industries, roles, or companies that align with their skills, interests, and career goals.
When it becomes apparent that you need to exit the industry, be sure to land the perfect opportunity that can offer you the chance to gain new experiences, skills, and perspectives, as well as potentially higher salaries or a better work-life balance.
These opportunities can include moving up the corporate ladder within the same company, transitioning to a different industry or sector, starting your own business or consulting firm, or pursuing further education or certifications.
Once you decide to quit your job as a proprietary trader, you have the following career options available:
1. Investment advisor
You could become an Investment advisor to various clients, providing tips and calculations on the probable profit they can earn by investing in stocks you have recommended.
Generally, mutual fund companies provide a commission to agents for selling their financial instruments, which can be a handful of dollars.
2. Fund manager
You can join any Mutual fund company as a fund manager, where you would be responsible for managing the entire portfolio and earning a profit so that the investor can benefit from it.
Usually, fund managers earn a hefty salary from Mutual fund companies in return for their services.
3. Financial manager
You can join any Insurance company as a finance manager so that the amount received by the company from the general public for insurance could be invested in proper stock and financial instruments so that the interest of the Investor is safeguarded, and the insurance company could also earn some amount for itself from the investment.
4. Consultant
Last but not least, you have a world of knowledge about stock markets and can enter any field that is related to this market, either directly or indirectly.
Also, if you have any additional degrees with you, that will be an added advantage for getting into standalone industries as a Finance Head or Assistant Finance manager, where you would be offered a lucrative package.
Proprietary Trading Firms in India: Frequently Asked Questions
#1. Can banks engage in proprietary trading?
Yes, banks can engage in proprietary trading, although there are certain regulations and restrictions in place to ensure proper risk management and prevent excessive speculation.
#2. Are prop trading firms legal in India?
Yes, prop trading firms are legal in India. However, they are subject to regulatory oversight and must comply with the guidelines set by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
#3. How do proprietary traders get paid?
Proprietary traders can get paid based on their performance and profitability. They often receive a share of the profits they generate for the firm, which can be a significant source of income.
Let’s say you’re a proprietary trader at ABC Trading Firm. As part of your compensation package, you have a profit-sharing agreement with the firm. According to the agreement, you’re entitled to receive 30% of the net profits you generate for the firm.
In a given year, you successfully execute trades and generate $1 million in net profits for ABC Trading Firm. Based on the profit-sharing agreement, your share of the profits would amount to $300,000 (30% of $1 million). This $300,000 would be an additional source of income for you on top of your base salary.
#4. Can I start my own prop trading company?
Yes, you can start your own prop trading company if you have the necessary knowledge, skills, and capital. However, it’s important to thoroughly understand the complexities of the financial markets and have a solid trading strategy in place.
#5. How good are paid trading courses offered by proprietary trading firms?
Paid trading courses offered by reputable proprietary trading firms can be valuable for enhancing your trading skills and knowledge. However, it’s important to do thorough research and choose courses from reputable firms with a track record of success and positive reviews.
Here are some of the paid courses you can take:
#2. NSE Online Recorded Courses
Final Thoughts: Is a Proprietary Trading Career Right for You?
In conclusion, embarking on a proprietary trading career can be a thrilling and rewarding path, but it’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons before making a decision.
The meritocratic nature of the industry means that your success and advancement are directly tied to your ability to generate profits for your firm.
If you have strong math, probability, and coding skills, along with a technical degree, you’ll find the recruiting process more accessible, even if you’re not from a top school.
The work itself can be intellectually stimulating, especially if you’re in a more quantitative role. The culture and lifestyle within prop trading firms are often favorable, with small teams and minimal bureaucracy or office politics.
However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential downsides. Exit opportunities can be limited, so if you’re not completely certain about pursuing a career in trading, it might be wise to explore other options before committing.
Beware of less reputable “prop trading firms” that may exploit inexperienced traders by offering no base salary and charging for training or data access.
If you find yourself unsure about whether this career path is right for you, it’s time to consult your Inner GPS, your inner compass and seek guidance. Making well-informed decisions is crucial for a successful and fulfilling career.
That’s where Coach Sanju comes in; as an Inner GPS Career Coach, she will provide you with guidance and support to navigate your career choices effectively. Whether you need assistance in understanding your strengths, assessing your options, or preparing for interviews, she will be there to help you chart a path toward success.
Finally, jumping into speculative endeavors like day trading without proper guidance can be risky. Instead, take the time to seek out knowledgeable resources and make informed choices.
Avadhut Avadhut is the Founder of FinanceWalk. He enjoys writing on Finance Careers topics. Check our Financial Modeling Courses. Contact usforCareer Coaching based on Your Inner GPS. View all posts
