South African traders face ZAR→USD conversion, local banking hurdles, and capital constraints. Prop firms like The5ers and FTMO give you large virtual accounts—up to USD 200K–250K—under clear drawdown rules. Hit profit targets, manage risk, and withdraw every two weeks via local bank EFT, e-wallet, or crypto—without touching your own capital.
Table of Contents
Introduction
With The5ers and FTMO, you trade on demo accounts funded with USD 200K–250K under strict maximum-loss limits. Once you meet profit targets, you keep up to 100% (The5ers) or up to 90% (FTMO) of gains and withdraw funds every two weeks via South African EFT, PayGate, Skrill, or crypto—no personal capital at risk.
Detailed Comparison Table
| Feature | The5ers | FTMO |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Fee (ZAR) | R1 900–R15 300 (Bootcamp €95≈R1 900; Hyper Growth $850≈R15 300) | R2 800 (Challenge $155≈R2 800) |
| • What this means | Low-cost entry option plus premium tiers for pros | Single flat fee—simple but no low-cost starter tier |
| Account Size (USD) | 10 K–250 K | 10 K–200 K |
| • Why it matters | Scale up to very large capital pools | Capped at mid-range levels |
| Evaluation Steps | 1–3 steps (Bootcamp, High Stakes, Hyper Growth) | 2 steps (Challenge → Verification) |
| • Reader takeaway | Flexible paths; choice may overwhelm beginners | Straightforward, predictable process |
| Profit Split | Up to 100% | 80% → 90% |
| • Impact | You keep all profits at top tier | FTMO retains 10–20% |
| Drawdown Limits | 5%–10% total; 3%–5% daily | 10% total; 5% daily |
| • Risk control | Tighter daily caps enforce discipline | Slightly more breathing room |
| Leverage | 1:10; 1:30; 1:100 | 1:30 |
| • Trading style | Supports conservative to aggressive strategies | Mid-range leverage only |
| Scaling Cap (USD) | Up to 4 M | Up to 2 M |
| • Growth potential | Top performers can double their capital | Growth stops earlier |
| Withdrawal Cycle | Bi-weekly | Bi-weekly |
| Deposit ZAR | EFT via PayGate, e-wallet, crypto | USD rails only (bank, Skrill, PayPal) |
| • Convenience | Direct ZAR or crypto funding | Must convert ZAR to USD first |
| Crypto Payouts | USDT, USDC, ETH, LTC | USDT, USDC |
| • Flexibility | Wider coin selection | Limited to stablecoins |
| Review Link | The5ers → | FTMO → |
Trader Profiles & Recommendations
| Trader Profile | Recommended Firm |
|---|---|
| Lowest entry cost | The5ers Bootcamp |
| Instant funding | The5ers Hyper Growth |
| Simplest evaluation process | FTMO |
| Maximum scaling potential | The5ers |
| Unlimited time to hit targets | FTMO |
| Broadest crypto withdrawals | The5ers |
Next Steps
- Choose your prop firm and program:
- Register using ZAR via EFT, e-wallet, or crypto.
- Trade on demo, manage risk, unlock real capital.
FAQ – faq
Q: How do I deposit ZAR?
A: Use EFT via PayGate, e-wallet (Skrill), or USDT-TRC20.
Q: What if I hit a drawdown limit?
A: Your evaluation ends; you may repurchase to try again.
Q: Can I attempt both firms?
A: Yes, but each attempt carries its own fee.
Data verified as of April 2025.