In recent years, proprietary trading firms have changed the way individual traders access capital. Among the many names in the industry, E8 Markets stands out for its transparent evaluation model, seamless user experience, and growth-focused trader ecosystem.
Based in the United States and founded with a clear vision—to empower traders globally without risking their own capital—E8 Markets delivers a dynamic alternative to traditional trading routes. But what exactly makes E8 different, and is it the right fit for aspiring and experienced traders alike? This review breaks it all down.
The Core Framework: What is E8 Markets?
E8 Markets is a funded trading platform that gives individuals the opportunity to trade with large amounts of capital after completing a structured evaluation. Unlike traditional brokers, E8 doesn’t earn from spreads or commissions but from successful traders through performance-based profit sharing.
Their process is streamlined into two primary components:
- The Evaluation Process
- Live Funded Trading
Once a trader proves their strategy is profitable and meets E8’s risk criteria, they are eligible to manage real capital and retain a portion of the profits—up to 80%.
Evaluation Models of E8: Prove It Before You Trade It
E8 offers multiple evaluation pathways, each tailored to different trader profiles and risk appetites.
- E8 Evaluation (Standard Two-Phase)
This is the traditional two-step evaluation program for Forex and CFD traders:
- Phase 1: Hit an 8% profit target with a 5% daily and 8% overall drawdown limit.
- Phase 2: Reach a 5% profit target under the same drawdown rules.
- Time Limits: None—trade at your own pace.
- Minimum Trading Days: 1 per phase.
- Leverage: Up to 1:100.
Note: This model is ideal for traders who prefer structure but want flexibility in time.
- E8 Track (Futures Evaluation)
Catering to futures traders, this evaluation allows participants to trade CME Futures (like Crude Oil, Gold, and Indices):
- Profit Target: Varies by account size ($25K to $250K accounts).
- Trailing Drawdown: Applies until a predefined profit level is reached.
- Contracts: Up to 14 allowed, depending on the plan.
- Execution: Through the NinjaTrader platform.
Note: This is E8’s nod to traditional futures prop trading, offering high potential with clearly defined risk management.
- E8 One (Single-Phase Evaluation)
An accelerated model for those confident in their strategy:
- Profit Target: 8%
- Drawdown Rules: Identical to the two-phase, but no second stage.
- Minimum Trading Days: 1
- Time Limit: None
Note: Perfect for traders who want to skip the second phase and go live sooner.
How Do You Start Earning at E8 Markets?
When you are planning to trade with E8 Markets, here are the steps to go through:
- Register with E8 Markets, and choose an evaluation process that suits your preference
- Demonstrate your trading skills and aim at managing risks. At the same time, try generating profits, but make sure to adhere to the trading objectives.
- The next step is to access your E8 account and begin earning. You can request your first payout as early as eight days.
E8 Markets Funded Accounts: What Happens After You Pass?
Achieving success in the evaluation phase unlocks a major milestone for traders at E8 Markets: access to a fully funded trading account. This account is backed by real capital, ranging from $25,000 to $250,000, depending on the plan you selected. From this point on, you’re no longer testing your skills—you’re now trading live on behalf of E8.
Real Profits, Real Rewards
Funded traders can earn up to 80% of the net profits, with bi-weekly payout cycles. This is one of the fastest withdrawal schedules in the prop trading world, allowing traders to enjoy the fruits of their labor regularly without long waiting periods. Payouts are processed seamlessly via trusted channels like crypto or wire transfer.
Smart Tools: The E8X Dashboard Advantage
Every funded account is paired with access to the E8X Dashboard, a proprietary platform that gives you an advanced view of your trading metrics. It tracks your profit targets, drawdowns, risk levels, and trading consistency in real-time, helping you stay aligned with both your goals and E8’s rules.
Capital Growth Through Scaling
Consistency pays off—literally. E8 Markets offers a scaling plan that increases your account size as you demonstrate profitability and sound risk management. This means you can graduate from your initial capital to larger funding tiers, significantly boosting your income potential over time.
Perks of Being a Funded E8 Trader
As a funded trader, you also enjoy an impressive list of zero-hassle benefits:
- No recurring or hidden fees
- No commission or spread markups by E8
- No time restrictions—you trade at your own pace
- No forced lot sizes or trade frequency requirements
- Freedom to hold trades overnight or over weekends
In short, once you’re funded, you’re treated like a professional—because you’ve proven you are one.
The E8 Scaling Plan: Unlocking Bigger Capital Over Time
At E8 Markets, passing your evaluation is only the beginning. For traders who show consistent profitability and responsible risk management, E8 offers a progressive Scaling Plan—a unique opportunity to grow your funded account well beyond its starting size.
How the Scaling Plan Works
E8’s scaling model is built on milestone-based performance tracking. Once a trader maintains consistent gains over a set period without breaching any risk limits, their capital is automatically eligible for an increase. This growth is incremental, meaning traders can steadily compound their earnings potential without having to reapply or pay new fees.
For example, a $100,000 funded account could gradually be scaled to $250,000 or more, giving skilled traders a powerful edge to build serious income over time.
No Need to Re-Evaluate
One of the biggest advantages of this plan is that you don’t have to restart or go through another evaluation. The scaling happens within your funded status, based solely on your real-time performance. It’s a smooth, trader-friendly process designed to reward stability and discipline.
Designed for Long-Term Traders
This plan favors those who take a professional approach to trading:
- Controlled risk
- Consistent profits
- Strategic thinking
- Emotional discipline
If you treat trading like a business, E8 treats you like a partner. The scaling plan reflects E8’s long-term vision: building a community of elite traders who grow with the firm.
E8X Dashboard: Your Performance, Visualized and Optimized
Success in trading isn’t just about profits—it’s about tracking progress with precision. That’s why every E8 Markets trader gets access to the E8X Dashboard, a proprietary analytics platform designed exclusively for the E8 community.
Real-Time Performance Insights
The E8X Dashboard is not just a reporting tool—it’s a live trading companion. From the moment you begin your evaluation to the day you manage a funded account, E8X continuously tracks your:
- Current account balance and equity
- Maximum drawdown status
- Daily loss metrics
- Remaining profit target
- Trade frequency and position sizes
- Eligibility for scaling
- Evaluation progress (for Phases 1 and 2)
Each metric is presented in a clean, user-friendly layout, enabling traders to instantly assess their standing relative to E8’s trading objectives and rules.
Seamless Integration with E8 Accounts
Whether you’re in the evaluation phase or funded stage, the E8X Dashboard connects directly to your trading account—automatically updating your progress in real time. There’s no manual input required, and no need for third-party tracking tools. Everything is embedded in one central hub.
Why E8X Matters for Traders
E8X isn’t just about data—it’s about accountability and empowerment. By offering full transparency on every metric that matters, E8 ensures that you, the trader, are in total control of your decision-making process. You can identify areas for improvement, monitor risk exposure, and fine-tune your strategy—all from a single interface.
Access for All Phases
You don’t have to wait to be funded to use E8X. The dashboard is available to all active users, including those in Evaluation Phase 1, Phase 2, and Funded Account status. It’s part of E8’s commitment to providing every trader with the tools they need to succeed.
Profit Split & Withdrawals: Keeping Your Earnings Simple and Transparent
At E8 Markets, the focus isn’t just on helping traders access capital—it’s also about ensuring they can retain the majority of the profits they earn. Once you become a funded trader, E8 offers a clear and trader-first withdrawal model with one of the most generous profit splits in the industry.
Earn Up to 80% of Your Net Profits
E8 Markets provides up to 80% profit share to funded traders. This means that for every dollar you make beyond the initial balance, you keep the lion’s share, and the firm only retains a small percentage to support its model.
Here’s how it works:
- Your share: 80%
- E8 Markets’ share: 20%
This split is based strictly on net realized profits, with no commissions or spreads taken by E8—what you earn is what you keep.
Bi-Weekly Withdrawals, Starting in Just 8 Days
Unlike firms that require you to wait a full month or longer, E8 allows withdrawals after just 8 calendar days from the day you activate your funded account. After that, traders can request payouts every two weeks.
This fast-track model empowers traders to:
- Manage personal cash flow better
- Reinforce motivation through timely rewards
- Avoid the long, restrictive holding periods common elsewhere
Flexible Payout Methods
Payouts are processed securely using:
- Bank transfers (Wire)
- Cryptocurrency (USDT, BTC, etc.)
These options give traders the freedom to receive their earnings globally, with speed and security.
No Hidden Traps
What sets E8 apart:
- No minimum profit requirement to withdraw
- No recurring or surprise fees
- No forced trade limits—your withdrawal ability is based solely on realized profits and compliance with account rules
Once your account is eligible, simply submit your withdrawal request through the Trader Dashboard, and E8 handles the rest—efficiently and transparently.
The Trading Experience At E8 Markets: Platforms, Tools & Technology
E8 Markets is built with the active trader in mind, offering cutting-edge platforms and tools that replicate real-world market conditions. Whether you’re trading Forex, indices, or futures, E8 ensures that your trading environment is seamless, stable, and smart.
Trading Platforms That Matter
- MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5): Industry-standard platforms widely respected for their speed, customizability, and global broker integration. E8 supports both Forex and CFD trading, giving traders the freedom to use familiar systems with a minimal learning curve.
- NinjaTrader: For traders evaluating through futures accounts, E8 offers NinjaTrader—a powerful, professional-grade platform trusted by futures traders worldwide.
The E8X Dashboard Advantage
E8’s proprietary E8X Dashboard is where performance meets clarity. This all-in-one portal visualizes your:
- Current progress through evaluation milestones
- Profit and drawdown metrics in real-time
- Account history, trading stats, and risk parameters
It’s built to give traders an edge, letting them assess their performance and compliance at a glance—without relying on third-party tracking tools.
Realistic Trading Conditions
- Fast Execution: Trades are executed with lightning speed thanks to robust server infrastructure and liquidity access.
- Live Market Spreads: E8 replicates real market conditions, not synthetic pricing—so you trade as you would with an actual broker.
- EA Friendly: Automated trading is welcome, provided your strategy is ethical and doesn’t abuse pricing inefficiencies or latency arbitrage.
Support, Community & Resources at E8 Markets
Although E8 Markets does not offer traditional trading courses or mentorship, it compensates with a well-structured support system and a growing trader-focused ecosystem.
Help Center: Your 24/7 Resource
The E8 Help Center is a comprehensive knowledge base covering:
- Account setup
- Evaluation rules
- Funding process
- Platform setup
- Withdrawals
Each section is updated regularly with tutorials, screenshots, and clear FAQs to help both beginners and advanced users navigate the E8 experience confidently.
E8 Traders’ Stories: Learn from Real Performers
E8 proudly showcases successful traders through the E8 Traders’ Stories. These case studies feature real-world insights, experiences, and tips shared directly by funded traders, offering a transparent look into what it takes to succeed in the E8 ecosystem.
24/7 Live Chat + Active Trader Community
- Live Chat Support: Available around the clock for any account-related or technical questions.
- Social Presence: E8 maintains active communities across Discord, Instagram, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter), allowing traders to connect, share strategies, and discuss the funded journey.
E8’s Risk Management Philosophy
One of E8 Markets’ most defining traits is its institution-grade risk management. Unlike firms that encourage reckless gains, E8 emphasizes longevity, control, and accountability.
Strict, Yet Trader-Friendly Risk Limits
- Daily Drawdown Limit: 5% of the starting balance or equity at the day’s open (whichever is higher).
- Overall Drawdown Cap: 8% of the initial balance.
These rules protect E8’s capital and ensure only skilled, disciplined traders remain eligible for funding. Breaching either drawdown results in immediate disqualification from the current account—whether in the evaluation phase or live funded status.
Restricted Strategies
To maintain fairness and system integrity, E8 prohibits:
- Martingale strategies
- Grid-based trading
- Latency arbitrage or tick scalping
However, unlike many other prop firms, trades can be held overnight and over weekends, giving traders more flexibility and alignment with real-world trading habits.
Simple, Transparent Pricing & Refunds for E8 Markets
E8 Markets makes it easy to start your journey with one-time, refundable payments, with no hidden strings or recurring costs.
Program | Starting Fee | Refundable Upon Success? |
E8 Evaluation | $138 | Yes |
E8 One | $228 | Yes |
E8 Track | $150 | Yes |
One-Time Cost, Full Refund on Success
- No monthly subscriptions
- No hidden fees or platform surcharges
- 100% refund issued once a trader completes their first successful profit split
This pricing model reflects E8’s confidence in its traders and its commitment to long-term partnerships—not one-off transactions.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of E8 Markets: A Quick Glance
E8 Markets presents a streamlined pathway for traders to access significant funding with real-world conditions. Below are the key one-liner benefits and limitations derived from their official features and policies.
Advantages of E8 Markets
Here are the pros to take note of:
- Offers funded accounts up to $250,000 after successful evaluation.
- Provides 80% profit split, paid bi-weekly, with no delays.
- Traders get access to the advanced E8X Dashboard for full performance transparency.
- No monthly fees or recurring charges—only a one-time refundable payment.
- Supports MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, and NinjaTrader platforms.
- Allows traders to hold positions overnight and over weekends.
- Enforces realistic spreads and fast execution that mirror actual trading environments.
- Includes scaling opportunities for consistent, profitable traders.
- Maintains a robust Help Center and 24/7 Live Chat Support system.
Disadvantages of E8 Markets
Here are the flip sides to consider:
- No direct trading education or coaching is provided to users.
- Strict drawdown limits (5% daily, 8% overall) can disqualify traders instantly.
- No tolerance for Martingale, Grid, or latency arbitrage strategies.
- Violations result in immediate termination of the challenge or funded account.
- The evaluation process must be restarted from the beginning if it fails.
Recent User Feedback on E8 Markets: A Mixed Bag of Strong Praise and Select Criticism
Here’s a breakdown of the user reviews for ThinkCapital based on recent feedback:
- Positive Experiences with Support and Payouts
- Many users praised E8 Markets for its responsive customer service, fast payouts, and transparent funding process.
- Jacquelyn Bryant (US) highlighted the 3-step challenge and praised the instant scaling feature post-payout.
- Benjamin (US) and Goran Velin (AE) commended clear rule explanations and smooth account setups.
- Giuliano Furlotti (AR) and Al-Daihāni (KW) thanked support team members like Dayle for excellent assistance.
- Jeff Miller (US) and Ariel Geronimo (US) noted their payout experiences were seamless and under 24 hours.
- Takela (US) appreciated the fast progression through evaluation steps and a friendly post-evaluation interview.
- Exceptional Customer Service Recognition
- A consistent theme across many reviews was personalized help and fast response times from staff members.
- Elnur (UZ) and Wang David (TW) applauded the support team, mentioning names like Mhamed and noting quick resolution of technical issues.
- Lejla (BA) and Chris Guertin (US) both expressed satisfaction with pre-trade assistance and platform onboarding.
- Isolated Complaints and Criticism
Despite overall positive sentiment, a couple of users reported dissatisfaction:
- Omar Ahmad (GB) mentioned inflexible evaluations, slow support, and delayed payouts.
- Kayla King (US) expressed discontent regarding the drawdown policy, calling it trader-unfriendly and misleading.
- Efficiency and Growth Opportunities
Many traders are impressed with ThinkCapital’s fast-track growth model and flexibility:
- Ashik Khan (GB) noted that he received his account on the same day of evaluation completion.
- Mahmoud (SA) and Igor Igor (PL) praised fast payouts and rule transparency.
- Dženis Čampara (US) shared a story of quick issue resolution and account restoration due to technical errors.
Conclusion
E8 Markets presents itself as a promising proprietary trading firm offering a competitive environment for traders seeking flexibility and transparency. With fast funding processes, responsive customer support, and clear trading rules, the platform appeals to both beginners and seasoned professionals. While some users have voiced concerns regarding rule enforcement and account handling, the majority of reviews suggest a positive experience overall.
Its commitment to trader-friendly policies and streamlined payouts makes E8 Markets a noteworthy option for those aiming to grow in the prop trading space. As always, traders should perform their due diligence and ensure the platform aligns with their personal goals and risk tolerance.
FAQs
E8 Markets supports MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) for Forex and CFDs, and NinjaTrader for Futures evaluations, providing traders with industry-standard platforms for executing trades.
Traders at E8 Markets can earn up to an 80% profit split, with payouts processed bi-weekly. The first payout can be requested after 8 days, and subsequent payouts are available every 14 days.
E8 Markets prohibits strategies that exploit market imperfections, such as latency arbitrage, high-frequency trading exceeding 300 trades per day, and hedging across multiple accounts.
The ‘Daily Pause’ is a protective measure that temporarily halts trading for the day if a trader’s daily loss reaches a predetermined percentage, preventing further losses and promoting disciplined trading.
E8 Markets generally prohibits trading during high-impact news events to protect traders from extreme volatility, but exceptions are made for swing traders who open positions at least 8 hours before the news release and have both stop-loss and take-profit orders in place.
While E8 Markets does not provide direct trading education, it offers a comprehensive Help Center with FAQs and tutorials, and showcases funded traders’ stories for inspiration and insights.