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Drawdown (Prop Firm)

The maximum allowable loss on a prop firm account before the account is terminated. Prop firms enforce both daily and overall drawdown limits.

Detailed Explanation

Drawdown is the most critical risk parameter in prop trading. There are three main types: (1) Daily drawdown — the maximum loss allowed in a single trading day (typically 4%–5%); (2) Maximum drawdown — the total loss allowed from the initial balance (typically 8%–12%); (3) Trailing drawdown — a dynamic limit that moves upward as your account grows, locking in a higher floor. Breaching any drawdown limit results in immediate account termination. Understanding whether a firm uses static or trailing drawdown is essential before purchasing a challenge.

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