Just came across this thread. I have extensive experience with Topstep so maybe I can chime in. I have been trading with them on and off for a few years. During that time I have been given 3 funded accounts, none of which have ultimately worked out for me. To get the funded account I had to pass the initial combine, pass another one (which was formerly called Funded Trader Prep). So I did this three times, but when I finally got my funded accounts, I was unable to sustain my performance. This is something I am constantly working on. I like Topstep because I can do my other life stuff while working on trading at my leisure. I am fully discretionary. I have a simple method that I am constantly trying to refine. I have noticed steady improvement. I usually trade in any futures market that shows me a set-up. Yes, the profit target is tough to achieve. But it can be done.
So Naboli, May I inquire : as an example of a "client" of such a trading firm! would you say you have earned more than the total fees you have paid? and if the answer is yes what sort of annual return you have gained?
No, I have not earned more than the total fees that I have paid. Will I eventually? I think so. It might not necessarily end up being with Topstep though. It seems like traders will come to Topstep, make some money, and then go out on their own instead of sticking around. I don't have any evidence to back this up, but that is the feeling I get. I have spent thousands over the past couple of years with Topstep. I am OK with that. The money isn't a big deal and I am able to just keep plugging away and learning. I understand achieving consistent profitability in trading takes time, so I am probably more patient than a lot of people. My plan is to get another funded account with Topstep, take some profits, and open my own account. I would still continue to trade with Topstep as long as there was no conflict.
Which would suggest that Topstep is not principally concerned with funding and retaining traders. I'm pretty sure Topstep is okay with it, too.
I am sure that Topstep is not principally concerned with funding and retaining traders too. And I am sure a business having a customer spend money is also OK with it. These aren't profound insights.
They may not be profound insights, but you have yet to comprehend them if you are (still) spending thousands on Topstep and are okay with it.
So you have spent thousand on "Education" with no recovery on the horizon let alone making profits.. I am sure this so called prop firm is happy with that why wont they be the monthly fees keep rolling in and they dont have to risk anything! wow great business model ( for them) any way there is no point it is like preaching to the converted... best of luck hope you recover the money atleast!