News trading during high-impact events like the FOMC rate decision or Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP) can be one of the most profitable — and most restricted — strategies in the funded trading world. Volatility spikes, spreads widen, and prop firms react by imposing rules designed to protect their capital. If you're a news trader hunting for a funded account that won't shut down your strategy the moment CPI drops, this guide breaks down exactly which firms allow it, which restrict it, and how to choose the right one for 2025.
At PropCoupons, we track verified prop firm rules, updates, and discount codes so traders don't have to dig through pages of fine print. Let's get into the details.
Why News Trading Rules Matter So Much
Many prop firms restrict or outright ban trading during major news events because of the risks involved: slippage, requotes, and liquidity gaps can cause massive, unpredictable losses (or gains) within seconds. Firms that allow unrestricted news trading are taking on more risk themselves, so they tend to compensate with tighter drawdown rules or higher fees elsewhere.
Before choosing a firm, you need to understand three things:
- Does the firm allow trading during FOMC, NFP, CPI, and other high-impact releases?
- Are there restrictions during the evaluation phase vs. the funded phase?
- Does the platform/broker feed provide reliable execution during volatile windows?
Prop Firms That Allow News Trading in 2025
1. FTMO
FTMO is one of the most trader-friendly firms when it comes to news trading. There are no blanket restrictions against trading during FOMC or NFP, though traders should be cautious of the firm's general risk management clauses that can flag abusive strategies (like opening oversized positions seconds before a release). FTMO's execution model on more premium account types tends to hold up well during volatility, making it a solid pick for disciplined news traders.
2. FundedNext
FundedNext has built a reputation for being flexible with trading styles, including news trading. Their Evaluation and Express models generally permit trading around news events, though as with most firms, traders should avoid exploiting slippage or using strategies that resemble arbitrage. FundedNext's growing popularity in 2025 is partly due to this openness, combined with competitive profit splits.
3. The5%ers
The5%ers allows news trading across most of their account types, with an emphasis on responsible risk management. They don't impose a blanket ban on FOMC or NFP trading, but they do monitor for gambling-style behavior — meaning a single all-in trade timed around a news release could trigger a rule violation review. It's a good fit for traders who want to hold positions through news events as part of a broader strategy rather than purely event-based scalping.
4. E8 Markets
E8 Markets permits news trading on most of their programs, and they've become known for relatively lenient rules compared to older-generation firms. That said, always check the specific account type — E8 occasionally updates restrictions on certain instruments during major releases, so verifying current terms is essential before your next FOMC session.
5. Goat Funded Trader
Goat Funded Trader has positioned itself as one of the more aggressive firms in terms of allowed strategies, including news trading, EA usage, and high-frequency approaches. This flexibility makes it appealing for traders who specifically build strategies around NFP or CPI volatility, though traders should always confirm current rules since GFT has iterated its rule set multiple times in the past year.
Firms With Restrictions on News Trading
Topstep
Topstep, primarily focused on futures trading, has historically had more conservative rules around news events compared to forex-focused firms. While traders can technically hold positions through news releases, Topstep emphasizes risk management and consistency, and some of their evaluation rules discourage the kind of high-leverage, event-driven trades common in forex news strategies. If your edge is specifically built around NFP volatility spikes, Topstep may feel more restrictive than firms like FundedNext or Goat Funded Trader.
Comparison Table: News Trading Policies at a Glance
| Prop Firm | FOMC/NFP Trading Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| FTMO | Yes | No blanket ban; monitors for abusive strategies |
| FundedNext | Yes | Flexible across most account types |
| The5%ers | Yes (with caution) | Monitors for gambling-style single trades |
| E8 Markets | Yes | Verify per account type; rules updated periodically |
| Goat Funded Trader | Yes | Aggressive, flexible rule set; confirm current terms |
| Topstep | Restricted/Conservative | Futures-focused; emphasizes risk management over news scalping |
Important: Prop firm rules change frequently, sometimes without much public notice. A firm that allowed unrestricted NFP trading in early 2025 might tighten its policy by Q4. Always verify current terms directly with the firm, or check PropCoupons' prop firm directory for the latest verified rule summaries.
Key Rules to Watch For Before You Trade the News
- Position size limits during news windows — some firms cap lot sizes or require reduced exposure X minutes before/after a release.
- Drawdown sensitivity — even firms that "allow" news trading may enforce strict daily drawdown limits that make volatile swings riskier.
- Server/execution quality — a permissive rule set means nothing if the broker's execution slips 20+ pips during NFP.
- Evaluation vs funded account differences — some firms are stricter during the evaluation phase and loosen up once you're funded.
- Consistency rules — firms with "consistency" requirements may flag a single oversized news trade even if it's technically allowed.
How to Choose the Right News Trading Prop Firm
If your entire strategy revolves around trading FOMC or NFP releases, prioritize firms with explicit permissive language and a track record of not retroactively banning traders for news-based wins. Look for:
- Clear, written policies (not just "contact support to confirm")
- Reasonable drawdown limits that don't punish normal volatility
- Fast execution and minimal requotes during high-impact events
- A profit split and fee structure that justifies the added risk you're taking
It's also worth comparing multiple firms side-by-side rather than committing to the first one that says "yes" to news trading. Rules, spreads, and payout structures vary enough that the best-fit firm depends heavily on your specific strategy and risk tolerance.
Don't Trade Blind — Verify Rules and Save on Fees
News trading is high-reward but unforgiving if you're caught off guard by a rule you didn't know existed. Before you risk your evaluation account on the next NFP print, take a few minutes to confirm the current policy with the firm — and check whether you're getting the best deal on your challenge fee.
Compare prop firms side-by-side on PropCoupons to see updated rules, drawdown limits, and news trading policies in one place. And before you purchase any challenge, browse our verified prop firm directory for the latest discount codes — because there's no reason to pay full price when a working coupon could save you 10-20% on your next attempt.
Stay sharp, trade the data, and let PropCoupons handle the fine print.
