Big News in the Trading World
You’re about to witness a major shake-up in the world of proprietary trading and retail forex. FTMO, the powerhouse in prop trading, has just acquired OANDA, one of the most established names in retail forex and CFD trading. This move could change the trading landscape as you know it.
With FTMO’s expertise in prop trading and OANDA’s decades-long experience in regulated markets, risk management, and multi-asset trading, this merger is set to redefine the industry. So, what does this mean for you? Let’s break it down.
Why Did FTMO Acquire OANDA?
If you’re wondering why FTMO made this move, the answer is simple: strategy and survival.
OANDA isn’t just any broker. Founded in 1996, it’s one of the oldest and most respected names in trading, with offices in New York, London, Singapore, and Sydney. It also holds multiple licenses, including one in the U.S.—a rare achievement in the forex world.
For FTMO, acquiring OANDA is more than just an expansion; it’s a way to future-proof the business. Regulatory scrutiny on prop firms is increasing, and compliance requirements are tightening. By bringing OANDA into the fold, FTMO gains access to an experienced team that understands regulations, licensing, and risk management inside out. Instead of struggling to get regulatory approval on its own, FTMO now has a direct path to operate legally in key markets.
Is This About Managing Profitable Traders?
You may have heard that prop firms are facing challenges with risk management. With more traders successfully passing funded account challenges and demanding payouts, firms are under pressure to balance profitability.
This acquisition helps FTMO manage that risk. OANDA brings strong risk management expertise, direct market access, and a solid trading infrastructure. By leveraging these resources, FTMO can ensure that its business remains sustainable while still supporting its funded trader program.
At the same time, this move signals a broader trend: prop firms are evolving. They are no longer just funding traders—they are maturing into full-scale brokerages with robust risk models, better trading services, and stronger regulatory standing.
What This Means for the Prop Trading Industry
If you trade with a prop firm, you need to pay close attention. This deal highlights an industry-wide shift—prop firms that fail to adapt to regulations could struggle or even disappear.
FTMO is setting an example by proactively securing a stable future. Smaller prop firms that lack the resources to obtain regulatory licenses may find it difficult to compete. If you’re looking for a prop firm, this should be a key factor in your decision-making process.
Regulatory changes are already happening in the U.S., Europe, and Australia. Firms that aren’t preparing for these shifts may not survive. FTMO’s move shows that the strongest players are positioning themselves for long-term success.
What’s Next for OANDA Traders?
If you’re currently trading with OANDA, you might be wondering how this acquisition affects you. The good news? OANDA will continue to operate independently.
CEO Gavin Bambury has confirmed that the company will stay on its current path under FTMO’s ownership. However, you can expect some exciting innovations, especially in prop trading. There’s a strong possibility that OANDA’s prop trading services will merge with FTMO’s model, giving you new opportunities as a trader.
How This Deal Came Together
This wasn’t a last-minute decision. In mid-2024, OANDA’s parent company, CVC Capital Partners, put the broker up for sale. Investment banks were brought in to find a buyer and negotiate the terms.
While the financial details of the transaction haven’t been disclosed, this is a strategic move that positions FTMO as a dominant force in both prop trading and the broader forex market. Regulatory approval is still pending, but it’s expected to go through without major obstacles.
What This Means for the Future of Trading
The trading industry is evolving fast, and this acquisition sets a new standard. As competition heats up, regulatory pressure increases, and technology advances, only the firms that invest in compliance and innovation will survive.
For you as a trader, this means more opportunities, better platforms, and a safer trading environment. Prop trading is no longer just a niche—it’s becoming a permanent fixture in the financial ecosystem. The firms that adapt, like FTMO, will lead the way.
If you want to stay ahead of industry developments, now’s the time to keep a close eye on the prop trading space. Expect to see more firms acquiring broker licenses or partnering with established brokers. The lines between prop firms and traditional brokerages are blurring, and the ones that navigate these changes effectively will come out on top.
Final Thoughts
FTMO’s acquisition of OANDA is one of the biggest moves in trading history. If you’re part of the trading community—whether in prop trading or retail forex—you need to pay attention.
This deal isn’t just about one company acquiring another. It’s about the future of the industry, regulatory shifts, and the evolution of prop trading into a mainstream financial model.
The next few months will be critical. If you want to stay informed, make sure you follow industry updates, watch for regulatory changes, and choose your trading partners wisely.
The future of trading is here, and it’s more exciting than ever. Stay sharp, stay informed, and get ready for the next wave of opportunities.
FAQ:
1. Why did FTMO acquire OANDA?
FTMO’s acquisition of OANDA is a strategic move to expand its regulatory compliance, risk management expertise, and market presence. OANDA holds multiple global licenses, including one in the U.S., which gives FTMO a foothold in tightly regulated markets.
2. Will FTMO now allow U.S. traders?
Many traders are wondering if this means FTMO will be available in the U.S. again. As of now, FTMO has not confirmed any plans to allow U.S. traders. The main goal of the acquisition seems to be securing regulatory expertise and infrastructure, rather than reopening U.S. operations.
3. What does this mean for current OANDA traders?
OANDA will continue to operate independently under FTMO’s ownership. If you’re an OANDA client, you shouldn’t expect any immediate changes to your trading experience, but there may be future innovations in prop trading.
4. Will this improve FTMO’s risk management?
Yes. One major challenge for prop firms is managing profitable traders who consistently withdraw large payouts. OANDA brings strong risk management systems that FTMO can use to ensure sustainability while continuing to support funded traders.
5. Will spreads on OANDA improve because of FTMO?
Some traders are hoping for better spreads, but this acquisition is unlikely to impact spreads. OANDA will still run its brokerage independently, so trading conditions will likely remain the same.
6. Does this mean FTMO is more profitable than OANDA?
Not necessarily. Some traders believe FTMO’s ability to buy OANDA proves its financial strength, but it’s possible that FTMO received external investment for the deal. OANDA had been up for sale for a while, and FTMO saw an opportunity to acquire a licensed broker.
7. Will FTMO accounts now be tradable on TradingView?
There’s speculation that FTMO accounts might become tradable through OANDA on TradingView. OANDA is already integrated with TradingView, so this could be a possibility in the future.
8. Could this acquisition lead to new trading assets on FTMO?
It’s possible. FTMO has already expanded its asset offerings, adding commodities like heating oil and natural gas. With OANDA’s infrastructure, they may introduce even more assets like stock CFDs.
9. How does this impact other prop firms?
This acquisition raises the bar for prop firms. Regulatory pressure is increasing, and firms without proper licensing could struggle. Smaller firms may need to partner with brokers or obtain licenses to stay competitive.
10. Could this acquisition lead to regulatory issues?
Some traders are concerned about regulatory conflicts, similar to what happened with My Forex Funds (MFF). However, OANDA is a fully licensed broker, and FTMO has structured the acquisition to comply with regulations.
11. Does this mean FTMO is now a real broker?
No, FTMO will still operate as a prop firm, while OANDA remains a broker. However, the lines between prop firms and brokers are blurring, and this acquisition may lead to FTMO offering more broker-like services.
12. How did this deal happen?
OANDA’s parent company, CVC Capital Partners, put it up for sale in mid-2024. FTMO seized the opportunity to acquire a well-established broker with global licenses. While the financial details remain undisclosed, this is a significant move for the industry.
13. Will OANDA’s customer service improve under FTMO?
Some traders have raised concerns about OANDA’s customer service. While it’s too early to tell if FTMO will make changes, OANDA will continue to operate independently for now.
14. Should traders be concerned about conflicts of interest?
A few traders are worried that FTMO might try to keep trader profits within the OANDA ecosystem by having traders reinvest their payouts. However, FTMO has not announced any such plans, and OANDA remains a regulated broker.
15. What’s the long-term impact of this acquisition?
This deal signals that prop trading is becoming a permanent part of the financial world. More firms may follow FTMO’s lead, either by acquiring broker licenses or partnering with established brokers. The industry is evolving, and traders should expect increased competition, better platforms, and tighter regulations.
