What Prop Traders Should Know About Crypto: A Simple Guide

What Prop Traders Should Know About Crypto: A Simple Guide

By
Anna Hadjidou
March 31, 2025

What is crypto trading?

Crypto trading involves buying and selling digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies. Unlike traditional forex or stocks, crypto markets are open 24/7 and are largely decentralized. That means no central bank controls the market, and prices are influenced by a mix of demand, sentiment, and global events.

For prop traders, crypto adds a new dimension. It's fast-paced, often volatile, and heavily driven by news and sentiment. While it shares similarities with forex and indices, it also comes with unique behaviors that traders must learn to navigate.

Why crypto matters for prop firms

More and more proprietary trading firms are adding crypto pairs to their platforms. This reflects a wider trend: crypto is no longer seen as a fringe market. Institutions, fintech companies, and even traditional banks are exploring digital assets—and prop firms want their traders to have access to this evolving asset class.

Crypto pairs like BTC/USD or ETH/USD offer significant intraday movement, which can provide opportunity for skilled traders. In some firms, traders can even participate in funded challenges using crypto-only accounts.

The pros and cons of crypto for funded traders

Pros:

  • 24/7 access to markets

  • High volatility = more trading opportunities

  • Ideal for short-term strategies

Cons:

  • Can be unpredictable and news-sensitive

  • Low liquidity during certain hours

  • Requires strong risk management—especially in funded accounts

In prop trading, where drawdown limits are strict and consistency is key, crypto can be both a gift and a challenge.

How to get started with crypto in a prop environment

If your firm offers crypto trading, start small. Focus on understanding price behavior and how it reacts to news. Use demo accounts or small positions to test your strategy. And most importantly, treat crypto like any other asset: with discipline, a plan, and clear risk controls.

News and volatility: staying informed is key

Crypto reacts to headlines faster than most markets. From ETF approvals to regulatory updates, news moves prices instantly. Traders who stay informed can avoid getting caught in unexpected moves—and may even use news to their advantage.

You can monitor real-time crypto developments through the PropInsider Economic News Feed and Daily News, or combine them with crypto-specific sources like CoinDesk and Crypto News.

For those looking to deepen their understanding of market dynamics, risk management, and trading psychology, PropInsider also offers a dedicated eBook . Traders can subscribe and access valuable educational content designed to sharpen their skills and support their growth—whether they trade crypto, forex, or beyond.


Final thoughts: Is crypto right for your strategy?

Crypto isn’t for everyone—but it’s becoming impossible to ignore. As the trading world evolves, so do the tools, assets, and opportunities available to prop traders. If you’re looking for high-paced markets and new challenges, crypto might be worth exploring.

Just remember: opportunity always comes with responsibility. Learn the market, respect the risk, and stay informed. That’s how crypto can become a valuable part of your trading edge.