FundingRock

FundingRock, launched in late 2025, offers a 1-Step and 2-Step challenge model with a 'trader-first' philosophy. The 1-Step requires an 8% profit target with a 3% daily drawdown and 6% trailing max drawdown, plus a Payout Lock feature and 30% consistency rule. Minimum 5 trading days. The 2-Step targets 8%/5% with a 3% daily and 6% max drawdown. News trading is permitted. EAs are allowed. The Payout Lock feature is the standout: once the trailing drawdown floor reaches the starting balance, it locks permanently — at this point the trader's original capital is secured and further trading is effectively risk-free from the original investment perspective. Challenge fees are refunded on the first payout.

FundingRock uses a trailing max drawdown of 6% on its 1-Step program. The floor follows the highest balance upward, and once it reaches the starting balance level, it enters Payout Lock — at this point, the trader cannot lose their original starting capital. On a $100,000 account, the initial floor is $94,000. As balance grows, the floor rises. Once the floor locks at $100,000, the original challenge risk is effectively eliminated. The 3% daily drawdown is tight — just $3,000 on a $100K account — calculated on balance (not equity), which is more forgiving. The 30% consistency rule adds discipline: no single session can represent 30%+ of total phase profit. The minimum 5 trading days ensures the evaluation tests genuine sustained performance.

FundingRock launched in late 2025 and has quickly gained traction with its trader-first messaging and the Payout Lock trailing drawdown feature. The Payout Lock concept is well-received as a clear milestone where challenge downside risk is eliminated. The 5 minimum trading days and 30% consistency rule filter for genuinely consistent traders. The challenge fee refund on the first payout reduces the effective cost of the evaluation. Payout reports from early funded traders are positive. FundingRock is a newer firm still building its long-term track record, but early indicators are strong and the Payout Lock concept is a genuine differentiator.