Is there a minimum amount of time I need to hold a trade?
Some prop firms enforce a minimum trade duration — requiring positions to be held for at least 2–5 minutes before being closed. This rule targets traders exploiting latency or spread arbitrage on very fast timeframes.
Is there a minimum amount of time I need to hold a trade?
Some prop firms enforce a minimum trade duration — requiring positions to be held for at least 2–5 minutes before being closed. This rule targets traders exploiting latency or spread arbitrage on very fast timeframes.
Key Points
- Typically 2–5 minutes minimum where enforced
- Designed to prevent tick scalping and latency abuse
- Trades closed before the minimum time may be removed
- Not common at most major firms
- Check firm-specific rules if you trade on very short timeframes
Firm Comparison
| Firm | Policy | Threshold | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| FTMO | Min Hold Time | No minimum (scalping allowed) | No restriction |
| FundingPips | Min Hold Time | No minimum | No restriction |
| FXIFY | Min Hold Time | No minimum | No restriction |
| BrightFunded | Min Hold Time | No minimum | No restriction |
| Audacity Capital | Min Hold Time | Restricted very short trades | Account warning |
| Finotive Funding | Min Hold Time | No minimum | No restriction |
| E8 Markets | Min Hold Time | No minimum | No restriction |
| Think Capital | Min Hold Time | No minimum | No restriction |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum hold time rule?
It specifies the shortest time a trade must be open before it can be closed — designed to prevent tick scalping and broker exploitation.
Do most prop firms have a minimum hold time?
No — most major firms including FTMO, FundingPips, and FXIFY have no minimum hold time requirement.
What is a typical minimum hold time when enforced?
Firms that enforce it typically require trades to be held for at least 2–5 minutes.
Can I use a scalping strategy if there is no minimum hold time?
Yes — as long as your strategy doesn't breach daily drawdown limits or use banned tactics like HFT.