Introduction
Options trading is complex and capital-intensive. Proprietary trading firms provide access to funded options accounts, advanced platforms, and structured support. This article presents verified objective profiles of leading firms in options trading, focusing on funding mechanisms, profit-sharing, infrastructure, and trader suitability.
Funder Trading
Overview
A U.S. proprietary trading firm offering capital for stock and options trading. Distinct for allowing options trading without upfront deposits.
Funding Model
Traders may begin with zero capital investment and still receive funding. Profit structure begins with full profit retention until fees are covered, then transitions to an 80/20 split.
Platform and Support
Funder uses its proprietary TrueEdge platform. Traders benefit from live coaching and educational guidance designed to support performance during the evaluation phase.
Key Features
- No deposit or certification required
- Access to substantial options funding
- Immediate profit retention followed by favorable profit split
Maverick Trading
Overview
Maverick Trading provides stock and options trading capital after completion of a training and certification process.
Training and Profit Sharing
Potential traders progress through simulation-based training, strategy testing, and rule-based certification. After qualification, profit splits range from 65% to 90%, based on performance.
Risk and Strategy Structure
The firm emphasizes disciplined trading plans, oversight from risk managers, and peer-based strategy review within a structured environment.
Key Features
- Formal qualification process required
- Tiered profit split up to 90%
- Educative approach with risk management emphasis
Susquehanna International Group (SIG)
Firm Profile
SIG is a leading global trading firm with deep expertise in options market making and proprietary strategies.
Options Trading Scale
As a market maker in hundreds of equity and index options on major exchanges, SIG handles extraordinarily high gross exposures daily and plays a fundamental role in options liquidity.
Geographic and Operational Presence
With thousands of employees worldwide, SIG unites quantitative research, trading, and technology to maintain institutional-scale options operations.
Key Features
- High-volume options trading at institutional scale
- Extensive deployment of quantitative and technology-driven strategies
- Broad global presence
Optiver
Overview
A Dutch-based proprietary trading firm specializing in options and multi‑asset market making across continents.
Options Operations
Optiver began as an options-focused firm and continues to be a top maker in single-stock and index options. It trades on numerous global exchanges with significant volume and depth.
Infrastructure and Scope
The company trades equities, ETFs, bonds, futures, and forex derivatives, leveraging advanced technology in operations spanning Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific.
Key Features
- Leading market-maker in options
- Multi-asset trading with advanced electronic execution systems
- Global footprint in major trading centres
DRW Trading Group
Firm Overview
DRW is diversified and algorithmic, with substantial engagement in options trading.
Options and Quantitative Capabilities
The firm deploys algorithmic strategies in options across fixed income, crypto, and traditional asset classes. Options are a core component of DRW’s broader quantitative approach.
Global Office Network
With operations in cities including Chicago, London, New York, Singapore, DRW integrates global strategy and market access in its offerings.
Key Features
- Quantitative strategies encompassing options
- Global operational presence and infrastructure
- Multi-asset, algorithmically-driven trading
Comparative Overview
| Prop Firm | Options-Focused Access | Profit Sharing | Training or Infrastructure | Global Presence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Funder Trading | Direct options access, no deposit | 100% then 80/20 split | Proprietary platform, coaching | Focus on U.S. markets |
| Maverick Trading | Options after certification | 65% to 90% split | Structured training and mentorship | U.S. equity and options trading |
| Susquehanna (SIG) | Institutional options market maker | Internal profit model | Research-driven, institutional safekeeping | Global, multi-office presence |
| Optiver | Market-maker in equity/index options | Internal firm model | High-frequency infrastructure | Offices in Europe, US, Asia-Pacific |
| DRW Trading | Algorithmic options trading | Internal model | Quantitative strategies and risk teams | Global hubs with multi-asset coverage |
Trader Suitability Notes
- Individuals seeking no-cost entry and clear profit terms often prefer Funder Trading.
- Intermediate traders looking for structured development and mentorship are well matched with Maverick Trading.
- Applicants oriented toward quantitative, institutional-level strategies and scale may explore opportunities at firms like SIG, Optiver, or DRW.
Conclusion
This comparison outlines objective facts about leading proprietary trading firms with notable options trading capabilities. Each firm supports traders at different stages—from entry-level funded setups to institutional quantitative operations. Traders should align choice with funding model, profit structure, training level, and global strategy preferences to find the best fit.
