Introduction
Weekend trading involves exposure during periods when conventional markets are closed. This article details FTMO’s policy framework on weekend trading across its different account types, and highlights considerations with cryptocurrencies and market gaps.
Evaluation Phase Policies
Challenge and Verification Accounts
- In both the Challenge and Verification phases, weekend positions are allowed without any closure requirement before market closure.
- Traders can hold trades through weekends as part of normal evaluation operations.
Funded Account Weekend Restrictions
Standard FTMO Account
- Once a trader obtains a funded (non-swing) FTMO Account, holding positions through the weekend is not permitted; all trades must be closed before weekend market closure or when a rollover period exceeds two hours.
- Each asset’s trading hours and required closure times are specified in the trader’s MetaTrader or cTrader platform and on FTMO’s Symbols page.
Swing Account Provisions
Swing Account Type
- The Swing account type is designed for traders who hold positions longer; it exempts weekend and rollover closure rules.
- Swing account holders may maintain positions across weekends, overnight, and during news periods without restriction.
Cryptocurrency Weekend Access
Crypto Market Hours
- FTMO offers trading in cryptocurrency instruments, which generally remain active over weekends. Thus, weekend trading of crypto is available outside traditional forex hours.
- Platform maintenance may temporarily disrupt access or trading times during weekends or holidays.
Market Risks and Operational Notes
Weekend Gaps and Slippage Risk
- Weekend gaps—price differences between Friday close and Monday open—occur more often in a negative direction. Statistical data estimates a 3:1 ratio for negative versus positive slippage under live execution models.
- Such gaps may lead to poorer trade outcomes, wider spreads, and increased slippage risk for weekend-held positions.
Maintenance Windows and Trading Updates
- FTMO publishing regular Trading Updates may include scheduled weekend maintenance or altered symbol availability. Traders should actively review these updates to account for unexpected access limitations.
- Clients are advised to verify symbol-specific operational hours within their trading platform or FTMO’s website prior to initiating weekend trades.
Overview Table
| FTMO Account Type | Weekend Holding Allowed | Weekend Close Required | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Challenge Phase | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | Weekend permitted during evaluation |
| Verification Phase | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | No restrictions for weekend holding |
| Funded Standard Account | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Enforced closure by weekend or rollover |
| Swing Account Type | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | Designed for longer-term and weekend holders |
| Crypto Instruments | ✅ Yes (variable) | — | Weekend trading available, subject to maintenance |
Summary
FTMO’s weekend trading policy varies by account type. Evaluation accounts allow weekend holds freely, whereas standard funded accounts require closure before weekend market closure or extended rollovers. Swing accounts exempt traders from this restriction. Cryptocurrency instruments typically remain tradeable on weekends, though users should verify maintenance schedules. Weekend gap risk and platform-specific hours should always be considered when planning trade strategies.
