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Futures vs CFD: which one is for me?

A side-by-side comparison of BrightFunded Futures and BrightFunded CFD, and a quick way to choose.

BrightFunded offers two separate programs: Futures and CFD. They use different markets, platforms and rules. This guide helps you choose the one that fits how you trade.


Side by side

Futures

CFD

Markets

CME futures: equity indices, currencies, energy, metals and agriculture

Forex, indices, commodities including metals, and cryptocurrencies

Platforms

NinjaTrader, Tradovate and TradingView

MT5, cTrader and DXTrade (availability depends on your country)

Programs

BrightPlus and BrightCore, both with a one-phase Evaluation

1-Step, 2-Step Bright and 2-Step Classic

Profit target

6% in one phase

1-Step: 10%. 2-Step Bright: 8% then 5%. 2-Step Classic: 10% then 5%

Daily loss limit

None

1-Step: 3%. 2-Step Bright: 4%. 2-Step Classic: 5%

Maximum loss

Max Loss Limit that trails your highest point (intraday on BrightPlus, end of day on BrightCore)

1-Step: 6% trailing. 2-Step Bright: 8% static. 2-Step Classic: 10% static

Holding overnight

Not possible. All positions close automatically at 4:45 PM ET, Monday to Friday

Allowed. Swap fees apply

News trading

Allowed, with no blackout

Read the CFD article "Can I trade news?"

Payouts

In USDC (ERC-20 network). BrightPlus can request daily. BrightCore after 5 winning days, or 3 with the addon

Read the CFD articles "How can I get paid?" and "How does my Reward Split work?"

Evaluation time limit

None

None


Which one fits you?

Choose Futures if...

  • You like trading CME futures such as ES, NQ or CL.

  • You want no daily loss limit, with the Max Loss Limit as your only loss rule.

  • You close your trades inside the session and are fine with the automatic close at 4:45 PM ET.

  • You want to use NinjaTrader, Tradovate or TradingView.


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Choose CFD if...

  • You want to trade forex, indices, commodities or crypto.

  • You want to hold positions overnight or over the weekend.

  • You prefer MT5, cTrader or DXTrade.

  • You want a choice between a one-step and a two-step evaluation.


Frequently asked questions

Can I have both?

Yes. Futures and CFD are separate programs, and each one has its own accounts, rules and platforms.


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Do the rules of one program apply to the other?

No. Each program has its own rules. Always check the rules of the program of your account.


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Where can I read more?

For Futures, read What is BrightFunded Futures? and BrightPlus vs BrightCore: which plan is right for me?. For CFD, visit the BrightFunded CFD Help Center.


Not sure which one to choose? Contact our Support team and tell us how you like to trade.

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