In the world of modern trading, prop firm challenges have become the ultimate gateway for ambitious traders to prove their skill, discipline, and risk management. One of the most prestigious names in this space is FTMO, a firm that provides traders with access to large capital accounts once they successfully complete the evaluation process.

At MQL5 Software, we are dedicated to helping traders navigate these challenges. Recently, we successfully cleared an FTMO prop firm account for trader André Mateus, proving once again that our disciplined trading approach can stand the test of one of the most demanding evaluation programs in the industry.

This blog post covers the complete journey — from account assignment to passing both stages of the FTMO challenge, and finally, the moment when André proudly received his funded trader certificate.

The Beginning: Account Assignment

On 25th July 2025, trader André Mateus entrusted MQL5 Software with his FTMO account. The goal was clear: pass the two-stage evaluation process, demonstrate professional risk management, and unlock access to a funded account.

FTMO’s evaluation is well-known for being one of the toughest in the industry. With strict trading objectives, daily loss limits, and maximum drawdown rules, it ensures only disciplined traders qualify. The process consists of:

  1. Stage 1 (FTMO Challenge) – Achieve a set profit target while respecting all trading objectives.
  2. Stage 2 (Verification Phase) – Confirm consistency with a reduced profit target under the same strict rules.
  3. Funded Account & Certification – Successful traders receive their official certificate and access to FTMO capital.

Stage 1: The FTMO Challenge

Once the account was active, the MQL5 Software team began working on the Stage 1 Challenge. The first stage is often the most demanding because of the higher profit target that must be achieved within a limited time frame.

Our strategy for André’s account was centered around:

  • Pairs Traded: Focus on EURUSD, GBPUSD, and XAUUSD (Gold).
  • Risk Control: Capped risk at under 1% per trade to avoid breaching the daily loss rule.
  • Strategy: Combination of price action setups, momentum trading, and selective scalping opportunities.
  • Drawdown Discipline: Carefully monitored exposure to ensure maximum account drawdown rules were never approached.

Instead of forcing trades, the team focused on high-probability entries during London and New York sessions. By balancing conservative risk with consistent performance, Stage 1 was successfully cleared, showing MQL5 Software’s ability to execute under pressure.

Stage 2: The Verification Phase

With Stage 1 behind us, the Verification Phase began. Although the profit target in Stage 2 is lower, traders often feel more pressure because they know they’re close to securing funding.

For André’s account, the approach shifted toward ultra-conservative trading:

  • Reduced Trading Frequency – Only the cleanest setups were executed.
  • Capital Preservation First – The focus was less on hitting the target quickly and more on avoiding unnecessary risks.
  • Adapting to Market Conditions – Late July and early August 2025 were marked by volatility around U.S. data and central bank updates. Our team adjusted lot sizes and timing accordingly.

The goal of Stage 2 was not speed but stability. By pacing trades and avoiding overexposure, the account showed a steady upward curve until the verification target was achieved.

On 7th August 2025, MQL5 Software officially completed the evaluation for André’s FTMO account.

Certificate Achievement

The highlight of this journey was the official recognition. On 7th August 2025, André Mateus received the official FTMO certificate, confirming the successful completion of the two-stage evaluation.

This achievement opens the door to trading a funded account under FTMO, granting access to significant capital while maintaining profit-sharing benefits. For André, it’s a milestone in his trading career. For MQL5 Software, it’s another validation of our professional methodology and dedication to helping traders succeed.

Key Lessons from This Success

  1. Strict Risk Management – Winning trades alone don’t secure a challenge; survival within strict limits does.
  2. Patience Over Greed – Avoiding overtrading and waiting for clean setups ensured the account never came close to breaching rules.
  3. Adaptability Matters – Market conditions change daily. Adjusting strategies to volatility was key to maintaining consistency.
  4. Team Discipline – André trusted MQL5 Software, and our structured team-based approach allowed us to deliver results without emotional bias.

Why Traders Trust MQL5 Software for Prop Firm Challenges

  • Lack of discipline under pressure.
  • Ignoring risk management and breaching drawdown rules.
  • Emotional trading during news events.

At MQL5 Software, we provide the edge traders need by combining:

  • Professional Trading Systems – Tested strategies across multiple assets.
  • Strict Rule Adherence – Aligning every trade with FTMO’s objectives.
  • Focus on Consistency – Building sustainable results rather than chasing risky wins.

Looking Ahead: André’s Trading Future

The completion of this FTMO account marks a new beginning for André Mateus. With his certificate secured, he now has the opportunity to trade larger capital and benefit from FTMO’s profit-sharing model.

MQL5 Software will continue supporting him with:

  • Advanced trade setups.
  • Risk-adjusted strategies.
  • Ongoing market analysis and updates.

Conclusion

The journey of MQL5 Software clearing an FTMO prop firm account for André Mateus is a story of discipline, teamwork, and professionalism.

From receiving the account on 25th July 2025, to passing both stages of the challenge, and finally receiving the certificate on 7th August 2025, this success proves that with the right guidance and execution, even the toughest prop firm challenges can be conquered.

For traders looking to take on the FTMO challenge, remember this: success isn’t just about hitting profit targets — it’s about discipline, patience, and respecting the rules. With MQL5 Software by your side, achieving that certificate becomes a realistic and attainable goal.

Happy Trading