Topstep Acquires The Futures Desk to Enhance Funded Trading Accounts Experience

Topstep has announced its acquisition of The Futures Desk (TFD), a move aimed at enhancing the firm’s offering for aspiring traders. The integration brings together two teams focused on developing what Topstep terms "The Ultimate Trading Experience," particularly within the funded trading accounts sector.

The acquisition, finalised on 1 April 2026, will see TFD’s advanced technology integrated into TopstepX, Topstep's futures trading platform. This integration is designed to provide traders with more developmental tools, assisting them in learning and building better trading habits.
 

Additionally, Josh Schwartzberg and Brian Ford, co-founders of The Futures Desk, will join the Topstep team. Their expertise is expected to contribute to the firm’s mission of guiding traders from simulated environments to live trading accounts.
 

Michael Patak, Founder and CEO of Topstep

Michael Patak, Founder and CEO of Topstep, commented on the acquisition, stating, “When you look around the prop industry, you can’t help but notice what The Futures Desk created. A place focused on developing the trader by leveraging technology, cutting edge tools and hands-on coaching. The team at The Futures Desk doesn’t care about the flash; they care about the grind. This partnership is about raising the bar for the entire trading community. Whether you’re trading our money or your own, Topstep is here to make sure you’re developing into a consistent, profitable and disciplined trader every day that you trade. With this acquisition, we will be able to accelerate our roadmap creating The Ultimate Trading Experience for any aspiring trader, of any skill level, anywhere in the world.”
 

The integration of TFD’s technology into the Topstep ecosystem is expected to provide enhanced tools for traders. The combined expertise of the TFD co-founders is intended to further support traders in building effective habits and successfully navigating the path to becoming consistently profitable.
 

Josh Schwartzberg reiterated the shared vision: “We started The Futures Desk to help traders actually learn the craft, not just chase a quick payout. Topstep is the only place that truly shares that obsession. Together, we’re going to give The Futures Desk community and the Topstep community the deep attention and growth tools they deserve.”
 

This development in the genuine funded trader programs space highlights the evolving landscape for aspiring traders seeking capital and educational resources. Understanding the dynamics of such programmes, including how they relate to what are liquidity providers and the broader institutional FX market, is crucial for both participants and platform providers. For those interested in deeper insights into market mechanics and trading strategies, exploring comprehensive guides on forex trading strategies can be beneficial.