It used to be all about forums, private chatrooms, and strategy books. But in 2025, if you’re learning about prop trading, chances are it’s coming from TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube.
Influencers — or more accurately, trading content creators — have become the front line of education, inspiration, and sometimes controversy in the prop trading world.
In a space where the average trader hears about prop firms through Instagram reels before they ever land on a company’s homepage, the answer is simple: very. Influencers are no longer on the sidelines — they’re often the first point of contact, the most visible reviewers, and the loudest advocates (or critics) of funded challenges.
The prop trading space is booming. More firms, more traders, more challenges. And with that comes a tidal wave of content. New traders are often introduced to the concept of funded accounts through short videos, walkthroughs, and personal challenge journeys.
But with attention comes influence.
More than ever, traders are turning to creators to decide:
To better understand how this ecosystem works, PropInsider reached out to creators who live it every day: Moon (@tradelikemoon) and Zach Austin (@zachaustintrades)
Q1: How much influence do you think creators actually have in today’s prop trading landscape?
Honestly, creators are the one running the prop game right now. Most traders don’t find these firms on their own — they see us posting payouts, challenge results, reviews, wins, losses, and all of it, which helps them make decisions based on our experiences. We’re not just promoting. We’re showing people the game, how it works, and who’s really worth trusting. If a firm’s shady, we’re the first to speak on it. If it’s solid, we’re putting people on. At this point, creators aren’t just part of the game anymore. We are the game.
Q2: In your experience, do most traders follow influencer recommendations when picking a prop firm?
To be honest, I bought my first funded account looking at a creator’s review too — haha — so YES, most traders do follow influencers when picking a prop firm. They see us passing challenges, getting payouts, and showing real results. We all try to learn from someone else’s wins or mistakes before we take the leap. That’s just how it is.
Q3: How do you stay honest with your audience when promoting or reviewing prop firms?
For me, authenticity is everything as a person and a trader. I’ve always kept it real with my audience. I don’t just post wins and flashy stuff, but I also show them my losses, the setbacks, and the reality and adversity one has to go through. I prefer thriving together as a team rather than simply trying to be a so-called “influencer.” When it comes to prop firms, I don’t promote anything I haven’t tried myself. I get tons of offers and deals every day, but if something feels shady, I’m not touching it, no matter how much they’re paying. It’s not about hype or money — it’s about trust. And I’ll always choose being real over making a quick bag. Earning trust is the most valuable thing for me.
Q4: What do most beginners get wrong about prop trading when they first start?
Most beginners get this wrong about prop trading: they think passing the challenge is the win. But winning that one account takes all of you. One needs to be disciplined, patient, and have solid risk management with a trading plan and setup, and stick to it no matter what. Besides, getting funded is just the beginning. The real test is keeping that account and making consistent withdrawals. What really makes you stand out is your mindset — the only thing that can help you pass the funded account, to be honest. Once you figure out how to crack the game, you move into that 1% crowd. Most traders don’t make it that far. But the ones who do? They start killing it.
Zach Austin (@zachaustintrades)
Zach believes that influencers have “a ton of input” — and for the most part, traders are listening. But that doesn’t mean he promotes just anyone.
“I only promote a firm I have taken a payout from,” he says. “If I haven’t gotten a payout, I don’t promote.”
That line draws a clear standard of authenticity — one more and more traders are starting to expect. Zach also makes it a point to show both sides of the story.
“I always share the good and bad regardless of the scenario or firm. That’s how I built trust — because people see the good and bad regardless.”
And when asked what beginners usually get wrong in prop trading? He doesn’t hold back:
“Most beginners truthfully just don’t have enough knowledge to be profitable to begin with, sadly.”
Creators are no longer just content-makers — they’re gatekeepers, watchdogs, and mentors in the prop trading world. As Moon puts it, “We are the game.” That influence brings power — but also responsibility. When creators lead with honesty, and firms respond with transparency, the result is a stronger, smarter prop space for everyone.
⚠️ That said, not all creators play by the same rules. Traders should always do their own research before trusting any recommendation. Scams, fake payouts, and misleading promotions still exist — and awareness is the first line of defense.
→ Bonus Tip: Look at comment sections and community reactions. That’s where the real reputation often shows.
About Moon (@tradelikemoon)
Moon is a trading content creator known for blending aesthetics, mindset, and transparency. Through her Instagram page @tradelikemoon, she shares her journey with prop firms, trading psychology tips, and motivational insights designed to inspire traders at all levels. Her community appreciates her calm tone and consistent encouragement to stay focused and level-headed, even during losing streaks.
Zach is a futures trader and content creator known for his realistic, no-fluff approach to the markets. On his Instagram @zachaustintrades, he shares tips, market insights, and honest reflections on prop trading. He’s also an Exclusive Analyst at Stock Dads, where he helps educate a growing trader community.
