MetaQuotes, the developer behind MT4 and MT5, is getting stricter with its rules, impacting brokers and prop trading outfits dealing with US clients. This has led to significant shifts, like Eightcap exiting the prop firm scene by the end of February, catching many by surprise and pushing them to look for new partners quickly.

Matt Lark from Lark Funding revealed on X that despite Eightcap’s exit being a blow, ThinkMarkets has confirmed their solid standing with MetaQuotes. Lark emphasized the need for prop firms to broaden their brokerage ties and promised traders a smooth switch to new brokers.

The trading community is buzzing with mixed feelings, scrambling to adapt to these sudden changes. Rumors suggest a deadline until June 30 for brokers to clear up jurisdictional issues, highlighting the widespread impact of MetaQuotes’ policy shift. For instance, Top Tier Trader has restricted traders from countries like the UK, India, and Germany, offering refunds but stopping payouts.

Prop firms such as The5ers and Smart Prop Trader are vocal about the challenges in dealing with brokers wary of third-party clients, pushing a move towards more accommodating platforms like cTrader.

With Eightcap out, firms like Blue Guardian and The Funded Trader are on the hunt for new brokerage services, while ThinkMarkets remains a go-to for many, including AquaFunded and Forex Capital Funds, illustrating the urgent reshuffle happening across the trading industry.