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Difference between Thunderbolt, Ascended, Astral and Vanguard?

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Written by Upcomers
Updated this week


Thunderbolt Challenge (1-Phase)

The Thunderbolt Challenge is our fastest and most dynamic program.

It consists of only one phase, allowing traders to get funded in as little as two days.

Key parameters:

  • Profit Target: 9%

  • Daily Drawdown: 4%

  • Trailing Drawdown: 6%

  • Minimum Trading Days: 2

  • Time Limit: Unlimited

  • Profit Split: Up to 95%

This program is ideal for traders who prefer aggressive trading strategies and want to skip the multi-phase evaluation process.


Ascended Challenge (2-Phase)

The Ascended Challenge is the golden standard at Upcomers — balancing risk, realism, and growth potential.

It includes two evaluation phases, each with its own objectives.

Phase 1:

  • Profit Target: 8%

  • Daily Drawdown: 5%

  • Maximum Loss: 10%

  • Minimum Trading Days: 5

Phase 2:

  • Profit Target: 5%

  • Daily Drawdown: 5%

  • Maximum Loss: 10%

  • Minimum Trading Days: 5

Time Limit: Unlimited

Profit Split: Up to 95%

Perfect for traders who value a structured process and long-term risk management.


Astral Challenge (3-Phase)

The Astral Challenge is the most advanced program, designed for traders who prefer a gradual and consistent evaluation.

It focuses on building a proven record of stable performance across three stages.

Phase 1:

  • Profit Target: 8%

  • Daily Drawdown: 5%

  • Maximum Loss: 8%

  • Minimum Trading Days: 3

Phase 2:

  • Profit Target: 5%

  • Daily Drawdown: 5%

  • Maximum Loss: 8%

  • Minimum Trading Days: 3

Phase 3:

  • Profit Target: 5%

  • Daily Drawdown: 5%

  • Maximum Loss: 8%

  • Minimum Trading Days: 3

Time Limit: Unlimited

Profit Split: Up to 95%

This program is best suited for traders who prefer a conservative and long-term approach with a focus on discipline and consistency.


Vanguard Program (Instant Funding)

The Vanguard Program offers instant access to a funded account — no evaluation required.

You start directly with virtual capital and earn real profit shares from day one.

Key parameters:

  • Daily Drawdown: 4%

  • Trailing Drawdown: 6%

  • Minimum Trading Days for First Payout: 3 (with ≥0.5% profit per day)

  • Profit Split: Up to 95%

  • News & Weekend Trading: Allowed

Ideal for experienced traders who want to start trading immediately without going through any challenge phases.


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