Proprietary Trading Firms Thrive Amid Tariff-Induced Volatility

Proprietary trading firms demonstrated resilience during the market turbulence following ’Liberation Day,’ with only 7% reporting losses during April’s volatility. The Acuiti Proprietary Trading Management Insight Report highlights their critical role in maintaining liquidity across asset classes.

Investments in risk management and trading strategies over the past decade paid dividends. Firms are now capitalizing on the momentum, with 65% planning to expand headcounts—particularly in trading, software development, and risk management roles.

The first quarter’s volatility surge and accelerating AI adoption are driving strategic hiring. Salary growth has moderated, allowing firms to allocate resources toward technological edge in an increasingly competitive landscape.