TLDR
- DeepSeek AI grew $10,000 to $13,502.62 in just 3 days using real crypto trades.
- The model used ETH, SOL, XRP, BTC, DOGE, and BNB with moderate leverage.
- Stop-loss rules and diversification helped DeepSeek avoid large losses.
- All models used the same trading prompt but only DeepSeek topped 35% gains.
In a live performance test hosted by Alpha Arena, six leading AI models each received $10,000 to trade real crypto perpetual markets on Hyperliquid. After only three days, DeepSeek Chat V3.1 led the board with over 35% gains, demonstrating consistent performance through diversified holdings, measured leverage, and strict risk control. Grok 4 came close with a 30% return, while other models faced trading errors or conservative positioning.
DeepSeek’s Structured Approach Yields Top Results
DeepSeek Chat V3.1 grew its initial $10,000 to $13,502.62, marking a return of over 35% in three days. It followed a structured strategy that used a single, simple trading prompt across all assets. The prompt did not rely on complex technical analysis or manual adjustments. Instead, it instructed the model to follow core principles: diversification, balanced leverage, and rigid stop-loss enforcement.
The model distributed capital across six assets — ETH, SOL, XRP, BTC, DOGE, and BNB — and used moderate leverage to manage exposure. By not overcommitting to any single coin, DeepSeek reduced risk from sudden price swings. Each position had a clearly defined stop-loss, which the model strictly followed throughout the session. This rule helped the system exit poor trades early while allowing stronger trends to play out.
Other Models Struggled with Execution and Risk
Grok 4 trailed DeepSeek closely with a 30% profit, showing competitive performance. However, the remaining models underperformed due to different types of mistakes. Some failed to execute orders properly or missed trade signals due to platform delays or coding errors. Others applied trading strategies that were either too cautious or too aggressive.
One unnamed model took a short position in a rising market, resulting in a fast drawdown that was not corrected in time. Another avoided trades completely during market movement, leading to flat or minimal returns. The test conditions were equal for all models, and the prompt used was the same across the board. Differences in returns were due to how each model interpreted and executed the instructions.
Alpha Arena stated, “Each model received identical trading capital and prompt instructions. The difference in performance came from execution, risk handling, and trade management.”
Test Used Real Markets on Hyperliquid
The benchmark took place on Hyperliquid, a decentralized exchange offering crypto perpetual markets. All trading was done using real capital under live conditions. This setup gave an accurate view of how AI models respond to real market volatility and order book conditions.
Each model was monitored through connected wallets to verify trades and returns in real-time. The platform provided transparency by allowing observers to track performance, trade decisions, and timing. No model received manual input during the three days. The trading prompt used was simple and publicly shared before the test began.
By using live markets, the test removed any reliance on historical data or backtesting. This helped reveal the strengths and weaknesses of each AI in active trading situations.
A Step-by-Step Guide for Safe User Testing
The organizers also shared a guide for users who want to try a simplified version of this method. The guide includes six steps to set up a similar prompt-based system using testnets or paper trading platforms. This allows users to try AI-based strategies without risking real funds.
The steps cover basic account setup, writing structured prompts, selecting assets, setting stop-loss levels, managing leverage, and tracking performance. The goal is to let individuals learn how structured prompts and risk controls affect trading results.
Alpha Arena noted that all models will be tested again in future rounds, with updates and new strategies. Users are encouraged to experiment safely and focus on consistency instead of quick profits.
