5 Most Popular Momentum Indicators to Use in Trading in 20245 Most Popular Momentum Indicators to Use in Trading in 2024
Want to master the art of momentum trading? Look no further. In this FXOpen article, we’ll explore how to use momentum indicators, the signals they generate, and five most popular momentum indicators for trading in 2024.
What Is a Momentum Indicator?
Momentum in technical analysis refers to the rate at which an asset's price accelerates or decelerates, helping traders identify potential trend continuations or reversals.
A momentum indicator is a tool used in technical analysis to measure the speed and strength of an asset’s price movements. By analysing changes in price over a specific period, these indicators provide insights into the underlying force driving market trends.
Momentum indicators do not focus on the direction of the price movement itself, but rather the strength behind it. Traders use these tools to gauge whether the market is overbought, oversold, or losing momentum, which helps determine entry or exit points. A stock momentum indicator like the Relative Strength Index (RSI), for instance, may indicate that stocks are currently bought or sold too heavily and their price is due for a reversal.
The Significance of Momentum Technical Indicators
Momentum indicators do not focus on the direction of the price movement, but rather on the strength behind it. They’re able to quantify and represent hidden clues about the future market direction in an easily interpretable way. By learning to read momentum indicators, traders can develop effective trading strategies, identify potential opportunities, and manage risk more efficiently.
Momentum tools produce a range of signals that offer traders an edge over the markets. Let’s take a look at some of the most common momentum signals.
Overbought and Oversold Conditions
These signals indicate when an asset's price has moved too far in one direction without sufficient support from fundamental or technical factors and is likely to reverse. For example, RSI generates overbought signals when the reading rises above 70 and signals oversold conditions when the reading falls below 30.
Divergence
Divergence occurs when the price of an asset moves in the opposite direction of the indicator, suggesting an upcoming reversal. For instance, when the price is making higher highs, but RSI is making lower highs, this indicates a bearish divergence that increases the likelihood of a downward move.
Crossover
These signals are generated when the indicator's lines cross each other or a certain threshold. A common example is the MACD, where traders look for crossovers between the fast MACD line and the slower signal line to spot potential entry and exit points.
Top Five List of Momentum Indicators for Technical Analysis
Now that we understand the types of signals that momentum tools produce, let’s break down five of the most popular with a momentum indicators list. If you’d like to experiment with them yourself, you’ll find each tool waiting for you in the free TickTrader trading platform.
1. Relative Strength Index (RSI)
The RSI is one of the most popular and well-documented momentum indicators. It measures the speed and change of price movements by comparing the average gain to the average loss over a specified period, usually 14.
RSI is an oscillator, moving between 0 and 100. Values above 70 reflect overbought conditions, while values below 30 indicate oversold conditions. When the RSI moves out of overbought or oversold territory, many traders interpret this as a reversal confirmation. Sustained movements above or below the midpoint (50) can also be used to confirm a bullish or bearish trend, respectively. Moreover, traders look for divergence between the RSI and price to identify weakening trends and possible reversals.
2. Average Directional Index (ADX)
The ADX is a momentum indicator used to determine a trend’s strength. Unlike most other tools, its reading doesn’t move according to the direction of price action, i.e. it doesn’t move up if bullish or down when bearish. Instead, it ranges from 0 to 100, with values above 25 indicating a strong trend and below 25 suggesting a weak or non-trending market.
ADX is commonly used in combination with other tools, as it simply confirms the trendiness of a market. For example, traders might use a leading indicator like RSI to anticipate bullishness and confirm the trend when ADX crosses over 25.
3. Commodity Channel Index (CCI)
The CCI is a versatile momentum indicator. It uses a constant in its calculation to ensure that 75% of values fall between +/- 100, with moves outside of the range generally indicating a trend breakout or continuation. It can also show extreme overbought or oversold conditions when its value exceeds +/- 200.
The CCI requires a more nuanced approach than other tools and is typically used to confirm a trader’s directional bias and to identify potential opportunities. For instance, a visually identifiable bullish trend can be confirmed by looking at the CCI. If its value is skewed toward 100+, traders can be confident in their observation. When the market cools off, CCI will fall below 100. Traders can then confirm a pullback entry with a move back into the +/- 100 range.
4. Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD)
The MACD is a highly regarded trend-following momentum indicator that shows the relationship between two moving averages of an asset's price. It’s used in technical analysis to identify the relationship between two moving averages of a security’s price. It helps traders understand the trend’s strength, direction, and duration, as well as possible reversal points.
Traders use crossovers between the MACD and signal lines as potential entry and exit signals. Additionally, when the MACD histogram crosses above or below the zero line, it can indicate bullish or bearish momentum in the market. Lastly, it’s also possible to spot divergences between price and the indicator’s peaks and troughs, similar to how divergences are identified with RSI.
5. Momentum (Mom)
The Momentum indicator is a simple yet potentially effective tool that measures the rate of change in an asset's price over a specific period. The value of the Momentum depends on the market it’s applied to. For example, using the Momentum indicator in stocks will result in a fluctuating value typically between +/- 20, depending on the stock’s price. For forex pairs, its range may look more like +/- 0.02.
The common feature across all markets, however, is the zero line. Generally speaking, positive Momentum values indicate upward price movement, while negative values suggest downward movement. It can also show overbought and oversold conditions, but its lack of defined boundaries means this can be tricky. However, Momentum is especially useful for identifying divergences.
Advantages of Momentum Indicators
Momentum indicators are valuable tools in technical analysis, helping traders assess the strength and speed of price movements. They offer several benefits that enhance trading strategies and decision-making:
- Identify Trends Early: Market momentum indicators can reveal the start of a new trend and the end of the old trend, allowing traders to enter trades at opportune moments.
- Objective Analysis: They provide quantifiable data, reducing reliance on subjective analysis and emotional decision-making.
- Spot Overbought and Oversold Conditions: Momentum tools help traders identify when an asset is overbought or oversold, signalling potential reversals and exit points.
- Confirm Trade Signals: Combining momentum indicators with other technical tools enhances the accuracy of trade signals, providing stronger confirmation for trading decisions.
- Adaptable Across Markets: They can be applied to various assets, including stocks, forex, and commodities, making them versatile tools for traders.
Things to Consider When Trading Momentum Indicators
While momentum indicators can be an effective addition to any trader’s arsenal, there are a few things to be aware of:
- Trade with the Trend: Trends often last longer than you may think, and constantly looking for trend reversals will only end in frustration. Look for bullish signals during an uptrend and bearish signals in a downtrend.
- Use Multiple Indicators: Relying on a single tool can lead to false signals. Many traders combine a lagging indicator, like MACD, with a leading indicator, like RSI. Combining two or three tools can help confirm signals and improve trade accuracy.
- Beware of False Signals: Momentum indicators can sometimes generate false signals, especially in sideways or choppy markets. Being patient and waiting for confirmation before entering a trade is vital.
- Don’t Rely Too Heavily on Indicators: While momentum indicators can be helpful, relying solely on them without considering price action, market structure, or fundamental aspects can lead to poor trading decisions. Use these indicators alongside other tools for a momentum indicator strategy.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have a comprehensive overview of momentum indicators and the signals they produce, it’s time to put your knowledge into practice. After experimenting with a few tools and settling on your favourites, you can open an FXOpen account. You’ll be able to trade over 600+ markets with low costs and ultra-fast execution speeds while partnering with one of the world’s fastest-growing forex brokers. Good luck!
FAQ
How to Use Momentum Indicators?
With momentum indicators, traders monitor the rate of price changes to assess whether it is gaining or losing strength. Traders look for overbought or oversold conditions, divergences, and crossovers to determine potential entry and exit points.
What Is the Best Period for a Momentum Indicator?
If we are talking about the Momentum indicator, the best period depends on your trading style. For short-term traders, 7 and 10 periods are common, while long-term traders may prefer 14 and 21 periods. Testing various periods based on asset volatility can improve results.
What Is the Best Momentum Indicator for Scalping?
There is no best momentum indicator for scalping but the Relative Strength Index (RSI) is often favoured by scalpers due to its ability to quickly identify overbought or oversold conditions. Its responsiveness helps scalpers make rapid decisions in fast-moving markets.
What Is the Difference Between Momentum and Trend Indicators?
Momentum trading indicators measure the speed of price changes, while trend indicators assess the direction and persistence of price movements. To put it simply, momentum focuses on strength, while trend indicators focus on the overall direction.
Is MACD a Momentum Indicator?
Yes, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is one of the most popular momentum indicators, especially in stock trading. It reveals changes in momentum and helps identify potential trend reversals.
This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.
Momentumindicator
How to Trade with a Momentum IndicatorHow to Trade with a Momentum Indicator
The momentum oscillator (MOM) is a vital instrument in the trader's toolkit. Designed to measure the velocity of asset price changes, it serves as a compass for traders, pointing them towards prevailing market trends. By analysing this indicator, traders can gain insights that allow them to seize budding opportunities in volatile markets. Keep reading to broaden your understanding and elevate your momentum indicator strategies.
Momentum Technical Analysis
Momentum technical analysis is a crucial aspect of understanding the financial markets. Traders and investors rely on momentum tools to identify potential trends and make trading decisions.
What Is a Momentum Technical Indicator?
While the term "momentum" is often tossed around in financial circles, its technical significance is profound. Momentum indicators are a class of technical analysis tools that quantify the strength and direction of market trends. They help traders and investors identify potential reversal points, overbought or oversold conditions, and the continuation of existing trends. These tools are based on the principle that price trends often exhibit momentum before they reverse or continue. However, there is also such a thing as a momentum oscillator.
Momentum Oscillator
The momentum indicator or oscillator (MOM) is a technical analysis tool that’s available on most trading platforms, including services like FXOpen’s TickTrader. It’s one of the best momentum indicators. The MOM displays the speed of change in a financial instrument's price over a specific time frame. You can apply the momentum indicator to forex, stock, commodity, and crypto* markets.
MOM formula = (Current Close/Close N Periods Ago)*100
By default, the indicator is set to 10 periods, but traders can easily change this in the settings tab. The calculated values are plotted below the trading chart as a single line that moves near the 0 line. If today's price is the same as it was 10 days ago, the indicator's value is plotted on the zero line. If today's price is higher than it was 10 days ago, the indicator plots above the line, and vice versa.
When trading stocks, the momentum indicator typically fluctuates between +/- 20, while for forex pairs, its range is more like +/- 0.02. The chart below provides an example of how the momentum oscillator is used on a daily GBP/USD chart.
How to Use the Momentum Oscillator
Here's a breakdown of the procedure for using the momentum indicator in trading:
Tapping into the potential of the MOM is quite straightforward. For those who swear by MetaTrader, it's as easy as venturing into the oscillators section to access the momentum indicator on MT4 or MT5. For TickTrader enthusiasts, a quick search on the list of indicators should yield the built-in MOM.
1. Zero-Line Crossover
Keeping an eye on the MOM indicator when it crosses the zero line is the most straightforward and fundamental trading technique. An upward momentum (with values above the midpoint) often suggests a potential buy signal, implying the asset is likely to continue its upward movement. Conversely, when the MOM consistently hovers below the midpoint, it indicates a sell cue, hinting at a possible continuation of the asset's downward trajectory.
Take, for instance, the GBP/USD pair. As the pair spirals downward, a consistent position below zero signals a dominant momentum steering, it further down and vice versa.
2. Divergence Trading Momentum Oscillator
The momentum oscillator is instrumental in pinpointing divergences on a chart. Essentially, a divergence arises when there's a discrepancy between the market movement and the MOM, akin to top momentum indicators like the Stochastic or RSI. It often hints at a forthcoming shift in market direction.
There are primarily two forms of divergences:
- Classic (Regular): This is used to anticipate potential trend reversals.
- Hidden: This aids in identifying the likely continuation of existing trends.
For instance, in the GBP/USD chart, we notice a hidden bullish divergence pointing to the trend's continuation and a classic bullish divergence pointing to a trend reversal.
3. Extreme Readings
Extreme readings in momentum indicators can provide valuable insights for traders by indicating potential overbought or oversold market conditions. As the momentum oscillator is unbounded, it’s harder to identify overbought and oversold conditions compared to the RSI or the Stochastic oscillator.
To do this, a trader needs to compare recent highs and lows. If the oscillator reaches a significant peak, the asset can be considered overbought and may fall soon. Conversely, if the oscillator falls to noticeable lows, the asset may be oversold and may rise soon.
In the chart above, the momentum oscillator reached a significant high, following the uptrend in the EURGBP pair. After that, the price moved down.
When using the momentum oscillator, traders incorporate additional technical indicators and filters to avoid overtrading and reduce market noise.
How to Combine the MOM with Other Technical Analysis Tools
By incorporating a 200-period EMA on the chart along with the MOM, we can discern the overarching market trend. A price positioned above the 200-period EMA is indicative of an uptrend, prompting traders to scout for bullish signals on the MOM. On the flip side, a price below this suggests a downtrend, warranting a lookout for bearish signals.
For instance, in the GBP/USD chart, we notice an upward market trajectory marked by two bullish divergence signals: a hidden one pointing to the trend's continuation and a classic one pointing to the trend’s reversal.
Conclusion
To succeed in trading, finding financial assets with momentum is key. The momentum indicator can help traders identify these assets before they make big moves, but it's important to remember that it’s not foolproof. Other technical and fundamental analysis tools are often used to evaluate market trends. To start utilising the MOM and many other tools, consider opening an FXOpen account.
*At FXOpen UK and FXOpen AU, Cryptocurrency CFDs are only available for trading by those clients categorised as Professional clients under FCA Rules and Professional clients under ASIC Rules, respectively. They are not available for trading by Retail clients.
This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.
Bitcoin in a correction territory Bitcoin has been retreating from its all time highs. The momentum is negative, which means we can still expect more lows. The good news is that it started to form a positive momentum divergence, which basically means the acceleration towards the downtrend is slowing down, and a possible reversal is in the making. I don’t see a good timing to start a position, I would just wait until the momentum becomes positive and it goes in convergence with the trend. At this time it’s just a wait and see.
SOXS goes LONG Inversing SOXL SOXS on the 30-minute chart has reversed from a trend down to an early uptrend. This is
confirmed by a variety of indicators including the ATR/ U BOT indicator reset to a period of 4,
the relative volume indicator showing buying volume spikes instead of selling spikes, as well
as the squeeze indicator changes from a green negative histogram to a positive one. Many semi
conductor stocks have had major price runs upside. The time has come to watch them
for reversals. I will close my SOXL position in favor of a new long trade in SOXS.
XUAUSD Next Stop 1905-1900 pls put trays in the upright positionYes these lines might cause you seizures do not look at them if you have or a family member has experienced or has a history of having them. I am going to post two charts one is something I just made. so simple. and another is my indicator. both say market wants to dump to 1900ish-1905. this chart a signal when the market basically burps or farts....lol sorry but you aren't suppose to see it. I see it because I made my indicator with my own formulas. I use that symbol's candle that it is referencing and I can draw channels leading from it above and below price action using other price action. This shows me where price will go if it breaks out one way or the other.
The other chart is an instant direction indicator which right now on a 15 min chart is showing both lines pointing down. the stronger the trend the straighter the lines and the closer together they are. you can switch down to a 1 min and see what the instant is.... if the red line is on top while moving up its a weak move... probably ignore that move. When green is on top its got alot more momentum to it. I normally add to my position when the red is on top and moving up. When it switches I start closing positions.
Right now the market isnt running full steam but when it is there chart I am using is set to move against gold when the market is running up or down. depending on different metrics. Its kind of smart. Once I get it dialed in It should tell me where gold will be headed to. There is a .30 cent difference in price between the two with the market closed. I can imagine on really huge volume days this can have a massive divergence and push this.
Thanks for taking the time to read. I love messing around with new things and this was fun.
Please Like, follow and of course boost...as its free. And it shows me that you appreciate or want to see more of this.
by iCantw84it
09.25.23
Fortinet FTNT Overreaction - What now?Slightly after earnings Fortinet Gapped down. Which are my favorite kind of stocks to trade because 9 times out of 10 Gaps close.
Fortinet had many analyst reiterate Bullish price targets some up to $70. I'm looking for a retest at $60.
Forecasting out to nov 2nd. The next earnings should be interesting.
Williams, MACD, & RSI are all showing Oversold in this situation. This could be a solid entry for someone to start a small position.
This is not financial advice.
Trade Responsible,
#TradeTheWave 🏄🏽♂️🌊
Intraday Bullish Momentum swingThis is a follow up and actual trade taken by myself. I placed a short term buy today at 10:30A.M on AUDUSD simply because lower lows ceased being formed at a key support level. After a strong bullish correction trendline was broken then on the 4Hour the 8Moving Average crossed to the upside of the 21SMA. that's relevant because it lags behind price. The 1 hour provided some reversal signals at a clear support and the trade was essentially taken based on pure candlestick analysis. I love trading reversal candlesticks on top of support. Especially after a market gap on Sunday. I believe a potential inverted head and shoulders is on the way after price failed to make a lower swing low and is now attempting to create a new swing high. Potential short term up trend beginning with indecision candles then a bullish engulfing on top of a weekly support.
How to Measure the Strength of a Candlestick?
Hey traders,
There are multiple different ways to measure the strength of the market reversal from a key level:
✔️some traders apply volumes and look for its sudden spike as a confirmation,
✔️some traders rely on some indicators and look for a particular trigger there as the signal,
✔️some traders, like me, follow the candlesticks and make their judgments based on the candle's strength.
In this article, I prepared for you a candlestick strength meter that will help you to accurately spot the reversal clues.
❗️Remember about the important precondition:
that candlestick meter is reliable being applied ONLY on key levels.
Trading that outside key levels is not recommendable.
📈The initial touch of a key level is very telling:
after a sharp bullish / bearish rally to key resistance/support the reaction of the price on that can indicate you the strength of the identified level.
There are three main classifications of the reversal candle momentum:
*by reversal candle we mean the first bullish candle on key support or the first bearish candle on key resistance.
1️⃣The momentum will be considered to be low in case if the reversal candle will close within the range of the previous candle.
It indicates the weakness of bulls buying from support / bears selling from resistance.
You should patiently WAIT for some other signal before you open the trade.
2️⃣The momentum will be considered to be medium in case if the reversal candle will engulf the range of the previous candle.
It shows quite a strong initial reaction being sufficient to open the trade ONLY in a strict combination with some other signal.
3️⃣The momentum will be considered to be high in case if the reversal candle engulfs the range of the last two candles (two bearish or two bullish ).
By itself, it is considered to be a strong reversal signal.
The trading position can be opened just based on such a candle.
Among the dozens of different candlestick pattern formations, I believe that momentum candles are one of the most reliable in spotting the market reversal.
Learn to spot these candles and you will be surprised how accurate they are.
What candlestick pattern formations do you want to learn in the next post?🤓
Let me know, traders, what do you want to learn in the next educational post?
How to catch the great trade entriesAfter the price falls below the contraction zone on the higher timeframe (4H in this case)
We look at the MCVF that I made; go to a lower timeframe (5m in this case)
The indicator finds contractions in momentum and tells you when price will reverse; almost right at the top;))
I linked the indicator below, make sure to give me a follow and a boost if you like the code + content that I make
📊 Best Beginner Technical IndicatorsTechnical indicators are mathematical calculations based on an asset's price and/or volume that are used to analyze market trends and identify potential trading opportunities.
📍Trend indicators:
These indicators are used to identify the direction of the market's trend over a given time period. Some popular trend indicators include moving averages, trendlines, and the Average Directional Index (ADX).
📍Relative strength indicators:
These indicators compare the strength of a security's price action to the strength of a market index or another security. They are often used to identify potential buying or selling opportunities based on whether a security is overbought or oversold. Examples of relative strength indicators include the Relative Strength Index (RSI) and the Stochastic oscillator.
📍Momentum indicators:
These indicators measure the rate of change in a security's price over a given time period. They can be used to identify potential trend reversals or confirm the strength of a current trend. Examples of momentum indicators include the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) and the Rate of Change (ROC).
📍Volume indicators:
These indicators measure the trading volume of a security over a given time period. They can be used to confirm the strength of a trend or identify potential trend reversals. Examples of volume indicators include the Chaikin Oscillator and On-Balance Volume (OBV).
👤 @AlgoBuddy
📅 Daily Ideas about market update, psychology & indicators
❤️ If you appreciate our work, please like, comment and follow ❤️
S&P Monthly Chart Breakdown 🐻The S&P 500 index has seen a decline of over 20% now officially stating a Bear-Market over the widely followed indices.
Today we are diving specifically in to the Monthly Chart for some Technicals Breakdown on the S&P 500 ETF (SPY)
The Monthly Momentum in this case we're using TTM_Squeeze (similar to MACD etc.) is signaling a flip to bearish momentum on the Monthly Time Frame. This is signifying possibly a big move down in the coming months, to continue the trend of the Bearish Momentum.
Last time we saw a real momentum switch with the TTM_SQUEEZE on the MONTHLY Chart was back in the 2008 Financial Crisis. Both scenarios are different in fundamentals, but even Technicals... SO I will not dive in to comparing the two much, as we were not as overbought then as we are now, and we have sold off already more now compared to when the monthly momentum switched then.
Nonetheless, this is not a good sign in the mid-long term of the Stock Market.
Technicals are showing months of decline, though this could include some dead-cat bounces, and bear-market relief rallies, we are starting to see a shift down in the markets.
Bond Yields Rising, Dollar Soaring, Interest Rates Rising, Home Prices Dropping, and Inflation still on the move... Currently there is not much to look forward to on this current Economy until it sorts out of course.
The bottom may be sooner than many think, or later. This idea was just to put this monthly timeframe in mind for your investing.
Thesis : Market may suffer for few more months to come, but nothing is sure and fundamentals could switch sharply & swiftly with lower CPI numbers, and a more Dovish Fed. This may take a while, or not... Averaging in on investments in a Bear Market is never a bad idea in my opinion.
WATCH $STEMBullish
- Round bottom
- Broke downtrend
- Broke neckline
- EPS +1
- Sales +1
- Funds accumulating
- Great fundamentals
Entry idea
- For members
Stop loss depending on entry and risk appetite. But always set meaningful stops.
“If you are depressed you are living in the past. If you are anxious you are living in the future. If you are at peace you are living in the present.”
Cheers and happy trading!
WATCH $3320Bullish
- Higher lows
- IHS formation
- Double bottoms
- Funds accumulating
- Great fundamentals
- Needs to break above downward trendline & neckline
Entry idea
- For members
Stop loss depending on entry and risk appetite. But always set meaningful stops.
“The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials.”
Cheers and happy trading!
WATCH $AMPSBullish
- Higher lows / Higher highs
- IHS formation
- Funds accumulating
- Great fundamentals
- Hot theme
Entry idea
- For members
Stop loss depending on entry and risk appetite. But always set meaningful stops.
“A winner is just a loser who tried one more time.”
Cheers and happy trading!
WATCH $MAXNBullish
- Broke downward trend
- Broke neckline / major S/R
- Making Higher lows
- Funds accumulating
- Great value
- Good R/R trade
- Hot theme
Entry idea
- For members
Stop loss depending on entry and risk appetite. But always set meaningful stops.
“Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”
Cheers and happy trading!
WATCH $KWEBBullish
- Making higher lows since March / June / Sept 2022
- Broke downward trend line & retest
- Funds accumulating
- Great value
- Good R/R trade
Entry idea
- For members
Stop loss depending on entry and risk appetite. But always set meaningful stops.
"“I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand.””
Cheers and happy trading!
WATCH $LYELBullish
- IHS formation
- Broke downward trend line & retest
- Funds accumulating
- Decent fundamentals
Entry idea
- For members
Stop loss depending on entry and risk appetite. But always set meaningful stops.
"if you don't find a way to make money while you sleep. You will work until you die.”
Cheers and happy trading!