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Moving Average Convergence/Divergence (MACD)
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Moving Average Convergence/Divergence (MACD) is one of the most famous trend indicators. It uses different moving averages line to identify the momentum from correlation between short-term and long-term price movement.

MACD is the difference between a 26-period and 12-period Exponential Moving Average (EMA) (MA12 – MA26). In order to clearly show buy/sell opportunities, a so-called signal line (9-period indicators` moving average) is plotted on the MACD chart.

One of the primary benefits of MACD is that it incorporates aspects of both momentum and trend in one indicator. As a trend-following indicator, it will not be wrong for very long. The use of moving averages ensures that the indicator will eventually follow the movements of the underlying security. By using exponential moving averages, as opposed to simple moving averages (SMAs), some of the lag has been taken out.

As a momentum indicator, MACD has the ability to foreshadow moves in the underlying security. MACD divergence can be key factors in predicting a trend change. A Negative Divergence signals that bullish momentum is waning, and there could be a potential change in trend from bullish to bearish. This can serve as an alert for traders to take some profits in long positions, or for aggressive traders to consider initiating a short position.

MACD can be applied to daily, weekly or monthly charts. MACD represents the convergence and divergence of two moving averages. The standard setting for MACD is the difference between the 12 and 26-period EMA. However, any combination of moving averages can be used. The set of moving averages used in MACD can be tailored for each individual security. For weekly charts, a faster set of moving averages may be appropriate.

Like other indicators, there are three popular ways to use the MACD: crossovers, overbought/oversold conditions, and divergences.

Crossovers

The basic MACD trading rule is to sell when the MACD falls below its signal line. Similarly, a buy signal occurs when MACD rises above its signal line. It is also popular to buy/sell when MACD goes above/below zero.

Overbought/oversold conditions

MACD is also useful as an overbought/oversold indicator. When the shorter moving average pulls away dramatically from the longer moving average (i.e., MACD rises), it is likely that the currency pair is overextending and will soon return to more realistic levels.

Divergence

An indication that an end to the current trend may be near occurs when MACD diverges from the price. A bullish divergence occurs when MACD is making new highs while prices fail to reach new highs. A bearish divergence occurs when MACD is making new lows while prices fail to reach new lows. Both of these divergences are most significant when they occur at relatively overbought/oversold levels.



Parameters

PARAMETERDESCRIPTION
Low PeriodThe number of periods used in the moving average of the MACD formula
High PeriodThe number of periods used in the moving average of the MACD formula
Signal PeriodThe number of periods used to smooth the MACD line when generating the second line. It is the moving average of MACD Low Pediod - MACD High Period