MACD is a trend-following momentum indicator developed by Gerald Appel, identifying trend changes and momentum by calculating the difference between two exponential moving averages of different periods. MACD consists of three components: MACD line (DIF), signal line (DEA), and histogram.
DIF (MACD Line) = EMA(12) - EMA(26) DEA (Signal Line) = EMA(DIF, 9) MACD Histogram = DIF - DEA Where: EMA(12) = 12-period exponential moving average EMA(26) = 26-period exponential moving average EMA(DIF, 9) = 9-period exponential moving average of DIF
Standard MACD (12, 26, 9): Most commonly used parameters, suitable for daily charts
Fast MACD (5, 35, 5): More sensitive, suitable for short-term trading
Slow MACD (19, 39, 9): Smoother, reduces false signals
MACD Histogram: Visually displays difference between DIF and DEA, anticipates crossovers
Zero-line MACD: Centered on zero line, positive values indicate upward momentum, negative indicate downward
MACD Bullish Crossover: DIF crosses above DEA, generates buy signal, especially stronger above zero line
MACD Bearish Crossover: DIF crosses below DEA, generates sell signal, especially stronger below zero line
Zero Line Cross: DIF crossing above zero indicates trend turning bullish, below indicates bearish
Divergence Signal: Price makes new high but MACD doesn't (bearish divergence), signals decline; price makes new low but MACD doesn't (bullish divergence), signals rise
Histogram Change: Histogram turning from negative to positive or vice versa anticipates DIF-DEA crossover
MACD is widely used across various markets and timeframes. In trending markets, MACD crossover signals are more reliable. In ranging markets, focus on divergence signals. Many traders combine MACD with other indicators like RSI or Bollinger Bands to improve signal accuracy. MACD histogram changes can provide early warning of trend changes.
Combines trend and momentum analysis, provides clear trading signals, strong divergence prediction capability, applicable to various markets and timeframes, visually intuitive and easy to understand
Prone to false signals in ranging markets, as lagging indicator may miss optimal entry points, parameter settings significantly affect results, requires combination with other indicators
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