What is MACD?
MACD is a trend-following momentum indicator that is derived from the relationship between two exponential moving averages (EMAs). The calculation involves subtracting the 26-day EMA from the 12-day EMA, resulting in the MACD line. This difference is plotted on a chart and helps traders understand whether an asset is experiencing bullish or bearish momentum.
To improve its reliability, a 9-day EMA of the MACD line, known as the signal line, is plotted on the same graph. When the MACD line crosses above the signal line, it generates a bullish signal, suggesting a potential uptrend. Conversely, when the MACD line crosses below the signal line, it produces a bearish signal, indicating a potential downtrend.
This tool is widely used in intraday trading, futures, and options trading. Traders rely on MACD to confirm market trends, assess entry and exit points, and identify momentum shifts. Since MACD is a lagging indicator, it is often used in combination with other technical indicators such as the Relative Strength Index (RSI) and Bollinger Bands to improve accuracy and reduce false signals.
How does MACD work?
MACD works by tracking price momentum using moving averages. It consists of three key components:
- MACD Line: The difference between the 12-day and 26-day EMAs.
- Signal Line: A 9-day EMA of the MACD line that helps smoothen fluctuations and generates trade signals.
- Histogram: A visual representation of the difference between the MACD line and the signal line. A growing histogram suggests strengthening momentum, while a shrinking histogram signals a weakening trend.
When the MACD line crosses above the signal line, it is considered a buy signal, indicating that bullish momentum is increasing. Conversely, when the MACD line crosses below the signal line, it is seen as a sell signal, suggesting bearish momentum is taking over.
How to read MACD?
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) helps you analyse momentum by tracking the relationship between two exponential moving averages. You do not need advanced tools to read it. You just need to focus on how the MACD line and signal line behave. The table below explains how to read MACD more clearly.
MACD Behaviour
| What It Suggests
|
MACD line crosses above signal line
| This is considered a potential indication of bullish momentum starting. You may want to monitor if the price trend confirms this.
|
MACD line crosses below signal line
| This might indicate bearish momentum, especially if supported by other indicators. You can use this to track potential shifts.
|
MACD histogram is rising
| A growing histogram shows increasing momentum in the direction of the trend. Use this to understand strength, not direction.
|
MACD histogram is shrinking
| Falling histogram bars may suggest momentum is weakening, prompting a closer look at price levels.
|
Both lines are near zero
| This often signals a consolidating market. It may help you stay patient before taking any view.
|
MACD vs. Relative Strength Index (RSI)
Feature
| MACD
| RSI
|
Type
| Momentum Indicator
| Oscillator
|
Measures
| Trend Strength & Direction
| Overbought/Oversold Levels
|
Signals
| Crossovers & Histogram
| 70 (Overbought) & 30 (Oversold)
|
Used In
| Intraday trading, Futures, Options trading
| Swing Trading
|
Limitations of MACD
You might find MACD useful for tracking trends and momentum, but it does come with its own drawbacks. If you rely only on this tool without context, it can be misleading. You need to understand its limits to make better sense of what the chart is showing.
- Lagging indicator: MACD is based on moving averages, so it reacts slower to price changes. You might find that it confirms trends only after they have already started.
- False signals in sideways markets: When markets are not trending, MACD often gives misleading crossovers. You may find it difficult to interpret meaningful moves during such phases.
- Lack of volume consideration: MACD does not factor in volume, so it misses a key element that influences price strength. This limits the depth of its analysis.
- Unsuitable for short-term volatility: In highly volatile conditions, MACD can produce conflicting signals. You may need to pair it with other tools to manage the noise.
Conclusion
MACD is a powerful tool for traders looking to identify trends and momentum in the market. By understanding its components, signals, and limitations, traders can make informed decisions in intraday trading, futures, and options trading. However, it should be used alongside other indicators for the best results.