9 essential trend indicators for successful trading: beginner’s guide

When it comes to trading, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough analysis of the price behaviour of financial products. Prices can either rise or fall, or they may simply remain stagnant within a specific price range. The trend represents the anticipated direction the market or an asset’s price will take over a certain period.

Analysing trends serves as a key aspect of technical analysis, which traders must master to execute successful operations. To effectively analyse a trend, several tools are available to help us comprehend the movement of prices, whether it’s an upward, downward, or sideways motion. In the following paragraphs, we will delve into these tools and their significance.

Trend indicators

Trend indicators play a vital role in determining the likely price direction of a chosen financial asset. However, they tend to be less effective during consolidation or range periods.

When it comes to trading, it is highly advantageous to be able to identify the trend before entering a position, as this significantly increases the chances of success.

Let’s explore some of the most commonly used technical trend indicators.

Average Directional Movement Index (ADX)

The ADX is an immensely popular trend indicator as it gauges the strength of an asset’s price trend (the indicator itself) and direction (through the -D and +D lines). Essentially, it confirms the existence of a trend and then provides a signal regarding its strength.

The ADX operates on a scale from 0 to 100, allowing us to assess whether the trend is weak or strong:

• Below 20 indicates a weak trend (and may also trigger false signals below 20)
• Above 25 indicates a strong trend

The ADX specifically measures trend strength, while -DI and +DI help determine trend direction.

• Line +D: if this line is above -D, it suggests an upward trend.
• Line -D: if this line is above +D, it suggests a downward trend.
• If they are very close together or crossing frequently, it may indicate sideways trading or a trendless market.

Bollinger Bands

Bollinger Bands is another widely used trend indicator that offers more than just price movement indication; it also incorporates the concept of volatility. This makes it a practical tool in technical analysis, as statistics show that approximately 95% of the time, prices remain within these bands.

One significant advantage of Bollinger Bands is their applicability in both trending and range-bound markets, enhancing their effectiveness. They consist of two bands (upper and lower) calculated using moving averages and standard deviation.

In a trending market, breaching the upper limit suggests a potential buying signal, while surpassing the lower limit indicates a potential selling signal.

In a sideways market, Bollinger Bands are flat and are used to identify support and resistance levels. To find out more about interpreting this versatile indicator, check out our article on Bollinger Bands.

Envelope indicator

The envelope is a technical indicator shown on a chart with upper and lower bounds. One of the most common types is the one using moving averages, where an envelope is created using two moving averages (showing upper and lower price levels).

The envelope indicators are used in many ways by traders, but the most common method is to set trading ranges. In other words, when the actual price gets to the upper line, the asset is overbought (i.e., generating a sell signal for long positions); when the price gets to the lower line, the asset is oversold (i.e., generating a buy signal for long positions).

Hence, this channel can be used as a reference point for trading. Envelopes are included in many popular trading platforms.

Ichimoku Kinko Hyo trend indicator

The Ichimoku Kinko Hyo is a comprehensive trend indicator that combines price momentum analysis with future support and resistance areas. This all-in-one technical indicator consists of five lines with specific calculations:

1. Tenkan-sen: It is calculated by adding the highest high and lowest low of the last nine periods, then dividing the result by two.
2. Kijun-sen: It is calculated by adding the highest high and lowest low of the last 26 periods, then dividing the result by two.
3. Senkou Span A: It is calculated by adding the Tenkan-sen and Kijun-sen, dividing the result by two, and then plotting it 26 periods ahead on the chart. The result forms a line which is used to identify future support and resistance levels.
4. Senkou Span B: It is calculated by adding the highest high and lowest low of the last 52 periods, dividing the result by two, and then plotting it 26 periods ahead on the chart. This line forms the other edge used to identify future support and resistance levels.
5. Chikou Span: It represents the closing price of the current period, plotted 26 days back on the chart.

By using these five lines, the Ichimoku Kinko Hyo indicator provides valuable insights into the momentum, support, and resistance levels of a price trend. It offers a holistic perspective on the market dynamics and is widely utilised by traders to make informed trading decisions.

Moving average indicator

A moving average is a mathematical calculation that involves taking the arithmetic average of a set of prices over a chosen period. It provides an indication of the average value of a market’s price over a specific timeframe. The moving average responds to price fluctuations by either increasing or decreasing its average value.

For instance, if we consider a moving average with a period of 200 (e.g., 200 trading sessions), it calculates the arithmetic average of the price over the previous 200 sessions. The process involves summing the closing prices of the 200 sessions and dividing the sum by 200 to obtain the average.

When calculating a moving average, it is common to use closing prices, as they provide a comprehensive overview of the market’s sentiment at the end of each session. However, some traders may opt to use high and low prices of the day instead.

The moving average is a widely used technical indicator that helps smooth out price fluctuations, identify trends, and generate trading signals. It is considered an essential tool for technical analysis and aids in making informed trading decisions.

Parabolic SAR

Parabolic SAR, named for its shape resembling half of a parabola, is a trend indicator designed to track and adapt to price trends in real time.

The Parabolic SAR focuses on following the price trend consistently and adjusts based on the strength of the trend. The indicator displays points above or below the price on the chart, which closely coincide with the price itself. These points can be effectively utilised by investors as exit zones for managing risk, such as setting stop-loss orders.

The Parabolic SAR points serve as important indicators, signalling potential changes in market momentum and direction. They provide valuable insights that can assist traders in making timely decisions, protecting their investments, and effectively managing risk.

By paying attention to the Parabolic SAR points, investors can incorporate them into their risk management strategies and take appropriate actions when the market shows signs of shifting its momentum or movement.

It is indeed crucial to bear in mind that trend indicators may not perform well in a sideways market and can potentially generate false or inaccurate signals.

Why are trend indicators important in technical analysis?

Trend indicators play a crucial role in determining the direction of a specific asset’s price movement. One common method to assess the direction of an asset’s movement is by analysing the chart.

These indicators assist in trading in alignment with the prevailing trend, which often proves to be the most profitable investment strategy. When combined with other indicators, they can effectively validate trends.

Trend trading is a technical strategy employed to identify and follow market trends. Its key differentiating factor lies in the concept of persistence.

While market dynamics continually evolve, the momentum of a trend can persist for extended periods, sometimes spanning years. Trend traders rely on a variety of indicators and signals to evaluate trend persistence and generate corresponding trading signals.

Trend indicators aid traders in assessing the likelihood of a price movement continuing or reversing. For instance, if an upward trend exhibits increasing volume, a trader may interpret it as a continued strength in momentum, signalling a buying opportunity. Similarly, a downward trend with diminishing volume may suggest a weakening bearish momentum that could eventually reverse.

The primary purpose of trend indicators is to confirm and measure the direction and strength of a trend. For example, if the moving average resides below the market price, it indicates a bullish trend’s dominance, and vice versa.

Trend indicators do not indicate the duration or strength of a trend. Their main function is to provide useful signals for entering or exiting a stock, currency, or another security position at opportune moments.

It’s all about confirmation. When multiple indicators align to suggest a potential shift in market direction, it instils greater confidence in decision-making. For instance, if a reversal signal is already present and then a trend-following indicator confirms that reversal, it can significantly impact one’s confidence in executing a trade.

Another example of this type of indicator is the MACD.

MACD Indicator

The MACD (Moving Average Convergence/Divergence) is a momentum indicator created by Gerald Appel that tracks the convergence or divergence of two price moving averages. It serves as an indicator of both trend and momentum. By default, the MACD consists of the following components:

• MACD value = (12-period EMA – 26-period EMA)
• Signal line = 9-period MA derived from the above calculation
• MACD histogram = (MACD value – signal line)

The MACD allows us to identify momentum and trend dynamics. However, we can customise it to suit different trading approaches:

• For short-term operations: Fast EMA 13, Slow EMA 21, SMA MACD 1 (applied to closing prices).
• For medium-term operations: Fast EMA 34, Slow EMA 144, SMA MACD 1 (applied to closing prices).
• For long-term operations: Fast EMA 21, Slow EMA 34, SMA MACD 1 (applied to closing prices).

By adjusting the timeframes and parameters of the moving averages, we can align the MACD with our specific trading preferences, whether for short-term, medium-term, or long-term strategies.

Oscillators for trend analysis

Oscillators are a type of technical indicator that exhibits fluctuating curves around a centre, reflecting moments of euphoria and panic in the stock market, rather than smoothly following price movements. Two well-known oscillators are the Stochastic and RSI.

To understand the usefulness of an oscillator in your trading, consider these four key reasons:

Identifying Optimal Entry Points

Configure your oscillator to align with your preferred entry value. By waiting for a buy signal from the oscillator, you increase the likelihood of making a profitable trade. If you already hold a position, take advantage of new buy signals from the oscillator to consider opening new positions in the asset.

However, keep in mind that oscillators do not show trends, so it’s crucial to utilise them when they can be most effective. Ensure that you open long (buy) positions only when the overall trend is upward, and for downward trends, focus on short (sell) positions.

But what happens if there is no trend?

Exploiting Sideways Channels

During market phases characterised by sideways movement, making profits can be challenging. However, with the aid of an oscillator, you can capitalise on situations where market movements create sufficiently wide channels for potential gains.

Anticipating Movements Through Divergences

Oscillators are adept at detecting divergences and often provide precise warnings. One important tip is to adjust the default setting of the oscillator, as it is typically too slow for practical use. Lowering the number of periods in the indicator calculation, such as to 3 or 5, can enhance its effectiveness.

Synchronising with the Market

While it is advantageous to buy an instrument when it has favourable chances of an upward movement, it is even more beneficial to buy it when you anticipate an overall market upswing.

As oscillators excel at identifying highs and lows, they can also be employed to identify moments when the entire market is poised to rise or fall. By observing the market index (such as S&P500, FTSEMIB, DAX, and CAC), use an oscillator tailored to the index, set it up, and wait for alerts.

When the oscillator provides a signal, search for entry opportunities that align with the market conditions.

Stochastic oscillator

The Stochastic Oscillator is highly effective in identifying oversold and overbought conditions. According to its creator, George Lane, the stochastic indicator tracks the speed or momentum of price movements. Visually, it appears different from other indicators as it provides values ranging between 0 and 100, with two significant reference levels.

When the stochastic indicator crosses the horizontal lines, it generates a robust divergence signal. The specific values of these levels can be customised based on your analysis requirements, such as period, chart type, strategy, and other factors. Have a look at our stochastic oscillator article to find out how it works.

RSI

The RSI (Relative Strength Index) is a widely recognised technical indicator that measures the strength of price movements by comparing individual upward and downward price changes. The RSI assigns a value between 0 and 100, similar to the stochastic indicator, with specific levels indicating when the price is “oversold” or “overbought.”

While the RSI shares similarities with the stochastic indicator, it may be considered more accurate if appropriately configured. By default, the RSI is often set with 14 periods, but some traders find this to be excessive. Instead, values ranging between 3 and 9 periods are commonly used as they tend to provide more practical and meaningful insights. Adjusting the number of periods allows traders to align the RSI with their preferred timeframes and trading strategies.

Check out this RSI article to find out more about how it works and how to use it in your trading strategy.

Examples of trend analysis

The following chart is an example of upward and downward trend lines:

• A bullish trend is characterised by higher highs and higher lows.
• A bearish trend is characterised by lower highs and lower lows.
• A sideways trend (consolidation) is when prices move laterally within a horizontal range.

Charles Dow developed a series of principles to understand and analyse market behaviour, later known as the Dow Theory, the cornerstone of technical analysis.

Dow postulated that market prices move in waves or trends. Drawing an analogy to the ebb and flow of ocean tides, he likened the rising tide’s upward movement along the beach, accompanied by waves growing higher and causing smaller ripples. Similarly, Dow believed that stock prices would increase during such upward trends. Conversely, when the tide reached its peak and began receding towards low tide, stock prices would also follow a downward trajectory. This concept may appear straightforward, but it forms a fundamental element of modern stock price analysis.

The Dow Theory‘s principles have stood the test of time and continue to influence market analysis and trading strategies. By recognising the presence of trends and understanding the cyclical nature of market movements, traders can make more informed decisions based on the foundations laid by Charles Dow.

Other recommended articles

• Introduction to technical analysis
• Trading guide
• Money management strategies
• How much a trader earns
• Best brokers for intraday trading
• Best trading platforms

Trend indicators: summary

In conclusion, trend indicators play a vital role in technical analysis by assisting traders in understanding and interpreting market trends. These indicators provide valuable insights into price movements, trend direction, and strength, enabling traders to make informed decisions regarding entry and exit points.

From moving averages to Bollinger Bands, ADX, and oscillators like Stochastic and RSI, each indicator offers unique perspectives on market dynamics. However, it is crucial to remember that trend indicators have limitations and may not perform optimally in sideways or range-bound markets.

Therefore, traders should combine these indicators with other tools, consider market conditions, and apply sound risk management strategies. By harnessing the power of trend indicators, traders can enhance their trading strategies and increase their chances of success in the dynamic world of financial markets.

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