Convergence & DivergenceOne of the important concepts that traders should understand is the difference between divergence and convergence, two terms that are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings and implications for trading.
Convergence refers to a situation where both the price of an asset and a technical indicator are moving in the same direction. For example, in a situation in which both the price of an asset and an indicator show an uptrend, there is a high probability that the trend will continue. So, here, the price and indicator CONVERGE (follow the same direction), and the trader may hesitate to trade in the opposite direction, as this is often seen as confirmation that the price movement is strong and likely to continue.
Divergence refers to a situation where the price of an asset is moving in one direction while a technical indicator is moving in the opposite direction. For example, if we again consider the situation when the price of an asset shows an uptrend and, this time, the trend of a technical indicator is falling, there is a high probability of a trend reversal. So, here, the price and indicator DIVERGE (go in opposite directions). This is often seen as a warning sign that the price movement may not be sustainable and could soon reverse.
To further understand the difference between convergence and divergence, let's look at some of the most commonly used technical indicators in trading:
Relative Strength Index (RSI)
RSI measures the strength of an asset by comparing the average gains and losses over a specified period of time. When the RSI value is above 70, it is considered overbought and is seen as likely to reverse soon. When the RSI value is below 30, it is considered oversold and is seen as likely to rebound.
RSI Convergence
RSI Divergence
Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD)
MACD measures the difference between two moving averages of an asset's price movements. Traders use the MACD to identify when bullish or bearish momentum is high. There is usually one short-term moving average and one long-term moving average. When the short-term moving average crosses above the long-term moving average, it is seen as a bullish signal, while a cross below the long-term moving average is seen as a bearish signal.
MACD Convergence
MACD Divergence
Commodity Channel Index (CCI)
CCI measures the difference between an asset's price change and its average price change. High positive readings indicate that the asset's price is above its average, which is seen as a bullish signal. Low negative readings indicate the asset's price is below its average, which is seen as a bearish signal. If the CCI value is above +100, this is seen as a signal of the start of an uptrend. If the CCI value is below -100, this is seen as a signal of the start of a downtrend.
CCI Convergence
CCI Divergence
It is crucial to note that convergence and divergence are not guaranteed indicators of future price movements. Traders should use them in conjunction with other technical and fundamental analyses to aid their trading decisions. Traders should also be cautious of the fact that all indicators are lagging behind the current price action, and therefore they must be prepared to adjust their strategies accordingly.
Trade safely and responsibly.
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