How to use the Oscillator of Moving Average in Forex trading?
The Oscillator of Moving Average in Forex Trading
What is the Oscillator of Moving Average (OsMA)?
The Oscillator of Moving Average, commonly known as OsMA, is a tool that’s used to identify trend direction and potential overbought or oversold market conditions. It is a technical analysis concept that functions by subtracting the longer period of Moving Average (MA) from the shorter period MA. The Oscillator of the Moving Average assists traders in recognizing when a currency pair is probably due for a reversion to the mean, providing valuable trading signals.
How does OsMA work?
OsMA acts in a similar manner to a Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD), albeit with a varying calculation method. By subtracting the longer-term moving average from the shorter-term, the OsMA generates a plotted line that oscillates above and below a zero line.
Traders interpret the Oscillator of Moving Average in Forex in the same way as MACD. When the OsMA line moves above the zero line, it indicates bullish signals, suggesting the potential to buy. Conversely, when the OsMA line drops below the zero line, it signifies bearish signals, hinting at possible selling opportunities.
Implementing OsMA in your Forex Trading
Oscillator Divergence
OsMA can be utilized to identify divergences, signaling a potential market reversal. Divergence happens when the price of the currency pair and the OsMA are moving in opposite directions. If the price is making higher highs but the OsMA is making lower highs, it is a bearish divergence, indicating that the upward trend might reverse soon. Conversely, if the price is making lower lows but the OsMA is making higher lows, it is a bullish divergence, suggesting a potential upward trend reversal.
Crossovers
Crossovers are a fundamental concept in technical analysis. When using the OsMA, traders consider a bullish signal when the oscillator crosses above the zero line. Conversely, a bearish signal is identified when the oscillator crosses below the zero line.
These zero-line crossovers can indicate a potential change in the trend’s direction, providing opportunities to enter or exit a trade. But it is important to use other technical indicators along with OsMA to make sure these signals are real, since the oscillator can give false signals when markets are choppy or flat.
Choosing the Compatible Oscillator Period
In the construction of the OsMA, traders can use Moving Averages of varying periods. Typically, preference is given to a 12-period MA as the faster line and a 26-period MA as the slower line. However, the decision solely depends on your trading strategy and the timeframes you use for trading.
Typically, a shorter-term trader may consider using smaller periods to fit their quicker trading style. In contrast, longer-term traders or investors generally use longer periods, implying a less reactive OsMA and fewer trading signals. The latter can be beneficial to avoid frequent and potentially false trading signals.
Ending Notes
The Oscillator of the Moving Average is a valuable tool for traders and investors who engage in the Forex market. By providing deep insights about potential market reversals, it helps traders settle on educated buying or selling decisions.
However, the OsMA, like any other technical analysis tool, should not be used in isolation. To enhance trading accuracy, it’s prudent to use the OsMA in conjunction with other technical analysis indicators. This approach will provide you with a more comprehensive picture of the market’s potential future direction, giving you the upper hand in your Forex trading endeavors.