Best Trend Indicators

Identifying market trends can be challenging, but there are tools that can help. One common question traders often grapple with is: What are the best trend indicators? This article aims to shed light on four of the top trend tools traders use.
For the best experience, head over to FXOpen’s free TickTrader platform. There, you’ll find each indicator ready for you to practise with.

Moving Averages

Moving Averages (MAs) are one of the best stock trend indicators. It's also widely used in other financial markets, including forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies*. They smooth out price data to create a single flowing line, which makes it easier to identify the direction of the trend. Two popular types are the Simple Moving Average (SMA) and the Exponential Moving Average (EMA), the latter giving more weight to recent prices.

One classic trading strategy involving MAs is the "crossover." A crossover occurs when a short-term MA crosses above or below a long-term MA. When the short-term MA crosses above the long-term MA, it's generally seen as a bullish signal, indicating a potential uptrend. Conversely, a downward crossover of the short-term MA below the long-term MA is considered bearish, suggesting a possible downtrend.

Additionally, the position of the asset's price relative to the moving average line can provide insight. If the price exceeds the MA line, it often signifies an ongoing uptrend. Conversely, a price below the MA typically indicates a downtrend.

Average Directional Index (ADX)

The Average Directional Index (ADX) is a technical indicator used primarily for gauging the strength of a trend rather than its direction. One of the best indicators for trend trading, the ADX operates on a scale from 0 to 100. It can include a single ADX line or can consist of three lines: the ADX line itself, which measures trend strength, and the Positive Directional Indicator (+DI) and Negative Directional Indicator (-DI), which identify the direction (the DMI indicator on the TickTrader platform).

A reading above 25 on the ADX line is generally considered indicative of a strong trend, either upward or downward. A reading below 20 often suggests no clear trend and that the market is moving sideways. Traders usually combine the ADX with other trend-following indicators to establish the direction of the trend.

It's important to note that the ADX does not signal the beginning of a trend; rather, it confirms that a trend is actually in place and gauges its strength. This makes it an invaluable tool for traders looking to enter trades that align with strong existing trends.

Relative Strength Index (RSI)

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is a momentum oscillator that ranges from 0 to 100 and is used to identify overbought or oversold conditions. However, it can also serve as a rudimentary trend indicator. The RSI calculates the ratio of upward moves to downward moves and normalises the calculation to provide a value that is expressed on a scale from 0 to 100.

Traditionally, values of 70 or above indicate an asset may be overbought, while values of 30 or below suggest it may be oversold. But when it comes to trend analysis, a value above 50 often implies that the asset is in an uptrend, whereas a value below 50 can indicate a downtrend.

RSI is particularly useful when confirming trends identified by other indicators. For example, an RSI above 50, along with a moving average crossover, would be a strong signal supporting an uptrend.

Bollinger Bands

Bollinger Bands are a tool often favoured by trend traders. They consist of three lines: a middle band, which is a simple moving average (SMA), and two outer bands that are standard deviations away from the middle band. This creates a channel within which asset prices typically move.

Although primarily known for measuring market volatility, Bollinger Bands can also serve as trend indicators. When prices hug the upper band, it's usually a sign that the asset is in an uptrend. Conversely, a downtrend is likely if prices gravitate toward the lower band.

The width between the bands can also signify trend strength. A widening gap indicates increasing volatility and the possible continuation of a current trend, whereas narrowing bands suggest decreasing volatility and potential trend reversal. When used in conjunction with other tools, like those listed here, Bollinger Bands can be one of the best trend forex indicators.

Final Thoughts

Understanding and employing the right trend indicators can be a game-changer for traders seeking to maximise their effectiveness. These four tools provide invaluable insights into market direction and strength and deserve a place in any trader’s toolkit.

To put them into practice, consider opening an FXOpen account. You’ll gain access to hundreds of exciting markets, competitive trading costs, and lightning execution speeds. Happy trading!

*At FXOpen UK and FXOpen AU, Cryptocurrency CFDs are only available for trading by those clients categorised as Professional clients under FCA Rules and Professional clients under ASIC Rules, respectively. They are not available for trading by Retail clients.