Basically moving averages give an average price of the underlying security over a period of time. Moving averages smooth out the market fluctuations and provide a filtered data. It helps in analyzing the price trend and gives even more reliable results when used in combination with other technical indicators.

Although it is a lagging indicator as it provides delayed signals i.e. a day or two after the market actually responds but still it can let you earn healthy profits.

Interpretation of Moving Averages

There are various techniques traders use to interpret the moving averages.

1. Comparing MA with the Price: The simplest interpretation involves comparing the moving average with the ongoing price of the security.

• A Buy signal is generated when the price is above the moving average.
• A Sell signal is generated when the price is below the moving average.

2.  Using Two Moving Averages: This technique, also known as double cross-over, involves the use of two moving averages, one with a longer length and the other one with a shorter time period. This technique works well for the trending market.

• A buy signal is there when the short-term MA crosses above the long-term MA, provided the long-term MA is rising. This is known as Golden Cross.
• A sell signal is there when the short-term MA crosses below the long-term MA provided the long-term MA is falling. This is known as dead cross.

Not to mention some traders also use triple crossover that involves the use of three moving averages.

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