Stochastics is a powerful mathematical concept widely applied in financial analysis. Developed by George Lane in the 1950s, stochastic indicators are essential tools for traders and investors.
What is Stochastic Oscillator?
Stochastics, commonly called the stochastic oscillator, is a momentum indicator that traders utilize to detect possible trend reversals or overbought/oversold conditions in financial markets. The indicator compares an asset's current closing price against its range over a specific timeframe. Then, it calculates an oscillator value between 0 and 100 to measure the strength of trends in real-time.
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How does a Stochastics indicator work?
A Stochastics indicator focuses on where an instrument's closing price lies with its high/low range over a set number of past periods - typically 14. The value of this indicator fluctuates between 0 and 100. Moreover, by analyzing the closing price against past movements, this indicator seeks to analyze price reversal points to make predictions. The indicator is a two-line indicator that can be added to any chart. This will cover 14 weeks on weekly charts, while it will be 14 hours for hourly charts.
The various components present on these charts include:
- A white line will appear under a chart that represents %K (current value of the indicator).
- A red line on the chart that represents the three-period moving average of %K, also known as %D.
​What is the formula for the Stochastic Oscillator?
The value of the Stochastic Oscillator (%K) can be determined using the following formula.
%K = 100 x (CP- L14)/(H14-L14)
Here, CP refers to the closing price in the recent session. Moreover, L14 represents the lowest trading price over the last 14 trading sessions. Whilst, H14 is the highest trading price over the last 14 trading sessions.
How to interpret Stochastics?
Traders can refer to the following interpretations that have been determined according to the different values of the Stochastic Oscillator.
1. Overbought Conditions:
When the indicator's value surpasses 80, an asset may have reached an overbought status, signaling potential price reversal or correction. Therefore, a trader should consider selling the asset for profit to maximize profitability.
2. Oversold Conditions:
Conversely, when the value drops below 20, an asset may acquire an oversold status, resulting in a price rebound or reversal. Traders can buy such assets at lower prices.
3. Bullish and Bearish Divergences:
A bullish divergence occurs when prices arrive at a new low while the oscillator fails to do so. However, bearish divergences arise when prices reach new highs, but the oscillator doesn't attain a new peak, indicating potential downward pressure.
Final Words
Stochastics is an invaluable financial analysis tool that gives traders an insight into the market momentum and possible reversals. Therefore, investors can make more informed decisions to strengthen their trading strategies.
Related Articles: When And How to Use Intraday Open High Low Strategy | Understanding the Potential of 30-Day Moving Averages in Financial Analysis | Unlocking the Power of Momentum in Trading
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