Can we see a bullish outlook when the MFI fund flow breaks through the 20 level?

When the Money Flow Index (MFI) breaks above 20 in crypto trading, it signals rising buying pressure and may indicate a potential bullish reversal.

Jun 18, 2025 at 10:14 am

Understanding the MFI Indicator in Cryptocurrency Trading

The Money Flow Index (MFI) is a vital technical analysis tool used by traders to assess buying and selling pressure in cryptocurrency markets. It combines price and volume data to generate overbought or oversold signals. The MFI oscillates between 0 and 100, with levels above 80 typically indicating overbought conditions and levels below 20 signaling oversold territory.

In the context of cryptocurrencies, where volatility is high and market sentiment can shift rapidly, understanding how the MFI behaves becomes crucial. When the MFI drops below 20, it suggests that the asset may be oversold, potentially setting the stage for a reversal. However, this does not automatically imply an immediate bullish trend will follow.

What Happens When MFI Breaks Above 20?

A key moment for traders occurs when the MFI crosses above the 20 level from below. This movement indicates increasing buying pressure and could signal the start of a new upward trend. In many cases, especially during strong bearish phases, the MFI dipping into oversold territory acts as a precursor to a potential rally.

For instance, if Bitcoin’s MFI hits 18 and then climbs back above 20 within a few candlesticks, it may reflect renewed interest from buyers. This kind of movement often coincides with a bottoming pattern on the price chart. Traders who monitor such patterns closely might interpret this as a sign to enter long positions or close short ones.

However, it's important to note that the MFI breakout above 20 should not be taken in isolation. Confirmation from other indicators like RSI, MACD, or volume spikes is necessary to filter out false signals. For example, if the volume increases significantly while the MFI moves above 20, it strengthens the case for a bullish reversal.

Historical Examples in Crypto Markets

Looking at historical data from major cryptocurrencies like Ethereum and Litecoin, there have been several instances where a rebound followed an MFI breakout from below 20. During the early months of 2023, Ethereum saw its MFI dip below 20 multiple times during sharp corrections. Each time it broke back above 20, a subsequent price recovery followed, sometimes extending for days.

One notable example was in March 2023, when ETH dropped sharply due to macroeconomic concerns. Its MFI fell to 17 before bouncing back above 20. Within two weeks, the price climbed nearly 25%. This demonstrates how the MFI breaking through 20 can serve as a leading indicator of bullish momentum.

Another example comes from Litecoin in late 2022. After a prolonged downtrend, LTC’s MFI touched 19. Once it crossed above 20, the price began to stabilize and eventually surged over 30% in the following weeks. These patterns reinforce the idea that the MFI crossing above 20 may indicate a shift in market dynamics.

How to Use the MFI Breakthrough Strategically

Traders can integrate the MFI breakthrough above 20 into their trading strategies with careful planning. One effective method involves waiting for the MFI to rise above 20 and confirming the move with a rising volume bar. If the price closes above the previous resistance level around the same time, it adds another layer of confirmation.

Here’s how to set up a trade based on this signal:

• Monitor the MFI on your preferred time frame — daily or 4-hour charts work best.
• Wait for the MFI to rise from below 20 and close above it.
• Check for increasing volume during the breakout period.
• Look for confluence with support/resistance levels or moving averages.
• Enter a long position once these conditions align.

Risk management remains critical. Placing a stop-loss just below the recent swing low helps protect against sudden reversals. Taking profit in stages allows traders to lock in gains while still participating in potential extended moves.

Combining MFI with Other Indicators for Better Accuracy

Relying solely on the MFI crossing above 20 can lead to premature entries or false positives. To enhance accuracy, combining it with other tools is essential. For example:

• RSI (Relative Strength Index): If both RSI and MFI show oversold readings and then turn upward, it increases the probability of a bullish move.
• MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence): A bullish MACD crossover occurring alongside the MFI breakout strengthens the buy signal.
• Volume Profile: High volume at key support levels during the MFI breakout supports stronger buyer conviction.

By cross-referencing these tools, traders can reduce noise and increase confidence in their trades. For instance, if the price forms a bullish engulfing pattern near a key support zone and the MFI breaks above 20, it creates a compelling entry opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the MFI more reliable in crypto than in traditional markets?

A: The MFI can be more volatile in crypto due to the high-frequency nature of trading and rapid shifts in sentiment. While it works similarly across markets, crypto traders must use additional filters like volume or price action for better results.

Q: Can the MFI remain below 20 for an extended period without a reversal?

A: Yes, especially during strong downtrends or bear markets. The MFI being stuck below 20 reflects persistent selling pressure and doesn’t guarantee an immediate turnaround.

Q: What time frame is best for observing MFI breakouts in crypto?

A: Most traders prefer the 4-hour or daily charts for spotting meaningful MFI breakouts. Shorter time frames like 1-hour or 15-minute charts tend to produce more false signals.

Q: How do I calculate the MFI manually?

A: The MFI is calculated using typical price (high + low + close)/3, money flow (typical price × volume), positive/negative money flow ratio, and finally applying the formula: MFI = 100 – (100 / (1 + Money Ratio)).