How to interpret the repeated testing of the small positive line under the long-term moving average? Is the pressure level about to break through?

Repeated testing of the small positive line under the long-term moving average in crypto trading can signal a potential breakout or continued resistance, requiring close monitoring.

Jun 18, 2025 at 05:21 pm

Interpreting the repeated testing of the small positive line under the long-term moving average in the context of cryptocurrency trading can be a critical task for traders and investors. This phenomenon often indicates a significant event in the market, such as a potential breakout or a continued resistance. In this article, we will delve into the details of this pattern, its implications, and how to assess whether the pressure level is about to break through.

Understanding the Small Positive Line and Long-term Moving Average

The small positive line refers to a short-term moving average, typically the 20-day or 50-day moving average, which is positioned just above the zero line on a price chart. The long-term moving average, often the 200-day moving average, serves as a benchmark for long-term trends. When the small positive line repeatedly tests the area just under the long-term moving average, it suggests a battle between bullish and bearish forces at a crucial point.

The long-term moving average acts as a significant resistance or support level. When the price or the small positive line approaches this level repeatedly, it indicates that the market is testing the strength of this long-term trend. If the small positive line can consistently stay above the long-term moving average, it might signal a bullish trend. Conversely, if it fails to break through, it could indicate a bearish trend.

Identifying the Repeated Testing Pattern

To identify the repeated testing pattern, traders should closely monitor the price charts and moving averages. Here are the steps to follow:

• Open your preferred trading platform or charting tool. Ensure that you have access to historical price data and the ability to overlay moving averages.
• Select the cryptocurrency pair you are interested in. For example, BTC/USD or ETH/BTC.
• Add the 20-day and 200-day moving averages to the chart. The 20-day moving average will represent the small positive line, and the 200-day moving average will represent the long-term moving average.
• Observe the chart over a period of time. Look for instances where the 20-day moving average approaches and touches the 200-day moving average from below.
• Count the number of times this pattern occurs. Repeated testing is indicated by multiple touches within a relatively short period, such as a few weeks or months.

Analyzing the Implications of Repeated Testing

When the small positive line repeatedly tests the area just under the long-term moving average, it suggests that the market is at a critical juncture. The repeated testing can be interpreted in several ways:

• Bullish Signal: If the small positive line manages to break through the long-term moving average and stays above it, this could indicate a potential bullish breakout. The market might be gaining enough momentum to overcome long-term resistance.
• Bearish Signal: If the small positive line fails to break through the long-term moving average after multiple attempts, it could indicate a bearish trend. The market might be losing steam, and the long-term resistance is proving too strong.
• Consolidation: Sometimes, the repeated testing might not lead to an immediate breakout or breakdown. Instead, it could signal a period of consolidation, where the market is trying to find a new equilibrium before making a significant move.

Assessing the Pressure Level and Potential Breakthrough

To assess whether the pressure level is about to break through, traders need to consider several factors:

• Volume: High trading volume during the repeated testing can indicate strong market interest and potential for a breakout. Look for volume spikes on the days when the small positive line tests the long-term moving average.
• Price Action: Pay attention to the price action around the long-term moving average. If the price forms higher lows and higher highs during the testing period, it might signal a bullish breakout. Conversely, lower highs and lower lows could indicate a bearish breakdown.
• Market Sentiment: Analyze market sentiment through indicators like the Fear and Greed Index, social media sentiment, and news events. Positive sentiment can support a bullish breakout, while negative sentiment might lead to a bearish breakdown.
• Technical Indicators: Use other technical indicators like the Relative Strength Index (RSI), Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD), and Bollinger Bands to confirm the signals from the moving averages. For example, if the RSI is in overbought territory during the testing, it might indicate a potential reversal.

Practical Example: BTC/USD Repeated Testing of the 200-day Moving Average

Let's take a look at a practical example involving BTC/USD to illustrate the concept of repeated testing. Assume that over the past three months, the 20-day moving average of BTC/USD has repeatedly approached the 200-day moving average from below.

• Chart Analysis: On your trading platform, you can see that the 20-day moving average has touched the 200-day moving average four times in the last three months. Each time, the 20-day moving average failed to break through and retreated.
• Volume Analysis: During these touches, you notice that the trading volume was significantly higher than average, indicating strong market interest.
• Price Action: The price of BTC/USD formed higher lows during these touches, suggesting that bulls are gaining strength.
• Market Sentiment: The Fear and Greed Index shows a moderate level of greed, indicating positive market sentiment.
• Technical Indicators: The RSI is around 60, not in overbought territory, and the MACD shows a bullish crossover.

In this scenario, the repeated testing of the 200-day moving average by the 20-day moving average, combined with high volume, positive price action, and favorable market sentiment, suggests that a bullish breakout might be imminent. However, traders should remain cautious and monitor the situation closely for any changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I check for the repeated testing pattern?

A: It depends on your trading style. For day traders, checking daily or even hourly charts might be necessary. For swing traders, weekly checks might suffice. The key is to monitor the charts frequently enough to catch the pattern but not so often that it becomes overwhelming.

Q: Can the repeated testing pattern be applied to other time frames?

A: Yes, the repeated testing pattern can be applied to various time frames, such as hourly, daily, or weekly charts. The key is to adjust the moving averages accordingly. For example, on a daily chart, you might use a 10-day moving average as the small positive line and a 50-day moving average as the long-term moving average.

Q: Are there any other indicators that can complement the repeated testing pattern?

A: Yes, other indicators like the RSI, MACD, and Bollinger Bands can provide additional insights. The RSI can help identify overbought or oversold conditions, the MACD can confirm trend strength and potential reversals, and Bollinger Bands can highlight volatility and potential breakouts.

Q: What should I do if the small positive line breaks through the long-term moving average?

A: If the small positive line breaks through the long-term moving average, it could signal a potential bullish breakout. Consider entering a long position if other indicators confirm the breakout. However, always use stop-loss orders to manage risk and be prepared for false breakouts.