What are the key differences between MAVOL and the On-Balance Volume (OBV) indicator?

On-Balance Volume (OBV) tracks cumulative volume based on price direction, while MAVOL smooths volume data to identify abnormal activity—both vital for confirming trends and reversals in crypto trading.

Aug 06, 2025 at 02:28 am

Understanding the Core Concept of On-Balance Volume (OBV)

The On-Balance Volume (OBV) indicator is a well-established technical analysis tool introduced by Joe Granville in the 1960s. It operates on a cumulative basis, meaning it adds volume on days when the closing price increases and subtracts volume on days when the closing price decreases. The fundamental assumption behind OBV is that volume precedes price movement, suggesting that smart money accumulates or distributes assets before major price shifts occur.

• If today’s closing price is higher than yesterday’s, then today’s volume is added to the previous OBV value.
• If today’s closing price is lower than yesterday’s, today’s volume is subtracted from the previous OBV value.
• If the closing price remains unchanged, the OBV value stays the same.

This creates a running total that can be plotted alongside price charts. Traders use divergences between OBV and price to anticipate reversals. For example, if the price reaches a new high but OBV fails to surpass its previous high, this bearish divergence may signal weakening momentum.

Introduction to MAVOL: A Dynamic Volume Average

MAVOL, or Moving Average of Volume, differs fundamentally from OBV in both construction and interpretation. Instead of tracking cumulative volume based on price direction, MAVOL calculates the moving average of trading volume over a specified period—commonly 10, 20, or 50 periods. This provides a smoothed representation of average volume activity, helping traders identify whether current volume is above or below normal levels.

• MAVOL is computed by summing the volume over N periods and dividing by N.
• It resets with each new data point, unlike OBV which maintains a running total.
• The most common types are Simple MAVOL (SMAVOL) and Exponential MAVOL (EMA VOL), with EMA VOL giving more weight to recent volume.

This indicator is often used to confirm the strength of a breakout or breakdown. For instance, a price breakout on volume significantly above the MAVOL line suggests strong participation and increases the likelihood of the move being sustainable.

Calculation Methodology: OBV vs. MAVOL

The calculation processes for OBV and MAVOL highlight their structural differences. For OBV, the formula is recursive and directionally sensitive:

• Start with an initial OBV value (often zero).
• For each subsequent day:
  • If Close > Previous Close: OBV = Previous OBV + Today’s Volume
  • If Close < Previous Close: OBV = Previous OBV – Today’s Volume
  • If Close = Previous Close: OBV = Previous OBV

This results in a single cumulative line that can trend upward or downward over long periods. In contrast, MAVOL uses a straightforward averaging method:

• Select a period (e.g., 20 days).
• Add up the volume from the last 20 days.
• Divide the total by 20 to get the average.
• Repeat this process for each new day, dropping the oldest volume value and including the newest.

Because MAVOL recalculates entirely for each period, it does not carry forward historical accumulation like OBV. This makes MAVOL more responsive to recent volume changes but less sensitive to long-term volume trends.

Interpreting Signals: Divergence and Confirmation

Traders interpret signals from OBV and MAVOL in distinct ways due to their design. OBV is primarily used to detect divergence between volume flow and price action. A rising price accompanied by a rising OBV confirms bullish sentiment. Conversely, if the price rises but OBV flattens or declines, it indicates a lack of volume support—a potential warning sign.

• Bullish divergence: Price makes lower lows, but OBV makes higher lows.
• Bearish divergence: Price makes higher highs, but OBV makes lower highs.

MAVOL, on the other hand, is used more for confirmation of activity levels. When volume spikes above the MAVOL line during a price move, it validates the move’s legitimacy. For example:

• A sharp increase in volume above the 20-day MAVOL during an upward price movement suggests strong buying interest.
• Sustained volume below MAVOL during consolidation may indicate low interest or accumulation.

Unlike OBV, MAVOL does not generate divergence signals. Instead, it helps assess whether volume is abnormally high or low relative to recent history.

Application in Cryptocurrency Trading

In the cryptocurrency market, where volatility and volume spikes are common, both OBV and MAVOL offer valuable insights. OBV is particularly useful in identifying early accumulation or distribution phases in assets like Bitcoin or Ethereum. For example, during a sideways market, a steadily rising OBV may indicate accumulation before a breakout.

• Use OBV to spot hidden strength or weakness in altcoins.
• Combine OBV with price trendlines to detect breakouts confirmed by volume momentum.

MAVOL is effective in filtering out noise during high-volatility periods. In fast-moving crypto markets, sudden volume surges can mislead traders. By comparing current volume to the 50-period MAVOL, traders can determine if the surge is exceptional or within normal range.

• During a pump event, if volume is 3x the MAVOL, it may suggest FOMO buying.
• If price rises but volume stays below MAVOL, the rally may lack sustainability.

Both indicators should be used alongside price analysis and other tools like moving averages or RSI for better accuracy.

Visual Representation and Chart Integration

On most trading platforms such as TradingView or Binance, OBV is displayed as a single continuous line beneath the price chart, often in a separate panel. It can be overlaid with trendlines or compared directly to price trends. The slope of the OBV line gives immediate visual cues about volume momentum.

MAVOL is typically shown as a smoothed line in the volume histogram panel. Many platforms allow plotting both the raw volume bars and a MAVOL line (e.g., 20-day SMA of volume) simultaneously. This allows traders to see at a glance whether current volume is above or below average.

• When volume bars consistently exceed the MAVOL line, it signals heightened interest.
• When volume bars remain below MAVOL, it may indicate apathy or quiet accumulation.

Customization options include changing the period length, choosing between simple or exponential averages, and adjusting colors for clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can OBV be used effectively in low-volume cryptocurrency pairs?

Yes, but with caution. In low-volume pairs, OBV can be erratic due to minimal trading activity. A single large trade can cause a sharp OBV spike, creating false signals. It’s advisable to combine OBV with price filters or volatility indicators to reduce noise.

Is MAVOL the same as the volume moving average available on most exchanges?

Yes, MAVOL is the standard volume moving average displayed on most trading platforms. When an exchange shows a moving average line over the volume bars, it is typically calculating MAVOL using either a simple or exponential method based on user settings.

How do I set up OBV and MAVOL on TradingView?

To add OBV: Click “Indicators,” search for “On Balance Volume,” and apply it. For MAVOL: Search for “Volume MA” or manually create a moving average of the volume series by selecting “Volume” as the source and choosing the desired length and type (SMA/EMA).

Can OBV and MAVOL be used together for better results?

Absolutely. Using OBV to assess directional volume pressure and MAVOL to confirm volume intensity provides a more complete picture. For example, a rising OBV combined with volume above MAVOL strengthens the case for a valid bullish breakout in a cryptocurrency like Solana.