Is the 60-minute MACD underwater golden cross credible? Can I grab the rebound?

The 60-minute MACD underwater golden cross signals weakening bearish momentum but requires confirmation to avoid false reversals in crypto trading.

Jun 22, 2025 at 04:07 am

Understanding the 60-Minute MACD Underwater Golden Cross

The 60-minute MACD underwater golden cross refers to a specific technical signal that appears on cryptocurrency charts when the MACD line crosses above the signal line while both remain below the zero line. This typically occurs during a downtrend and is considered by some traders as an early sign of a potential reversal. However, due to its "underwater" nature — meaning it's still in negative territory — the reliability of this signal is often debated.

In crypto trading, especially for volatile assets like Bitcoin or Ethereum, recognizing such patterns can be crucial. But it’s essential to understand that a golden cross under water doesn't automatically mean a bullish reversal will follow. It simply indicates a shift in momentum, not necessarily a full trend reversal.

Underwater golden cross suggests weakening bearish pressure but does not guarantee immediate price recovery.

How Does the MACD Work in Cryptocurrency Charts?

The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is a popular indicator used to identify changes in momentum, direction, and duration of price trends. It consists of three components:

• MACD Line: The difference between the 12-period and 26-period Exponential Moving Averages (EMA).
• Signal Line: A 9-period EMA of the MACD line.
• Histogram: Represents the difference between the MACD line and the signal line.

In crypto markets, where volatility is high and trends can reverse quickly, the MACD becomes a useful tool for timing entries and exits. When applied to a 60-minute chart, it allows for intraday analysis without being overly influenced by long-term noise.

A golden cross happens when the MACD line rises above the signal line, suggesting increasing bullish momentum. An underwater golden cross specifically occurs when this crossover takes place below the zero line, indicating that although momentum may be shifting upward, the overall trend remains bearish.

What Does the Underwater Golden Cross Imply for Price Action?

When the MACD underwater golden cross forms on a 60-minute chart, it may indicate that selling pressure is starting to wane. Traders often interpret this as a possible opportunity to enter long positions, anticipating a rebound.

However, because the cross happens below the zero line, the bullish implications are weaker than if it had occurred above the line. In many cases, what looks like a reversal could just be a temporary bounce within a larger downtrend.

Traders should look for additional confirmation signals before acting on this setup. These include:

• Volume spikes: Increased volume during or after the cross can suggest stronger buying interest.
• Price action patterns: Candlestick formations like hammers or engulfing patterns near key support levels.
• Other indicators aligning: RSI moving out of oversold territory or Stochastic showing bullish divergence.

Without such confluence, relying solely on the underwater golden cross may lead to false signals.

Can You Safely Grab the Rebound After an Underwater Golden Cross?

Attempting to grab the rebound after an underwater golden cross involves significant risk, particularly in the highly volatile crypto market. While it may seem tempting to jump in early on a potential reversal, doing so without proper confirmation can lead to losses if the bounce fails.

Here are some steps traders can take to increase their odds of success:

• Wait for a retest: Allow the price to test and hold a key support level after the cross occurs.
• Use tight stop-loss orders: Protect capital by placing stops below recent lows.
• Look for candlestick confirmation: Wait for bullish candles like hammer or inverted hammer patterns.
• Check higher timeframes: Ensure that the daily chart isn’t showing strong resistance overhead.
• Combine with volume analysis: Confirm that volume supports the move upward.

By incorporating these filters, traders can avoid premature entries and improve their probability of catching a successful rebound.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Trading This Signal

Many traders fall into traps when interpreting the MACD underwater golden cross on 60-minute charts. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overtrading: Acting on every underwater golden cross without confirming factors leads to unnecessary trades.
• Ignoring context: Failing to assess the broader trend or nearby support/resistance levels.
• Misinterpreting strength: Confusing short-term momentum shifts with actual trend reversals.
• Neglecting risk management: Entering positions without clear stop-loss and profit targets.
• FOMO-based entries: Rushing into a trade because others are doing it, rather than based on personal analysis.

Avoiding these mistakes requires discipline and adherence to a well-defined trading plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the underwater golden cross more reliable in certain cryptocurrencies?

While the MACD underwater golden cross applies universally across all crypto assets, its effectiveness can vary depending on liquidity and volatility. Major coins like BTC and ETH tend to offer clearer signals due to deeper market depth and stronger institutional influence.

Q: Can I use the underwater golden cross on other timeframes?

Yes, the concept applies to any timeframe, including 15-minute, 4-hour, or daily charts. However, the 60-minute chart strikes a balance between responsiveness and noise reduction, making it a popular choice among day and swing traders.

Q: What should I do if the price breaks below the cross after forming it?

If the price drops below the level where the underwater golden cross formed, it may indicate a failed signal. Consider exiting or tightening your stop-loss to protect against further downside.

Q: How often does the underwater golden cross lead to a real reversal?

There's no fixed frequency, as it depends on market conditions. Historical backtesting on major cryptocurrencies shows that it works best when combined with other tools like support/resistance zones and volume confirmation.