What is the moving average convergence divergence (MACD) and how does it relate to MAs?

The MACD helps traders spot trend reversals and momentum shifts in crypto by analyzing the interplay between two EMAs, using crossovers and divergences for buy/sell signals.

Aug 01, 2025 at 07:31 am

Understanding the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD)

The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is a momentum-based technical indicator widely used in cryptocurrency trading to identify potential trend reversals, measure the strength of a trend, and generate buy or sell signals. It was developed by Gerald Appel and is built upon the concept of moving averages (MAs), which are foundational tools in technical analysis. The MACD visualizes the relationship between two exponential moving averages (EMAs) of a cryptocurrency’s price over time. By analyzing the convergence and divergence of these moving averages, traders gain insight into underlying market momentum.

The core components of the MACD are the MACD line, the signal line, and the histogram. The MACD line is calculated by subtracting the 26-period EMA from the 12-period EMA of the asset’s closing price. This difference reflects short-term momentum compared to longer-term momentum. The signal line, typically a 9-period EMA of the MACD line itself, acts as a trigger for trading signals. The histogram represents the difference between the MACD line and the signal line, providing a visual cue for the acceleration of momentum.

How MACD is Calculated Step-by-Step

To compute the MACD values, traders follow a precise sequence of operations using exponential moving averages:

• Calculate the 12-period EMA of the cryptocurrency’s closing prices.
• Calculate the 26-period EMA of the same closing prices.
• Subtract the 26-period EMA from the 12-period EMA to obtain the MACD line.
• Compute the 9-period EMA of the MACD line to form the signal line.
• Derive the histogram by subtracting the signal line value from the MACD line value at each point in time.

These calculations are typically automated in trading platforms such as TradingView, Binance, or CoinGecko Pro, but understanding the math ensures traders interpret the indicator correctly. For example, when the 12-period EMA rises faster than the 26-period EMA, the MACD line moves upward, indicating increasing bullish momentum in assets like Bitcoin or Ethereum.

Interpreting MACD Crossovers and Divergences

One of the primary ways traders use the MACD is by monitoring crossovers between the MACD line and the signal line. When the MACD line crosses above the signal line, it generates a bullish signal, suggesting upward momentum may be building. Conversely, when the MACD line crosses below the signal line, it indicates a bearish signal, potentially signaling a downtrend.

In addition to crossovers, traders analyze divergences between the MACD and price action. A bullish divergence occurs when the price makes a lower low, but the MACD forms a higher low, indicating weakening downward momentum. A bearish divergence happens when the price reaches a higher high, yet the MACD shows a lower high, suggesting the uptrend may be losing strength. These patterns are especially useful in volatile markets like cryptocurrencies, where rapid price swings can mask true momentum.

Role of Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs) in MACD

The MACD relies entirely on exponential moving averages (EMAs) rather than simple moving averages (SMAs) because EMAs assign greater weight to recent prices, making them more responsive to new information. This responsiveness is crucial in fast-moving crypto markets where Bitcoin or altcoin prices can shift dramatically within hours.

The choice of periods—12, 26, and 9—is not arbitrary. The 12 and 26 periods approximate two weeks and one month of trading data, assuming a six-day trading week common in crypto markets. The 9-period EMA of the MACD line smooths out noise and helps filter false signals. Traders can adjust these values to suit different timeframes. For instance, using a 5-period and 13-period EMA with a 6-period signal line creates a faster MACD suitable for scalping on 15-minute charts.

Using MACD in Cryptocurrency Trading Strategies

Traders integrate the MACD into various strategies to improve decision-making. A common approach involves combining MACD signals with support and resistance levels or other indicators like RSI (Relative Strength Index). For example, if Ethereum approaches a known resistance level and the MACD shows a bearish crossover, it strengthens the case for a potential reversal.

Another strategy involves monitoring the zero line. When the MACD line crosses above zero, it indicates that the 12-period EMA has surpassed the 26-period EMA, signaling overall bullish momentum. A cross below zero suggests bearish dominance. This is particularly useful for swing traders analyzing daily or 4-hour charts on exchanges like Kraken or Bybit.

The histogram also provides tactical insights. Expanding bars indicate increasing momentum, while shrinking bars suggest momentum is fading. If the histogram transitions from negative to positive while the MACD line crosses above the signal line, it confirms a strong bullish setup.

Common Misinterpretations and How to Avoid Them

Despite its popularity, the MACD is sometimes misapplied. One common mistake is treating every crossover as a trade signal without considering the broader market context. In ranging or choppy markets, the MACD can produce numerous false signals due to whipsaws. To mitigate this, traders should use the MACD alongside volume indicators or trend filters such as a 200-period EMA.

Another error is ignoring the timeframe. A MACD signal on a 5-minute chart may be insignificant compared to one on a daily chart. Scalpers may act on short-term crossovers, while long-term investors prioritize signals that align across multiple timeframes. Additionally, extreme histogram spikes can indicate overbought or oversold conditions, but they do not guarantee an immediate reversal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can MACD be used on all cryptocurrencies?

Yes, the MACD can be applied to any cryptocurrency that has price data, including Bitcoin, Solana, and Dogecoin. Its effectiveness depends more on trading volume and market liquidity than the specific asset. Highly volatile or low-volume altcoins may produce more false signals, so caution is advised.

What settings should I use for MACD in crypto trading?

The default settings (12, 26, 9) work well for most traders. However, for shorter timeframes like 5-minute or 15-minute charts, consider using (5, 13, 6) for faster responses. For long-term analysis on weekly charts, some traders use (21, 55, 9) to reduce noise.

How do I add MACD to my trading chart?

On platforms like TradingView, click “Indicators” at the bottom of the chart, search for “MACD,” and select it. The indicator will automatically apply with default values. You can adjust the parameters by clicking the “Settings” gear icon next to MACD in the indicator list.

Does MACD work during sideways markets?

MACD tends to underperform in sideways or consolidating markets because crossovers occur frequently without sustained trends. In such conditions, the histogram oscillates around zero with little directional follow-through. Traders often combine MACD with Bollinger Bands or ADX to confirm whether a trend is present before acting on signals.