How to read the MFI fund flow indicator? Can it more accurately judge the main trend when combined with OBV?

MFI, a volume-weighted RSI, signals overbought above 80 and oversold below 20; combined with OBV, it confirms trends and potential reversals in crypto trading.

Jun 12, 2025 at 06:14 am

Understanding the MFI Fund Flow Indicator

The Money Flow Index (MFI) is a momentum indicator that measures the inflow and outflow of money into a security over a specific period. It is often referred to as the volume-weighted Relative Strength Index (RSI), as it incorporates both price and volume data to provide a more comprehensive view of market trends. The MFI is typically calculated over a 14-day period, but this can be adjusted based on the trader's preference.

To calculate the MFI, you first need to determine the typical price for each day, which is the average of the high, low, and closing prices. Then, you multiply this typical price by the volume to get the raw money flow. The money flow is considered positive if the typical price is higher than the previous day's typical price, and negative if it is lower. The ratio of positive money flow to negative money flow over a specified period is then used to calculate the MFI, which ranges from 0 to 100.

Interpreting the MFI

The MFI can be used to identify overbought and oversold conditions in the market. An MFI reading above 80 suggests that the asset may be overbought, indicating a potential reversal or pullback in price. Conversely, an MFI reading below 20 suggests that the asset may be oversold, indicating a potential upward price movement. Traders often look for divergences between the MFI and price action as a signal of potential trend reversals. For example, if the price is making new highs but the MFI is not, it could indicate weakening momentum and a possible bearish reversal.

In addition to overbought and oversold signals, the MFI can also be used to confirm trends. If the MFI is trending higher along with the price, it suggests that the bullish trend is strong and likely to continue. Similarly, if the MFI is trending lower along with the price, it suggests that the bearish trend is strong and likely to continue.

Combining MFI with OBV for Enhanced Analysis

The On-Balance Volume (OBV) indicator is another tool that traders use to assess the strength of a trend based on volume. OBV is calculated by adding the volume on up days and subtracting the volume on down days. This cumulative total is then plotted as a line, which can help traders identify whether volume is confirming the price trend.

When combining MFI and OBV, traders can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the market's direction. If both the MFI and OBV are trending in the same direction as the price, it suggests a strong and confirmed trend. For example, if the price is trending upwards, and both the MFI and OBV are also trending upwards, it indicates strong bullish momentum.

Conversely, if the MFI and OBV are diverging from the price, it could signal a potential trend reversal. For instance, if the price is trending upwards but the MFI and OBV are trending downwards, it suggests that the bullish trend may be losing steam and a bearish reversal could be imminent.

Practical Application of MFI and OBV in Trading

To apply MFI and OBV in trading, follow these steps:

• Select a cryptocurrency pair: Choose the cryptocurrency pair you want to analyze. For example, BTC/USDT.
• Set up the indicators: Add the MFI and OBV indicators to your charting platform. Most platforms allow you to customize the period for the MFI, typically set to 14 days.
• Analyze the MFI: Look for overbought and oversold conditions. An MFI above 80 indicates overbought conditions, while an MFI below 20 indicates oversold conditions.
• Analyze the OBV: Observe the OBV line to see if it is trending in the same direction as the price. An upward trending OBV confirms a bullish trend, while a downward trending OBV confirms a bearish trend.
• Look for divergences: Check for divergences between the MFI, OBV, and price. If the price is making new highs but the MFI and OBV are not, it could signal a bearish reversal. Conversely, if the price is making new lows but the MFI and OBV are not, it could signal a bullish reversal.
• Make trading decisions: Based on your analysis, decide whether to enter a long or short position. For example, if the MFI is below 20, the OBV is trending upwards, and the price is starting to rise, it could be a good time to enter a long position.

Limitations and Considerations

While combining MFI and OBV can provide valuable insights, it is important to consider their limitations. Both indicators are lagging indicators, meaning they are based on past data and may not always predict future price movements accurately. Additionally, false signals can occur, especially in volatile markets.

It is also crucial to use MFI and OBV in conjunction with other technical analysis tools and fundamental analysis to make well-informed trading decisions. No single indicator should be relied upon exclusively, as the cryptocurrency market is influenced by a wide range of factors, including news events, regulatory changes, and market sentiment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the MFI be used to predict price reversals?

A: While the MFI can indicate overbought and oversold conditions, which may precede price reversals, it is not a definitive predictor. Traders should look for confirmation from other indicators and market factors before making trading decisions based on MFI signals.

Q: How often should I adjust the MFI period?

A: The standard period for the MFI is 14 days, but traders can adjust it based on their trading strategy. Shorter periods, such as 7 days, can provide more sensitive signals, while longer periods, such as 21 days, can provide more stable signals. The choice depends on the trader's time frame and trading style.

Q: Is it better to use MFI or OBV alone, or should they always be used together?

A: Both MFI and OBV can be effective when used alone, but using them together can provide a more comprehensive analysis. MFI focuses on price and volume momentum, while OBV focuses solely on volume trends. Combining them can help confirm trends and identify potential reversals more accurately.

Q: Can MFI and OBV be used for all cryptocurrencies?

A: Yes, MFI and OBV can be applied to any cryptocurrency pair. However, the effectiveness of these indicators may vary depending on the liquidity and volatility of the specific cryptocurrency. It is important to test these indicators on historical data for the specific cryptocurrency you are trading to understand their reliability.