The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is a popular technical analysis indicator used in trading to measure the magnitude and speed of price movements. It provides insights into the strength and weakness of a financial instrument, helping traders identify overbought and oversold conditions in the market.
The RSI is displayed as a line graph that oscillates between the values of 0 and 100. The indicator compares the average gains and losses over a specified period of time, typically 14 periods, and generates a value that indicates the relative strength of price momentum.
Here's how the RSI is typically interpreted:
- Values above 70: When the RSI value exceeds 70, it suggests that the asset is overbought, meaning the price may have risen too quickly and a reversal or correction could occur. Traders might consider selling or taking profits in such situations.
- Values below 30: When the RSI value falls below 30, it indicates that the asset is oversold, meaning the price may have declined too rapidly and a potential rebound or reversal could be on the horizon. Traders might consider buying or entering long positions when this occurs.
- Divergence: Traders also pay attention to divergences between the price and the RSI. Bullish divergence occurs when the price makes lower lows, but the RSI forms higher lows, indicating potential upward momentum. Bearish divergence occurs when the price makes higher highs, but the RSI forms lower highs, suggesting potential downward pressure.
It's important to note that the RSI is just one tool among many used in technical analysis. Traders often combine it with other indicators and analysis techniques to make informed trading decisions. While the RSI can provide valuable insights, it should be used in conjunction with other factors to confirm potential trends and reversals in the market.