How to Use MACD Indicator to Trade Stock & Binary Options

MACD (usually pronounced Mac-Dee) stands for Moving Average Convergence Divergence.

The MACD is the difference between the value of the 12 period EMA (exponential moving average) and the 26 period EMA of the asset price.

In short, the MACD indicator gives the short to medium term trend of the price action. A positive MACD value indicates upward price trend while a negative MACD value indicates a downward price trend.

A 9 period EMA of the MACD is superimposed on top as a Signal Line. In other words, the Signal Line is just a smoothed out, less choppy version of the MACD line.

There is also a histogram which measures the difference between the MACD line and the signal line. The histogram can help to assess the velocity of the upward or downward movement.


Chart showing the MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence) Indicator together with Crossover Buy and Sell signals

Buy & Sell Signals

Crossover Signals

Buy signal is generated when the MACD line crosses above the signal line.

Conversely, a sell signal is generated when the MACD line crosses below the signal line.

MACD Divergence Strategy

Another strategy often employed by traders using the MACD to find trading opportunities is the MACD divergence strategy.

When the MACD diverges from the price action, it can signal the end of a trend.

Bearish Divergence


Chart showing the MACD Bearish Divergence Strategy

When the price is on an uptrend but the MACD is on a downtrend, it signals a bearish divergence, indicating that the market may soon be turning bearish.

Bullish Divergence


Chart showing the MACD Bullish Divergence Strategy

When the price is on a downtrend but the MACD is on an uptrend, it signals a bullish divergence, indicating that the market may soon be turning bullish.