Moving Average

Definition of Moving Average

A moving average (MA) is a statistical measure that calculates the average value of a given set of data points over a designated amount of time. The MA is typically used to smooth out irregularities or fluctuations in the data and to help identify trends. The most common type of MA is the simple moving average, which calculates the average of the previous N data points.

How is Moving Average used?

Moving Average (MA) is a statistical technique that is used to analyze time series data (such as financial market prices), in order to smooth out short-term fluctuations and highlight longer-term trends. It is a simple yet powerful tool used by traders and investors alike to help identify the direction of an asset’s price movement over a certain period of time. MA works by taking the average closing price of an asset over a set number of trading days or weeks, and then plotting that average on the chart as one line. This line will then be compared against other indicators or lines, such as support and resistance levels, in order to determine where the asset might move next or what kind of trend it may have been experiencing.

Moving Average can also be used as a form of technical analysis, which involves looking at the historical prices of an asset in order to make predictions about where it might go in the future. By comparing different moving averages with different periods (for instance, a 50-day moving average versus a 200-day moving average) it is possible to identify potential changes in momentum or trends within an asset’s price action. By analyzing these trends and making informed decisions based on them, traders can position themselves to take advantage of profitable opportunities when they arise. Moving average is considered one of the most reliable technical indicators available and can be found on virtually all trading platforms.