The relative strength index is a moving indicator that measures the magnitude of recent gains or losses relative to each other.  The index is generated using the following equation:

RSI = 100 – (100/(1+(average of x days up closing price / average of x days down closing price))

There is no right point on the indicator, it is just a repeatable tool that can be built into your general trading plan.  However, in general a stock is thought to be over bought when the RSI is greater than 70 and oversold when the RSI is less than 30.  I often refer to crossing the 50 in my trading plans as I believe this is an indicator that the trend is set and momentum is on your side.

Again, do remember not to use RSI index as a sole trading strategy, it is only a tool. 

Here’s an example:

Large price fluctuations can really throw RSI into a frenzy so make sure your aware of macro situations involving your trades.

Related posts:

  1. Moving Averages
  2. Trading Bollinger Bands
  3. MACD – Moving Average Convergence Divergence
  4. MACD Indicator Issues
  5. Stock Market ETF (Exchange Traded Fund)

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