The EMA cross indicator is a lagging indicator, which works through looking for crossovers between the 9 and 26 day EMA. EMA (Exponential Moving Average) is a type of MA (Moving Average).
How is it calculated?
A traditional SMA indicator (Simple Moving Average) uses the formula below:
- A(n) = The high from the period used (typically the daily indicator)
- 5 day SMA = (A1+A2+A3+A4+A5) / n
In the five day SMA, the highs of five days are added together then divided by the number of days used in the calculation (5).
- 7 day SMA = (A1+A2+A3+A4+A5+A6+A7) / n
In the seven day SMA, the highs of seven days are added together then divided by the number of days used in the calculation (7).
The data from these calculations are then used to create the SMA seen below.
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Why EMA not SMA?
The EMAs used in the EMA cross indicator are different from SMAs as they place greater emphasis on the current price action. As we can see below, the 30 day EMA (blue) is more reactionary to price in comparison to the 30 day SMA (red).
The EMA is used over the SMA for the crossover indicator, due to the SMA sometimes lagging too far behind current price action, producing poor buy and sell signals.
How to read the indicator
Note – default settings for AAX EMA crossover indicator are:
Red – 9 EMA
Green – 26 EMA
The time periods can be edited if the button is clicked on.
Bullish crossovers
A bullish crossover occurs when the red EMA crosses above the green EMA. This indicates that the overall trend is switching from bearish to bullish, therefore suggesting that the cryptocurrency will increase in price.
Bearish crossover
A bearish crossover occurs when the red EMA crosses below the green EMA. This indicates that the bullish run has come to an end. Therefore the indicator is suggesting that the cryptocurrency will decrease in value.
Support / resistance
During bullish and bearish crossover runs, the red and green EMAs act as support / resistance.
| EMA | During bullish crossover run | During bearish crossover run |
| Red (9) | Minor support | Minor resistance |
| Green (26) | Major support | Major resistance |
Example
Below in the chart, we can see the red and green EMAs acting as support for NEO during its bullish crossover run.
Recommended indicators used alongside the EMA crossover
Volatility Indicator
Indicates the slow down in volatility, allows for easier visualisation of false breakouts and potential crossovers.
MACD
When the MACD sees a crossover alongside the EMA, increases likelihood of bullish or bearish trend occurring.
Bollinger Bands
Increases likelihood of correct exit points through using a 20 day SMA and deviations.
