
Not all indicators rely on the same type of input. Just as some indicators use price data as their input, there are also indicators that depend on volume data. Among these indicators, On-Balance Volume stands out as one of the most prominent. It is time to explore this indicator and learn how to use it for ultimate success in cryptocurrency trading.
1. On-Balance Volume: Whatโs It
On-Balance Volume (OBV) is a volume-focused technical indicator, widely used by crypto traders. It predicts price movements by analysing trading volume. Created by Joseph Granville in 1963, OBV tracks buying and selling pressure almost accurately. Granville believed that major price changes occur when volume spikes, whether up or down.
2. Calculating OBV: What You Should Know
Calculating On-Balance Volume is easy. It is actually a cumulative method that relies on daily trading volume. To get started, understand the daily volume for each day, readily available on exchange platforms. Actually, OBV for today depends on adding or subtracting this value from yesterdayโs OBV.
There are three scenarios to consider:
- If todayโs closing price is greater than yesterdayโs,
OBV = Yesterdayโs OBV + Todayโs Volume |
- If todayโs closing price is lower than yesterdayโs,
OBV = Yesterdayโs OBV – Todayโs Volume |
- If todayโs closing price equals yesterdayโs
OBV = Yesterdayโs OBV |
Understanding these calculations is essential for using OBV in cryptocurrency trading effectively.
3. Step-by-Step Guide To Launch OBV on a TradingView Chart
Here is the simple seven-step process to launch OBV on a TradingView chart.
- Step 1: Sign In to TradingView
Log in to your TradingView account to access your charts and trading tools.
- Step 2: Search for a Random Chart
Use the search bar to find a random chart you want to analyse or track.
- Step 3: Select a Random Chart
Click on the chosen chart to open it on your TradingView workspace.
- Step 4: Search for Indicator Icon
Look for the indicator icon, usually located at the top of the chart.
- Step 5: Click and Launch OBV
In the indicator search space, type On-Balance Volume or OBV and select it from the list. It will add OBV to your chart.
- Step 6: Configure OBV settings
Although default settings work fine, you can adjust โlengthโ if you want more smoother OBV line. The default is generally 5.
- Step 7: Apply OBV and Do Analysis
Click โOkโ to add chosen changes. Now, you can use the OBV indicator to get interesting insights from the chart.
4. Ways to Use On-Balance Volume
There are many ways to use this powerful indicator. Here are the three most popular ones:
- Track Trends
If OBV is going up, prices tend to rise, and the opposite is true. Keep an eye out for situations where price and OBV move in different directions; it could signal a potential trend change.
- Spot Divergence
When the price and OBV do not sync up, it can indicate a shift in the trend. A bullish divergence happens when prices hit lower lows, but OBV makes higher lows. On the flip side, a bearish divergence occurs when prices reach higher highs, while OBV makes lower highs.
- Use Complementary Indicators
The most brilliant way to use this indicator is to use this indicator alongside other technical tools, especially momentum indicators. This is the best method to make fool-proof crypto trade judgements.
5. Why You Should Not Depend on OBV Completely
Though OBV is an amazing tool, there are a few important limitations. Here are the five important points why you should not depend on OBV completely.
- Not a Definitive Singal
ONV is a tool for confirmation but does not offer clear buy/sell signals. It should be used alongside other indicators.
- Lagging Indicator
OBV lags behind, reflecting past market sentiment and may not predict future price movements.
- Subjective Interpretation
Interpretation of volume activity varies among traders, making it less standardised.
- Lack of Precision
It does not indicate support or resistance levels, making precise entry and exit points challenging.
- Market Suitability
OBV works best in highly active and liquid markets, not suitable for smaller or illiquid ones.
Endnotes
On-Balance Volume is a valuable tool for crypto traders, but it is not a crystal ball. It helps predict price moves by analysing trading volume. Remember, it has limitation. It is a confirmation tool, not a definitive signal, and it may lag behind actual market changes. Interpretation varies, making it subjective. OBV does not pinpoint exact entry and exit points and thrives in more active markets. For the most robust analysis, combine OBV with other indicators, creating a well-rounded strategy for successful crypto trading.
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