StockSignal
The MACD histogram shows the distance between MACD and its signal line. Growing bars indicate strengthening momentum.
The MACD Histogram displays the difference between the MACD line and its Signal line as vertical bars, providing a visual representation of momentum strength and direction. Created by Thomas Aspray, the histogram makes it easier to spot divergences and identify when momentum is accelerating or decelerating, often providing earlier warnings of trend changes than MACD crossovers alone.
The calculation:
MACD Histogram = MACD Line - Signal Line
Interpreting histogram bars:
<ul>Why the histogram matters:
- Early warning: Histogram turns before MACD crossover occurs
- Momentum strength: Bar height shows momentum intensity
- Divergence detection: Easier to spot divergences visually
- Trend confirmation: Expanding histogram confirms trend strength
Histogram patterns:
- Zero line cross: Histogram crossing zero = MACD/Signal crossover
- Peak/trough: Highest/lowest bar often precedes reversal
- Shrinking pattern: Consecutive smaller bars signal weakening
Trading with histogram:
- Momentum entry: Enter when histogram starts growing in trend direction
- Exit warning: Prepare to exit when histogram starts shrinking
- Divergence trading: Act on price/histogram divergences
- Confirmation: Use histogram to confirm other signals
Divergence analysis:
- Bullish divergence: Price lower low, histogram higher low; potential bottom
- Bearish divergence: Price higher high, histogram lower high; potential top
- Multiple divergences: Stronger signal than single divergence
Histogram vs. MACD crossovers:
- Earlier signals: Histogram turns before crossover completes
- More signals: Histogram provides more frequent indications
- Trade-off: Earlier signals may be less reliable
Limitations:
- Secondary indicator: Derived from already lagging MACD
- False signals: Histogram can shrink then expand without reversal
- Context needed: Best used with price action and other tools
The histogram transforms MACD from a crossover-based system into a momentum tool, providing earlier warnings of strength changes and making divergences visually apparent.