Linear Regression Intercept (LRI)
period
= 14 (2–200) Overview
The Linear Regression Intercept (LRI) represents a sophisticated statistical approach to identifying baseline price levels by calculating where a regression line would intersect the y-axis at time zero. Unlike traditional moving averages that simply smooth price data, the LRI provides a mathematical foundation for understanding intrinsic value based on the linear regression equation y = mx + b, where 'b' is the intercept. This indicator plots a moving calculation of intercept values, creating a dynamic baseline that adapts to changing market conditions while maintaining statistical rigor. The result is a powerful tool that reveals whether current prices are trading above or below their mathematically expected baseline value.
What makes the LRI particularly valuable is its ability to act as a dynamic equilibrium line that responds faster than traditional moving averages to trend changes. When combined with the Linear Regression Forecast (LRF), the LRI creates a complete statistical framework for price analysis - the LRF shows where price is expected to be, while the LRI shows the baseline from which that expectation is calculated. A rising LRI indicates an upward-shifting baseline suggesting accumulation, while a falling LRI warns of distribution as the statistical foundation weakens. The indicator excels in ranging markets where prices oscillate around the intercept value, and in trending markets where sustained moves above or below the LRI confirm trend strength. Short-term traders particularly value the LRI for its responsiveness on intraday charts, where it provides cleaner signals than traditional indicators.
Interpretation & Trading Signals
Baseline Analysis:
- Rising LRI: Upward trend baseline, bullish foundation
- Falling LRI: Downward trend baseline, bearish foundation
- Flat LRI: Stable baseline, ranging market conditions
- LRI Zero Cross: Major trend shift in baseline value
Trading Strategies:
- Mean Reversion: Buy when price far below LRI, sell above
- Trend Following: Trade in direction of LRI slope
- LRF/LRI Cross: Strong signal when LRF crosses LRI
- Overvaluation: Exit longs when price exceeds LRI significantly
Advanced Applications:
- Intrinsic Value: LRI represents statistical fair value
- Dynamic Support: Use LRI as adaptive support/resistance
- Volatility Filter: Wider price-LRI gaps signal high volatility
- Multi-Timeframe: Compare LRI across timeframes for confluence
Example Usage
Code examples will be available once the Rust implementation is complete.