Supertrend Indicator
period
= 10 (7–20) • multiplier
= 3 (2–3.5) Overview
The Supertrend indicator creates a dynamic trend-following system by calculating two bands around price using the Average True Range (ATR) for volatility adjustment. The upper band is calculated as (High + Low)/2 plus the ATR multiplied by a factor, while the lower band uses the same midpoint minus the ATR multiple. These bands act as trailing stop levels that flip based on price action, creating a single line that clearly indicates the current trend direction through color changes - typically green for uptrends when price is above the line, and red for downtrends when price is below.
What makes Supertrend particularly effective is its adaptive nature - the ATR component ensures the bands widen during volatile periods and contract during calm markets, preventing premature signals during normal market fluctuations. The indicator excels in trending markets where it acts as both a trend filter and a trailing stop mechanism, though like most trend indicators, it can generate false signals during sideways or choppy market conditions. Its visual simplicity, combined with firm support and resistance levels, makes it especially popular among traders seeking clear, actionable signals without complex interpretation.
Interpretation & Trading Signals
Primary Trading Signals:
- Buy Signal: Supertrend line turns green and moves below price
- Sell Signal: Supertrend line turns red and moves above price
- Trend Continuation: Price remains on same side of line
- Stop Loss: Use Supertrend line as trailing stop level
Parameter Optimization:
- Short-term (7, 2): More reactive, frequent signals, day trading
- Standard (10, 3): Balanced approach for most markets
- Long-term (14, 3.5): Fewer signals, position trading
- 15-min+ Timeframes: Best results on higher timeframes
Best Practices:
- Trending Markets: Most effective in clear uptrends/downtrends
- Avoid Sideways: Generates false signals in ranging markets
- Combine Indicators: Use with moving averages or oscillators
- Risk Management: Firm support/resistance for entry/exit
Example Usage
Code examples will be available once the Rust implementation is complete.
Performance Analysis
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