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Relative strength line usage question

QuestionsCategory: QuestionsRelative strength line usage question
Harry Bartges asked 2 months ago
Pat, I'm trying to add the relative strength line into my buying and selling decisions.  What is your experience with the relative strength line.  I searched the archives with no success. Thanks for your assistance and for coaching the team Harry 
1 Answers
Avatar photoOwen Staff answered 2 months ago

Hi Harry,

See if this answers your question; I found it in the Questions section.

Unlocking the Power of Relative Strength in Stock Trading
https://youtu.be/V5paSZ2zNdE

Understanding and Utilizing Relative Strength in Chart Analysis

Relative Strength (RS) is a vital tool for traders seeking to identify strong-performing stocks relative to the broader market. By focusing on the RS line, traders can gain insights into how a stock is performing compared to the S&P 500, which can be particularly useful in both bullish and bearish market conditions.

Here’s a guide on how to effectively use RS in your trading strategy:
Interpreting the RS Line:
The RS line represents a stock's performance relative to the S&P 500. A rising RS line indicates that the stock is outperforming the market, while a falling RS line suggests underperformance. Even if a stock's price is declining, a rising RS line indicates that the stock is falling less sharply than the market, signaling relative strength during a downturn.

Evaluating Market Phases:
During market corrections or downturns, stocks with rising RS lines—despite declining prices—can be potential leaders when the market recovers. This makes the RS line a crucial indicator during volatile periods. Conversely, if a stock’s price is rising but the RS line is falling, it indicates that the stock is not keeping up with the broader market, which may suggest underlying weakness.

Application in Stock Selection:
When scanning for potential trades, focus on stocks with an RS rank of 80 or higher. This indicates that the stock is among the top performers relative to the market. Look for stocks where the RS line is approaching or reaching new highs, even if the stock’s price itself hasn’t yet hit new highs. This often signals that the stock has strong underlying momentum.

Case Studies and Observations:
In practice, stocks with strong RS lines often correlate with significant price runs. Paying attention to these patterns can help traders identify high-probability setups. On the other hand, stocks with lagging RS lines should be approached with caution, even if they seem attractive at first glance. The RS line can reveal weaknesses that might not be immediately obvious from price alone.

Combining RS with Other Indicators:

While the RS line is powerful on its own, it should be used in conjunction with other indicators like volume and price patterns. For example, a stock breaking out of a base with a strong RS line and increasing volume presents a compelling trade setup.

By focusing on Relative Strength, traders can align themselves with stocks that have a higher probability of success, regardless of the broader market’s condition. Prioritizing stocks with strong RS during both bull and bear markets can significantly enhance your trading results.