Force Index
DEFINITION
The Force Index is an oscillator that fluctuates above and below zero. It combines price movement and volume to assess the force behind price movements and spot potential trend changes. Use the following calculation to produce a 1-period Force Index:
- Force Index (1) = [Close (current period) - Close (prior period)] x Volume Alexander Elder, the creator of the indicator, suggested using a 13-period Force Index:
- Force Index (13) = 13-period exponential moving average of Force Index(1)
The 13-period Force Index confirms short-term uptrends when above zero, and confirms short-term downtrends when below zero. When the Force Index Diverges with price, it indicates a trend change may be coming.
EXPLANATION
Alexander Elder, a trader and author, introduced the Force Index in his book, Trading For a Living. Many traders use the 13-period Force Index, but longer-term traders may use a longer period, such as a 100-period Force Index. The longer the period, the less volatile the index, and the fewer warning signals it will generate.
A cross above or below the zero line signals an upward or downward (respectively) price move is possibly beginning. False signals are common with the 13-period Force Index. Increase the period to reduce the number of false signals.
When the Force index is moving higher and the price is moving lower, it warns the price downtrend is losing power and could soon reverse. When Force Index is moving lower as the price is moving higher, it warns the price uptrend is losing power and could soon reverse. Divergence is not a timing signal though, as the indicator and price can diverge for extended periods of time before an actual price reversal occurs.
The Force Index is commonly used with other trending indicators, such as a moving average to filter trade signals.