What is a Golden Cross Pattern and How Does it Work?

In the world of trading and investing, there are a variety of technical analysis indicators and strategies that investors look to for selecting the right stocks. One such indicator is the golden cross pattern which is a popular technical analysis strategy used to identify a potential trend reversal or bullish trend. This article will cover what a golden cross pattern is, how it is formed, and how investors can use it as part of their trading strategy.

What is a Golden Cross Pattern?

A golden cross is a technical analysis chart pattern which consists of a bullish trend reversal or potential trend reversal. It is signaled when the 50-day simple moving average (SMA), crosses above the 200-day simple moving average (SMA). This is important because it indicates that short-term momentum may be shifting from bearish to bullish.

When the 50-day SMA crosses above the 200-day SMA, it forms a “golden cross.”

How the Golden Cross Pattern Is Formed

The golden cross pattern is formed when the 50-day SMA crosses above the 200-day SMA on a chart. This indicates that the trend is shifting from bearish to bullish, which is typically seen as a positive sign to investors.

When the 50-day SMA moves above the 200-day SMA, a golden cross is formed and often viewed as a reliable buy indicator.

The Benefits of Using a Golden Cross Pattern

The golden cross is a useful tool for investors to determine when to enter a position or determine when to exit a position. Below are some of the benefits of using a golden cross pattern as part of an investor’s trading strategy.

  1. Increased Profit Potential: When the 50-day SMA is above the 200-day SMA, it signals that the short-term momentum is shifting from bearish to bullish, which often leads to increased profitability for investors.

  2. Reduced Risk: Since the golden cross pattern signals that a potential bullish trend is about to begin, investors are able to enter positions with reduced risk.

  3. Chart Confirmation: The golden cross pattern provides strong confirmation that the market is about to turn bullish. This is beneficial for investors as it gives them confidence when entering positions.

How to Use a Golden Cross Pattern

The golden cross pattern is most commonly used to identify potential trend reversals and bullish trends. To use this strategy, investors should observe the 50-day SMA and 200-day SMA on a chart and take positions when the 50-day SMA crosses above the 200-day SMA.

There are a few golden cross strategies that investors can employ. For example, investors can “buy the dip” which means buying a security when the 50-day SMA crosses above the 200-day SMA and prices are low. This strategy can be used to take advantage of a potential bullish trend.

On the other hand, some investors prefer to wait for the golden cross pattern to form before they enter a position. This strategy is often referred to as “buy the breakout.” This requires investors to wait for prices to break above the 200-day SMA before entering a position. This can help investors to avoid buying at the top of a rally and buying towards the beginning of a bullish trend.

The golden cross is a useful technical analysis indicator which can be used by investors to identify potential trend reversals and bullish trends. It is formed when the 50-day SMA crosses above the 200-day SMA on a chart. Investors use the golden cross pattern to determine when to enter and exit trades. There are several strategies that investors can use with the golden cross pattern, such as buying the dip or buy the breakouts.