Overview The AutoCorrelation Test indicator is designed to analyze the correlation patterns of a financial asset over a specified period. This tool can help traders identify potential predictive patterns by measuring the relationship between sequential returns, effectively assessing the autocorrelation of price movements.
Autocorrelation analysis is useful in identifying the consistency of directional trends (upward or downward) and potential cyclical behavior. This indicator provides an insight into whether recent price movements are likely to continue in a similar direction (positive correlation) or reverse (negative correlation).
Key Features Multi-Period Autocorrelation: The indicator calculates autocorrelation across three periods, offering a granular view of price movement consistency over time. Customizable Length & Sensitivity: Adjustable parameters allow users to tailor the length of analysis and sensitivity for detecting correlation. Visual Aids: Three separate autocorrelation plots are displayed, along with an average correlation line. Dotted horizontal lines mark the thresholds for positive and negative correlation, helping users quickly assess potential trend continuation or reversal. Interpretive Table: A table summarizing correlation status for each period helps traders make quick, informed decisions without needing to interpret the plot details directly.
Parameters Source: Defines the price source (default: close) for calculating autocorrelation. Length: Sets the analysis period, ranging from 10 to 2000 (default: 200). Sensitivity: Adjusts the threshold sensitivity for defining correlation as positive or negative (default: 2.5).
Interpretation Above 50 + Sensitivity: Indicates Positive Correlation. The price movements over the selected period are likely to continue in the same direction, potentially signaling a trend continuation. Below 50 - Sensitivity: Indicates Negative Correlation. The price movements show a likelihood of reversing, which could signal an upcoming trend reversal. Between 50 ± Sensitivity: Indicates No Correlation. Price movements are less predictable in direction, with no clear trend continuation or reversal tendency. How It Works The indicator calculates the logarithmic returns of the selected source price over each length period. It then compares returns over consecutive periods, categorizing them as either "winning" (consistent direction) or "losing" (inconsistent direction) movements. The result for each period is displayed as a percentage, with values above 50% indicating a higher degree of directional consistency (positive or negative). A table updates with descriptive labels (Positive Correlation, Negative Correlation, No Correlation) for each tested period, providing a quick overview. Visual Elements
Plots: AutoCorrelation Test [1]: Displays autocorrelation for the closest period (lag 1). AutoCorrelation Test [2]: Displays autocorrelation for the second period (lag 2). AutoCorrelation Test [3]: Displays autocorrelation for the third period (lag 3). Average: Displays the simple moving average of the three test periods for a smoothed view of overall correlation trends. Horizontal Lines: No Correlation (50%): A baseline indicating neutral correlation. Positive/Negative Correlation Thresholds: Dotted lines set at 50 ± Sensitivity, marking the thresholds for significant correlation.
Usage Guide Adjust Parameters: Select the Source to define which price metric (e.g., close, open) will be analyzed. Set the Length based on your preferred analysis window (e.g., shorter for intraday trends, longer for swing trading). Modify Sensitivity to fine-tune the thresholds based on market volatility and personal trading preference. Interpret Table and Plots: Use the table to quickly check the correlation status of each lag period. Analyze the plots for changes in correlation. If multiple lags show positive correlation above the sensitivity threshold, a trend continuation may be expected. Conversely, negative values suggest a potential reversal. Integrate with Other Indicators: For enhanced insights, consider using the AutoCorrelation Test indicator in conjunction with other trend or momentum indicators. This indicator offers a powerful method to assess market conditions, identify potential trend continuations or reversals, and better inform trading decisions. Its customization options provide flexibility for various trading styles and timeframes.