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L2 Momentum Line Convergence Divergence (MLCD)

Oct 13, 2020

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SignalsOscillatorsDivergences

The L2 Momentum Line Convergence Divergence (MLCD) indicator is an innovative technical analysis tool that applies the classic MACD framework to momentum-based calculations to identify trend strength, reversals, and potential market entries. By utilizing a momentum fast line and a slow auxiliary line, it provides a clear visual representation of market velocity and trend shifts.

Usage

The MLCD is used primarily to identify trend changes through crossovers and price-momentum discrepancies. The indicator is plotted in a separate pane and consists of several key components:

  • Momentum Line & Aux Line: These form the core of the indicator. When the faster Momentum Line crosses above the slower Aux Line, it signals a bullish "Gold Cross." Conversely, a cross below signals a bearish "Dead Cross."
  • Momentum Band: The area between the two lines is filled (Green for bullish, Red for bearish), helping traders visualize the current trend direction and volatility.
  • Divergence Signals: The tool automatically identifies price-to-momentum divergences. A "Bottom Divergence" (Green circle) suggests a potential bullish reversal, while a "Top Divergence" (Red circle) suggests a potential bearish reversal.
  • Histogram: The columns represent the difference between the two momentum lines, with color-coded bars indicating whether momentum is accelerating or decelerating.

Details

The MLCD is constructed by calculating a custom momentum value based on the average of the High, Low, and Close prices. This value is processed through a weighted simple average (similar to an Awesome Oscillator calculation) and then scaled. The "Momentum Line" reacts more quickly to price changes, while the "Aux Line" is a 5-period EMA of the momentum values, providing a smoother baseline for comparison.

Divergence detection is handled by comparing the current price action with the price at the time of the previous crossover. If price makes a lower low while the momentum line makes a higher low, a bottom divergence is triggered. The opposite applies to top divergences, providing a sophisticated layer of signal filtering beyond basic crossovers.

Settings

  • Momentum Line: Adjusts the visual representation of the primary fast-reacting momentum calculation.
  • Momentum Aux Line: Controls the smoothing and appearance of the secondary signal line.
  • Positive/Negative Growth Histogram: Toggles the visibility and colors of the momentum columns used to gauge trend strength.
  • Gold/Dead Cross: Allows customization of the icons displayed during momentum crossovers.
  • Bottom/Top Divergence: Settings for the visual markers that appear when price and momentum deviate.

FAQ

How do I use the MLCD for trade entries?

The indicator provides "BUY" and "SELL" labels at crossover points. Traders often look for a Gold Cross paired with a Bottom Divergence for higher-probability bullish setups, or a Dead Cross with a Top Divergence for bearish setups.

What do the different histogram colors mean?

Green and Red represent strong momentum in their respective directions. Lighter blue and yellow shades indicate periods where momentum is slowing down or transitioning, potentially warning of a weakening trend.

How can I access L2 Momentum Line Convergence Divergence (MLCD)?

You can get access on the LuxAlgo Library for charting platforms like TradingView, MetaTrader (MT4/MT5), and NinjaTrader for free.

Free indicator

Get free access to this indicator on the platforms below.

TradingView
NinjaTrader
MetaTrader 4/5

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