Moving Average 3.0 (3rd Generation)
Oct 6, 2018

The Moving Average 3.0 (3rd Generation) indicator provides a sophisticated trend-following solution designed to significantly reduce lag without sacrificing smoothness by employing a specialized mathematical correction formula. By calculating the relationship between two moving average lengths, the tool projects a more responsive price line that helps traders identify trend shifts earlier than traditional moving averages.
Usage
The Moving Average 3.0 (NMA) can be used as a primary trend filter or a signal generator for entries and exits. Because it is engineered for lag reduction, it is particularly effective in fast-moving markets where standard SMAs or EMAs might react too slowly to price reversals.
- Trend Identification: When the price remains above the NMA line, the market is considered to be in a bullish phase. Conversely, when the price stays below the line, the market is in a bearish phase.
- Crossovers: Traders often look for price crossovers with the NMA. A price crossing above the NMA serves as a bullish signal, while a price crossing below serves as a bearish signal.
- Smoothing Selection: By switching between MA types (such as VWMA or WMA), users can adapt the indicator to volume-weighted data or more front-weighted price action depending on their specific strategy needs.
Details
This indicator is based on the concepts originally developed and described by Dr. Manfred G. Dürschner in his paper "Gleitende Durchschnitte 3.0". The methodology moves beyond the "2nd Generation" (which typically involves zero-lag techniques like the DEMA) by introducing a specific "alpha" factor.
The calculation involves a primary moving average and a secondary moving average calculated from the first. A lambda value is derived from the ratio of the two user-defined lengths, which then determines an alpha coefficient. This coefficient is used to calculate the final 3rd Generation value:
NMA = (1 + alpha) * MA1 - alpha * MA2
This linear combination effectively "pulls" the moving average closer to current price action, neutralizing the phase shift typically found in recursive smoothing filters.
Settings
- 1st Length: Sets the primary period for the first moving average calculation. A higher value results in a smoother but slower line.
- 2nd Length: Sets the period for the second moving average calculation, used to determine the lag correction.
- MA Type: Allows the user to choose the underlying calculation method (EMA, SMA, VWMA, or WMA).
- Source: Determines which price data is used for the calculation (e.g., Close, Open, High, Low).
FAQ
What makes the 3rd Generation Moving Average different from a standard EMA? Unlike a standard EMA which has a fixed lag relative to the period, the 3rd Generation Moving Average uses a dual-length mathematical correction to project the average forward, significantly reducing the delay in trend detection.
Which MA Type is best for this indicator? The "best" type depends on the asset. EMA and WMA are generally preferred for day trading due to their responsiveness, while SMA may be better for long-term trend filtering. VWMA is useful if you wish to incorporate volume data into the trend calculation.
How do I access the Moving Average 3.0 (3rd Generation)? 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.
Unlock the entire LuxAlgo Library
Every indicator, every strategy, full charts, and complete access to Quant — our AI agent.