RSI MACD with conditional MA indicator backtesting
Oct 4, 2018

The RSI MACD with conditional MA indicator backtesting tool provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating a strategy that combines Relative Strength Index (RSI), Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) logic, and multiple Moving Averages (MA) to identify trend reversals and momentum shifts. It aims to offer a robust backtesting environment for traders looking to validate entries based on the convergence of price-based and momentum-based filters.
Usage
The script is primarily used to backtest long-only strategies by analyzing the interaction between RSI-derived MACD lines and price-based Moving Averages. A buy signal is generated when momentum (RSI MACD) crosses upward while price remains above key trend filters, such as a long-term control MA or a shorter-period MA cross.
Example scenarios include:
- Momentum Entry: Buying when the MACD line (derived from RSI) crosses over its signal line, provided the price is above the Control MA.
- Trend Entry: Buying when a short-term Moving Average crosses above the Control MA or a long-term Moving Average.
- Exit Logic: The strategy closes positions when a bearish MACD signal occurs or when price-based stop-loss conditions (like a bearish MA crossunder) are met.
Details
The script executes logic by first calculating a standard RSI. It then applies MACD calculations (Fast MA - Slow MA) directly to the RSI values rather than raw price, creating a momentum oscillator that is bounded and normalized.
Simultaneously, it tracks three distinct Moving Averages on the price (OHLC4):
- Short MA: Based on the fast length setting.
- Long MA: Based on the slow length setting.
- Control MA: A higher-period baseline used as a primary trend filter.
The strategy filters momentum entries based on the "maHist" (Short MA - Control MA), ensuring trades are only taken when the immediate price trend is positive relative to the control baseline.
Settings
Backtest Window
- Backtest Start/Stop Year/Month/Day: Defines the specific date range for the strategy simulation.
- Color Background?: Highlights the active backtesting period on the chart for visual clarity.
Momentum Settings
- Length: The lookback period for the base RSI calculation.
- Fast Length: The period for the fast RSI-based moving average.
- Slow Length: The period for the slow RSI-based moving average.
- Signal Length: The smoothing period for the RSI MACD signal line.
Trend Settings
- Control MA: The period for the primary trend-filtering Moving Average.
- Buy on crossover control MA?: A toggle to enable or disable entries specifically triggered by the price crossing above the Control MA.
FAQ
How do I interpret the histograms and lines?
The blue line represents the RSI-based MACD, while the histogram shows the difference between the MACD and its signal line. Values above 50 generally indicate bullish momentum in this specific implementation.
What causes a stop-loss exit?
The strategy triggers a "stop" exit if the Short MA crosses under either the Long MA or the Control MA, acting as a trend-following safety mechanism.
How can I access this tool?
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.