Relative Strength Index vs. Commodity Channel Index: What's the Difference?

As a trader or investor, it is important to have a solid understanding of technical analysis, which involves using historical price and volume data to predict future price movements. 

Two popular technical indicators that traders often use are the Commodity Channel Index (CCI) and the Relative Strength Index (RSI). 

While both indicators can provide valuable insights into market trends and momentum, they have distinct differences in their calculations and interpretations. 

In this article, we will look into the details of these two indicators and explain how they can be used effectively in technical analysis.

Overview of the Commodity Channel Index (CCI)

The Commodity Channel Index (CCI) is a versatile indicator that was developed by Donald Lambert in 1980. It is primarily used to identify overbought and oversold conditions in the market. 

The CCI measures the current price level relative to an average price level over a specified period of time. By doing so, it helps traders identify potential trend reversals or price breakouts.

The calculation of the CCI involves three main steps. 

1. First, a simple moving average (SMA) is calculated over a specified period of time, typically 20 days. 
2. Next, the mean deviation is calculated by finding the difference between each data point and the SMA. 
3. Finally, the CCI is calculated by dividing the mean deviation by a constant multiple of the mean absolute deviation. The resulting value is then normalised to fit within a specified range, typically between -100 and +100.

Understanding the Relative Strength Index (RSI)

In contrast to the CCI, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) is a momentum oscillator that measures the speed and change of price movements. 

It was developed by J. Welles Wilder Jr. in 1978 and is widely used by traders to identify overbought and oversold levels in the market. The RSI ranges from 0 to 100 and is typically plotted as a line graph below the price chart.

The RSI is calculated using a relatively simple formula. First, the average gain and average loss over a specified period of time, typically 14 days, are calculated. 

The average gain is the sum of all positive price changes during the period divided by the number of periods, while the average loss is the sum of all negative price changes divided by the number of periods. 

The RSI is then calculated by dividing the average gain by the sum of the average gain and average loss and multiplying the result by 100.

Differences Between CCI and RSI

While both the CCI and RSI are momentum indicators that can be used to identify overbought and oversold conditions, there are several key differences between them.

1. CCI is more focused on price extremes and trend reversals, while the RSI is more focused on price momentum. The CCI is designed to identify potential turning points in the market, whereas the RSI is designed to measure the strength and speed of price movements.
2. The calculation methods for the CCI and RSI are different. The CCI uses a moving average and mean deviation to calculate its values, while the RSI uses average gain and average loss.
3. The interpretation of the CCI and RSI also differs. A CCI reading above +100 indicates overbought conditions, while a reading below -100 indicates oversold conditions. On the other hand, an RSI reading above 70 indicates overbought conditions, while a reading below 30 indicates oversold conditions.

How to Use CCI in Technical Analysis

To effectively use the Commodity Channel Index (CCI) in technical analysis, it is important to understand its signals and how to interpret them.

One common way to use the CCI is to look for divergences between the indicator and the price chart. For example, if the price of an asset is making higher highs, but the CCI is making lower highs, it could be a sign of a potential trend reversal. 

Conversely, if the price is making lower lows, but the CCI is making higher lows, it could indicate a potential trend reversal to the upside.

Another way to use the CCI is to look for overbought and oversold conditions. When the CCI crosses above +100, it suggests that the asset is overbought and a price correction may be imminent. 

Conversely, when the CCI crosses below -100, it suggests that the asset is oversold and a price bounce may be on the horizon. It is important to note that the CCI should not be used in isolation and should be used in conjunction with other technical indicators and analysis techniques to confirm its signals.

How to Use RSI in Technical Analysis

Similar to the CCI, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) can also be used effectively in technical analysis by understanding its signals and how to interpret them.

One common way to use the RSI is to look for overbought and oversold conditions. As mentioned earlier, an RSI reading above 70 indicates overbought conditions, suggesting that the asset may be due for a price correction. 

Conversely, an RSI reading below 30 indicates oversold conditions, suggesting that the asset may be due for a price bounce.

Another way to use the RSI is to look for divergences between the indicator and the price chart. For example, if the price of an asset is making higher highs, but the RSI is making lower highs, it could be a sign of a potential trend reversal. 

Conversely, if the price is making lower lows, but the RSI is making higher lows, it could indicate a potential trend reversal to the upside.

As with the CCI, it is important to use the RSI in conjunction with other technical indicators and analysis techniques to confirm its signals and avoid false signals.

Examples of CCI and RSI in Action

To better understand how the Commodity Channel Index (CCI) and the Relative Strength Index (RSI) can be used in technical analysis, let's look at some examples.

Example 1: CCI in Action

Suppose you are analysing the price chart of a stock and notice that the CCI has crossed above +100. This indicates that the stock is overbought and may be due for a price correction. As a result, you decide to sell your position or place a short trade to take advantage of the potential downward movement in the stock price.

Example 2: RSI in Action

Now let's consider an example where the RSI is used to identify oversold conditions. You are analysing the price chart of a cryptocurrency and notice that the RSI has dropped below 30. This indicates that the cryptocurrency is oversold and may be due for a price bounce. 

In response, you decide to buy the cryptocurrency or place a long trade to take advantage of the potential upward movement in its price.

These examples illustrate how the CCI and RSI can be used to identify potential trading opportunities based on overbought and oversold conditions.

Tips for Using CCI and RSI Effectively

To make the most of the Commodity Channel Index (CCI) and the Relative Strength Index (RSI) in your technical analysis, consider the following tips:

• Understand the Strengths and Limitations of Each Indicator: While the CCI and RSI can provide valuable insights, they are not foolproof and should be used in conjunction with other indicators and analysis techniques.
• Use Multiple Timeframes: Consider analysing the CCI and RSI on multiple timeframes to get a more comprehensive view of the market. For example, you can use a longer timeframe to identify the overall trend and a shorter timeframe to fine-tune your entry and exit points.
• Combine with Other Indicators: The CCI and RSI work best when used in conjunction with other technical indicators, such as moving averages or trendlines. This can help confirm signals and reduce the risk of false signals.
• Practice Risk Management: Always use proper risk management techniques, such as setting stop-loss orders and position sizing, when trading based on the signals generated by the CCI and RSI.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using CCI and RSI

While the Commodity Channel Index (CCI) and the Relative Strength Index (RSI) can be powerful tools in technical analysis, it is important to avoid some common mistakes that traders often make when using these indicators.

• One common mistake is relying solely on the CCI or RSI for making trading decisions. As mentioned earlier, these indicators should be used in conjunction with other indicators and analysis techniques to confirm signals and reduce the risk of false signals.
• Another mistake is using default settings for the CCI and RSI without considering the specific characteristics of the asset being analysed. The default settings may not be suitable for all assets, so it is important to experiment with different settings and find what works best for the specific asset and timeframe.
• Lastly, it is important to avoid chasing after extreme readings on the CCI and RSI. Just because an asset is overbought or oversold does not necessarily mean that it will immediately reverse or bounce. It is important to wait for confirmation from other indicators or price action before making a trading decision.

Take time to check this important article: 5 common trading mistakes to avoid

Bottom Line

To wrap things up, the Commodity Channel Index (CCI) and the Relative Strength Index (RSI) are powerful technical indicators that can provide valuable insights into market trends and momentum. 

While both indicators can be used to identify overbought and oversold conditions, they have distinct differences in their calculations and interpretations. 

By understanding the strengths and limitations of these indicators and using them in conjunction with other indicators and analysis techniques, traders can make more informed trading decisions. 

So, next time you analyse a price chart, consider incorporating the CCI and RSI into your technical analysis toolbox.

Ready to trade with markets.com? Creating an account is easy.

“When considering “CFDs” for trading and price predictions, remember that trading CFDs involves a significant risk and could result in capital loss. Past performance is not indicative of any future results. This information is provided for informative purposes only and should not be considered investment advice.”