Pivot Points (PP)

Pivot Points (PP)

Pivot Points are a popular technical analysis tool used to identify potential levels of support and resistance in financial markets. They are calculated based on the previous day's price action and are particularly relevant for intraday trading, but can also be applied to longer timeframes.

The calculation of Pivot Points involves determining several levels based on the high, low, and closing prices of the previous period. 

The most commonly used method is the Standard Pivot Points calculation, which includes the following levels:

  1. Pivot Point (PP): This is the central pivot level and is calculated as the average of the previous day's high, low, and closing prices. It represents a potential area of equilibrium or balance.

  2. Support Levels (S1, S2, S3): These levels are calculated below the pivot point and are potential areas of support where the price might find buying interest. They are derived from certain multiples of the trading range (high-low) added to or subtracted from the pivot point.

  3. Resistance Levels (R1, R2, R3): These levels are calculated above the pivot point and represent potential areas of resistance where the price might face selling pressure. They are also derived from certain multiples of the trading range added to or subtracted from the pivot point.

The general interpretation of Pivot Points involves the following guidelines:

  • If the price is trading above the pivot point, it is considered bullish or in an uptrend. Traders may look for buying opportunities or expect the price to move towards the resistance levels.

  • If the price is trading below the pivot point, it is considered bearish or in a downtrend. Traders may look for selling opportunities or expect the price to move towards the support levels.

  • The support and resistance levels derived from the pivot points can act as potential areas for taking profits, entering new positions, or setting stop-loss orders.

  • Traders often pay attention to price action around the support and resistance levels to assess potential breakouts or reversals. If the price breaks above a resistance level, it may indicate upward momentum, while a break below a support level may indicate downward momentum.

It's important to note that Pivot Points are just one tool among many in a trader's toolkit. They should be used in conjunction with other technical analysis techniques, indicators, and market context for a comprehensive analysis. Additionally, different variations of Pivot Points exist, such as Fibonacci Pivot Points and Camarilla Pivot Points, which use different formulas to calculate levels. Traders may choose the method that best suits their trading style and preferences.