Published Feb 6, 2026 4 min read

Introduction

The TRIX indicator, or Triple Exponential Average, is a momentum oscillator used in technical analysis to identify trends and potential reversals. By smoothing price data over three exponential moving averages (EMAs), it reduces market noise, making it easier to spot trends and momentum shifts. Both beginner and experienced traders find the TRIX indicator valuable for its ability to provide a clearer picture of market movements while filtering out short-term fluctuations.


 

What is the TRIX indicator?

The TRIX indicator is a momentum-based technical analysis tool designed to identify the rate of change in a triple-smoothed exponential moving average. It oscillates above and below a zero line, helping traders determine the direction of a trend and potential momentum reversals.

This indicator is particularly useful for identifying long-term trends while filtering out short-term market noise. Unlike other momentum indicators, the TRIX focuses on smoothing data to provide a more accurate representation of market trends. It is widely used by traders across various markets, including equities, commodities, and forex.

For beginners, the TRIX offers a simple way to understand market momentum and trends. Meanwhile, experienced traders often combine it with other indicators, such as moving averages or volume-based tools, to refine their trading strategies.


 

Why is it called ‘triple’ exponential?

The TRIX indicator is referred to as "triple" exponential because it applies three levels of exponential smoothing to price data. This process involves calculating three successive exponential moving averages (EMAs) of the price series.

The triple smoothing eliminates short-term fluctuations and market noise, allowing traders to focus on the underlying trend. This makes the TRIX indicator particularly useful for identifying consistent trends and momentum in volatile markets. By reducing unnecessary signals, it provides a clearer and more reliable view of market behaviour.

What is the TRIX indicator formula?

The formula for calculating the TRIX indicator involves the following steps:

  1. Calculate the first exponential moving average (EMA) of the closing price over a specified period (e.g., 15 days).
  2. Calculate the EMA of the first EMA to obtain the second EMA.
  3. Calculate the EMA of the second EMA to obtain the triple-smoothed EMA.
  4. Compute the percentage change in the triple-smoothed EMA from one period to the next:

    TRIX = [(Current Triple EMA - Previous Triple EMA) / Previous Triple EMA] × 100

The TRIX value oscillates around a zero line, with positive readings indicating upward momentum and negative readings signalling downward momentum.

How to interpret the TRIX indicator?

Interpreting the TRIX indicator involves understanding its movement relative to the zero line and its signal line. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Above the zero line: Indicates positive momentum and a potential upward trend.
  • Below the zero line: Suggests negative momentum and a possible downward trend.
  • Crossover signals: When the TRIX crosses above its signal line, it may indicate a bullish trend. Conversely, a crossover below the signal line could signal a bearish trend reversal.

For example, if the TRIX crosses above the zero line and continues to rise, it may indicate sustained bullish momentum, making it a potential buy signal.

What are the benefits of using the TRIX indicator?

The TRIX indicator offers several advantages for traders, including:

  • Noise reduction: By applying triple exponential smoothing, the TRIX filters out short-term market fluctuations, providing a clearer view of trends.
  • Trend identification: Helps traders identify long-term trends and momentum shifts.
  • Versatility: Can be used across various markets, including equities, commodities, and forex.
  • Multi-timeframe analysis: Suitable for both short-term and long-term trading strategies.


 

What are the limitations of TRIX?

While the TRIX indicator is a powerful tool, it has certain limitations:

  • Lagging nature: As a trend-following indicator, TRIX may lag behind the actual price movement, making it less effective for predicting immediate reversals.
  • Ineffectiveness in range-bound markets: The TRIX performs poorly in markets with no clear trend, as it relies on momentum for accurate signals.

Traders should combine the TRIX with other indicators or tools to mitigate these limitations and enhance their analysis.

What are popular TRIX trading strategies?

Traders often use the TRIX indicator in combination with other tools to develop effective strategies. Some popular approaches include:

  • TRIX and moving averages: Use a moving average to confirm TRIX signals. For example, a TRIX crossover above its signal line, combined with a moving average crossover, can strengthen a bullish signal.
  • Volume analysis: Pair the TRIX with volume indicators to confirm the strength of trends and breakouts.
  • Divergence trading: Identify divergence between the TRIX and price action to spot potential reversals.

How to customize TRIX settings?

The TRIX indicator can be customised to suit individual trading preferences. Key parameters include:

  • Lookback period: Adjust the number of periods used for calculating the EMA. A shorter period increases sensitivity, while a longer period smooths out fluctuations.
  • Signal line: Modify the period for the signal line to fine-tune crossover signals.
  • Combine with other indicators: Use the TRIX alongside other tools, such as support and resistance levels or Fibonacci retracements, to enhance analysis.

What are suitable markets and timeframes for TRIX?

The TRIX indicator is versatile and can be applied across various markets, including:

  • Equities: Ideal for identifying long-term stock trends.
  • Commodities: Useful for analysing momentum in volatile commodity markets.
  • Forex: Effective in spotting currency pair trends.

In terms of timeframes, the TRIX is flexible and can be used for both short-term and long-term analysis. However, it is particularly effective for identifying sustained trends over longer timeframes, such as daily or weekly charts.

Conclusion

The TRIX indicator is a valuable tool for traders aiming to identify trends and momentum shifts in the market. Its ability to smooth price data and filter out noise makes it a reliable choice for long-term trend analysis. However, it is essential to be aware of its limitations, such as its lagging nature and reduced effectiveness in range-bound markets. By combining the TRIX with other technical indicators and customising its settings, traders can develop more robust strategies. It is important to remember that no indicator guarantees success, and trading always involves risks.


Investments in securities markets are subject to market risks. Please read all scheme-related documents carefully before investing.
Past performance is not indicative of future returns.

Bajaj Broking does not provide investment advisory services.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the TRIX indicator calculated?

The TRIX is calculated using a triple-smoothed exponential moving average (EMA). The steps are:

  1. Calculate the first EMA of the closing price over a chosen period.
  2. Calculate the EMA of the first EMA to get the second EMA.
  3. Calculate the EMA of the second EMA to obtain the triple-smoothed EMA.
  4. Compute the percentage change between the current and previous triple-smoothed EMA values using the formula:
    TRIX = [(Current Triple EMA - Previous Triple EMA) / Previous Triple EMA] × 100


 

What does the triple-smoothed EMA represent?

The triple-smoothed EMA represents a refined version of the price data, achieved by applying three consecutive exponential moving averages. This process reduces market noise and highlights consistent trends, making it easier for traders to focus on significant price movements rather than short-term fluctuations.

How does TRIX help identify momentum?

The TRIX helps identify momentum by measuring the rate of change in the triple-smoothed EMA. Positive TRIX values indicate upward momentum, while negative values signal downward momentum. Traders use TRIX crossovers and divergence patterns to detect shifts in momentum and potential trend reversals.

Can TRIX be used to detect trend reversals?

Yes, the TRIX indicator can be used to detect trend reversals. A common method is to look for crossovers between the TRIX line and its signal line. For example, when the TRIX crosses above the signal line, it may indicate a bullish reversal. Conversely, a crossover below the signal line could signal a bearish reversal.

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