The Sine Wave is a technical analysis tool based on advanced mathematics that indicates if a market is trending or in a cycle mode. It helps traders identify the start and finish of a trending move as well as possible shifts in the trend. This leading indicator is also called the MESA indicator and was developed by John Ehlers based on an algorithm, that was originally applied to digital signal processing. It consists of 2 lines, called the Sine Wave and the Lead Wave. When the price is trending, the lines do not cross and usually run parallel and distant from each other.
Crossovers between these lines could signal turning points and generate buy or sell signals under the right conditions. The indicator can also signal if a market is overbought or oversold (meaning the price is unjustifiably high or unjustifiably low), which could point to a stalling or reversal of the trend. Whether used alone or in combination with other techniques or non-correlated indicators (such as moving average-based indicators), the Sine Wave is a useful tool in a technical trader's toolbox.
