Contents
- 1 What is Accumulation Distribution indicator?
- 2 Trading with the Accumulation Distribution indicator on IQ Option
- 3 Pros and Cons of the Accumulation Distribution Indicator π π
- 4 Important Technical Indicators to Pair with the Accumulation Distribution Indicator π
- 5 Summary
- 6 Common Questions about the Accumulation Distribution Indicator π€
- 7 GENERAL RISK WARNING
Today you will get to know the tool that is known as Accumulation Distribution indicator. It was designed by Marc Chaikin and was initially called the Cumulative Money Flow Line. Traders use indicators to recognise the trend or the change in the price direction and so find the best points to open transactions.
Key Takeawaysπ
βThe Accumulation Distribution indicator helps traders identify buying and selling pressure in the market. |
βThis indicator can be used to confirm trends, find divergences, and anticipate potential trend reversals. |
βCombine the Accumulation Distribution indicator with other technical analysis tools for more accurate trading decisions. |
What is Accumulation Distribution indicator?
The Accumulation Distribution Line is calculated by adding the current period’s Money Flow Volume to the previous Accumulation Distribution Line. And the Money Flow Volume is Money Flow Multiplier multiplied by the Volume for the period.
The Accumulation/Distribution technical indicator is the accumulative measurement of volume flows in each period. Its line is rising when the buying pressure is high that is when a high positive multiplier is joined with high volume. A strong selling pressure, (low negative multiplier and high volume), results in the decrease of the indicator’s line. Money Flow Volume creates a line that can confirm or contradict the trend seen on the price chart.
Adding the Accumulation Distribution indicator to the IQ Option chart
To add an indicator to the trading chart, you must be logged in to your IQ Option account. Decide what kind of asset you are going to trade in this session. Set the timeframe for your chart. Now, click on the Indicators icon. There are a few categories under the Indicators tab. Choose ‘Volume’. Then you will see the Accumulation Distribution on the list on the left side. Click on it and it will be opened in the separate window beneath the price chart.

Trading with the Accumulation Distribution indicator on IQ Option
You can use the AD in a few ways. You just have to observe the price chart together with the indicator’s window.
Pros and Cons of the Accumulation Distribution Indicator π π
- Pros:
- Effective in assessing buying and selling pressure in the market.
- Can be used to confirm trends and spot divergences for better trading decisions.
- Helpful in anticipating trend reversals.
- Cons:
- Not recommended as a standalone trading tool.
- May generate false signals in certain market conditions.
- Accuracy depends on choosing the right combination of technical analysis tools.
Important Technical Indicators to Pair with the Accumulation Distribution Indicator π
Technical Indicator | Key Features |
---|---|
Moving Averages | Smooths out price data to identify trends and potential support/resistance levels. |
Momentum Oscillators | Measures the rate of price change, providing insights into market strength and potential trend reversals. |
Relative Strength Index (RSI) | Evaluates overbought or oversold conditions, potentially signaling trend reversals or price corrections. |
Bollinger Bands | Displays a range of volatility and potential price reversals by plotting upper and lower bands around the moving average. |
Trend confirmation with Accumulation Distribution indicator
You get a confirmation of the trend that is seen on the price chart when both, the price and the Accumulation Distribution line go in the same direction. If they rise, there is an uptrend. The downtrend exists when both move downwards.

Bullish and bearish divergences
Divergences happen when the price and the indicator do not go in the same direction. They help to catch the upcoming trend reversal.
Below, there is an exemplary chart with bullish divergence. The price is falling but at the same time, the Accumulation Distribution indicator is rising. Underlying buying pressure (accumulation) forces the price to change direction.

When the price is going up but the indicator’s line is falling, we can assume there is underlying selling pressure (distribution) and expect the reversal of the trend.

Summary
The AD indicator is great for assessing the strength of the volume behind a given price movement on a chart. It gives a good indication of the selling and buying pressure in a given market. This allows you to estimate potential future price movements. However, it is not recommended to use this indicator alone. It can be combined with other technical analysis indicators. The first one that comes to mind here is the moving average, as they generally work well with oscillators.
The Accumulation Distribution indicator shows a general flow of volume. Its rise reveals buying pressure and its decline in selling pressure. It can be used to confirm the existing trend or to find future trends and catch a potential change in the price direction.
Use it in combination with other technical analysis tools such as chart patterns or momentum oscillators.
Check in the IQ Option demo account how it works. You will get time to know it well without worrying about losing your money.
Wish you successful trading!
Common Questions about the Accumulation Distribution Indicator π€
- Q: How does the Accumulation Distribution indicator differ from other volume indicators?
A: The Accumulation Distribution indicator is specifically designed to measure buying and selling pressure in the market, whereas other volume indicators, such as On-Balance Volume and Money Flow Index, focus on different aspects of price and volume data. - Q: Can I use the Accumulation Distribution indicator as a standalone trading tool?
A: It is not recommended to use the Accumulation Distribution indicator alone. Combining it with other technical analysis tools, such as moving averages or momentum oscillators, can provide better insights and improve your trading decisions. - Q: Can the Accumulation Distribution indicator help me identify potential trend reversals?
A: Yes, the Accumulation Distribution indicator can help identify bullish and bearish divergences, which may signal potential trend reversals in the market. - Q: How can I add the Accumulation Distribution indicator to my trading chart on IQ Option?
A: To add the Accumulation Distribution indicator to your trading chart on IQ Option, log in to your account, choose an asset, set your chart timeframe, click on the Indicators icon, select ‘Volume,’ and then click on ‘Accumulation Distribution’ in the list on the left side. - Q: Can I use the Accumulation Distribution indicator for different timeframes?
A: Yes, the Accumulation Distribution indicator can be used for various timeframes, but it is essential to consider the market conditions and choose an appropriate trading strategy for each timeframe.