How is VWAP used by day traders?

by lynn.runolfsdottir , in category: Stocks and Equities , 6 months ago

How is VWAP used by day traders?

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1 answer

by elizabeth , 6 months ago

@lynn.runolfsdottir 

VWAP, or Volume-Weighted Average Price, is a popular trading indicator used by day traders to help assess the average price at which a particular asset has been traded throughout the day. Here's how day traders use VWAP:

  1. Execution of Trades: Day traders use VWAP as a benchmark to determine whether their buy or sell orders are favorable or not. If the current market price is above VWAP, it indicates that the stock is relatively overpriced, and traders might consider selling. Conversely, if the market price is below VWAP, it suggests that the stock is relatively cheap, and traders might consider buying.
  2. Identifying Trends: VWAP is often used to identify the overall trend of a stock. If the price consistently trades above VWAP, it suggests potential bullish momentum, and if it consistently trades below VWAP, it indicates potential bearish momentum. Day traders analyze the relationship between the VWAP line and the actual price movement to assess the stock's trend and make trading decisions accordingly.
  3. Support and Resistance Levels: VWAP can also act as a support or resistance level for traders. If the stock price is struggling to surpass VWAP, it may act as a resistance level, indicating potential selling pressure. Conversely, if the price bounces off VWAP multiple times, it may act as a support level, suggesting potential buying opportunities.
  4. Identifying Reversals: When the price of a stock is significantly above or below VWAP and starts to move towards it, day traders may interpret this as a potential reversal in the stock's direction. This can help traders identify potential entry or exit points for their trades.


It's important to note that VWAP is a lagging indicator that considers both volume and price, making it a useful tool for intraday traders to assess market conditions and make informed trading decisions. However, it should be used in conjunction with other technical analysis tools and indicators for more comprehensive analysis.