Volatility Based SMI with Dynamic Bands by QTX Algo Systems

Volatility Based SMI with Dynamic Bands by QTX Algo Systems

Overview
This advanced oscillator redefines the classic Stochastic Momentum Index (SMI) by incorporating adaptive volatility scaling and dynamically tilting its overbought and oversold levels based on market trends. The result is a context-sensitive momentum tool that adjusts its thresholds in real time, helping traders identify potential reversals or trend continuations more effectively.

How It Works

Enhanced SMI Calculation:
The indicator starts by computing a double‐smoothed SMI. Two layers of exponential moving averages—controlled by the “Smoothing K” and “Smoothing D” inputs—are applied to both the relative price range and the overall range (difference between the highest high and lowest low) over a fixed period. This process reduces short-term noise and isolates the underlying momentum.

Adaptive Volatility Scaling:
A normalized volatility measure is derived using a fixed Bollinger Band Width Percentile (BBWP) approach. This volatility metric is used to create an adaptive adjustment factor that scales the SMI, ensuring that the oscillator’s sensitivity reflects current market conditions without being distorted by temporary extremes.

Dynamic Threshold Adjustment:
The indicator then calculates trend strength using a lookback period (set by the “Trend Lookback Period” input) that compares the current price to a volume-weighted moving average (VWMA). This trend strength is used to adjust the base overbought and oversold levels (fixed at 50 and –50) through two mechanisms:
Band Tilt Strengths:
The “Upper Band Tilt Strength” and “Lower Band Tilt Strength” inputs determine how aggressively the respective thresholds are shifted in response to the prevailing trend. In an uptrend, for example, the oversold level is raised more noticeably, while in a downtrend, the overbought level is lowered.
Opposite Band Compression:
The “Opposite Band Compression Strength” input further refines this adjustment by accelerating the contraction of the opposite band during trend reversals, enhancing the indicator’s responsiveness.

How to Use and Input Adjustments

Smoothing K & Smoothing D:
Adjust these to control the degree of smoothing in the SMI calculation. Lower values provide quicker, albeit noisier, responses, while higher values yield smoother signals.
SMI EMA Length:
This sets the sensitivity of the moving average applied to the SMI, affecting how promptly crossover signals are generated.
Trend Lookback Period:
Defines the historical window for assessing trend strength. A longer period gives a more stable trend, while a shorter period increases responsiveness.
Upper/Lower Band Tilt Strength:
These parameters determine how much the overbought and oversold levels shift in response to the market’s trend. Increasing these values results in more pronounced threshold adjustments.
Opposite Band Compression Strength:
This setting influences how quickly the opposite band compresses during trend reversals, thereby fine-tuning the dynamic nature of the oscillator’s thresholds.

What Makes It Proprietary
Traditional SMI indicators typically rely on fixed thresholds for overbought and oversold conditions. Our approach is proprietary because it seamlessly integrates adaptive volatility scaling with dynamic, trend-based threshold adjustments. This fusion produces an oscillator that is acutely sensitive to current market conditions, offering a more nuanced and context-aware view of momentum that stands apart from conventional methods.

How to Use
Monitor the oscillator for crossovers between the SMI and its EMA, which serve as potential signals for reversals or confirmations of trend continuation. Fine-tune the input parameters to match your market conditions and trading style, and use the dynamically adjusted thresholds in conjunction with other technical analysis tools to refine your entry and exit decisions.

Disclaimer
This indicator is for educational purposes only and is intended to support your trading strategy. It does not guarantee performance, and past results are not indicative of future outcomes. Always use proper risk management and perform your own analysis before trading.