Candle Spread Oscillator (CS0)

The Candle Spread Oscillator (CSO) is a custom technical indicator designed to help traders identify momentum and directional strength in the market by analyzing the relationship between the candle body spread and the total candle range. This oscillator provides traders with a visually intuitive representation of price action dynamics and highlights key transitions between positive and negative momentum.

How It Works:
Body Spread vs. Total Range:

The CSO calculates the body spread (difference between the close and open price) and compares it to the total range (difference between the high and low price) of a candle.
The ratio of the body spread to the total range represents the proportion of price movement driven by directional momentum.

Smoothed Oscillator:

To remove noise and enhance clarity, the ratio is smoothed using a Hull Moving Average (HMA). The smoothing period can be adjusted through the "Smoothing Period" input, enabling traders to tailor the indicator to their preferred timeframes or strategies.

Gradient Visualization:

A gradient coloring is applied to the oscillator, transitioning smoothly between colors (e.g., fuchsia for negative momentum and aqua for positive momentum). This provides traders with a clear, intuitive visual cue of market behavior.

Visual Features:
Oscillator Plot:

The oscillator is displayed as an area-style plot, dynamically colored using a gradient. Positive values are represented in shades of aqua, while negative values are in shades of fuchsia.

Midline (0 Level):

A horizontal midline is plotted at the zero level, serving as a key reference point for identifying transitions between positive and negative momentum.

Background Highlights:

The chart background is subtly colored to match the oscillator's state, enhancing the visual emphasis on current momentum conditions.

Alerts for Key Crossovers:
The CSO comes with built-in alert conditions, making it highly actionable for traders:

Cross Up Alert: Triggers when the oscillator crosses above the midline (0), signaling a potential shift into positive momentum.

Cross Down Alert: Triggers when the oscillator crosses below the midline (0), indicating a potential transition into negative momentum.

These alerts allow traders to stay informed about critical market shifts without constantly monitoring the chart.

How to Use:
Trend Identification:

When the oscillator is above the midline and positive, it indicates that price action is moving with bullish momentum.

When the oscillator is below the midline and negative, it reflects bearish momentum.

Momentum Strength:

The magnitude of the oscillator (its distance from the midline) helps traders gauge the strength of the momentum. Stronger moves will push the oscillator further from zero.

Potential Reversals:

Crossovers of the oscillator through the midline can signal potential reversals or shifts in market direction.

Customization:

Adjust the Smoothing Period to adapt the sensitivity of the oscillator to different timeframes. A lower smoothing period reacts faster to price changes, while a higher smoothing period smooths out noise.

Best Use Cases:

Momentum Trading: Identify periods of sustained bullish or bearish momentum to align with the trend.

Reversal Signals: Spot transitions in market direction when the oscillator crosses the midline.

Confirmation Tool: Use the CSO alongside other indicators (e.g., volume, trendlines, or moving averages) to confirm trading signals.

Key Inputs:

Smoothing Period: Customize the sensitivity of the oscillator by adjusting the lookback period for the Hull Moving Average.

Gradient Range: The color gradient transitions between defined thresholds (-0.1 to 0.2 by default), ensuring a smooth visual experience.

[Why Use the Candle Spread Oscillator?
The CSO is a simple yet powerful tool for traders who want to:

Gain a deeper understanding of price momentum.

Quickly visualize shifts between bullish and bearish trends.

Use clear, actionable signals with customizable alerts.

Disclaimer: This indicator is not a standalone trading strategy. It should be used in combination with other technical and fundamental analysis tools. Always trade responsibly, and consult a financial advisor for personalized advice.