RSI — the Relative Strength Index

RSI (Relative Strength Index) is a 0–100 momentum oscillator that measures how fast and how far a stock has moved; readings above 70 are considered overbought and below 30 oversold.

What RSI measures

The Relative Strength Index, developed by J. Welles Wilder, compares the size of recent gains to recent losses over a lookback period — 14 days is the standard. It outputs a value between 0 and 100.

How to read it

  • Above 70 — overbought. Momentum is stretched to the upside; a pause or pullback becomes more likely (but strong trends can stay overbought).
  • Below 30 — oversold. Selling is stretched; a bounce becomes more likely.
  • Around 50 is neutral, and the 40–60 band often acts as a trend filter.

How we use it

RSI is one of the inputs in the Daily Playbook read and in several signal rules. We treat extremes as context, not automatic buy/sell triggers — an overbought reading in a powerful uptrend is very different from one at resistance.

Live examples — Currently overbought (RSI ≥ 70)

No names in today's Playbook currently match.

FAQ

What is a good RSI value?
RSI between 40 and 60 is neutral. Above 70 is overbought and below 30 is oversold.
What RSI period should I use?
14 periods is the standard, as defined by Wilder. Shorter periods are more sensitive; longer periods are smoother.

Educational only. Not financial advice.