Delta

Trader's Glossary · Order flow

Delta

Definition. The difference between the volume traded at the ask (aggressive buying) and the volume traded at the bid (aggressive selling) over a given period.

How it works

Positive delta means aggressive buyers were more active; negative delta means aggressive sellers dominated. Delta is calculated for a candle, a price level or a whole session.

Example

In a 5-minute candle, 420 contracts were bought at the ask and 300 sold at the bid. The delta is +120.

What to watch out for

Delta shows aggression, not effectiveness. Large positive delta with price that isn't rising can mean absorption.

See also

Cumulative delta, Footprint, Absorption.

More in Hetman Capital Club

You'll find the full explanation with graphics, examples and exercises in the 🖥️ Order flow atlas space, and its use in the live market in the 🔴 Live Room. Both are available to Club members (in Polish).

Educational content, not investment advice.