Understanding Relative Rotation Graphs: A Simple Guide
When it comes to investing, knowing which stocks or sectors to focus on can be challenging. This is where the Relative Rotation Graph (RRG) comes in handy. Developed by Julius de Kempenaer, a seasoned sell-side analyst from the Netherlands, the RRG is a powerful tool for visualizing the performance of various securities relative to a benchmark.
What is a Relative Rotation Graph?
A Relative Rotation Graph, or RRG, helps investors identify which securities are outperforming or underperforming relative to a benchmark. It’s a two-dimensional graph where the x-axis represents the relative strength ratio, and the y-axis represents relative strength momentum.
How to Read an RRG
The RRG is divided into four quadrants:
1. Leading: Securities in this quadrant are strong and have high momentum, indicating they are likely to continue performing well.
2. Weakening: Securities here are still strong but losing momentum, suggesting a potential decline.
3. Lagging: Securities in this quadrant are weak with low momentum, indicating poor performance.
4. Improving: Securities here are gaining momentum and may soon enter the Leading quadrant.
Securities typically move in a clockwise direction through these quadrants. This cyclical movement helps investors understand where a security stands in its performance cycle.

Why Use RRGs?
RRGs simplify the complex world of technical analysis by providing a clear, visual representation of relative performance. Investors can quickly see which securities are worth considering and which ones to avoid. This makes it an invaluable tool for both novice and experienced investors.
An Insightful Tool for All
Whether you’re new to investing or a seasoned pro, the RRG offers a straightforward way to track the relative performance of different securities. By understanding the basic concept of relative strength and momentum, you can make more informed investment decisions and potentially improve your portfolio’s performance.
For more detailed information on RRGs, you can visit Investopedia’s article on Relative Rotation Graphs.
If you’re interested in tracking US sector ETFs using RRGs, check out this web app. Created to help monitor US sectors, it’s a handy tool, though it does not provide investment advice.

Relative Rotation Graphs are more than just charts; they are a window into the dynamic world of market movements. So next time you’re making investment decisions, consider giving RRGs a look — they might just be the key to unlocking better investment strategies.
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This article was inspired by the innovative work of Julius de Kempenaer and aims to simplify the concept of Relative Rotation Graphs for everyday investors.
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References:
- Julius de Kempenaer, RRG Research
- Investopedia: Relative Rotation Graph
- RRG for US Sector ETFs