TICKET STRIKER LEARN
What Is Relative Volume (RVOL)? | Ticket Striker Learn
Relative volume compares current participation with a normal baseline for the same stock. It is most useful as a question—why is activity different today?—rather than a standalone trading signal.
The basic calculation
RVOL = observed volume ÷ expected volume. If 750,000 shares have traded by a point when 300,000 are normally expected, RVOL is 2.5x.
Choosing a valid baseline
A good comparison uses similar sessions and times of day. Premarket, regular-hours and after-hours participation should not be blended without clear labeling.
Interpreting the ratio
Above 1x means participation exceeds the baseline; below 1x means it trails. The ratio says nothing by itself about direction or liquidity.
Worked example
Stock A at 4x RVOL on 80,000 shares can be less liquid than Stock B at 1.8x on 12 million shares. Total volume and spread remain essential context.
Practical checklist
Confirm the session, inspect total volume, check quote freshness, review the catalyst and compare price behavior. Treat missing baseline evidence as unknown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 1.0 RVOL normal?
Approximately. It indicates observed participation is close to the expected baseline.
Is higher RVOL always better?
No. Higher means more unusual participation, not better liquidity or a better trade.
See the live scanner and preview Ticket Striker before becoming a member.