Traders can compare a pair of simple moving averages, each covering different time frames. This method is called a moving average crossover and involves either buying or selling when a shorter MA crosses a longer MA. For instance, the golden cross, signaling a long position, occurs when the 50-day SMA crosses above a 200-day SMA. Alternatively, a death cross, suggesting a sell, occurs if a 50-day SMA crosses below a 200-day SMA.