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Butterfly Pattern

Butterfly Pattern

AdvancedHarmonic PatternsNeutralReliability 60%

Pattern Formation

20 / 20 candles
1,1421,1121,0821,0511,02199101/0101/0301/0501/0701/0901/1101/1301/1501/1701/19
Speed

Statistics

Target Hit Rate
58%
Average Move
18%
Failure Rate
18%
Avg Formation Days
45 days
Volume Confirmation Boost
+10%

Reference values based on Bulkowski's "Encyclopedia of Chart Patterns". Data is primarily from U.S. markets and may differ for other markets.

A 5-point (X-A-B-C-D) harmonic pattern proposed by Bryce Gilmore and Larry Pesavento. The key difference from the Gartley is that point D extends beyond the original X point (1.27 XA extension). B is positioned at the 0.786 retracement of XA. This pattern captures reversals after overshoot at point D.

Formation Conditions

  • The X-A impulse leg must be clearly defined
  • The A-B retracement must be at the 0.786 level of XA
  • The B-C retracement must be 0.382-0.886 of AB
  • Point D must be at the 1.27 extension of XA on the C-D leg
  • Point D must extend beyond point X (distinguishing it from Gartley)

Entry Condition

Enter when point D (1.27 XA extension) is reached and a reversal candlestick pattern (pin bar, engulfing, etc.) is confirmed. Long at point D for a bullish butterfly, short for bearish.

Target Calculation

First target: 0.382 retracement of C to D. Second target: B level. Maximum target: A level. Since reversals from point D tend to produce large moves, staged profit-taking is effective.

Stop Loss Rule

Place a stop-loss beyond point D (near the 1.414 XA extension). Allow some overshoot at point D while cutting losses on significant deviation.

Volume Profile

A volume surge at point D's reversal is important. Ideally, high volume on X-A, decreasing volume during pattern formation, and volume increase again at point D.

False Signal Detection

  • If B is not accurately at the 0.786 XA level, it may not be a butterfly
  • If D significantly exceeds the 1.414 XA level, the pattern may be failing
  • Excessive overshoot at point D can lead to large losses
  • In strong trending markets, price may continue beyond point D
  • Accurate Fibonacci tools are required for pattern recognition

Related Indicators

Fibonacci retracementFibonacci extensionRSIVolume

Related Patterns

ABCD PatternGartley PatternBat Pattern

Learn More

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