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Dark Cloud Cover

Dark Cloud Cover / ダーククラウドカバー

BeginnerCandlestick PatternsBearish (Down)Reliability 60%

Pattern Formation

6 / 6 candles
1,0931,0621,0321,00197194001/0101/0201/0301/0401/0501/06
Speed

Statistics

Target Hit Rate
60%
Average Move
12%
Failure Rate
18%
Avg Formation Days
2 days
Volume Confirmation Boost
+14%

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

A two-candlestick pattern that appears at the top of an uptrend. The first candle is a large bullish candle, and the second opens above the previous close then declines significantly, closing below the midpoint (50%) of the first candle's body. It indicates that buyers tested the highs but were pushed back by sellers, suggesting the end of the uptrend and a potential reversal to the downside.

Formation Conditions

  • A preceding uptrend must be in place
  • The first candle must have a large bullish body
  • The second candle must open above the first candle's high (gap up)
  • The second candle's close must be below the midpoint (50%) of the first candle's body
  • The second candle's close must be above the first candle's open (closing within the first body)

Entry Condition

After the Dark Cloud Cover is confirmed, enter short once the next candle opens as a bearish candle. Alternatively, enter when price drops below the second candle's low.

Target Calculation

Project the body length of the first bullish candle downward from the second candle's low to determine the price target. Or target the nearest support line.

Stop Loss Rule

Place a stop-loss slightly above the second candle's high (the gap-up portion).

Volume Profile

If the second bearish candle's volume exceeds the first bullish candle's, it indicates strong selling pressure and enhances reliability. Increased volume reflects accelerated profit-taking.

False Signal Detection

  • If the second candle's close is above the midpoint (50%) of the first body, it is an incomplete Dark Cloud Cover
  • Less meaningful without a preceding uptrend
  • If the next candle does not confirm the decline, the signal is negated
  • Low volume on the second candle reduces reliability
  • During a strong uptrend, it may end as a temporary correction

Related Indicators

RSI (overbought confirmation)MACDVolumeResistance line

Related Patterns

Bullish EngulfingBearish EngulfingDojiThree White Soldiers

Learn More

View in Cheatsheet →View Glossary →