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Descending Triangle

Descending Triangle / Descending Triangle

IntermediateContinuation PatternsBearish (Down)Reliability 72%

Pattern Formation

61 / 61 candles
1,00597995492990487801/0101/0801/1501/2201/2902/0502/1202/1902/26
Speed

Statistics

Target Hit Rate
72%
Average Move
19%
Failure Rate
10%
Avg Formation Days
45 days
Volume Confirmation Boost
+15%

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

A triangle pattern formed by a horizontal lower support line and a declining upper resistance line. It indicates that sellers are gradually gaining dominance, and a downward breakout through the support line confirms the continuation of a downtrend. While it most commonly appears during downtrends, it can also function as a reversal pattern when appearing during uptrends.

Formation Conditions

  • A horizontal or nearly horizontal lower support line must be present
  • Highs must be declining, forming a descending upper resistance line
  • At least two touches of the lower support line
  • At least two touches of the upper resistance line
  • Volume should decrease as the triangle converges

Entry Condition

Enter short when price clearly breaks below the lower support line on a closing basis. Volume increase at breakout is desirable.

Target Calculation

Project the widest part of the triangle (from the first support touch to the first high) downward from the breakout point to determine the price target.

Stop Loss Rule

Place a stop-loss slightly above the most recent high within the triangle (the last upper resistance line touch point).

Volume Profile

Volume should gradually decrease during formation and increase at the downward breakout. However, downward breakouts can be valid even without a volume increase.

False Signal Detection

  • An upward breakout means pattern failure and requires closing short positions
  • Breakouts near the apex of the triangle have unclear direction and low reliability
  • In a broadly bullish market, descending triangles may not function effectively
  • Too many touches of the support line may indicate weakening support

Related Indicators

VolumeBreakout confirmationRSIADX (trend strength)

Related Patterns

Ascending TriangleSymmetrical TriangleFlagPennant

Learn More

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