Harmonic Pattern

HARMONIC PATTERNS  

Harmonic price patterns take geometric price patterns to the next level by using Fibonacci numbers to define precise turning points. Unlike other trading methods, Harmonic trading attempts to predict future movements. This is in vast contrast to common methods that are reactionary and not predictive. Let's look at some examples of how harmonic price patterns are used to trade on the market. (Extensions, clusters, channels and more! Discover new ways to put the "golden ratio" to work.

Combine Geometry and Fibonacci Numbers 

Harmonic trading combines patterns and math into a trading method that is precise and based on the premise that patterns repeat themselves. At the root of the methodology is the primary ratio, or some derivative of it (0.618 or 1.618). Complementing ratios include: 0.382, 0.50, 1.41, 2.0, 2.24, 2.618, 3.14 and 3.618. The primary ratio is found in almost all natural and environmental structures and events; it is also found in man-made structures. Since the pattern repeats throughout nature and within society, the ratio is also seen in the financial markets, which are affected by the environments and societies in which they trade. (Don't make these common errors when working with Fibonacci numbers - check out Top Fibonacci Retracement Mistakes To Avoid) By finding patterns of varying lengths and magnitudes, the trader can then apply Fibonacci ratios to the patterns and try to predict future movements. The trading method is largely attributed to Scott Carney, although others have contributed or found patterns and levels that enhance performance.

Issues with Harmonics 

Harmonic price patterns are extremely precise, requiring the pattern to show movements of a particular magnitude in order for the unfolding of the pattern to provide an accurate reversal point. A trader may often see a pattern that looks like a harmonic pattern, but the Fibonacci levels will not align in the pattern, thus rendering the pattern unreliable in terms of the Harmonic approach. This can be an advantage, as it requires the trader to be patient and wait for ideal set-ups. Harmonic patterns can gauge how long current moves will last, but they can also be used to isolate reversal points. The danger occurs when a trader takes a position in the reversal area and the pattern fails. When this happens, the trader can be caught in a trade where the trend rapidly extends against them. Therefore, as with all trading strategies, risk must be controlled. It is important to note that patterns may exist within other patterns, and it is also possible that non-harmonic patterns may (and likely will) exist within the context of harmonic patterns. These can be used to aid in the effectiveness of the harmonic pattern and enhance entry and exit performance. Several price waves may also exist within a single harmonic wave (for instance a CD wave or AB wave). Prices are constantly gyrating; therefore, it is important to focus on the bigger picture of the time frame being traded. The fractal nature of the markets allows the theory to be applied from the smallest to largest time frames. To use the method, a trader will benefit from a chart platform that allows the trader to plot multiple Fibonacci retracements to measure each wave.

The Visual Patterns and How to Trade Them 

There is quite an assortment of harmonic patterns, although there are four that seem most popular. These are the Gartley, butterfly, bat and crab patterns.

GARTLEY PATTERN 

 The Gartley was originally published by H.M. Gartley in his book Profits in the Stock Market and the Fibonacci levels were later added by Scott Carney in his book The Harmonic Trader. 

Figure 1: The Gartley Pattern.

 The bullish pattern is often seen early in a trend, and it is a sign the corrective waves are ending and an upward move will ensue at point D. All patterns may be within the context of a broader trend or range and traders must be aware of that (see Elliott Wave Theory). Point D is a 0.786 correction of the XA wave, and it is a 1.27 or 1.618 extension of the BC wave. The area at D is known as the potential reversal zone (PRZ). This is where long positions could be entered, as some price confirmation of reversal is encouraged. A stop is placed just below the PRZ.

More About  Bullish / Bearish Gartley Pattern.

Bearish Gartley 

The bearish gartley pattern formation is similar to head and shoulders pattern, but as you can see the point C is below the point A, hence it is not head and shoulder pattern. 

Formation and trading strategy of Bearish Gartley pattern:

1. Point B must retrace 61.8% of AX movement.
2. Point C must retrace anywhere from 38.2% to 88.6% of BA movement.
3. Point D must be 138.2% or 161.8% extension of the BC movement.
4. Point D must retrace 76.8% of AX movement. This is our selling area.

Bullish Gartley 

The bullish pattern is as seen below, its formation is quite similar to inverse head and shoulders pattern, but as you can see below point C is not on the same level as point A.

Formation of Bullish Gartley pattern and trading strategy:

1. Point B can retrace 61.8% of XA movement.
2. Point C can retrace anywhere from 38.2% to 88.6% of AB movement.
3. Point D can be 138.2% or 161.8% extension of the CD move.
4. Point D can retrace 76.8% of XA movement. Point D is our buying area.

Stop loss in this is always very strict and hence we get very cool risk reward ratio, many times around 1:5 or more. The very important reason for trading this pattern is that it is based on uncertain places where traders are most afraid to take positions, hence giving better meaning for risk.

Butterfly Pattern

Figure 2: The Butterfly Pattern

The butterfly pattern is different than the Gartley in that it focuses on finding reversals at new lows (bullish) or new highs (bearish). D is a new low and a potential reversal point if the Fibonacci figures align with the structure. D would need to be an extension of BC in the magnitude of 1.618 or 2.618. This should align with an extension of XA in the magnitude of a 1.27 or 1.618. Entry is taken near D with price confirmation of the reversal encouraged. Stops are placed slightly below the potential reversal area (bullish). 

Bat Pattern

Figure 3: The Bat Pattern

The bat pattern is similar to Gartley in appearance, but not in measurement. Point B has a smaller retracement of XA of 0.382 or 0.50 (less than 0.618), but the extension of the BC wave into D is at minimum 1.618 and potentially 2.618. Therefore, D will be a 0.886 retracement of the original XA wave. This is the PRZ: when selling has stopped and buying enters the market, enter a long position and take advantage of the bullish pattern. Place a stop just below the PRZ.

Crab Pattern

Figure 4: The Crab Pattern

The crab is considered by Carney to be one of the most precise of the patterns, providing reversals in extremely close proximity to what the Fibonacci numbers indicate. This pattern, similar to the butterfly, looks to capture a high probability reversal at a new (recent) low or high (bullish or bearish respectively). In a bullish pattern, point B will pullback 0.618 or less of XA. The extension of BC into D is quite large, from 2.24 to 3.618. D (the PRZ) is a 1.618 extension of XA. Entries are made near D with a stop-loss order just outside the PRZ.

Fine-Tuning Entries and Stops

 Each pattern provides a PRZ. This is not an exact level, as two measurements - extension or retracement of XA - creates one level at D and the extension of BC creates another level at D. This actually makes D a zone where reversals are likely. Traders will also notice that BC can have differing extension lengths. Therefore, traders must be aware of how far a BC extension may go. If all projected levels are within close proximity, the trader can enter a position at any area. If the zone is spread out, such as on longer-term charts where the levels may be 50 pips or more apart, it is important to wait to see if the price reaches further extension levels of BC before entering a trade. Stops can be placed outside the largest potential extension of BC. In the crab pattern, for example, this would be 3.618. If the rate reversed before 3.618 was hit, the stop would be moved to just outside the closed Fibonacci level to the rate low (bullish pattern) or rate high (bearish pattern) in the PRZ. Figure 5 is an intra-day example of a butterfly pattern from May 3, 2011.

Figure 5. Bearish Butterfly Pattern - EUR/USD, 15 Minute

The price touches almost exactly the 1.618 extension level of XA at 1.4892 and the extension of BC to 2.618 is very close at 1.4887 (there are two Fibonacci tools used, one for each wave). This creates a very small PRZ, but it may not always be the case. Entry is taken after the rate enters the zone and then begins to retreat. The stop is placed just outside the most significant level that was not reached by the rate, in this case a few pips above the 1.618 XA extension. Targets can be based on support levels within the pattern; therefore, an initial profit target would be just above point B.

The Bottom Line

Harmonic trading is a precise and mathematical way to trade, but it requires patience, practice and a lot of study to master the patterns. Movements that do not align with proper pattern measurements invalidate a pattern and can lead traders astray. The Gartley, butterfly, bat and crab are the better-known patterns that traders can watch for. Entries are made in the potential reversal zone when price confirmation indicates a reversal, and stops are placed outside the nearest significant (for the pattern) Fibonacci level that was not hit by the BC or XA extensions/retracements into the D (PRZ) area.

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Types of Charts

Technical traders require technical charts for Stock, Commodities and Forex market analysis for trading. A technical analyst understands the movement of the market and takes trading decision by observing these charts. There are different types of technical charts. Three types of charts are mostly used in Stock, Commodities and Forex market analysis. These charts are,

Let's take a look at the three most popular types of charts:

 

1. Line chart
2. Bar chart
3. Candlestick chart

Now, we'll explain each of the charts, and let you know what you should know about each of them.

1. Line Charts

Line Chart:

Line chart appears as a line which is developed by joining the closing prices. This type of chart is particularly useful to observe and understand the trends of the market quickly. This chart is helpful for understanding the major movements only. It is not suitable to take trading decisions by this type of chart. However, this line chart can generate buy and sell signals when crossovers with moving averages occurs. Here is an example of a line chart given below.

2. Bar Charts

A bar chart is a little more complex. It shows the opening and closing prices, as well as the highs and lows. The bottom of the vertical bar indicates the lowest traded price for that time period, while the top of the bar indicates the highest price paid. The vertical bar itself indicates the currency pair's trading range as a whole. The horizontal hash on the left side of the bar is the opening price, and the right-side horizontal hash is the closing price.

Here is an example of a bar chart  

Take note, throughout our lessons, you will see the word "bar" in reference to a single piece of data on a chart.
A bar is simply one segment of time, whether it is one day, one week, or one hour. When you see the word 'bar' going forward, be sure to understand what time frame it is referencing.
Bar charts are also called "OHLC" charts, because they indicate the Open, the High, the Low, and the Close for that particular currency. Here's an example of a price bar:

Open: The little horizontal line on the left is the opening priceHigh: The top of the vertical line defines the highest price of the time periodLow: The bottom of the vertical line defines the lowest price of the time periodClose: The little horizontal line on the right is the closing price

3. Candlesticks Charts

Candlestick chart show the same information as a bar chart, but in a prettier, graphic format. Candlestick bars still indicate the high-to-low range with a vertical line. However, in candlestick charting, the larger block (or body) in the middle indicates the range between the opening and closing prices. Traditionally, if the block in the middle is filled or colored in, then the currency closed lower than it opened. In the following example, the 'filled color' is black. For our 'filled' blocks, the top of the block is the opening price, and the bottom of the block is the closing price. If the closing price is higher than the opening price, then the block in the middle will be "white" or hollow or unfilled. 

Here at  we don't like to use the traditional black and white candlesticks. They just look so unappealing. And since we spend so much time looking at charts, we feel it's easier to look at a chart that's colored. A color television is much better than a black and white television, so why not splash some color in those candlestick charts? We simply substituted green instead of white, and red instead of black. This means that if the price closed higher than it opened, the candlestick would be green. If the price closed lower than it opened, the candlestick would be red. In our later lessons, you will see how using green and red candles will allow you to "see" things on the charts much faster, such as uptrend/downtrends and possible reversal points.
For now, just remember that we use red and green candlesticks instead of black and white and we will be using these colors from now on. heck out these candlesticks...! Awww yeeaaah! You know you like that!

Here is an example of a candlestick chart  

The purpose of candlestick charting is strictly to serve as a visual aid, since the exact same information appears on an OHLC bar chart. The advantages of candlestick charting are:

• Candlesticks are easy to interpret, and are a good place for beginners to start figuring out chart analysis.
• Candlesticks are easy to use! Your eyes adapt almost immediately to the information in the bar notation. Plus, research shows that visuals help in studying, it might help with trading as well!
• Candlesticks and candlestick patterns have cool names such as the shooting star, which helps you to remember what the pattern means.
• Candlesticks are good at identifying marketing turning points - reversals from an uptrend to a downtrend or a downtrend to an uptrend. You will learn more about this later.

Now that you know why candlesticks are so cool, it's time to let you know that we will be using candlestick charts for most, if not all of chart examples on this site.

Read More»

Types of Charts

Technical traders require technical charts for Stock, Commodities and Forex market analysis for trading. A technical analyst understands the movement of the market and takes trading decision by observing these charts. There are different types of technical charts. Three types of charts are mostly used in Stock, Commodities and Forex market analysis. These charts are,

Let's take a look at the three most popular types of charts:

 

1. Line chart
2. Bar chart
3. Candlestick chart

Now, we'll explain each of the charts, and let you know what you should know about each of them.

1. Line Charts

Line Chart:

Line chart appears as a line which is developed by joining the closing prices. This type of chart is particularly useful to observe and understand the trends of the market quickly. This chart is helpful for understanding the major movements only. It is not suitable to take trading decisions by this type of chart. However, this line chart can generate buy and sell signals when crossovers with moving averages occurs. Here is an example of a line chart given below.

2. Bar Charts

A bar chart is a little more complex. It shows the opening and closing prices, as well as the highs and lows. The bottom of the vertical bar indicates the lowest traded price for that time period, while the top of the bar indicates the highest price paid. The vertical bar itself indicates the currency pair's trading range as a whole. The horizontal hash on the left side of the bar is the opening price, and the right-side horizontal hash is the closing price.

Here is an example of a bar chart  

Take note, throughout our lessons, you will see the word "bar" in reference to a single piece of data on a chart.
A bar is simply one segment of time, whether it is one day, one week, or one hour. When you see the word 'bar' going forward, be sure to understand what time frame it is referencing.
Bar charts are also called "OHLC" charts, because they indicate the Open, the High, the Low, and the Close for that particular currency. Here's an example of a price bar:

Open: The little horizontal line on the left is the opening price High: The top of the vertical line defines the highest price of the time period Low: The bottom of the vertical line defines the lowest price of the time period Close: The little horizontal line on the right is the closing price

3. Candlesticks Charts

Candlestick chart show the same information as a bar chart, but in a prettier, graphic format. Candlestick bars still indicate the high-to-low range with a vertical line. However, in candlestick charting, the larger block (or body) in the middle indicates the range between the opening and closing prices. Traditionally, if the block in the middle is filled or colored in, then the currency closed lower than it opened. In the following example, the 'filled color' is black. For our 'filled' blocks, the top of the block is the opening price, and the bottom of the block is the closing price. If the closing price is higher than the opening price, then the block in the middle will be "white" or hollow or unfilled. 

Here at  we don't like to use the traditional black and white candlesticks. They just look so unappealing. And since we spend so much time looking at charts, we feel it's easier to look at a chart that's colored. A color television is much better than a black and white television, so why not splash some color in those candlestick charts? We simply substituted green instead of white, and red instead of black. This means that if the price closed higher than it opened, the candlestick would be green. If the price closed lower than it opened, the candlestick would be red. In our later lessons, you will see how using green and red candles will allow you to "see" things on the charts much faster, such as uptrend/downtrends and possible reversal points.
For now, just remember that we use red and green candlesticks instead of black and white and we will be using these colors from now on. heck out these candlesticks...! Awww yeeaaah! You know you like that!

Here is an example of a candlestick chart  

The purpose of candlestick charting is strictly to serve as a visual aid, since the exact same information appears on an OHLC bar chart. The advantages of candlestick charting are:

• Candlesticks are easy to interpret, and are a good place for beginners to start figuring out chart analysis.
• Candlesticks are easy to use! Your eyes adapt almost immediately to the information in the bar notation. Plus, research shows that visuals help in studying, it might help with trading as well!
• Candlesticks and candlestick patterns have cool names such as the shooting star, which helps you to remember what the pattern means.
• Candlesticks are good at identifying marketing turning points - reversals from an uptrend to a downtrend or a downtrend to an uptrend. You will learn more about this later.

Now that you know why candlesticks are so cool, it's time to let you know that we will be using candlestick charts for most, if not all of chart examples on this site.

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Candlestick Basic, Patterns

Understanding candlestick charts

Candlestick charts are probably the most commonly used charts by Stock, Commodities and forex traders. This is the preferred method of displaying price action because these charts provide a quick and easy way to size up the market. When looking at candlestick charts there are 3 elements that you should pay attention to.

Color of the candles

Just simply watching what color is prevalent at the moment you can get an instant feedback on who is in control of the market. More green then red candles indicate that we’re in a bullish move or uptrend. Reversely more red on your charts indicates that we’re most likely in a downward trend. A mix of green and red with no dominating color shows us that none of the players in the market is in control and we’re trading in a range.

Size of the candles

The size of the candles indicates the momentum of the price. Big candles indicate increasing momentum in price while small candles indicate indecision. See the chart below of some recent price action in the Euro.

Notice the big candles on the chart above and how whenever they start to pop up price “makes a run for it”. Momentum increases and trends starts to develop.
Shape of the candles
The 3rd element of the candles that you should pay attention to is the shape. The chart below marks shows a type of candle that is called a doji. A doji is a small candle with an opening and closing price that are almost equal. It indicates indecision in the market and a possible reversal.

The other candle shape type that you should look out for is is what is commonly called a Pin Bar. A pin bar is a price action reversal pattern. The chart above shows example of three of these Pin Bars on the Euro. Notice the long wicks at the bottom of the candles. The wicks indicate that sellers were quickly pushed back by the buyers as prices change direction. The longer the wicks are the more the odds increase that we might see a reversal in price.

Introduction

In the 1700s, a legendary Japanese rice trader named Homma used trading techniques that eventually evolved into the candlestick techniques that technical analysts on the Japanese stock market used in the 1870s. Steve Nison introduced these techniques to the Western world in his first book, Japanese Candlestick Charting Techniques.

The advantage of using candles on charts is that single or multiple candle patterns give earlier and more reliable reversal signals. Every candle shows the activity for the referenced period in hourly, daily, or weekly charts, for example.

 Figure 6.1: Horizontal reference points of the candlestick. 

In figure 6.1, the horizontal reference points of the candle represent the opening price, the highest price, the lowest price, and the closing price of the considered period. The rectangular portion of the candle, or the body, represents the range between the opening and the closing prices. If the closing price is higher than the opening price, the body is white (not filled). If the closing price is lower than the opening price, the body is black (filled).

Figure 6.2: Candlestick naming.

A candle consists of either just a body or a body with an upper and/or a lower shadow. A candle with an opening and closing price at almost the same price level is called a doji (figure 6.2). The candlewicks are called shadows, and they extend up to the highest price and down to the lowest price of the related period. Candlestick charts can be used in any time frame, including minutes, hours, days, weeks, or months.

Candlestick chart patterns are formed by one or more candles; they indicate a short-term trend reversal or a trend continuation. You must always take into account the previous trend when interpreting candlestick patterns. Candlestick patterns do NOT give price targets!

Format, Naming, and Meaning Candlesticks Format Overview

Format description:

Sr.	Name	Interpretation
1	Big white body (White Marubozu)	Very positive
2	Big black body (Black Marubozu)	Very negative
3	White opening Marubozu	Quite positive
4	White closing Marubozu	Positive
5	Black closing Marubozu	Negative
6	Black opening Marubozu	Quite negative
7	White candle	No direction
8	Black candle	No direction
9	Dragonfly doji	Reversal?
10	Doji star	Reversal?
11	Gravestone doji	Stable/Reversal
12	Long-legged doji	Reversal?
13	Four price doji	Reversal?
14	Hammer (white) Hanging man	Bottom reversal Top reversal
15	Hammer (black) Hanging man	Bottom reversal Top reversal

Psychological Background 

Candlesticks psychological background 1.

 







The candlesticks demonstrate the psychological trading that takes place during the period represented by a single candle.

Candlesticks psychological background 2.

 Rising power candles ------------------

Some candles with falling power ---------------

Candles with reversal power -------------------

 Important  Main  Factor 

• A big white body means buyers are in power, and the trend is up.
• A big black body means sellers are in power, and the trend is down.
• A small body means that buyers and sellers are trying to take power.
• A big shadow below is a positive sign and indicates strength.
• A big shadow above is a negative sign and indicates weakness.
• A doji is a candle with opening and closing prices that are close together.
• A doji means that price acceleration is slowing down and that bulls and bears are in balance.
• A doji at a top or bottom often is the first signal of a price reversal.

Candlestick Patterns

The power of Candlestick Charts is with multiple candlesticks forming reversal and continuation patterns. These candlestick patterns given below:

 

  

 

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