A rising wedge is a technical analysis pattern in trading that typically signals a potential reversal in the current price trend. It is characterized by a price pattern where the highs and lows of the price action converge, forming an upward-sloping, narrowing range. Here's a detailed explanation:
Characteristics of a Rising Wedge
Formation:
The rising wedge forms when the price makes higher highs and higher lows, but the slope of the lows is steeper than the slope of the highs. This causes the price range to contract and the trend lines to converge.
Both trend lines slope upwards, but they converge as the price action progresses.
Volume:
Typically, volume decreases as the pattern develops, indicating a weakening upward momentum.
Duration:
The pattern can develop over a few weeks to several months.
Types of Rising Wedges
Reversal Pattern:
When a rising wedge appears after an uptrend, it often indicates that the uptrend is losing momentum and a bearish reversal is likely.
The price eventually breaks down through the lower trend line, leading to a downward move.
Continuation Pattern:
In some cases, a rising wedge can form in a downtrend, acting as a continuation pattern. This is less common.
After a brief upward correction, the price breaks down, continuing the prior downtrend.
Trading the Rising Wedge
Entry Points:
Traders often look to enter a short position when the price breaks below the lower trend line of the wedge.
Confirmation of the breakout can be supported by increased volume and bearish candlestick patterns.
Stop-Loss:
A stop-loss order is typically placed above the recent high within the wedge to protect against false breakouts.
Target Price:
The target price is often set by measuring the height of the back of the wedge and subtracting it from the breakout point.