An ascending triangle is a chart pattern used in technical analysis to predict future price movements. It is formed by a horizontal line at the level of resistance and an ascending trendline connecting higher lows. Here's a detailed explanation:
Structure of an Ascending Triangle
Resistance Line: This is a horizontal line that indicates a level where the price faces resistance, meaning it struggles to rise above this level. This line is drawn across multiple peaks at roughly the same price level.
Ascending Trendline: This is a line drawn from the lowest low point that slopes upwards, indicating increasing demand at progressively higher prices. This line connects a series of higher lows.
Interpretation
Bullish Pattern: The ascending triangle is generally considered a bullish pattern. It suggests that buyers are becoming more aggressive, pushing the price up to higher lows, while the sellers are unable to push the price below the resistance level.
Breakout Expectation: The pattern is confirmed when the price breaks out above the resistance line with increased volume. This breakout indicates that the buying pressure has overcome the selling pressure, and it is typically seen as a signal to buy.
Key Characteristics
Volume: Volume typically decreases as the pattern forms and then increases during the breakout.
Duration: Ascending triangles can form over a few weeks to several months.
Breakout Target: The expected price movement after the breakout is often estimated by measuring the height of the triangle (the distance between the initial high and the lowest point of the triangle) and adding this to the breakout point.