Trading ABC Bearish Patterns by Suri Duddella Symmetry, Harmonics and Patterns Harmonic trading is based on the premise that patterns repeat themselves and the symmetry can be exploited to define the geometric and harmonic relationships between price and time-swings using Fibonacci ratios. Harmonic price movements produce symmetric rallies and decline to give traders an advantage to determine the key turning points (pivots) and well defined and repeatable chart patterns. One of the simplest and most universal chart patterns is ABC Chart pattern. Please see "Trading ABC Chart patterns" with a bullish ABC pattern example in December 2016 Modern Trader magazine. Here I will discuss ABC Bearish chart pattern with a recent example. The ABC Chart pattern and its related AB=CD Chart Pattern are prime examples of "Symmetry" in the markets. These "Harmonic" patterns help traders to identify buying and selling opportunities in all markets and in all time-frames. The ABC and AB=CD patterns are first described by H.M. Gartley in his book "Profits in the Stock Market." (1935). The main advantages of trading harmonic patterns are that they allow traders to determine risk vs. reward ratios beforehand as they forecast key market turning points and profit targets for traders. In this article, I will describe how to trade 'ABC' chart patterns. The ABC pattern (can be a continuous or reversal pattern) and it is shaped like a lightning bolt. Identification The key point in identifying an ABC and AB=CD patterns is to correctly detect the A, B, and C key inflection (Pivot) points in a chart while they are forming. These inflection points are determined from key swing highs and lows of various levels, and for its correction waves to determine distinct "swings." The potential C point is usually forecasted by the fib. retracements (0.38 to 0.618) of AB Swing. Once A, B, and C points (and AB, BC legs) are identified, a projection algorithm is applied to compute the Potential Completion Zone (PCZ). This PCZ area is where ABC pattern is expected to complete and may signal continuation of its trend in the first trend direction (AB). Following the completion of BC leg, the projections of AB and BC legs (using fib. ratios) are plotted (from C) to generate targets. The ABC pattern is traded in the trend direction of AB from C to D. Conditions: The swing legs (AB and BC) in ABC pattern are generally in symmetrical proportions both in price and time with consistent slopes. The tradable CD leg has a harmonic relation with symmetry for AB and BC swings. The ABC bullish structures are formed after a prolong prior down trend or consolidation trends, whereas bearish ABC patterns are formed after a prior uptrend. Pattern Detection A Pattern Completion Zone (PCZ) is computed using AB swing and Fibonacci ratios (50-88.6% of AB). This PCZ area is where 'C' pivot is formed at the end of BC swing and to signal completion of ABC pattern. Trade Entry: After ABC pattern is completed, it is advisable to wait for the pattern to confirm a reversal signal using any momentum based indicator or price confirmation mechanisms. I use various confirmation and trade entry methods, but one of the methods is price crossing 2-bar high after 'C' in ABC Bullish pattern or a 2-bar low after 'C' in ABC bearish pattern.
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