Bullish Candlestick Patterns

Question 1

Answer 1

Definition

This is not a standard candlestick pattern. It is simply the stop loss compliment of all the confirmed bearish patterns. The conditions for the activation of the Bullish stop loss are two consecutive highs or a close above the stop loss level of a recently confirmed bearish pattern.

Recognition Criteria

1. A bearish pattern is detected, and its confirmation and stop loss levels are established.
2. The pattern, then, is confirmed and a SELL or SHORT signal is issued.
3. Prices either close once above the stop loss level, or test highs above the stop loss level in two consecutive days.
4. The Bullish stop loss is triggered.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

All bearish candlesticks are accompanied by a specific stop loss level, which becomes active when the pattern is confirmed. A bearish confirmation consequently may lead to a bearish signal such as a SELL or SHORT signal. Following the bearish signal, if prices go up instead of going down, and close or make two consecutive daily highs above the stop loss level, while no bullish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered. Once triggered, the stop loss level of the recently confirmed bearish pattern starts acting as the confirmation level of a bullish pattern itself. The system then seeks a bullish confirmation to issue a BUY signal. Prices must cross above the stop loss level for the bullish confirmation of the triggered stop loss.

Trader’s Behavior

In the chaotic environment of the stock market, it is hard to claim that all bearish bets will be successful. Most bearish bets based on confirmed candlestick patterns will be profitable though. However, some candlestick patterns may lead to false trades, some of which are bear traps. This is exactly where the stop loss comes into the picture. It serves as a safety valve for the bears cutting the potentially devastating losses to a minimum level. According to the statistics, the trades based on the Bullish stop loss confirmations are as successful as the other candlestick pattern based signals. If confirmed, they should never be avoided.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the stop loss level of the recently confirmed bearish candlestick pattern. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation of the Bullish stop loss.

Question 2

Answer 2

BULLISH AFTER BOTTOM GAP UP

Definition

This is a five candlestick pattern that starts with three black candlesticks. The market signals a bottom reversal with the change in the color at the fourth candlestick. The next day gaps higher and makes a strong upward move, confirming the reversal.

Recognition Criteria

1. The pattern begins with a black candlestick.
2. The next two days are also black days, and each one closes lower than the previous day’s close.
3. The third day gaps down and opens below the close of the second day.
4. The fourth day is white.
5. The fifth day is a strong white with an open forming (causing) a gap above the previous day’s close.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The first three days of the Bullish After Bottom Gap Up are strong black candlesticks with consecutive lower opens and lower closes. The third black should gap down. The fourth day is a white candlestick that opens higher and covers the gap. The fifth day is a strong white candlestick that makes a body gap with the fourth day. There are no short candlesticks in this pattern.

Trader’s Behavior

The first two black days and the gapping down third black day create a market with an extended downtrend. The fourth day is a strong white day that shows there might finally be some weakness in the decline. The fifth day gaps up and closes near its highs creating a strong white candlestick. It now appears that the market overextended itself to the downside and a reversal of the prior trend has begun.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 3

Answer 3

BULLISH LADDER BOTTOM

Definition

This is a five candlestick pattern that starts with three strong black candlesticks. The downtrend continues with the fourth lower close. The next day gaps higher and closes much higher than the previous day or two. This may imply a bullish reversal.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. Three strong black candlesticks occur much like the Three Black Crows pattern.
3. The fourth black candlestick closes also lower but has a long upper shadow.
4. The fifth day is a strong white with an open above the previous day’s body.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The first three days of the Bullish Ladder Bottom are strong black candlesticks with consecutive lower opens and lower closes. The fourth day is a short black candlestick, but it opens higher and trades higher, leaving a long upper shadow, then closes making a new low. The fifth day is a strong white candlestick that makes a body gap with the fourth day.

Trader’s Behavior

There is a considerable downtrend for some time and the bears are happy. Then we see a good downward move. Prices start trading above the opening price and almost reaching to the new high of the previous day, but then they close at another new low. This action is a warning for shorts telling them that the market will not go down forever. The shorts may then be forced to reevaluate their positions and they may start closing their positions on the next day if profits are good. This act is the reason behind the upward gap we see on the last day of the pattern and also the close is considerably higher. If the volume is high on the last day, a trend reversal has probably occurred. However, a confirmation will still be required on the next day.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 4

Answer 4

BULLISH BREAKAWAY

Definition

This five candlestick pattern starts with a strong black candlestick. The next three days after the downside gap set consecutively lower prices. However, the last day completely erases the limited losses of down days and closes inside the gap between the first and second days. This suggests a short term reversal.

Recognition Criteria

1. The color of the first strong black day represents the current downtrend.
2. The second day is also black and the body gaps in the direction of the trend.
3. The third and fourth days continue the trend direction. It is better if the third day is white, but it may also be black as the fourth day.
4. The fifth day is a white one that closes inside the gap formed between the first two days.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The first black candlestick of the Bullish Breakaway should not be short. However, the following three black candlesticks after the gap can be short, while the third candlestick in the middle can be white, too. The last white day should close inside the gap but should not close the gap.

Trader’s Behavior

The downtrend has accelerated with a big gap and then starts to fizzle, but still moves in the same direction. The slow deterioration of the downtrend is quite evident. Finally, an upward burst completely reverses the previous three days’ price action. What causes the reversal implication is the fact that the gap has not been filled. A short term reversal has taken place, but still a confirmation may be necessary.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 5

Answer 5

BULLISH CONCEALING BABY SWALLOW

Definition

This is a pattern formed by four black candlesticks. After two falling Black Marubozu days, a short down day engulfed by a fourth black day shows that the downtrend has eroded significantly, despite the final close is at a new low.

Recognition Criteria

1. Two falling Black Marubozu days at the beginning confirms the downtrend.
2. The third day is a short black with downside gap. However, this day trades into the previous day’s body, producing a long upper shadow.
3. The fourth black day completely engulfs the third day including the shadow.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The first two days of the Bullish Concealing Baby Swallow are types of Black Marubozu. The third day is a short black candlestick with an upper shadow that extends into the previous day’s trading range. The fourth black day makes a new low and engulfs the trading range of the third day completely.

Trader’s Behavior

Two black Marubozu show that downtrend is continuing to the satisfaction of the bears. On the third day, we see a downward gap further confirming the downtrend. However, prices on the third day start going above the close of the previous day causing some doubts about the bearish direction even though the day closes at or near its low. The next day shows us a significantly higher gap in the opening. After the opening, however, prices again go down closing at a new low. This last day may be interpreted as a good chance for the short-sellers to cover their short positions. An upside reversal still requires confirmation with a white candlestick.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the midpoint of the previous short black body. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 6

Answer 6

BULLISH THREE GAP DOWNS

Definition

This is a four day bullish reversal pattern. It consists of three consecutive days each gapping lower on the open. After Three Gap Downs the market becomes extremely oversold and ready for the reversal of the current downtrend.

Recognition Criteria

1. The first day can be of any color.
2. The second day also can be of any color, so long as its body gaps down away from the first day’s body.
3. The last two days are black and their bodies must gap down from the bodies of the prior days.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The first two days of the Bullish Three Gap Downs can be of any color but the last two days should be black. There must be downside body gaps between the candlesticks.

Trader’s Behavior

The market is oversold with three gaps down in a row and it is time to cover short positions.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the midpoint of the last black body. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 7

Answer 7

BULLISH SQUEEZE ALERT

Definition

This is a three-day bullish reversal pattern. It was developed because of the frequent event where prices can break to the upside following this pattern, especially if the pattern is preceded by a strong downside move.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. A black candlestick appears on the first day.
3. The second and third days each have lower highs and higher lows than the previous day. Their color is not important.
4. The sizes of the bodies of the three days do not matter.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The first candlestick should be a black candlestick. The other two candlesticks can be of any color and length but they should have lower highs and higher lows consecutively.

Trader’s Behavior

What is important about the Bullish Squeeze Alert is that the downtrend has stalled and some base or stability has finally arrived.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the body top of the last day. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 8

Answer 8

BULLISH STICK SANDWICH

Definition

This pattern has two black bodies with a white body between them. That is why it looks like a sandwich. The closing of both black candlesticks at the same level shows that a support price has been established.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. We see a black candlestick on the first day.
3. A white body that trades above the close of the previous black body follows.
4. The third day is a black day with a close equal to the first day.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Bullish Stick Sandwich starts with a strong black candlestick, and a white candlestick that opens at the previous close or at a higher level follows it. The white body closes above the black body of the first day. The third day opens with an upside gap but closes exactly at the same level with the first day’s close.

Trader’s Behavior

The market is testing new lows and it produces a black day. The following day unexpectedly opens higher and then trades higher all day, closing at or near its high. This action suggests that the downtrend has reversed and that short traders should be careful. The next day, prices open even higher, which should cause some short covering initially, but then prices drift lower to close at the same price as two days ago. Traders take note of the support price implied by the two same level closes.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the midpoint between the last two closes. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 9

Answer 9

BULLISH THREE STARS IN THE SOUTH

Definition

This pattern consists of three consecutive black candlesticks which have consecutively lower closes and higher lows in a slowly deteriorating downtrend.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. A black candlestick with almost no upper shadow and a long lower shadow appears on the first day.
3. The next day is another black candlestick closing below the previous day’s close and having an opening in the range of the previous day’s body. However, it has a higher low.
4. The last day is a small black Marubozu with a higher low.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The first candlestick should be a normal or long black candlestick with a long lower shadow. The following black candlestick must open within the range of the previous day’s body, and close below the previous day’s close. The bodies of the three black candlesticks and their lower shadows should get shorter.

Trader’s Behavior

The Bullish Three Stars in the South reflects a slowly deteriorating downtrend, which is characterized by diminishing daily price ranges and consecutively higher lows. Buying enthusiasm is reflected by the long lower shadow of the first day. The next day opens at a higher level, trades lower, but its low is not lower than the previous day’s low. This second day also closes off its low. Then we see a small black Marubozu, which is engulfed by the previous day’s range on the third day. Higher lows cause uneasiness among shorts. The last day of the pattern reflects market indecision with hardly any price movement. Shorts are now ready to cover positions if they see anything in the upside. Everything points out that the tide is slowly turning towards the bulls’ side.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the midpoint of the last black body. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 10

Answer 10

BULLISH THREE OUTSIDE UP

Definition

This is a confirmed Bullish Engulfing pattern. The first two candlesticks are exactly the same as the Bullish Engulfing pattern and the third day represents its confirmation.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. We see a Bullish Engulfing pattern in the first two days.
3. Then, we see a white candlestick on the third day with a higher close than the second day.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

A Bullish Engulfing pattern should be identified with all previously set rules. The third day should be a white day with a higher close.

Trader’s Behavior

The first two days of the Bullish Three Outside Up is simply a Bullish Engulfing Pattern, and the third day confirms that the downtrend is damaged as suggested by this pattern, since it is a white candlestick closing with a new high for the last three days. However, for a bullish reversal, there is still a need for a further confirmation.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 11

Answer 11

BULLISH THREE INSIDE UP

Definition

This is a confirmed Bullish Harami pattern. The first two candlesticks are exactly the same as the Bullish Harami, and the third day represents bullish confirmation.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. We see a Bullish Harami (or a Harami Cross) pattern in the first two days.
3. Then, we see a white candlestick on the third day with a higher close than the second day.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

A Bullish Harami (or Harami Cross) pattern should be identified with all previously set rules. The third day should be a white day with a higher close.

Trader’s Behavior

The second day of the Bullish Three Inside Up signals a trend reversal since the second day’s small body (or Doji) already showed that the bearish power was diminishing. The third day confirms this fact, but still a further confirmation is required for a bullish reversal.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 12

Answer 12

BULLISH TWO RABBITS

Definition

This pattern is a made up of three candlesticks. The white candlesticks of the second and third day represent the rabbits ready to jump out of their burrow. The Two Rabbits pattern is the bullish equivalent of the Bearish Two Crows pattern.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. A strong black candlestick appears on the first day.
3. The second day is a white candlestick that gaps down.
4. On the last day another white candlestick appears that opens inside the body of the second day and then closes inside the body of the first day.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Bullish Two Rabbits should start with a strong black body. A white body characterized by a downward body gap follows. The third day is another white body that opens at or below the close of the second day. The third day should close within the body of the first day.

Trader’s Behavior

A downtrend has been in place, and the strong black candlestick adds to the bearishness that is already present. The following day opens lower with a gap down. Prices rise a little bit, and a short white candlestick is observed. The bears are not alarmed by this day, because even though a white body appears, prices fail to close above the close of the previous day. The third day opens at or below the close of the second day, but it rallies throughout the day and closes well within the body of the first day. The third day’s price action fills the gap of the second day, and shows that bearishness is eroding.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 13

Answer 13

BULLISH DELIBERATION BLOCK

Definition

This pattern consists of three consecutive black candlesticks with consecutively lower closes in a downtrend. It is the compliment of the Bearish Deliberation Block Pattern.

Recognition Criteria

1. Market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. A black candlestick appears on the first day.
3. The next day is another black candlestick, which opens in the range of the previous day’s body and closes below the previous day’s close.
4. The final day is a short black candlestick, a spinning top or a Doji that gaps down below the second day.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The first two black candlesticks appearing in the Bullish Deliberation Block should not be short. The second day should open at or higher than the close of the first day, while the close of the second day should be at or below the close of the first day. The gapping down third candlestick can be a short black candlestick or a Doji.

Trader’s Behavior

The two consecutive black candlesticks secure the downtrend, and the bears are content with the situation. The secure downtrend attracts more bears, and the third day opens below the close of the preceding day. The third day is also a black day, convincing the bears about the continuation of the downtrend. A closer look, however, reveals signs of weakness. The range of each body is getting smaller day-by-day and the third day gaps below making a star, which shows indecision.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the midpoint between the last close and the body bottom of the second day. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 14

Answer 14

BULLISH DESCENT BLOCK

Definition

This pattern consists of three consecutive black candlesticks with consecutively lower closes in a downtrend. It is the compliment of the Bearish Advanced Block Pattern.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. A black candlestick appears on the first day.
3. The next two days are black candlesticks with each closing below the previous day’s close and having an opening in the range of the previous day’s body.
4. The last two days have long lower shadows.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The first candlestick of a Bullish Descent Block should be a normal or long black candlestick. The following consecutive black candlesticks must open within the range of the previous day’s body, and close below the previous day’s close. The bodies of the three black candlesticks should get shorter, while the lower shadows get longer.

Trader’s Behavior

A strong black candlestick is followed by another black candlestick closing below the previous close. As two consecutive black candlesticks occur, the downtrend seems secure and the bears are content. The secure downtrend attracts more bears, and the third day is again a black candlestick that is closing below the previous day’s close. With three black candlesticks, it looks as though bears rule over the market; however there are signs of weaknesses. Firstly, the bodies get shorter and shorter, showing that indecision is increasing. Secondly, each day opens within the range of the previous day’s body. Thirdly, the lower shadows are getting longer. While the second and the third days are closing lower, the distance between closes are getting shorter. This means that the downtrend is losing strength and that short traders must be cautious.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the midpoint of the last black body. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 15

Answer 15

BULLISH THREE WHITE SOLDIERS

Definition

This pattern indicates a strong reversal in the market. It is characterized by three normal or long candlesticks incrementing upwards. The opening of each day is slightly lower than previous close and prices progressively close at higher levels. This staircase like behavior signals the reversal of the trend.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. Three consecutive normal or long white candlesticks are observed.
3. Each candlestick opens within the body of the previous day.
4. Candlesticks progressively close at new highs, above the preceding day.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Bullish Three White Soldiers consists of three consecutive normal or long white candlesticks. The last two candlesticks must open in the range of the preceding candlestick and close higher.

Trader’s Behavior

The pattern appears in a context where the market stacked at a low price for too long. The market is still testing new lows and it is now approaching a bottom or already at the bottom. Then we see a decisive attempt upward whose evidence is the first white candlestick. Rally continues in the next two days characterized by higher closes. Bears are now forced to cover short positions.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 16

Answer 16

BULLISH UNIQUE THREE RIVER BOTTOM

Definition

This is a three-candlestick pattern that somewhat looks like the Bullish Morning Star. It appears in a downtrend. The first day’s black candlestick engulfs the following small black body, which characteristically has a long lower shadow. The pattern is completed by a small white body, which closes below the close of the second day.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. A black candlestick is observed on the first day.
3. The second day is a black body that opens higher, trades at a new low, and then closes near the high.
4. The third day is a short white day below the second day.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Bullish Unique Three River Bottom should start with a strong black candlestick, and a short black candlestick that opens higher must follow it. The second day must trade at a new low, causing a long lower shadow that reaches lower than the previous day’s low. The body of this candlestick should be engulfed by the first day. The final and the third day of the pattern must be a short white body that is below the second day’s body.

Trader’s Behavior

The market is testing new lows and it produces a black day. The following day unexpectedly opens higher, however the bears show their strength and cause new lows to be reached during the day. The day closes near its open, leading to the formation of a short black candlestick. The strength of the bears is in question and indecision prevails in the market. On the next day, a small white body appears and ensures that the bears are losing strength.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 17

Answer 17

BULLISH DOWNSIDE GAP TWO RABBITS

Definition

This is a three-candlestick bullish reversal pattern. The gap between the white body of the second day and the black body of the first day represents the downside gap. The white candlesticks of the second and third day represent the rabbits ready to jump out of their burrow.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. A normal or long black candlestick appears on the first day.
3. The second day is a short white candlestick that gaps down.
4. On the last day another white candlestick appears that opens at or below the open, and then closes above the close of the previous day, but still below the close of the first day.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Downside Gap Two Rabbits should start with a normal or long black body. A short white body characterized by a downside body gap follows. The third day is another white body that engulfs the second day. The third day may open at or below the open of the second day. The third day should close below the body limits of the first day, leaving the gap created between the first and the second days still unfilled.

Trader’s Behavior

A downtrend has been in place, and the black candlestick adds to the bearishness that is already present. The following day opens lower with a gap down. Prices rise a little bit, and a short white candlestick is observed. The bears are not alarmed by this day, because even though a white body appears, prices fail to close above the close of the previous day. The third day opens at or below the open of the second day, but it rallies throughout the day and closes above the previous close. The two consecutive white bodies show that the strength of the downtrend has been questioned.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 18

Answer 18

BULLISH TRI STAR

Definition

This pattern is a sequence of three Doji. The occurrence of this pattern is extremely rare, so when it occurs it should not be ignored.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. Three consecutive Doji are seen.
3. The second day gaps below the first and the third.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Bullish Three Star consists of three consecutive Doji, in which the second Doji gaps below the other two Doji. It is sufficient that the gap is a body gap. There is no need for a gap between shadows.

Trader’s Behavior

Bullish Tri Star requires that we have a market, which was in a downtrend for a long time. However, the weakening trend is probably indicated by the bodies that are becoming smaller. The first doji is a matter of concern. The second Doji clearly indicates that market is losing its direction. Finally, the third doji warns that the downtrend is over. This pattern indicates too much indecision leading to the reversal of positions.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 19

Answer 19

BULLISH ABANDONED BABY

Definition

This is a three candlestick pattern signaling a major bottom reversal. It is exactly the same as the Bullish Morning Doji Star with one important difference. The shadows on the Doji must also gap below the shadows of the first and third days. Its name comes from the second day of the pattern, which floats out on the chart by itself like an abandoned baby of the first and third days. Basically, the pattern consists of a black candlestick followed by a Doji that gaps away (including shadows) from the prior black candlestick and the following white candlestick whose closing is well into the first black body.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. A black candlestick is observed on the first day.
3. Then we see a Doji on the second day whose shadows gap below the previous day’s lower shadow.
4. Third day’s white candlestick gaps in the opposite direction with no shadows overlapping.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Bullish Abandoned Baby should start with a black candlestick that is not short, and it must continue with a Doji that makes a gap away from the prior candlestick (including shadows). The third day of the pattern is a white candlestick. The gap between the low of this candlestick and the high of the Doji may be ignored. The white candlestick must close well into the black candlestick that appears at the beginning of the pattern. The extent of how high this candlestick must close is defined according to the other candlesticks belonging to the pattern. The third day’s closing must reach the midpoint between the first day’s opening and the second day’s lowest body level.

Trader’s Behavior

A black candlestick confirms the continuation of the downtrend that is in progress. The appearance of the Doji that causes a huge gap indicates that the bears are still pushing down the price. The tight price action between the open and close shows indecision and reflects deterioration in the prior trend. In the third day, the body of the candlestick is above the previous day, trying to cover some of the ground from the down day.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 20

Answer 20

BULLISH MORNING DOJI STAR

Definition

This is a three candlestick pattern signaling a major bottom reversal. It is composed of a black candlestick followed by a Doji, which characteristically gaps down to form a Doji Star. Then, we have a third white candlestick whose closing is well into the first session’s black real body. This is a distinctive bottom pattern.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. We see a black candlestick on the first day.
3. Then, we see a Doji on the second day that gaps in the direction of the downtrend.
4. A white candlestick is observed on the third day.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Bullish Morning Doji Star starts with a black candlestick and it should continue with a doji that causes a gap opening lower than the close of the first day. The third day of the pattern is a white candlestick, which has the same or higher opening price with the Doji, and it should close well into the black candlestick that appears at the beginning of the pattern. The extent of how high this candlestick must close is defined according to the other candlesticks belonging to the pattern. The third day’s closing must reach the midpoint between the first day’s opening and the second day’s lowest body level.

Trader’s Behavior

A downtrend is already established, and the black candlestick confirms the continuation of the downtrend. The appearance of the Doji that causes a gap indicates that bears are still pushing down the price. However, this tight price action between the open and the close shows indecision as well. On the third day, the body of the candlestick is above the previous day, trying to cover some of the ground from the down day. A significant trend reversal has occurred.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 21

Answer 21

BULLISH MORNING STAR

Definition

This is a three-candlestick pattern signaling a major bottom reversal. It is composed of a black candlestick followed by a short candlestick, which characteristically gaps down to form a Star. Then we have a third white candlestick whose closing is well into the first session’s black body. This is a meaningful bottom pattern.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. We see a black candlestick on the first day.
3. Then, we see a short candlestick on the second day that gaps in the direction of the downtrend.
4. A white candlestick is observed on the third day.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Bullish Morning Star starts with a black candlestick and it should continue with a short candlestick (white or black) that opens with a gap down. The white candlestick appearing on the third day should open at or higher than the lowest level of the body of the second candlestick, and it should close well into the black candlestick that appears at the beginning of the pattern. The extent of how high this candlestick must close is defined according to the other candlesticks belonging to the pattern. The third day’s closing must reach the midpoint between the first day’s opening and the second day’s lowest body level.

Trader’s Behavior

A downtrend is in progress and the black candlestick confirms the continuation of the downtrend. The appearance of the short candlestick that causes a gap indicates that bears are still pushing down the price. However, the tight price action on the second day between the open and the close shows indecision. The third day is a white body that moves into the first day’s black body. A significant trend has occurred.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 22

Answer 22

BULLISH ONE WHITE SOLDIER

Definition

This pattern appears in a downtrend and consists of a black candlestick and a white candlestick in which the white candlestick opens above the preceding day’s close and closes above its open. The pattern looks similar to the Bullish Harami pattern. The only difference is that the second day closes higher, which stops the engulfing of the white body by the preceding black body.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. A black body is observed on the first day.
3. The white body that is formed on the second day opens higher than the first day’s close and closes higher than the first day’s open.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Bullish One White Soldier consists of a black candlestick followed by a white candlestick. The length of the candlesticks should not be short. The second day opens above the close of the preceding day and the close crosses above the opening price of the first day.

Trader’s Behavior

A downtrend is in progress and the strong black candlestick seen on the first day increases the bearishness that is already present. As the second day opens higher than the close, the short traders are alarmed. Prices rise to the point where the close crosses above the previous day’s opening. The downtrend is damaged. If prices keep on rising on the following days, a major trend reversal takes place.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 23

Answer 23

BULLISH KICKING

Definition

This pattern consists firstly of a black Marubozu and then a white Marubozu. After the black Marubozu, the market opens above the prior session’s opening, forming a gap between the two candlesticks.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. On the first day a black Marubozu (or a black candlestick) is observed.
3. Then we see a white Marubozu (or a white candlestick) on the second day.
4. The second day opens higher with a body gap.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Bullish Kicking ideally should consist of a black Marubozu then a white Marubozu with a body gap in between. However, we accept normal or long candlesticks and a null body gap, too. This way, the Bullish Separating Lines Pattern, which is a continuation pattern (that is not covered here), is also included in a modified manner as a reversal pattern.

Trader’s Behavior

The pattern is a strong sign showing that the market is headed upwards. It appears in a downtrend and on the first day a strong black candlestick (or a black Marubozu) further confirms the bearishness. The next day prices open at or above the previous day’s open, causing a gap. This huge gap urges the bulls to take action. The market heads up forming a white candlestick (or a white Marubozu).

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 24

Answer 24

BULLISH MATCHING LOW

Definition

This pattern occurs when two black days appear with equal closes in a downtrend. Matching Low indicates a bottom has been made, even though the new low was tested and there was no follow through, which is indicative of a good support price.

Recognition Criteria

1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend.
2. A black body is observed on the first day.
3. The second day follows with another black candlestick whose closing price is exactly equal to the closing price of the first day.

Pattern Requirements and Flexibility

The Bullish Matching Low consists of two black candlesticks. The length of the first candlestick should be normal or long. Both candlesticks should close at the same level.

Trader’s Behavior

The market has been lower, as evidenced by another strong black day. The next day open higher and trade still higher, and then it closes at the same price. This is indicative of short term support and will cause much concern with the bears. What reflects the psychology of the market is not necessarily the daily trading action but with the fact that both days close at the same level.

Buy/Stop Loss Levels

The confirmation level is defined as the midpoint of the first black body. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation.

The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 25

Answer 25

BULLISH HOMING PIGEON Definition This pattern is a small black body contained by a prior relatively long black body. It resembles the Harami pattern, except that both bodies are black. Recognition Criteria 1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend. 2. A black body is observed on the first day. 3. On the second day, we again see a black body which is completely engulfed by the body of the first day. Pattern Requirements and Flexibility The Bullish Homing Pigeon consists of two black candlesticks, in which the first day’s black body engulfs the following black body. The first one has to be a normal or long black candlestick. Either the body tops or the body bottoms of the two candlesticks may be at the same level, but whatever the case, the body of the second day should be smaller than the first. Trader’s Behavior The pattern is a signal of disparity. In a market characterized by a downtrend, we first see heavy selling reflected by the black body of the first day. However, a smaller body that appears on the second day points to the diminished power and enthusiasm of the sellers thus suggesting a trend reversal. Buy/Stop Loss Levels The confirmation level is defined as the last close or the midpoint of the previous black body, whichever is higher. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation. The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 26

Answer 26

BULLISH MEETING LINE Definition This pattern occurs during a downtrend. The first day’s black candlestick is followed by a white candlestick that opens sharply lower and closes at the same level as the prior session’s close. It is similar to the Piercing Line pattern. However, the amount the second day rebounds is different. The Piercing Line’s second day closes above the midpoint of the first day’s body, while the second day the Bullish Meeting Line closes the same as the first day. Consequently, the Piercing Line is a more significant bottom reversal. Nonetheless, the Bullish Meeting Line deserves due respect as well. Recognition Criteria 1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend. 2. On the first day a black candlestick is observed. 3. Then, we see a white candlestick on the second day. 4. The closing prices are the same or almost the same on both days. Pattern Requirements and Flexibility The Bullish Meeting Line consists of two candlesticks, first a black candlestick then a white candlestick; both not short. The closing prices of both days should be the same or almost the same. Trader’s Behavior The occurrence of this pattern reflects a stalemate between bulls and bears. The market is in a downtrend when a strong black candlestick is formed, which further supports the trend. The next day opens sharply lower causing the bears to feel more confident. Then the bulls start a counterattack pushing prices up and leading to a close equal to (or very close to) the previous close. The downtrend is now breached. Buy/Stop Loss Levels The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation. The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 27

Answer 27

BULLISH DOJI STAR Definition This pattern appears in a downtrend and warns that the trend will change. It consists of a black candlestick and a Doji with a downward gap at the opening. When the Doji is in the form of an Umbrella the pattern is called “Bullish Dragonfly Doji”, and in case of an Inverted Umbrella it is called “Bullish Gravestone Doji”. Here, all these patterns are subsumed, under the name: “Bullish Doji Star”, regardless of the shape of the Doji. Recognition Criteria 1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend. 2. On the first day a black candlestick is observed. 3. Then we see a Doji on the second day that gaps down. Pattern Requirements and Flexibility The Bullish Doji Star should start with a normal or long black candlestick. It must continue with a Doji gapping down. Trader’s Behavior The market is in a downtrend and a strong black candlestick further confirms it. The next day opens lower with a gap down, and the trading is in a small range. The day closes at the opening price, causing the formation of a Doji. Bears were in control during the downtrend but now a change is implied by the appearance of a Doji Star, which shows that the bulls and the bears are in equilibrium. The downward energy is dissipating. Things are not favorable for the continuation of a bear market. Buy/Stop Loss Levels The confirmation level is defined as the midpoint of the gap between the Doji and the previous candlestick. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation. The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 28

Answer 28

BULLISH PIERCING LINE Definition This is a bottom reversal pattern with two candlesticks. A black candlestick appears on the first day while a downtrend is in progress. The second day opens at a new low, with a gap down and closes more than halfway into the prior black body, leading to the formation of a strong white candlestick. Recognition Criteria 1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend. 2. A black candlestick appears on the first day. 3. A white candlestick opens on the second day with a gap down and closes more than halfway into the body of the first day. 4. The second day fails to close above the body of the first day. Pattern Requirements and Flexibility The first day of the Bullish Piercing Line pattern is a normal or long black candlestick. The second day should open well below the close of the first day and close more than halfway into the prior black candlestick’s body. However, the close of the second day must stay inside the body of the first day. Trader’s Behavior The market moves in a downtrend. The first black body reinforces this view. The next day the market opens lower via a gap, showing that the bearishness still persists. After this very bearish open, bulls decide to take the lead. The market surges toward the close, prices start to go up resulting in a close way above the previous day’s close. Now the bears are losing their confidence and are reevaluating their short positions. The potential buyers start thinking that new lows may not hold and perhaps it is time to take long positions. Buy/Stop Loss Levels The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation. The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 29

Answer 29

BULLISH INVERTED HAMMER Definition This pattern consists of a black body followed by an Inverted Hammer that is characterized by a long upper shadow and a small body. It is similar in shape to the Bearish Shooting Star but unlike the Shooting Star, the Inverted Hammer appears in a downtrend and signals a bullish reversal. Recognition Criteria 1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend. 2. The first day of the pattern is a black candlestick. 3. On the second day, a small body at the lower end of the trading range is observed. Color of this body is not important. 4. The upper shadow of this second candlestick should be at least twice as long as the body. 5. There is (almost) no lower shadow. Pattern Requirements and Flexibility The body of the Inverted Hammer should be small. The upper shadow should be at least twice as long as the body but not shorter than an average candlestick length. It is desired that there is no or a very tiny lower shadow. The bottom of the inverted hammer should be lower than the preceding candlestick’s body. Trader’s Behavior The pattern occurs in a bearish background and the black candlestick that appears on the first day further supports the bearishness. On the second day, in which an Inverted Hammer is seen, market opens at or near its low. Then prices change direction and we see a rally. However, the bulls do not succeed in sustaining the rally during the rest of the day and prices finally close either at or near the low of the day. It may not be clear why this type of price action is interpreted as a potential reversal signal. The answer has to do with what happens over the next day. If the next day opens above the body of the Inverted Hammer, it means that those who shorted at the opening or closing of the Inverted Hammer day are losing money. The longer the market holds above the Inverted Hammer’s body, the more likely these shorts will attempt to cover their positions. This may ignite a rally as a result of covered short positions, which may then inspire the bottom pickers to take long positions. Buy/Stop Loss Levels The confirmation level is defined as the midpoint of the upper shadow of the inverted hammer. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation. The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 30

Answer 30

BULLISH HARAMI CROSS Definition This is a major bullish reversal pattern, which is even more significant than a regular Bullish Harami. The outline again looks like a pregnant woman, as with the Bullish Harami Pattern. However, now the baby is a Doji. Basically, the pattern is characterized by a black body followed by a Doji that is completely inside the range of the prior black body. Recognition Criteria 1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend. 2. A black body is observed on the first day. 3. The Doji that is formed on the second day is completely engulfed by the body of the first day. Pattern Requirements and Flexibility The Bullish Harami Cross consists of two candlesticks, in which the body of the first black candlestick engulfs the body of the following Doji. The body of the first candlestick may be short. Trader’s Behavior A bearish mood prevails in the market, and a downtrend is in progress. The first day’s candlestick is a black body, which further supports bearishness. However the next day, prices open higher than the close, or at the close of the preceding day. The short traders are alarmed which leads to the covering of many short positions, causing the price to rise further. Moreover, the day closes at the opening price, showing lack of decision among traders. The increasing level of indecision and uncertainty amplifies the likelihood of a trend change and cause a reversal. Buy/Stop Loss Levels In the Bullish Harami Cross pattern the first candlestick can be short. This causes the confirmation level to change with respect to the body length of the first candlestick: 1. If the first black body is short, then the confirmation level will be defined as the body top of the first candlestick. 2. If the first black body is not short, then the confirmation level will the last close or the midpoint of the black body of the first candlestick, whichever is higher. Prices should cross above these levels for confirmation. The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 31

Answer 31

BULLISH HARAMI Definition This pattern consists of a black body and a small white body that is completely inside the range of the black body. If an outline is drawn for the pattern, it looks like a pregnant woman. This is not a coincidence. “Harami” is an old Japanese word for “pregnant”. The black candlestick is “the mother” and the small candlestick is “the baby”. Recognition Criteria 1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend. 2. A black body is observed on the first day. 3. The white body that is formed on the second day is completely engulfed by the body of the first day. Pattern Requirements and Flexibility The pattern consists of two candlesticks, in which the first day’s black candlestick engulfs the following day’s white candlestick. The first one has to be a normal or long black candlestick. Either the body tops or the body bottoms of the two candlesticks may be at the same level, but whatever the case, the white body should be smaller than the previous black body. Trader’s Behavior The Bullish Harami is a sign of disparity in the market’s health. The market is characterized by a downtrend and a bearish mood, and there is heavy selling reflected by a black body, which further supports the bearishness. However, the next day prices open higher or at the close of the preceding day and the short traders are alarmed. This leads to the covering of many short positions, causing the price to rise further. The latecomers short the trend they missed the first time, and slow down the rise. Thus, a small white body is formed. This may signal a trend reversal since the second day’s small real body shows that the bearish power is diminishing. Buy/Stop Loss Levels The confirmation level is defined as the last close or the midpoint of the first black body, whichever is higher. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation. The stop loss level is defined as the lower of the last two lows. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 32

Answer 32

BULLISH ENGULFING Definition This pattern is characterized by a large white body engulfing a preceding smaller black body, which appears during a downtrend. The white body does not necessarily engulf the shadows of the black body but totally engulfs the body itself. This is an important bottom reversal signal. Recognition Criteria 1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend. 2. A black body is observed on the first day. 3. The white body that is formed on the second day completely engulfs the black body of the preceding day. Pattern Requirements and Flexibility The length of the first black candlestick in Bullish Engulfing is not important. It can even be a Doji. However, the second one has to be a normal or long white candlestick. Either the body tops or the body bottoms of the two candlesticks may be at the same level, but in any case, the white body should be longer than the previous black body. Trader’s Behavior While the market is characterized by a downtrend, lower volume of selling is observed with the occurrence of a black body on the first day. The next day, the market opens at new lows. It looks as if there’s going to be more bearish trading, however the downtrend loses momentum and the bulls take the lead during the day. The buying pressure overcomes selling and finally the market closes above the open of the previous day. The downtrend is damaged. Buy/Stop Loss Levels The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation. The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 33

Answer 33

BULLISH BELT HOLD Definition Bullish Belt Hold is a single candlestick pattern, basically, a White Opening Marubozu that occurs in a downtrend. It opens on the low of the day, and then a rally begins during the day against the overall trend of the market, which eventually stops with a close near the high, leaving a small shadow on top of the candle. If longer bodies characterize the Belt Hold, then the resistance they offer against the trend will be even much stronger. Recognition Criteria 1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend. 2. The market gaps down and opens at its low, and closes near to the high of the day. 3. A long white body that has no lower shadow (a White Opening Marubozu) is observed. Pattern Requirements and Flexibility A White Opening Marubozu or a White Marubozu (with no upper or lower shadow) should be seen in a Bullish Belt Hold, and it should open lower than the two preceding black candlesticks. Trader’s Behavior The market opens lower with a significant gap in the direction of the prevailing downtrend. So, the first impression reflected in the opening price is the continuation of the downtrend. However, after the market opening, things change rapidly and the market moves in the opposite direction from there on. This causes much concern among the short traders, leading to the covering of many positions, which could reverse the direction of the trend and start a rally for the bulls. Buy/Stop Loss Levels The confirmation level is defined as the last close. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation. The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.

Question 34

Answer 34

BULLISH HAMMER Definition This pattern occurs at the bottom of a trend or during a downtrend and it is called a Hammer since it is hammering out of a bottom. It is a single candlestick pattern that has a long lower shadow and a small body at or very near the top of its daily trading range. Recognition Criteria 1. The market is characterized by a prevailing downtrend. 2. A small body at the upper end of the trading range is observed. The color of the body is not important. 3. The lower shadow of this candlestick is at least twice as long as the body. 4. There is (almost) no upper shadow. Pattern Requirements and Flexibility The body of the Hammer should be small. The lower shadow should be at least twice as long as the body, but not shorter than an average candlestick. It is desired that there is no or a very tiny upper shadow. The bottom of the Hammer’s body should be lower than both of the two preceding black candlesticks. Trader’s Behavior The Bullish Hammer appears in a downtrend and it sells off sharply following the market open. After the decline ceases, the market almost returns to the high of the day. Apparently the market fails to continue on the selling side. This observation reduces the previous bearish sentiment causing short traders to feel increasingly uneasy with their bearish positions. If the body of the Hammer is white, then the situation looks even better for the bulls. Buy/Stop Loss Levels The confirmation level is defined as the top of the Hammer’s body. Prices should cross above this level for confirmation. The stop loss level is defined as the last low. Following the BUY, if prices go down instead of going up, and close or make two consecutive daily lows below the stop loss level, while no bearish pattern is detected, then the stop loss is triggered.