The Ascending Triangle pattern forms when the price of a security tests a resistance level and creates a horizontal top line (1, 3, 5), with an upward­-sloping bottom line (2, 4) formed by a rising support level. The breakout can either be up or down, and it will determine whether the target price is higher or lower.

This pattern is commonly associated with directionless markets, since the contraction (narrowing) of the market range signals that neither bulls nor bears are in control. When the price of a security consolidates around a certain level, it may indicate growing investor confidence for a significant uptrend.

Trade idea

Once price breaks outside of the triangle, day traders and swing traders should trade with an UP trend. Consider buying a security at the upward breakout level. To identify an exit, compute the target price by adding the pattern height to the breakout point. For upward breakouts, the level is the top horizontal line (1, 3, 5). The pattern height can be calculated by taking the difference between the resistance level set by the horizontal line, and the lowest low.

To limit potential loss when price suddenly goes in the wrong direction, consider placing a stop order to sell at or below the breakout price.