Search
Close this search box.

Table of Contents

Double Bottom



Definition

The double bottom is a chart pattern in technical analysis used to predict a potential bullish turnaround in a financial market. It involves two consecutive troughs of similar depth with a peak in-between, creating a “W” shape. The pattern is confirmed when the asset’s price breaks above the highest point of the peak between both bottoms.

Phonetic

The phonetics of the keyword “Double Bottom” is: Double: /ˈdʌbəl/ Bottom: /ˈbɒtəm/

Key Takeaways

Three Main Takeaways about Double Bottom

  1. Reversal Pattern: The Double Bottom is a bullish reversal pattern that typically forms after a prolonged downtrend. This pattern is characterized by two consecutive lows that are approximately at the same price level, indicating that the price is finding a strong level of support.
  2. Confirmation: Confirmation of this pattern is seen when price breaks above the highest high in the formation, signifying a change in trend from bearish to bullish. The confirmation of the Double Bottom often comes with a boost in trading volume.
  3. Price Target: After a Double Bottom is confirmed, some traders calculate a price target by measuring the distance from the bottom of the pattern to the breakout level and extending this distance above the breakout level. However, it is also important to consider other factors such as market conditions and related news.

Importance

The term “double bottom” is an important concept in business/finance, particularly in technical analysis of market trends. It refers to a charting pattern that indicates a potential reversal of a downward trend in a security’s price, making it crucial to investment and buying decisions. It is characterized by two consecutive troughs of similar depth with a moderate peak in-between, visually resembling the letter ‘W’. This pattern often signifies that the security could be nearing a bottom and might start an upward trend, hence providing key insights to traders and investors looking for profitable exit and entry points in the market. Therefore, understanding the implications of a double bottom is vital for strategic planning and risk management in investment.

Explanation

The double bottom is a technical analysis charting pattern that traders use to identify possible upward market trends. It serves as a tool which aims to catch and capitalize on a change in an asset’s momentum, from a downward trend to an upward one. This bullish reversal pattern signifies a shift in investor sentiment from bearish to bullish. It can be utilized in various markets like forex, commodities, equities, and cryptocurrencies. The pattern emerges when an asset’s price touches the same low twice with a moderate peak in-between—thus forming a shape similar to the letter ‘W’. The primary purpose of the double bottom is to help traders and investors predict a potential inversion in a prevailing downward trend. This chart pattern provides entry points, stop points and price targets in a set trading range. As soon as the asset’s price breaches or crosses over the confirmation or resistance line, traders would usually proceed in buying the asset with the expectation that an upward trajectory will follow. Understanding and implementing the double bottom charting pattern can potentially limit investment risk by providing a clearer picture on when to enter and exit the market for profit.

Examples

A “double bottom” is a charting pattern used in technical analysis. It signifies a drop in price, followed by a rebound, then another drop to the same (or similar) level as the first, and finally another rebound. Essentially, it signals an end to the downward trend, indicating that the stock value will start to rise again.Here are three real-world examples:1. Visa Inc. (V): In the second quarter of 2016, Visa’s stock chart created a double bottom, with prices dipping to around $70 twice (in February and June) before beginning to rise again. This pattern was a signal to investors that the long-term trend was shifting upwards, and indeed, Visa’s stock did increase substantially afterwards.2. eBay Inc. (EBAY): During late 2015 and early 2016, eBay’s stock price formed a double bottom at $23. After the second bottom in February 2016, the stock began a clear upward trend.3. The Euro vs The US Dollar: During 2015 and 2016, the Euro (EUR) against the US Dollar (USD) formed a double bottom pattern. The price reached the level of 1.05 USD twice, once in March 2015 and once in December 2016, before starting to increase.These examples show how the double bottom pattern has been a useful tool to help investors predict an upcoming bullish trend. However, users should consider other factors, too, before making any investment decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

What is a Double Bottom in finance?

A Double Bottom is a charting pattern used in technical analysis. It signifies a downward price trend, followed by a drop, an increase, another drop, and then a new upward movement. It indicates a trend reversal from bearish to bullish.

What does a Double Bottom pattern look like?

A Double Bottom pattern looks like a W on a chart. The first bottom signifies the lowest price point the stock has reached in its existing downtrend, followed by an upswing, then a second dip to an equal low, followed by a push back upwards.

How do you interpret a Double Bottom?

When a Double Bottom pattern is identified, it’s seen as a bullish reversal signal. After the stock reaches two bottoms at a similar price level, with a peak in between, a move beyond the peak level indicates the start of a new bullish trend.

Is a Double Bottom a reliable indicator of market reversal?

While Double Bottoms can be a strong indicator of a market reversal from bearish to bullish, it should not be the sole factor in deciding to buy or sell. It is always recommended to use it in line with other indicators to improve its reliability.

When should I act upon identifying a Double Bottom pattern?

Trades are typically executed when the price breaks through the highest point of the pattern (The peak in the middle of the ‘W’). This is considered the confirmation point.

Can Double Bottom pattern be used in multiple time frames?

Yes, the Double Bottom pattern can show up in any time frame, including intraday, daily, weekly, or monthly charts. However, patterns on longer time frames tend to be more reliable.

Does a Double Bottom always guarantee a trend reversal?

No, while a Double Bottom is a strong signal of potential trend reversal, it isn’t always guaranteed. Price movement can be influenced by a variety of factors. It is advised to combine this pattern with other technical analysis tools.

Related Finance Terms

Sources for More Information


About Our Editorial Process

At Due, we are dedicated to providing simple money and retirement advice that can make a big impact in your life. Our team closely follows market shifts and deeply understands how to build REAL wealth. All of our articles undergo thorough editing and review by financial experts, ensuring you get reliable and credible money advice.

We partner with leading publications, such as Nasdaq, The Globe and Mail, Entrepreneur, and more, to provide insights on retirement, current markets, and more.

We also host a financial glossary of over 7000 money/investing terms to help you learn more about how to take control of your finances.

View our editorial process

About Our Journalists

Our journalists are not just trusted, certified financial advisers. They are experienced and leading influencers in the financial realm, trusted by millions to provide advice about money. We handpick the best of the best, so you get advice from real experts. Our goal is to educate and inform, NOT to be a ‘stock-picker’ or ‘market-caller.’ 

Why listen to what we have to say?

While Due does not know how to predict the market in the short-term, our team of experts DOES know how you can make smart financial decisions to plan for retirement in the long-term.

View our expert review board

About Due

Due makes it easier to retire on your terms. We give you a realistic view on exactly where you’re at financially so when you retire you know how much money you’ll get each month. Get started today.

Due Fact-Checking Standards and Processes

To ensure we’re putting out the highest content standards, we sought out the help of certified financial experts and accredited individuals to verify our advice. We also rely on them for the most up to date information and data to make sure our in-depth research has the facts right, for today… Not yesterday. Our financial expert review board allows our readers to not only trust the information they are reading but to act on it as well. Most of our authors are CFP (Certified Financial Planners) or CRPC (Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor) certified and all have college degrees. Learn more about annuities, retirement advice and take the correct steps towards financial freedom and knowing exactly where you stand today. Learn everything about our top-notch financial expert reviews below… Learn More