What is the Dark Cloud Cover Pattern?

Dark Cloud Cover
Forex Trading Glossary

Quick Answer: Dark Cloud Cover is a bearish candlestick reversal where a strong rally candle is followed by a candle that closes deep into the prior body.

What is the Dark Cloud Cover Pattern?

Dark Cloud Cover is a bearish candlestick reversal pattern that forms when a strong bullish candle is followed by a candle that opens above the previous high but closes deep within the prior body.

Identification Checklist

  • Uptrend required: Pattern appears after a rally.
  • Gap higher: Second candle opens above the prior high.
  • Bearish close: Second candle closes below the midpoint of the first body.
  • Volume: Rising volume adds conviction to the reversal.

Avoid False Signals

Combine the pattern with resistance zones or momentum divergences to confirm seller strength.

Trading the Pattern

  • Entry trigger: Consider short positions when price trades below the pattern low.
  • Stop placement: Place stops above the pattern high.
  • Targets: Aim for nearby support or use measured moves.
  • Risk control: Dark Cloud Cover works best on higher timeframes to filter noise.

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