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Continuation patternsBullishReliability: high

Bull Flag

Also known as: Bullish Flag

A short, slightly downward-sloping consolidation (the “flag”) after a steep rally (the “flagpole”). The trend usually continues upward.

Schematic illustration – idealized shape.

How it forms

An impulsive rally is followed by an orderly pause in a narrow, slightly falling channel with declining volume. It is a breather, not a trend change.

How it is typically traded

Entry

On a break above the upper flag boundary, ideally with rising volume.

Target

The length of the flagpole, projected upward from the breakout point.

Stop-loss

Below the low of the flag.

Where & when – and the limits

Works best in strong trends right after the impulse. If the flag runs too long or too deep (more than roughly half the pole), the pattern loses meaning.

Education, not investment advice. Chart patterns describe probabilities, not guarantees – they fail regularly. Always manage risk with stop-loss and position size.

Learn more in the academy