Dragonfly Doji
What it is:
A dragonfly doji is the most uncommon candle of the four different types of doji candlesticks. As with any doji, the dragonfly depicts a situation in which supply and demand are in equilibrium, thus possibly signaling an important reversal. It is characterized by having a small real body (or none at all) and a long lower shadow.
How it works (Example):
During the period of a dragonfly doji, prices will typically open at a high, sell off, and then return to the opening price. Dragonfly doji are fairly unusual, but when they do occur, they often resolve bullishly.
A dragonfly forms because when there is early pressure forcing the security down, but then it finds support, and buying pressure pushes the security back up.
As significant as the dragonfly doji is, one should not take action on its message alone. Always wait for confirmation from the next candlestick before taking trading action.
In the chart of SINA below, the dragonfly occurred near $21, an important support level. The lower shadow was outside the Bollinger Band ®, signifying that the stock found eager buyers near that support. Frequently, a large lower shadow outside a Bollinger Band will mark an important bottom if the stock can close within the band.
Why it Matters:
Dojis, especially dragonfly dojis, can mark a point of a reversal in a trend. By recognizing these points, traders have one more tool that enables them to identify potential entry and exit points for a security.
