Distinguishing between accumulation and distribution phases in the Wyckoff Method are challenging. Here are some key differences to look for:
Volume: During accumulation, trading volume tends to be low, as institutional investors quietly accumulate assets without attracting attention from the broader market. In contrast, during distribution, trading volume tends to be high, as institutional investors actively sell assets to the broader market.
Price: During accumulation, prices tend to trade in a relatively tight range, as the institutional investors accumulate assets at lower prices. In contrast, during distribution, prices tend to be volatile and may experience sharp price movements, as the institutional investors sell assets to the broader market.
Chart patterns: Accumulation and distribution phases may exhibit different chart patterns. For example, during accumulation, a chart may form a bottoming pattern, such as a "W" or "cup and handle" pattern. In contrast, during distribution, a chart may form a topping pattern, such as a "head and shoulders" pattern.
Support and resistance levels: During accumulation, the price may find support at a particular level, as institutional investors accumulate assets. In contrast, during distribution, the price may encounter resistance at a particular level, as institutional investors sell assets to the broader market.