The Dow Theory is a market theory that was developed by Charles Dow, co-founder of The Wall Street Journal, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is considered to be one of the earliest forms of technical analysis, and is based on the idea that market trends can be identified and used to make informed investment decisions.
The Dow Theory is based on the idea that market trends can be classified into three categories: primary trends, secondary trends, and minor trends. According to the theory, primary trends represent long-term market movements and can last for several years. Secondary trends are shorter-term movements that occur within the context of the primary trend, and are often the result of market corrections or consolidations. Minor trends are even shorter-term movements that occur within the context of the secondary trend.
The Dow Theory also states that stock market trends can be confirmed by analyzing the price movements of multiple market averages, such as the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Dow Jones Transportation Average. According to the theory, when both the industrial and transportation averages are trending in the same direction, it is a sign of a confirmed market trend.
The Dow Theory remains an influential concept in the world of finance, and is widely studied and applied by technical analysts and market participants. However, it is important to note that like all market theories, the Dow Theory is not a guarantee of future market performance and should be used in conjunction with other forms of analysis to make informed investment decisions.