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VIX
(Volatility Index (Fear Gauge))
The VIX (Volatility Index), nicknamed the 'fear gauge,' measures the S&P 500's expected 30-day volatility based on options prices. Calculated by the CBOE, it spikes during market stress (e.g., hit 82.7 in March 2020).
A VIX above 30 signals high fear (bear markets), while below 20 suggests complacency (bull markets). Traders use VIX futures and ETFs like VXX to hedge portfolios. Unlike RSI, which tracks price momentum, the VIX reflects sentiment. The FED monitors it for systemic risk. Critics argue it overstates actual volatility, but it remains Wall Street's go-to panic indicator.
A VIX above 30 signals high fear (bear markets), while below 20 suggests complacency (bull markets). Traders use VIX futures and ETFs like VXX to hedge portfolios. Unlike RSI, which tracks price momentum, the VIX reflects sentiment. The FED monitors it for systemic risk. Critics argue it overstates actual volatility, but it remains Wall Street's go-to panic indicator.