VIX Volatility Index — Historical Chart
VIXCLSThe VIX (CBOE Volatility Index) measures 30-day implied volatility of S&P 500 options — Wall Street's fear gauge. Below 15 = complacent; above 20 = elevated concern; above 30 = fear; above 40 = panic.
Related — Financial Stress & Market Conditions
SOURCE: FEDERAL RESERVE ECONOMIC DATA (FRED) · 0 OBSERVATIONS
The VIX (CBOE Volatility Index) measures the stock market's expectation of volatility over the next 30 days, derived from S&P 500 options pricing. Known as the "fear index", VIX above 30 signals extreme fear and investor capitulation — conditions that have historically marked major market bottoms.
Related Economic Indicators
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the VIX?
- The VIX (CBOE Volatility Index) measures expected 30-day volatility in the S&P 500, derived from the prices of near-term put and call options. A VIX of 20 implies the market expects the S&P 500 to move ±20% (annualized) over the next 30 days, or roughly ±5.8% per month.
- What VIX level indicates market stress?
- VIX below 15 = complacency (low fear, often occurs in bull markets). VIX 15-25 = normal uncertainty. VIX 25-35 = elevated fear. VIX above 35-40 = panic/extreme fear. Historical peaks: 89.5 in COVID crash (2020), 80.9 in 2008 financial crisis.
- Can you invest in the VIX?
- The VIX itself is not directly investable. Products like VIX futures, VIX ETFs (VXX, UVXY), and VIX options provide exposure, but they all suffer from negative roll yield — making long VIX positions expensive to hold over time. These are typically trading tools, not long-term investments.
- Why does a high VIX often mark market bottoms?
- Extreme VIX readings reflect maximum pessimism and options buyers paying peak premiums for downside protection. These conditions often coincide with forced selling and capitulation — the exact point where "everyone who wants to sell has sold." Historically, VIX spikes above 40 have been excellent contrarian buy signals.
Economic data sourced from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis (FRED). Data is updated according to the release schedule of the issuing agency. Provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.