Equity, Bond, FX and Oil Volatility Premiums

Equity, Bond, FX and Oil Volatility Premiums Volatility premiums have significantly declined across asset classes after the U.S. elections. As election results become known, market uncertainty diminishes, leading to lower volatility premiums and increased stability. Image: Deutsche Bank Asset Allocation

VIX Indexed to Election Day

VIX Indexed to Election Day Equity implied volatility typically increases leading up to U.S. presidential elections and decreases afterward, mirroring the market’s reaction to political uncertainty and its resolution. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research

U.S. Equity Sentiment Conditions Index

U.S. Equity Sentiment Conditions Index U.S. equity sentiment appears to be at relatively depressed levels heading into the 2024 U.S. presidential election, due to heightened uncertainty, market volatility, and concerns about potential policy shifts. Image: Pictet Asset Management

VIX – Volatility Index

VIX – Volatility Index The sustained elevation of the VIX above its 200-day moving average serves as a clear indicator of persistent market fear and uncertainty. Image: Bloomberg

Managed Money Gold Futures Positions

Gold Net Long Managed Money on COMEX Gold positioning in the 93rd percentile, or at similarly high levels, often indicates that investors are seeking safe havens due to increased uncertainty. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research

Central Bank Gold Purchases

Central Bank Gold Purchases Gold remains a crucial asset for central banks, reinforcing the stability and resilience of their reserves, particularly in periods of currency volatility and economic uncertainty. Image: BofA Research Investment Committee

Volatility – VIX Curve and U.S. Election

Volatility – VIX and U.S. Election The historical trend of the VIX spiking before U.S. elections and then rapidly declining afterward can be attributed to heightened uncertainty and investor fear in the lead-up to the elections. Image: Morgan Stanley Research

Volatility – Return vs. VIX

Volatility – Return vs. VIX While a higher VIX indicates increased market uncertainty, it can also present opportunities for investors to achieve better average returns by strategically navigating the volatility. Image: Alpine Macro

Average Monthly Volatility for U.S. Election Years Since 1928

Average Monthly Volatility for U.S. Election Years Since 1928 The historical pattern of the VIX rising before U.S. elections and then rapidly plunging afterward is attributed to increased uncertainty and investor fear leading up to the elections. Image: BofA US Equity & Quant Strategy

VIX Average Trend in U.S. Election Years

VIX Average Trend in U.S. Election Years Historical patterns suggest that the VIX tends to bottom out in mid to late August, followed by a trend of increasing volatility as the U.S. Election Day approaches, driven by heightened market uncertainty. Image: BofA Global Research