VIX – Volatility Index

VIX – Volatility Index While the current low VIX suggests investors are feeling as calm as a cat in a sunbeam, it also serves as a warning about potential future volatility if market conditions shift unexpectedly. Image: Morgan Stanley Wealth Management

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

MOVE – U.S. Treasury Volatility Index

MOVE – U.S. Treasury Volatility Index The MOVE index, which measures implied volatility in U.S. Treasury options, has surged to its highest level since January 2024, signaling potential shifts in broader financial markets. Image: Bloomberg

VIX Index and S&P 500 Realized Volatility

VIX Index and S&P 500 Realized Volatility The spread between the VIX and the S&P 10-day realized volatility, when in the 98th percentile, may signal a potential opportunity for U.S. stocks to rally towards the end of the year. Image: BofA Global Research

S&P 500 Volatility

S&P 500 Volatility The concentration of large-cap stocks has significantly impacted market volatility, with these stocks accounting for a record share of it. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research

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

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

Gold Annualized Returns and Volatility

Gold Annualized Returns and Volatility While gold has had periods of significant growth and can serve as a hedge against inflation, historical data suggests that equities have generally outperformed gold over the long term. Image: J.P. Morgan

Volatility Divergence – VIX vs. MOVE

Volatility Divergence – VIX vs. MOVE The divergence between VIX and MOVE presents unique challenges and opportunities for market participants, reflecting different expectations and perceptions of risk in the equity and bond markets. Image: BofA Global Research

S&P 500 Realized Volatility During Recession

S&P 500 Realized Volatility During Recession During recessions, there is often increased uncertainty and risk aversion among investors, which can lead to higher levels of volatility in the U.S. stock market. Image: BofA Global Research