VIX Futures Contracts were created to provide investors with exposure to the futures of the CBOE Volatility Index. VIX Futures Contracts were first introduced to the market on the 26th of March, 2006 and were one of the founding innovations of the volatility derivatives market. The CBOE Volatility Index measures the potential volatility of options on the S&P500 stock index over the upcoming 30 days.
The CBOE Volatility Index is commonly shortened to the VIX and is also sometimes referred to as "the fear index". Increasing volatility is often viewed as being indicative of market uncertainty or stress, and the VIX can be used as a measurement tool for fear in this regard. When the VIX reaches levels above 30, it points to times of high volatility in the market. The average long-term value of the VIX has been 21, as of July 2022.
The VIX cannot be bought directly. Instead, it can be traded through ETFs, ETNs, options, and futures contracts. Investors can trade VIX Futures Contracts on the Chicago Board Options Exchange. |
