What is the S&P 500 VIX index?

The VIX Index – or Volatility Index measures how volatile the S&P 500 Index is. It judges the expectations of the stock market over the following 30-day period. Where have you heard about the S&P 500 VIX Index? You might have heard it being referred to as the 'fear index' or 'fear gauge'.

What does Vix stand for?

VIX is the ticker symbol and the popular name for the Chicago Board Options Exchange's CBOE Volatility Index, a popular measure of the stock market's expectation of volatility based on S&P 500 index options. It is calculated and disseminated on a real-time basis by the CBOE, and is often referred to as the fear index or fear gauge.

Why should you use the S&P 500 options?

Because the index represents approximately 80% of the total market value of U.S. equities and benefits from one of the most liquid markets in the world, using S&P 500 options ensures that VIX represents a broad—and current—view on volatility.

What was the launch date of the S&P 500?

The launch date of the S&P 500 was Mar 04, 1957. All information for an index prior to its Launch Date is hypothetical back-tested, not actual performance, based on the index methodology in effect on the Launch Date.