Definition
The CBOE Volatility Index measures expected 30-day S&P 500 volatility from options prices. Often called the "fear gauge."
VIX below 15: calm. 15-20: normal. 20-30: elevated fear. 30+: crisis. VIX is part of the Risk/Price tier (20% weight) in the DLI scoring model because it captures real-time risk appetite shifts faster than any other indicator. VIX spikes tend to lead crypto drawdowns by 1-3 days. Historical average: ~19. Key extremes: 82 (March 2020), 65 (August 2024).