The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX), first introduced in 1993, measures the 30-day expected volatility of the S&P 500 Index (SPX). Another way of putting it is that the Volatility Index attempts to measure the amount of fear or stress in the market, which led to it being widely known as the "fear index."

As investors become fearful over the possibility of declining equity prices, they purchase protection using put options. This increased demand for protection drives put option prices higher, thereby increasing the implied volatility. So, as the VIX rises, it becomes an indirect measurement of market sentiment and serves as a fear gauge. However, to the astute trader, "fear" is another word for opportunity.

Warren Buffet once said to be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful. When volatility surges and fear is in the air, trading strategies such as put credit spreads (the act of selling one put and buying a lower strike put) can offer lucrative opportunities. The right strategy will depend on the environment and the trader’s risk appetite.

Join John Rowland, Barchart's Head of Trading Education, as he explains how the Volatility Index is calculated and how it can be used to measure sentiment and the amount of fear in the market. John will also discuss the strategies that one can use to take advantage of both low and high-volatility environments.

In this webinar, you will learn how to:

• Measure market sentiment using the VIX
• Calculate a one-day expected price move using the VIX
• Implement options strategies based on volatility levels