Bulls Vs Bears, Market Sentiment Indicators
$VXX
Sentiment Indicators
VIX: 19.81; +0.7
VXN: 23.08; +0.46
VXO: 21.42; +0.71
Put/Call Ratio (PCR) CBOE: 1; +0.07
Recent history: 6 of 8 sessions over 1.0; this indicator is still running very high in terms of Negative sentiment.
Note: the Bears are still skeptical with their numbers rising despite a market bounce, yet still in a crossover position. This indicator is suggesting a bounce, but is not a timing indicator.
The Bulls are at 34.7% Vs 26.5% last.
For your reference: the Bulls hit their lowest marks in Y 2015 since the Y’s 2008 and 2009 market dive.
The Bears are at 35.7% Vs 39.8% last.
For your reference: When the Bears are over 35% it is a really be a good Northside indicator.
Sentiment Indicators
Sentiment indicators are often used by investors to see how optimistic or pessimistic people are to current market conditions.
For example, a consumer sentiment index that shows pessimism may make companies less likely to stock up on inventory, because they may fear that consumers will not spend.
The VIX usually moves in the opposite direction as the S&P 500 is a danger signal as it broke through Key resistance.
The higher the VIX, the more traders and investors are willing to pay for protection via options due to potential market risk ahead (see analysis below)
It is important to understand the relationship between implied volatility, and realized volatility, the actual gains or losses realized daily in the S & P500 benchmark index.
And, understanding the difference between the 2 gives a close look at real market sentiment.
In August, realized volatility was around 6, and implied volatility was around 12. A VIX of 16 reflects the expectations of the S & P having 1% daily fluctuation up or down.
In mid-October during the strong selling pressure, the calculation moved North to 31. Last Tuesday, the market saw the best day of the year for the S & P 500, with a 2% + gainer.
Late last week, the 1st full trading week of the New Year, the markets moved due South, the VIX spiked and is running much higher on the volatility.
The Big Q: is the market’s Fear Gauge telling the truth?
The Big A: This market is volatile, watch it carefully, and expect it to continue this way.
History indicates that a simultaneously rising stock market and VIX results in major tops, Y 2007 is a memoral example. This sympathetic move can continue for quite some time but it is always bad news if it does continue.
Have a terrific week.
Paul Ebeling
HeffX-LTN
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