The CBOE Volatility Index, or VIX, is the most recognized tool to trade financial market volatility. It measures 30-day expected or forward-looking volatility of the U.S. stock market based on the S&P 500 options.

Put simply, it is a mathematical measure of how much the market thinks the S&P 500 Index option, or SPX, will fluctuate over the next 12 months, based upon an analysis of the difference between current SPX put and call option prices.

The VIX is a constant list made by the Chicago Board Options Exchange and presently kept up with by Cboe Global Markets. VIX is the ticker symbol appointed to this well known volatility index.

The VIX, or the Volatility Index, is a widely used measure of market volatility and investor sentiment. Created by the Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE), the VIX reflects the market's expectations for future volatility over the next 30 days. Often referred to as the "fear gauge," it rises when investors anticipate increased market turbulence and falls in more stable periods.

The VIX is calculated based on the prices of options on the S&P 500 index, representing the market's consensus on expected volatility. A higher VIX value suggests greater uncertainty and potential for larger price swings, indicating a perceived higher risk. Traders and investors use the VIX to gauge market sentiment, manage risk, and make informed decisions about their portfolios. While it doesn't predict market direction, the VIX remains a valuable tool for assessing the level of risk and adjusting strategies accordingly in the dynamic world of financial markets.