Guide to VVIX/VIX Ratio Regimes and Corresponding Investment Str

16 Jul 2023

Market volatility and its expected future changes, as indicated by the VVIX/VIX ratio, can greatly impact investment decision-making. The following guide provides insights into different regimes of this ratio, their implications on market conditions, potential sector rotations, and additional investment strategies that investors might consider.

[u]High Ratio (High VVIX, Low VIX):[/u]

In this regime, apparent calmness belies underlying uncertainty about future volatility. This suggests a potential underestimation of future risks.

• Sector Rotation: A strategic shift towards defensive sectors—Consumer Staples, Utilities, and Healthcare—can help. These sectors are often resilient during uncertain times due to consistent demand for their services and products.
  
• Options Strategies: Look at strategies like long straddles or long strangles. These profit when the underlying security experiences a significant price move, regardless of the direction.
  
• Risk Parity: Adjust your portfolio by distributing risk evenly across different asset classes rather than allocating based on expected returns.
  
• Bond Laddering: This involves buying bonds that mature at different times. It provides regular income and reduces the risk of being locked into a low-interest-rate environment.
  

[u]Low Ratio (Low VVIX, High VIX):[/u]

In this regime, high current market volatility is expected to continue, signaling turbulent times ahead.

• Sector Rotation: Defensive sectors, including Utilities and Consumer Staples, provide stability during turbulent times. For those with high risk tolerance and a long-term perspective, cyclical sectors like Technology, Consumer Discretionary, or Industrials could present buying opportunities.
  
• Volatility Trading: Consider securities that are designed to track volatility, such as VIX futures, options, or volatility-focused ETFs and ETNs.
  
• Dollar-Cost Averaging: This strategy involves investing a fixed dollar amount in a particular investment on a regular schedule, regardless of the asset's price. Over time, this can result in a lower average cost per share.
  
• Distressed Assets: Market turbulence often results in some assets being undervalued or "distressed." Savvy investors may find bargains in this space.
  

[u]Stable or Mid-Range Ratio:[/u]

A moderate level of expected market volatility signals a stable market environment.

• Sector Rotation: Investors might consider cyclical sectors—Technology, Industrials, and Consumer Discretionary—that are likely to benefit from economic growth.
  
• Buy and Hold: This strategy involves buying stocks or other assets and holding them for a long period. It is based on the belief that in the long term, financial markets provide a good rate of return despite periods of volatility.
  
• Growth Investing: This strategy involves investing in companies expected to grow at an above-average rate compared to other companies.
  
• Momentum Trading: This involves buying securities trending up and selling those trending down. Stability can enhance the predictability of these trends.
  

Understanding the nuances of the VVIX/VIX ratio and its implications on market conditions can help investors align their strategies with market volatility regimes. Whether rotating sectors or applying different investment strategies, it's important to remember that all strategies carry risk and must align with individual investment goals, risk tolerance, and market outlooks. As always, it's important to consider a variety of market indicators and economic factors before making investment decisions. This guide serves as a stepping stone towards informed investment decision-making during different market volatility regimes.