SVXY is a high-risk ETF designed to deliver -0.5x the daily performance of the S&P 500 VIX Short-Term Futures Index. Current low market volatility makes it an inopportune time to bet on further volatility declines, so I rate SVXY as a Hold. Understanding when to go long or short volatility is crucial, especially in markets with overvalued stocks and sentiment-driven pricing.
The ProShares Short VIX Short-Term Futures ETF has performed well, since we upgraded our rating from "Hold" to "Strong Buy" on 9 April. The SVXY has gained by around 11.9% while the Cboe Volatility Index has dropped by around -30.0% over the same period (based on prices at the time of publication). Given the increasing risks of a highly volatile equity environment, we think the potential reward for shorting volatility no longer adequately compensates for the risk of another spike on the VIX.
ProShares Short VIX Short-Term Futures ETF benefits from falling volatility; post-election VIX normalization makes it less attractive, prompting a 'Sell' rating to take profit. SVXY is not suitable for buy and hold due to potential significant drawdowns from sudden volatility spikes. The fund should be bought when VIX spikes due to external events and sold after volatility subsides.
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The index described is designed as a financial instrument that aims to provide investors with a way to gain exposure to the volatility of the stock market, specifically through the use of publicly traded futures markets. Its focus is on measuring the implied volatility of the S&P 500 index over a period of 30 days into the future. This approach allows investors to potentially profit from the changes in market volatility, rather than the direction of the market prices themselves. Such financial tools are often utilized by investors who seek to hedge other investments or speculate on future changes in market volatility.
The core offering centers around the facilitation of investment opportunities in market volatility, particularly through two main avenues:
Through these contracts, investors can position themselves to potentially benefit from both increases and declines in market volatility, depending on their market outlook and investment strategy. This product is particularly appealing to those looking to diversify their investment portfolio beyond traditional stock and bond investments.
By providing these measurement tools, the company aims to empower investors with the data and analysis necessary to understand market volatility dynamics better. This can aid in strategizing investments in volatility futures or in adjusting broader investment portfolios according to expected market conditions.