VIX Rises Above 20 as U.S. Stocks Sell Off and Risk Aversion Grows

The S&P 500 volatility index (VIX) rose three points to 20.17 on Friday, Oct. 30, and reached 22.31 intraday, a recent high.

U.S. stocks faced a selloff as investors grew more risk-averse. The VIX’s return above 20 signaled increased concern about short-term stock swings.

The VIX measures expected 30-day volatility in the S&P 500, using options prices. On Oct. 16, the index closed at 19.99 after rising 21.45% that day.