Exploring Volatility Dynamics in the Options Market

In China, the “vol shot” heard round the world occurred recently with the Chinese government throwing the kitchen sink at the economy and market, seeking to revive the relatively lifeless patient. As it usually does, at least temporarily, it worked. Insofar as asset price reaction that is.  An explosion in volumes ensued as did the classic “stock up vol up” dynamic made most famous in 2021 during the Meme stock episode. In this short pod, I review the five characteristics of price/vol spirals, their implications and how these unique episodes resolve themselves. I also cover US Election risk and how its impacting the VIX. I hope you enjoy and find this useful.