Silver Rises Over 120% YTD 
The CBOE Volatility Index, commonly known as the VIX, has surged 39% over the past five days, signaling heightened market anxiety and uncertainty. Often referred to as the “fear index” or “fear gauge,” this real-time measure of expected S&P 500 volatility over the next 30 days has become a key barometer of investor sentiment since its creation by the Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE) in 1993.
This sharp spike in volatility has directly corresponded with significant moves in precious metals markets, with gold reaching record highs and silver showing strong gains as well. As investors seek safe-haven assets amid growing concerns about tariffs and economic uncertainty, the metals markets have benefited from this risk-off sentiment. The inverse relationship between market volatility and precious metals performance underscores gold and silver’s traditional role as portfolio stabilizers during periods of financial turbulence and geopolitical tension.
