Has the 'Fear Index' India VIX Fallen Below 14, Indicating a Cooling Market?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India VIX falls below 14, indicating reduced market fear.
- 20% drop in volatility index over the past month.
- Experts suggest improving investor confidence.
- Market stability hinges on global and domestic cues.
- US Federal Reserve maintains interest rates steady.
Mumbai, June 19 (NationPress) The India VIX, commonly known as the 'fear index', has seen a decline below the crucial threshold of 14, indicating a decrease in market anxiety on Thursday.
Despite persistent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, investors are exhibiting caution.
During midday trading, the India VIX recorded a fall of 2.5 percent, resting at 13.92. This represents a significant 20 percent drop in the volatility index over the last month, suggesting that traders are feeling less apprehensive about abrupt market fluctuations.
Financial experts indicate that the India VIX trading below the significant 15 level reflects a reduction in volatility and signals an enhancement in investor confidence.
This trend could potentially bolster the ongoing market uptrend, assuming that both global and domestic factors remain stable.
"The drop in the fear index illustrates that investors are maintaining a calm reaction amidst geopolitical issues," they pointed out. This also hints at robust institutional investments and favorable global signals contributing to the positive market sentiment.
In the previous trading session, the India VIX closed at 14.27, down from 14.40, showcasing a stable yet cautious investor outlook.
The recent trend indicates a movement towards a more stable market phase, although challenges still linger.
Meanwhile, major indices experienced slight declines. The Sensex fell by 37.40 points, or 0.05 percent, to 81,407.26 during the intra-day session.
The Nifty also decreased by 7.20 points, or 0.03 percent, to 24,804.85, influenced by the US Federal Reserve's policy decisions and weak cues from Asia.
As anticipated, the US Federal Reserve opted to maintain steady interest rates.
However, the central bank did revise its predictions, now forecasting two rate cuts this year, although a growing number of policymakers suggest that no cuts may occur.
“The Fed also slightly modified its long-term outlook, now projecting only one quarter-point cut each in 2026 and 2027,” explained Mandar Bhojane from Choice Broking.