VIX on TradingView: The Volatility Index

The VIX, often called the “fear index”, measures how much volatility the options market expects from the S&P 500. Here are the VIX symbols on TradingView and what you need to know before using them.

TVC:VIXIndex
Volatility S&P 500 Index from TradingView’s TVC data.
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CBOE:VIXIndex
Volatility S&P 500 Index from Cboe, which calculates it.
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CBOE:VX1!Futures
VIX futures on Cboe Futures Exchange, continuous front-month contract.
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Why prices differWhat 1! meansTrading hoursWhich to use

What the VIX measures

The VIX is calculated by Cboe from S&P 500 option prices and represents the market’s expectation of volatility over the next 30 days, as an annualised percentage. Low readings mean traders expect calm markets; spikes usually come with sharp stock market falls, which is why it’s nicknamed the fear index. It typically moves opposite to the S&P 500.

Why VIX futures differ from the VIX

The VIX index itself can’t be bought. VIX futures are bets on where the VIX will be on a future date, so they often sit above the index in calm markets (and can sit below it during panics). That’s why products based on VIX futures don’t follow the VIX chart one-for-one.

What does “1!” mean on TradingView?

VX1! is TradingView’s continuous contract: it shows the front-month VIX future and switches to the next at expiry, so the chart can jump at the roll.

Trading hours

The VIX index is calculated while S&P 500 options trade, mainly during US market hours. VIX futures trade for much longer, almost around the clock on weekdays. See the live stock market hours clock.

Which one should you use?

To watch market fear, TVC:VIX or CBOE:VIX. To see what’s actually tradable, VX1!.

ChartWatch is independent and not affiliated with TradingView or Cboe. Symbols checked on TradingView in October 2026. “Open on TradingView” links are affiliate links: if you sign up through them, ChartWatch may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Nothing here is a recommendation to trade.

FAQ

What is the VIX symbol on TradingView?
TVC:VIX and CBOE:VIX both show the Volatility S&P 500 Index. CBOE:VX1! is the continuous VIX futures contract.
What does the VIX measure?
The market's expected volatility of the S&P 500 over the next 30 days, calculated by Cboe from S&P 500 option prices.
Can you trade the VIX directly?
No. You can trade VIX futures, options on VIX and products built on them, but not the index itself.
Why is the VIX called the fear index?
It tends to jump when stocks fall sharply and investors pay more for protection, so high readings reflect fear in the market.

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