What SPX & VIX Options Activity Signals in Stock Market

Schwab Network | April 02, 2026 at 04:15 PM UTC
Neutral 90% Confidence
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Key Points

  • S&P 500, Nasdaq-100, and Dow Jones are all below their 200-day simple moving averages.
  • Crude oil (WTI) is up 10% today, nearing a closing high, but equity market weakness is not making new lows.
  • Options activity in VIX shows hedging has largely been done, with VIX around 26-27, indicating elevated but not extreme fear.

AI Summary

The market is in a downtrend with major indices below their 200-day simple moving averages, but current price action is relatively benign. Money is flowing into safe havens like gold, treasuries, and mega-cap tech. Options activity suggests hedging has largely been completed, and the market is grappling with geopolitical uncertainty and the question of whether capitulation has been reached.

Model Analysis Breakdown

Model Sentiment Confidence
Gemini 2.5 Flash Neutral 90%
Consensus Neutral 90%