October 2020 Commentary

stocks dip, vix rips

As stocks fell for the second consecutive month and the VIX pushed higher in front of the US Presidential Election, Alpha Seeker recorded its 4th consecutive monthly gain while Smart Index strategies finished nearly 2% ahead of their benchmarks for October.

Known Unknowns

At current levels, VIX contracts already reflect the “known unknowns” surrounding the election. If these uncertainties are cleanly resolved, the VIX will likely find a new lower level as it moves on to the next set of issues. If instead, a new uncertainty such as a contested election were to enter the picture, it is possible to see VIX products move substantially higher over the coming weeks. If 2020 has taught us anything, it is the value of preparation.