The Cost of a “Costless” Collar

In the world of options trading, the term “zero-cost collar” often suggests a strategy that offers downside protection without any costs to the investor. However, while the strategy may not require an upfront payment, it is not without an implicit cost…...

What Exactly Does the VIX Tell Us?

Over the past month, the VIX Index has been making headlines, first spiking, then crashing in dramatic fashion at times just a day apart.     While many investors recognize the VIX as “the fear gauge,” far fewer understand what it actually measures and how...