The Volatility Index, more commonly known as the VIX, is a measurement of market's expected volatility in the future. Analysts and investors alike look at this tool to measure sentiment while making investment decisions. The VIX reflects the psychology of market participants' fear and greed and is often referred to as "Fear Gauge" or "Fear Index." Whereas, the stock markets are news driven and have risen in the last few days the VIX index, instead of falling has either remained steady or even risen like today, indicating that inherent systemic issues such as debt, earnings and global uncertainties still remain intact!