The CBOE Volatility Index , or VIX, fell below 16 on Monday and is now flirting with its lowest level since the July doldrums.
"Our historical study of volatility shows that the VIX averaged 22 points in October, 4 points above the current VIX level.
We believe the low implied volatility, upcoming October earnings season and elections provide an attractive opportunity for investors to hedge a potential rise in volatility," the note said.
The options would have a strike price of 18 and expire in November, serving as a bet that expectations of volatility will rise as the election nears.
There are no additional losses on the trade if the VIX actually declines instead.
Persons:
Goldman Sachs, Arun Prakash, Prakash, VIX, seasonality
Organizations:
U.S