Market’s fear gauge hits levels that have marked past short-term bottoms

Short-term tradable bottom? The CBOE Volatility Index has spiked to 29, but more importantly, the VIX curve (the prices of near-term VIX options) is now in backwardation : that is, the prices of near-term contracts (cash and the March options contract) are now higher than options contracts further out (April, May, June). This is unusual and indicates … Read more

The average 401(k) savings rate is at record-high levels, report finds

Milan Markovic | E+ | Getty Images The average 401(k) savings rate has maintained a record high, as some retirement plans make it easier for workers to enroll and contribute. In 2024, the average combined savings rate for employee deferrals and company deposits was an estimated 12%, according to Vanguard’s newly released yearly analysis of … Read more