Join guest host Gino Poore as he delves into the vicariousness of the VIX.. The VIX, or Implied Volatility chart, is a measure of overall market sentiment in regard to uncertainty. When the VIX is low, market moves tend not to be too unexpected (on the whole), and traders are generally fine with not having insurance (or options). When VIX is high, the market is seen more unpredictable and volatile, driving options prices up correspondingly. Several things can affect VIX, too: news events, earnings, sector performance, and more.