S&P500 volatility changed to Nasdaqcomposite volatility as benchmark for dollar denominated equity volatility. Nasdaqvolatility is leading changes in S&P500 volatility on a number of occasions in the last 40 years that is the reason for the change. Just like S&P500 it has been moving upward in the last weeks. Treasury volatility moving close to historic lows and opposite to equity volatility in the last weeks. Uncertainty about Fed rate hike cycle might be somewhat less than a month ago and might contribute to lower treasury volatility. Both volatilities are always scaled to yearly volatilities for comparison.

After the Yuan devaluation and very difficult times for many emerging markets, the Volkswagen scandal hits and the equity volatility rises. VIX also seems to be finding a new higher normal around 20-25 after spikes >30. Treasury volatility calmer than equity in this environment and not reacting as much to the upside. One factor that keeps treasuries calmer is the fact that in Yuan terms the return is a little bit better after the devaluation.

The converging volatilities indicate more focus on the bond markets over the summer. The general asset volatility level is rising.