The Indicator

What is VAY™?

VAY™ (Volatility Adjusted Yield) tells option sellers whether they're getting paid enough for the risk they're taking. One number. Right inside your broker.

Premium vs. realized volatility.

VAY™ tells you whether an option's premium is expensive or cheap compared to the past. It compares the yield of the 30-day at-the-money option to the stock's 30-day realized volatility, giving you a single number that shows how well you're being compensated for the risk you're taking.

A high VAY™ means the premium is rich relative to the stock's movement in the last 30 days — ideal for sellers. A low VAY™ means you're not getting paid enough for the risk — a signal to look elsewhere or consider buying.

Reading the Signal
Below 1.0 — Weak

Premium is low relative to volatility. Poor risk/reward for sellers.

1.0 – 1.5 — Fair

Premium is roughly in line with the stock's movement. Proceed with caution.

Above 1.5 — Strong

Premium is rich relative to volatility. Favorable for sellers.

Get the VAY™ Chrome Extension.

Join the Define Your Risk™ list and we'll send you the VAY™ Chrome Extension so you can see Volatility Adjusted Yield right inside Fidelity, Robinhood, and thinkorswim.