Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the current volatility in the U.S. stock market and the strategies investors are considering to hedge against potential shocks, particularly in light of uncertainties surrounding Trump's policies [1]. Group 1: Market Volatility and Investor Strategies - Despite a calming of volatility in April, investors are preparing for sudden market shocks, similar to those experienced in the past [1]. - Derivatives strategists suggest that while periodic option selling from income-focused ETFs may suppress overall volatility, short-term shocks will continue to occur [1]. - Investors are weighing their preferences between Gamma and Vega strategies for hedging against market fluctuations [1][2]. Group 2: Gamma vs. Vega Strategies - Gamma represents a strategy focused on short-term options to capitalize on intraday volatility, while Vega pertains to long-term contracts benefiting from market turbulence [2]. - Data from Bloomberg indicates that short-term options were the biggest winners in April, but if the market retraces to previous lows, extreme volatility may not be repeated [2]. - Analysts expect a gradual repricing of the market driven by weak future guidance, indicating a low-volatility bear market [2]. Group 3: Alternative Hedging Tools - VKO (Volatility Knock Out) options are gaining popularity as a speculative method to short stocks or volatility, offering a cheaper alternative to standard options [3]. - Hedge funds have actively engaged in VKO during recent market declines to secure better entry points, emphasizing the importance of timing in establishing positions [3]. - Quantitative Investment Strategies (QIS) are also being considered for hedging, with a mixed approach potentially being more effective given the varied performance of these strategies during April's volatility [3]. Group 4: Cost Trends and Market Outlook - Trading costs have returned to levels seen at the end of March, providing a favorable environment for hedgers [5]. - Analysts predict that earnings downgrades and valuation compression will lead to a gradual decline in U.S. stocks, testing lows expected in 2025 [5]. - The article notes that while sudden news shocks previously defined market declines, the next downturn is anticipated to be a slow erosion rather than a sharp sell-off [5].