Market Volatility & Outlook - The VIX, a 30-day outlook on S&P 500 implied volatility, may be understated due to upcoming holidays, suggesting a truer measure of 18.12 to 19 [1][2] - Options expiring at the end of January indicate anticipation of increased choppiness, with out-of-the-money puts and calls experiencing greater price increases than at-the-money options [3] - The market may experience a similar pattern to the previous year, with a strong rally up to Thanksgiving followed by a choppy December [4] - Calmness on the surface belies increased alertness in the wings, suggesting potential for significant market movement [6] Macroeconomic Uncertainties - An upcoming presidential announcement, potentially related to Venezuela, introduces macroeconomic uncertainty that could impact options prices and trigger a knee-jerk reaction in risk assets [7][8] - Options market activity suggests concern about potential knee-jerk reactions to risk assets stemming from macroeconomic uncertainties [7][8] Sector Performance - Some of the hottest performing sectors year-to-date are experiencing a roll-off [3]