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Chart of the WeekJuly 21, 2026

Chart Of the Week – Single-Stock Volatility Has Pulled Far Above the Index

This week's chart tracks the ratio of the average S&P 500 stock's three-month implied volatility to the index's own, going back to 1995.

Chart Of the Week – Single-Stock Volatility Has Pulled Far Above the Index

This week's chart tracks the ratio of the average S&P 500 stock's three-month implied volatility to the index's own, going back to 1995. Past spikes topped out near 2.2 to 2.4. Today's reading sits near 2.7, the widest gap in three decades.

Here is why it matters. Index-level volatility has stayed relatively subdued, yet the average stock is swinging far more than the index itself. That gap is really a story about correlation. When stocks trade on their own drivers rather than moving together, whether from sector rotation or stock-specific news, their moves partly offset inside the index and the headline stays quiet, even as the action underneath is intense.

When dispersion runs this wide, the environment tends to reward stock selection more than simply owning the index. It is the same broadening in participation, seen from a different angle.

Source: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research

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Last Week on Wall Street

Last Week on Wall Street is Waterloo Capital's weekly market recap, published every Monday morning to keep advisors and clients informed on the most significant developments from the prior trading week. Each edition synthesizes equity market performance, fixed income moves, macroeconomic data releases, and notable corporate earnings into a concise, actionable read — cutting through the noise so our readers can focus on what actually matters for long-term wealth management.

Our research team tracks the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, NASDAQ Composite, and 10-year Treasury yield as primary benchmarks, while also covering sector rotations, commodity swings, and policy shifts from the Federal Reserve and Washington. When major cross-asset moves occur — such as the historic gold selloff covered in this edition — we dig into the mechanics and the likely ripple effects on diversified portfolios, helping clients contextualize volatility without reacting impulsively.

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Investment Disclosure: The information contained in this article is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any security. Past performance is not indicative of future results. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Waterloo Capital, LP is an SEC-registered investment advisor. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Please consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.

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Chart Of the Week – Single-Stock Volatility Has Pulled Far Above the Index | Waterloo Capital