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VIX Climbs as US Tech Stocks Retreat; Gold & Silver Shift

Global markets traded cautiously on 9-10 June 2026 as investors assessed rising geopolitical tensions, upcoming US inflation data, SpaceX’s anticipated IPO, and renewed volatility in technology shares. The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX), often referred to as Wall Street’s “fear gauge”, rose above 19, signalling increased demand for portfolio protection and greater market uncertainty. 

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TL;DR 

  • VIX volatility index rose above 19, indicating increased investor caution and expectations for larger market swings.

  • US indices finished mixed, with the Dow Jones higher while the S&P 500 and NASDAQ declined.

  • Nvidia remained under pressure as investors took profits in AI and semiconductor stocks following a strong rally.

  • Tesla experienced heightened volatility amid broader weakness in growth and technology shares.

  • Japanese equities fell, with the Nikkei 225 retreating as risk sentiment weakened across Asian markets.

  • Gold and silver prices fell yesterday as renewed US-Iran tensions pushed oil prices higher, boosting the US dollar and strengthening expectations that interest rates may remain elevated for longer. 

  • Investors are closely watching upcoming US inflation data, central bank signals, geopolitical developments, and the results of the scheduled SpaceX IPO for market direction.

Key Developments

US Indices End Mixed

On Tuesday, 9 June, US equity markets finished mixed. The S&P 500 slipped 0.26% to 7,386.65, while the NASDAQ Composite declined 0.97% to 25,678.82 as technology stocks came under pressure. The Dow Jones Industrial Average outperformed, gaining 0.17% to 50,872.11. Investors remained focused on inflation expectations, Treasury yields, and developments in the Middle East. (Source: Reuters)

Nvidia Extends Technology Sector Weakness

Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) remained a key focus for traders yesterday as semiconductor shares experienced renewed selling pressure. After leading much of the market’s AI-driven rally, chipmakers faced profit-taking as investors reassessed valuations and broader risk sentiment. Nvidia continues to be closely watched due to its influence on the wider technology sector and the NASDAQ index. 

Tesla Faces Increased Volatility

Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA) also remained under scrutiny as growth stocks reacted to changing interest-rate expectations and broader market volatility. The electric vehicle manufacturer continues to attract significant trading volumes, with investors monitoring vehicle deliveries, competition within the EV sector, and developments related to CEO Elon Musk’s wider business interests. 

Japanese Shares Decline

Japanese equities weakened yesterday, with the Nikkei 225 falling more than 2% during the latest session. The decline mirrored weakness across parts of Asia's technology sector and reflected concerns over global growth and investor risk appetite. Export-oriented companies were also affected by shifting expectations for global demand.

VIX Signals Higher Market Volatility

On Wednesday, 10 June, the VIX advanced to approximately 19.9, up more than 5% from the previous session. The index measures expected 30-day volatility in the S&P 500 based on options pricing and is widely used as a gauge of investor sentiment. The move higher suggests traders are preparing for larger market swings amid geopolitical developments and key economic releases. 

Gold and Silver Under Pressure

Precious metals were pressured yesterday as renewed US-Iran tensions pushed oil prices higher, boosting the US dollar and strengthening expectations that interest rates may remain elevated for longer. These factors reduced demand for non-yielding assets such as gold and silver. Gold ETFs fell 3% while silver prices fell about 5% in morning trading.

Conclusion

Global markets entered a more cautious phase as the VIX moved higher, US technology shares weakened, and Japanese equities declined. Nvidia and Tesla remained key stocks to watch, while gold and silver experienced some pressure. Upcoming US economic data, the SpaceX IPO over the weekend, and geopolitical developments may become major drivers of market sentiment in the near term. 

*Past performance does not guarantee future results. The above is for marketing and general informational purposes only, and are only projections and should not be taken as investment research, investment advice or a personal recommendation.  

FAQ

What is the VIX Index?

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) measures expected volatility in the S&P 500 over the next 30 days based on options prices. It is commonly referred to as Wall Street's 'fear gauge'.

Why did the VIX rise?

The VIX increased as investors prepared for potential market swings related to economic data releases, central bank expectations, and geopolitical developments.

How did US stock indices perform?

The Dow Jones Industrial Average outperformed, while the S&P 500 edged lower and the NASDAQ declined as technology stocks faced selling pressure.

Why are Nvidia and Tesla important to investors?

Nvidia is a key player in artificial intelligence and semiconductor markets, while Tesla remains one of the world's most actively traded electric vehicle stocks. Both companies have a significant influence on broader market sentiment.

What happened to Japanese stocks?

Japanese equities, including the Nikkei 225, moved lower as global risk appetite weakened and technology-related shares came under pressure.

What should traders watch next?

Upcoming US inflation data, central bank commentary, Treasury yield movements, and geopolitical developments could influence volatility, equities, and precious metals markets in the coming days.

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This information is written by Plus500 Ltd. The information is provided for general purposes only, and does not take into account any personal circumstances or objectives. Before acting on this material, you should consider whether it is suitable for your particular circumstances and, if necessary, seek professional advice. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. It does not constitute financial, investment or other advice on which you can rely. Any references to past performance, historical returns, future projections, and statistical forecasts are no guarantee of future returns or future performance. Plus500 will not be held responsible for any use that may be made of this information and for any consequences that may result from such use. Hence, any person acting based on this information does so at their own discretion. The information has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research.

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