On October 16, 2026 the CNN Fear and Greed index dropped below 20 with a reading of 18 at the market close. The following charts provide some perspective on the meaning of this reading. Readings below 20 should also align with a follow up of a CNN 5-day average put/call ratio of 0.90 (or greater) before markets are expected to move higher. The reading of 20 on November 7, 2025 is a good example. The highest follow up reading in the put/call ratio was only 0.82 on November 21, 2025. That meant markets were not expected to continue with a meaningful move to higher levels. This was also followed up by a decline in early 2026. So, monitoring the CNN put/call ratio for a reading of 0.90 or higher at the close will start on Monday, October 19, 2026.
Reference: CNN Fear & Greed Index
Note that this information is for educational purposes only and not a recommendation.
Stock charts courtesy of StockCharts.com.
