Term Structure of Volatility
The term structure of volatility, often visualized through the VIX or similar volatility indices, shows the relationship between implied volatility and the time remaining until option expiration. Typically, volatility for shorter-term options reacts more strongly to immediate market news, while longer-term options are more stable.
This creates a curve that can be upward-sloping, downward-sloping, or flat depending on market expectations. In cryptocurrency, the term structure is frequently in backwardation during market panics, meaning short-term volatility is significantly higher than long-term volatility.
Analysts use the term structure to forecast market stability and to structure multi-leg options strategies that benefit from changes in the volatility curve.