What is needed to trigger an event that will spike up the VIX

新柔廖淡馬103157933 : The vix index is expressed in annualized percentage terms and roughly reflects the expected trend of the standard & Poor's 500 index in the next 30 days.

Problems such as war, energy crises, etc., may arise in the future 30 days for the S&P components.

alignak : A spike might be possible if the US Democrats win control of the House of Representatives. This would hamper any legislation that favors the rich from easily passing.

intuitive jackal : Kitty tomorrow gap fill on spy and qqq will cause the market to panic with fear of the big crash.