According to the CBOE Volatility Index, or VIX, which measures the expected price fluctuations in S&P 500 options contracts over the next 30 days, things have never been this wild for equities. This past Wednesday, March 18 saw the VIX close at its highest level in history, handily surpassing the previous high set during the financial crisis.

Also as of this past Wednesday, we witnessed the iconic Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES:^DJI) close higher or lower by more than 1,000 points for eight consecutive sessions. Broadening a bit, over an 18-session stretch, the Dow has logged 9 out of its 11 largest single-day point losses, as well as 5 of its 6 largest single-session point gains. If you're a short-term trader, it's been a nauseating nightmare.

Read more at The Motley Fool.