What Is Volatility?

The degree to which an asset's price fluctuates over time, typically measured by standard deviation; higher volatility indicates greater price swings and uncertainty. Series 66 candidates must assess volatility when matching investments to client risk tolerance and evaluating portfolio stability.

Volatility across 2 exams

Volatility appears on the following exams. Each defines it in the context candidates are tested on:

Series 66
The degree to which an asset's price fluctuates over time, typically measured by standard deviation; higher volatility indicates greater price swings and uncertainty. Series 66 candidates must assess volatility when matching investments to client risk tolerance and evaluating portfolio stability.
Series 3
A statistical measure of the magnitude of price fluctuations in a futures contract over time. Higher volatility increases the potential for larger price swings and greater margin requirements for maintaining positions.