CONVEX

What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?

What happens when the Convex Recession Probability Index signals elevated recession risk? Composite of leading indicators, yield curve, credit spreads, and labor data.

Trigger: Convex Recession Probability rises above 50%

The Mechanics

The Convex Recession Probability Index aggregates multiple leading indicators (yield curve, jobless claims, credit spreads, leading economic index, ISM Manufacturing) into a single probabilistic signal. When the index rises above 50%, it indicates that a majority of its component signals are flashing recession warnings simultaneously. This composite approach reduces false positives from any single indicator while preserving signal strength when multiple metrics align.

Single-indicator recession signals like yield curve inversion or Sahm Rule triggers have historically been noisy with long lead times. The composite index smooths this noise by requiring broad confirmation across labor, credit, and growth channels. A reading above 50% has historically preceded NBER-defined recessions by 3 to 9 months with meaningful accuracy.

Because the index blends fast-moving (credit spreads, claims) and slow-moving (unemployment, LEI) indicators, it tends to rise gradually before accelerating sharply near recession onset. The inflection point matters more than the absolute level: a reading moving from 30% to 55% over three months carries more signal than a static reading of 60%.

Historical Context

The index has retroactively crossed 50% before the 2001, 2008, and 2020 recessions, with median lead times of 5 to 7 months. The 2022-2024 readings were elevated for an extended period without producing a conventional recession, reflecting the unusual post-COVID cycle where labor market strength offset signals from rates and credit. The 2008 episode saw the fastest ascent, with the index rising from 35% to 85% over six months as credit markets seized. Historically, readings above 70% have been consistent with imminent or already-underway recessions.

Market Impact

US Equities (S&P 500)

Stocks typically peak within 3-6 months of the index crossing 50%. Peak-to-trough drawdowns average 25% across cycles.

Treasury Bonds (TLT)

Long duration rallies as markets price in future rate cuts. TLT often gains 15-25% in the 12 months following the signal.

High Yield Credit

HY spreads widen materially once the index crosses 60%. Spreads often double within 6-12 months.

US Dollar

The dollar initially strengthens on safe-haven flows, then weakens as the Fed begins easing.

Gold

Gold rallies as real yields fall and policy easing approaches. Average gains of 10-20% from signal to recession trough.

Cyclicals vs. Defensives

Defensive sectors (staples, utilities, healthcare) sharply outperform cyclicals (industrials, materials, discretionary).

What to Watch For

  • -Index rising above 60% with broad component confirmation
  • -Yield curve re-steepening after prolonged inversion
  • -Continuing claims rising above 1.8M
  • -HY spreads widening past 450 basis points
  • -ISM Manufacturing below 45 for two consecutive months

How to Interpret Current Conditions

Track the trajectory of the Convex Recession Probability Index alongside its component series. An upward inflection across multiple components (rising claims, widening credit, falling LEI) produces the highest-confidence signal.

Per-Asset Deep Dives

Dedicated analysis of how this scenario affects each asset class individually.

S&P 500 ETF (SPY)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

Stocks typically peak within 3-6 months of the index crossing 50%. Peak-to-trough drawdowns average 25% across cycles.

20Y+ Treasury (TLT)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?20Y+ Treasury (TLT)

Long duration rallies as markets price in future rate cuts. TLT often gains 15-25% in the 12 months following the signal.

HY Credit Spread (OAS)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?HY Credit Spread (OAS)

HY spreads widen materially once the index crosses 60%. Spreads often double within 6-12 months.

Trade-Weighted Dollar (Broad)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Trade-Weighted Dollar (Broad)

The dollar initially strengthens on safe-haven flows, then weakens as the Fed begins easing.

Gold (Spot)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Gold (Spot)

Gold rallies as real yields fall and policy easing approaches. Average gains of 10-20% from signal to recession trough.

Consumer Staples (XLP)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Consumer Staples (XLP)

Defensive sectors (staples, utilities, healthcare) sharply outperform cyclicals (industrials, materials, discretionary).

IG Credit Spread (OAS)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?IG Credit Spread (OAS)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, IG Credit Spread (OAS) typically responds to the changing macro environment. ICE BofA Investment Grade OAS, credit stress in high-quality corporate bonds. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for IG Credit Spread (OAS). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and IG Credit Spread (OAS)'s response to position accordingly.

HY Effective Yield
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?HY Effective Yield

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, HY Effective Yield typically responds to the changing macro environment. HY corporate bond effective yield, total return required by junk bond investors. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for HY Effective Yield. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and HY Effective Yield's response to position accordingly.

IG Effective Yield
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?IG Effective Yield

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, IG Effective Yield typically responds to the changing macro environment. IG corporate bond effective yield, cost of investment-grade corporate borrowing. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for IG Effective Yield. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and IG Effective Yield's response to position accordingly.

BBB Credit Spread
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?BBB Credit Spread

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, BBB Credit Spread typically responds to the changing macro environment. BBB-rated corporate bond OAS, the lowest rung of investment grade. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for BBB Credit Spread. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and BBB Credit Spread's response to position accordingly.

AAA Credit Spread
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?AAA Credit Spread

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, AAA Credit Spread typically responds to the changing macro environment. AAA-rated corporate bond OAS, flight-to-quality indicator. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for AAA Credit Spread. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and AAA Credit Spread's response to position accordingly.

Aaa-10Y Treasury Spread
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Aaa-10Y Treasury Spread

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Aaa-10Y Treasury Spread typically responds to the changing macro environment. Moody's Aaa corporate minus 10Y Treasury, credit risk premium for top-rated corporates. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Aaa-10Y Treasury Spread. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Aaa-10Y Treasury Spread's response to position accordingly.

Baa-10Y Treasury Spread
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Baa-10Y Treasury Spread

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Baa-10Y Treasury Spread typically responds to the changing macro environment. Moody's Baa minus 10Y Treasury, a wider measure of corporate credit risk. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Baa-10Y Treasury Spread. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Baa-10Y Treasury Spread's response to position accordingly.

Financial Conditions (NFCI)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Financial Conditions (NFCI)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Financial Conditions (NFCI) typically responds to the changing macro environment. Chicago Fed National Financial Conditions Index, positive = tighter than average. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Financial Conditions (NFCI). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Financial Conditions (NFCI)'s response to position accordingly.

Adjusted NFCI
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Adjusted NFCI

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Adjusted NFCI typically responds to the changing macro environment. NFCI adjusted for prevailing economic conditions, isolates financial stress from the cycle. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Adjusted NFCI. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Adjusted NFCI's response to position accordingly.

Financial Stress Index (StL)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Financial Stress Index (StL)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Financial Stress Index (StL) typically responds to the changing macro environment. St. Louis Fed Financial Stress Index, below zero = below-average stress. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Financial Stress Index (StL). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Financial Stress Index (StL)'s response to position accordingly.

SLOOS: C&I Loan Tightening
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?SLOOS: C&I Loan Tightening

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, SLOOS: C&I Loan Tightening typically responds to the changing macro environment. Senior Loan Officer Survey, net % of banks tightening standards on C&I loans. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for SLOOS: C&I Loan Tightening. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and SLOOS: C&I Loan Tightening's response to position accordingly.

SLOOS: Credit Card Tightening
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?SLOOS: Credit Card Tightening

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, SLOOS: Credit Card Tightening typically responds to the changing macro environment. Net % of banks tightening credit card lending standards. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for SLOOS: Credit Card Tightening. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and SLOOS: Credit Card Tightening's response to position accordingly.

Credit Card Delinquency Rate
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Credit Card Delinquency Rate

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Credit Card Delinquency Rate typically responds to the changing macro environment. Delinquency rate on credit card loans, consumer stress indicator. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Credit Card Delinquency Rate. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Credit Card Delinquency Rate's response to position accordingly.

WTI Crude Oil (FRED)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?WTI Crude Oil (FRED)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, WTI Crude Oil (FRED) typically responds to the changing macro environment. West Texas Intermediate crude oil spot price. This scenario is particularly relevant for commodities because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for WTI Crude Oil (FRED). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and WTI Crude Oil (FRED)'s response to position accordingly.

Brent Crude Oil (FRED)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Brent Crude Oil (FRED)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Brent Crude Oil (FRED) typically responds to the changing macro environment. Brent crude oil spot price, the global benchmark. This scenario is particularly relevant for commodities because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Brent Crude Oil (FRED). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Brent Crude Oil (FRED)'s response to position accordingly.

Henry Hub Natural Gas
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Henry Hub Natural Gas

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Henry Hub Natural Gas typically responds to the changing macro environment. Henry Hub natural gas spot price, US benchmark. This scenario is particularly relevant for commodities because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Henry Hub Natural Gas. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Henry Hub Natural Gas's response to position accordingly.

Copper Price (Global)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Copper Price (Global)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Copper Price (Global) typically responds to the changing macro environment. Global copper price, "Dr. Copper" is a leading economic indicator. This scenario is particularly relevant for commodities because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Copper Price (Global). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Copper Price (Global)'s response to position accordingly.

VIX Index
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?VIX Index

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, VIX Index typically responds to the changing macro environment. CBOE Volatility Index, the "fear gauge" measuring S&P 500 expected volatility. This scenario is particularly relevant for volatility because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for VIX Index. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and VIX Index's response to position accordingly.

EM Dollar Index
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?EM Dollar Index

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, EM Dollar Index typically responds to the changing macro environment. Dollar index weighted by emerging-market trading partners. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for EM Dollar Index. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and EM Dollar Index's response to position accordingly.

EUR/USD
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?EUR/USD

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, EUR/USD typically responds to the changing macro environment. Euro to US dollar exchange rate. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for EUR/USD. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and EUR/USD's response to position accordingly.

JPY/USD
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?JPY/USD

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, JPY/USD typically responds to the changing macro environment. Japanese yen to US dollar exchange rate. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for JPY/USD. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and JPY/USD's response to position accordingly.

CNY/USD
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?CNY/USD

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, CNY/USD typically responds to the changing macro environment. Chinese yuan to US dollar exchange rate. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for CNY/USD. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and CNY/USD's response to position accordingly.

BRL/USD
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?BRL/USD

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, BRL/USD typically responds to the changing macro environment. Brazilian real to US dollar exchange rate. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for BRL/USD. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and BRL/USD's response to position accordingly.

Real Effective Exchange Rate
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Real Effective Exchange Rate

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Real Effective Exchange Rate typically responds to the changing macro environment. BIS real effective exchange rate for the US dollar, inflation-adjusted competitiveness. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Real Effective Exchange Rate. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Real Effective Exchange Rate's response to position accordingly.

Trade Balance
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Trade Balance

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Trade Balance typically responds to the changing macro environment. US trade balance in goods and services, negative = trade deficit. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Trade Balance. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Trade Balance's response to position accordingly.

Bitcoin
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Bitcoin

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Bitcoin typically responds to the changing macro environment. Bitcoin spot price, the original cryptocurrency and macro risk-on barometer. This scenario is particularly relevant for crypto because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Bitcoin. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Bitcoin's response to position accordingly.

Ethereum
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Ethereum

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Ethereum typically responds to the changing macro environment. Ethereum spot price, the leading smart contract platform token. This scenario is particularly relevant for crypto because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Ethereum. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Ethereum's response to position accordingly.

WTI Crude Oil
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?WTI Crude Oil

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, WTI Crude Oil typically responds to the changing macro environment. WTI crude oil price from market feeds. This scenario is particularly relevant for commodities because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for WTI Crude Oil. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and WTI Crude Oil's response to position accordingly.

Brent Crude Oil
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Brent Crude Oil

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Brent Crude Oil typically responds to the changing macro environment. Brent crude oil price, the global benchmark. This scenario is particularly relevant for commodities because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Brent Crude Oil. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Brent Crude Oil's response to position accordingly.

Natural Gas
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Natural Gas

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Natural Gas typically responds to the changing macro environment. Natural gas spot price. This scenario is particularly relevant for commodities because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Natural Gas. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Natural Gas's response to position accordingly.

Nasdaq 100 ETF (QQQ)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Nasdaq 100 ETF (QQQ)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Nasdaq 100 ETF (QQQ) typically responds to the changing macro environment. Invesco QQQ tracking the Nasdaq 100, tech-heavy growth index. This scenario is particularly relevant for equity index because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Nasdaq 100 ETF (QQQ). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Nasdaq 100 ETF (QQQ)'s response to position accordingly.

Dow Jones ETF (DIA)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Dow Jones ETF (DIA)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Dow Jones ETF (DIA) typically responds to the changing macro environment. SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF, tracks the 30 blue-chip Dow components. This scenario is particularly relevant for equity index because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Dow Jones ETF (DIA). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Dow Jones ETF (DIA)'s response to position accordingly.

Russell 2000 ETF (IWM)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Russell 2000 ETF (IWM)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Russell 2000 ETF (IWM) typically responds to the changing macro environment. iShares Russell 2000 ETF, small-cap equity benchmark. This scenario is particularly relevant for equity index because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Russell 2000 ETF (IWM). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Russell 2000 ETF (IWM)'s response to position accordingly.

S&P 500 Equal Weight (RSP)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?S&P 500 Equal Weight (RSP)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, S&P 500 Equal Weight (RSP) typically responds to the changing macro environment. Equal-weight S&P 500, measures market breadth vs cap-weighted SPY. This scenario is particularly relevant for equity index because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for S&P 500 Equal Weight (RSP). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and S&P 500 Equal Weight (RSP)'s response to position accordingly.

Emerging Markets (EEM)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Emerging Markets (EEM)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Emerging Markets (EEM) typically responds to the changing macro environment. iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF. This scenario is particularly relevant for equity index because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Emerging Markets (EEM). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Emerging Markets (EEM)'s response to position accordingly.

China Large-Cap (FXI)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?China Large-Cap (FXI)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, China Large-Cap (FXI) typically responds to the changing macro environment. iShares China Large-Cap ETF, proxy for Chinese equity market. This scenario is particularly relevant for equity index because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for China Large-Cap (FXI). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and China Large-Cap (FXI)'s response to position accordingly.

EAFE Developed (EFA)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?EAFE Developed (EFA)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, EAFE Developed (EFA) typically responds to the changing macro environment. iShares MSCI EAFE ETF, developed markets excluding US and Canada. This scenario is particularly relevant for equity index because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for EAFE Developed (EFA). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and EAFE Developed (EFA)'s response to position accordingly.

Germany / DAX (EWG)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Germany / DAX (EWG)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Germany / DAX (EWG) typically responds to the changing macro environment. iShares MSCI Germany ETF, proxy for the DAX and German equity market. This scenario is particularly relevant for equity index because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Germany / DAX (EWG). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Germany / DAX (EWG)'s response to position accordingly.

Japan / Nikkei (EWJ)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Japan / Nikkei (EWJ)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Japan / Nikkei (EWJ) typically responds to the changing macro environment. iShares MSCI Japan ETF, proxy for the Nikkei 225 and Japanese equity market. This scenario is particularly relevant for equity index because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Japan / Nikkei (EWJ). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Japan / Nikkei (EWJ)'s response to position accordingly.

7-10Y Treasury (IEF)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?7-10Y Treasury (IEF)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, 7-10Y Treasury (IEF) typically responds to the changing macro environment. iShares 7-10 Year Treasury Bond ETF. This scenario is particularly relevant for bonds & duration because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for 7-10Y Treasury (IEF). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and 7-10Y Treasury (IEF)'s response to position accordingly.

1-3Y Treasury (SHY)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?1-3Y Treasury (SHY)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, 1-3Y Treasury (SHY) typically responds to the changing macro environment. iShares 1-3 Year Treasury Bond ETF, short duration. This scenario is particularly relevant for bonds & duration because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for 1-3Y Treasury (SHY). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and 1-3Y Treasury (SHY)'s response to position accordingly.

High Yield Credit (HYG)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?High Yield Credit (HYG)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, High Yield Credit (HYG) typically responds to the changing macro environment. iShares iBoxx High Yield Corporate Bond ETF. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for High Yield Credit (HYG). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and High Yield Credit (HYG)'s response to position accordingly.

IG Credit (LQD)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?IG Credit (LQD)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, IG Credit (LQD) typically responds to the changing macro environment. iShares iBoxx Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF. This scenario is particularly relevant for credit & financial stress because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for IG Credit (LQD). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and IG Credit (LQD)'s response to position accordingly.

TIPS (TIP)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?TIPS (TIP)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, TIPS (TIP) typically responds to the changing macro environment. iShares TIPS Bond ETF, inflation-protected Treasuries. This scenario is particularly relevant for bonds & duration because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for TIPS (TIP). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and TIPS (TIP)'s response to position accordingly.

Gold ETF (GLD)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Gold ETF (GLD)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Gold ETF (GLD) typically responds to the changing macro environment. SPDR Gold Shares, largest gold ETF. This scenario is particularly relevant for commodities because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Gold ETF (GLD). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Gold ETF (GLD)'s response to position accordingly.

Oil ETF (USO)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Oil ETF (USO)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Oil ETF (USO) typically responds to the changing macro environment. United States Oil Fund, WTI crude oil futures ETF. This scenario is particularly relevant for commodities because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Oil ETF (USO). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Oil ETF (USO)'s response to position accordingly.

Agriculture ETF (DBA)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?Agriculture ETF (DBA)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, Agriculture ETF (DBA) typically responds to the changing macro environment. Invesco DB Agriculture Fund, broad agricultural commodities. This scenario is particularly relevant for commodities because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for Agriculture ETF (DBA). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and Agriculture ETF (DBA)'s response to position accordingly.

US Dollar Bull (UUP)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?US Dollar Bull (UUP)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, US Dollar Bull (UUP) typically responds to the changing macro environment. Invesco DB US Dollar Index Bullish Fund. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for US Dollar Bull (UUP). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and US Dollar Bull (UUP)'s response to position accordingly.

GBP/USD (FRED)
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?GBP/USD (FRED)

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, GBP/USD (FRED) typically responds to the changing macro environment. GBP/USD exchange rate from FRED. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for GBP/USD (FRED). Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and GBP/USD (FRED)'s response to position accordingly.

GBP/USD
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?GBP/USD

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, GBP/USD typically responds to the changing macro environment. GBP/USD spot rate from Yahoo Finance. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for GBP/USD. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and GBP/USD's response to position accordingly.

EUR/GBP
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?EUR/GBP

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, EUR/GBP typically responds to the changing macro environment. EUR/GBP spot rate. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for EUR/GBP. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and EUR/GBP's response to position accordingly.

CAD/USD
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?CAD/USD

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, CAD/USD typically responds to the changing macro environment. Canadian dollar per US dollar. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for CAD/USD. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and CAD/USD's response to position accordingly.

MXN/USD
What Happens When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes?MXN/USD

When the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes, MXN/USD typically responds to the changing macro environment. Mexican peso per US dollar. This scenario is particularly relevant for fx & dollar because changes in Convex Recession Probability directly influence the macro environment for MXN/USD. Investors should monitor both the trigger condition and MXN/USD's response to position accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What triggers the "the Convex Recession Probability Index Spikes" scenario?

The scenario activates when rises above 50%. The trigger metric and its current reading are shown on this page, so the live state of the scenario is always visible rather than abstract. Convex tracks this trigger continuously and flags crossings within hours.

Which assets are most affected when this scenario unfolds?

The Market Impact section lists the full asset-by-asset response, but the primary affected assets include: US Equities (S&P 500), Treasury Bonds (TLT), High Yield Credit, US Dollar. Each asset has historically shown a characteristic pattern of response that is described in detail on the per-asset deep-dive pages linked below.

How often has this scenario played out historically?

The index has retroactively crossed 50% before the 2001, 2008, and 2020 recessions, with median lead times of 5 to 7 months. The 2022-2024 readings were elevated for an extended period without producing a conventional recession, reflecting the unusual post-COVID cycle where labor market strength offset signals from rates and credit. The 2008 episode saw the fastest ascent, with the index rising from 35% to 85% over six months as credit markets seized. Historically, readings above 70% have been consistent with imminent or already-underway recessions.

What should I watch for next?

The most important signals to track while this scenario is active: Index rising above 60% with broad component confirmation; Yield curve re-steepening after prolonged inversion. The full list is on this page under "What to Watch For." These signals are the ones that historically preceded the scenario either resolving or accelerating.

How should I interpret the current state of this scenario?

Track the trajectory of the Convex Recession Probability Index alongside its component series. An upward inflection across multiple components (rising claims, widening credit, falling LEI) produces the highest-confidence signal.

Is this a prediction or a conditional analysis?

This is conditional analysis, not a prediction that the scenario will happen. Convex describes what typically follows once the trigger fires and shows how close or far the current data is from that trigger. The page is informational; it does not constitute financial advice.

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This content is educational and for informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice. Historical patterns do not guarantee future results. Data sourced from FRED, market feeds, and public economic releases.