STLFSI4 and NFCI: two views of financial pressure | Risk notes

These official series help show whether risk has moved beyond equity volatility.

Published January 14, 2026Updated January 14, 2026StressSignal editors

1. Bottom line

VIX tells you whether equity options are tense. STLFSI4 and NFCI help check whether financial conditions and stress are joining the move.

2. How to read them

STLFSI4 up, NFCI flat: watch liquidity pressure.
NFCI up, STLFSI4 flat: financial conditions may be tightening.
Both up: system pressure deserves more attention.

VIX alone vs cross-checking

Indicator	VIX alone	Cross-check
VIX	Rising	Rising
RVX	Unclear	Rising too
STLFSI4	Not confirmed	Rising
NFCI	Loose or stable	Tightening

Disclaimer: this page is for market observation only, not investment advice. Risk note: indicators help you observe market conditions. They are not trading advice. Always add context, events, and position risk.