To exclude externalities specific to the futures contracts, traders should also analyze the options markets. The most simple and effective metric is the 25% delta skew, which compares equivalent call (buy) and put (sell) options. In short, the indicator will turn positive when "fear" is prevalent because the protective put options premium is higher than the call (bullish) options. On the other hand, a negative 25% skew indicates bullish markets. Lastly, readings between negative 8% and positi...