2026-02-18 TACO Pressure Index Update: Low at 22.25
This custom framework combines equities, front-end rates, inflation expectations, and volatility into one daily score. On 2026-02-18, the score printed 22.25/100 in the low regime, with volatility and inflation expectations doing most of the work.
Policy pressure tracker for 2026-02-18: the TACO Pressure Index closed at 22.25/100, signaling a low pressure regime as volatility and inflation expectations shaped the daily read. Explore the score history, daily post, and the four-factor dashboard.
Pressure history
Composite score history
Trailing 90 sessions through 2026-02-18
Latest component scores
Today’s component breakdown
VIX volatility pressure
30.05/100
Higher implied volatility usually means greater market stress.
Inflation expectations pressure
25.80/100
Inflation pressure reflects both the breakeven level and any fresh 5-session rise.
S&P 500 equity signal
17.43/100
A 5-session drawdown adds pressure. A 5-session rally adds relief and can partially offset the composite score.
2Y Treasury rate pressure
15.73/100
Rates pressure reflects both the current 2Y level and any fresh 5-session rise.
Method in one paragraph
The TACO Pressure Index converts four live market inputs into comparable component scores and combines them into one composite reading. The equity leg is symmetric: 5-session drawdowns add pressure, while 5-session rallies add relief and can partially offset the total score. Rates, inflation, and volatility still combine a level component with a 5-session change component before the final result is grouped into LOW, ELEVATED, HIGH, and EXTREME regimes.