The CNN Money Fear and Greed Index showed a rise in investor anxiety after US stocks closed sharply lower on Wednesday.

Energy was the worst performer in the S&P 500 Index after a fall in oil and natural gas prices. The stock market is on track for its worst year since 2008.

Southwest Airlines LUV Stocks continued their decline as concerns about airline holiday cancellations continue with no end in sight.

apple inc AAPL Shares fell to another 52-week low on Wednesday after reports indicated the company is concerned iPhone Sales.

The Dow closed about 366 points lower at 32,875.71 on Wednesday. The S&P 500 fell 1.20% to 3,783.22, while the Nasdaq Composite fell 1.35% to settle at 10,213.29 in the previous session.

With a current reading of 31.0, the index remained in “fear” territory compared to a previous reading of 38.0.

What is the CNN Business Fear & Greed Index?

The Fear & Greed Index is a measure of current market sentiment. It is based on the premise that higher fear puts pressure on stock prices, while higher greed has the opposite effect. The index is calculated based on seven equally weighted indicators. The index ranges from 0 to 100, with 0 representing maximum fear and 100 representing maximum greed.