Question: how are vix options taxed?
Answer: Traders would rather have the option of using Section 1256 tax treatment on volatility ETNs including lower 60/40 capital gains rates. That's how the IndexCBOE: VIX is taxed. (60% is lower long-term capital gains rates up to 20%, even on day trades, and the other 40% are short-term capital gains at ordinary rates.)