Speculators Deepen Net Short Bets on Pound as CFTC Data Shows Growing Bearishness

Speculative positioning in the British pound has turned more negative, with traders increasing their net short exposure, according to the latest data on CFTC GBP speculative net positions. The net position fell to -64.8K from a previous level of -55.6K, signaling a further build‑up in bearish bets against the UK currency.

The shift suggests that market participants have become more pessimistic on the pound’s near‑term prospects, with a larger number of speculative traders now positioned for further weakness. The increase in net shorts reflects a widening imbalance between those betting against GBP and those expecting gains.

The updated figures, released on 31 July 2026, will be closely watched by currency and macro investors as an indicator of sentiment toward the United Kingdom and its currency in global markets.