FX.co ★ Aluminium Bulls Edge Higher as CFTC Net Long Positions Tick Up in the U.S.

Speculative sentiment in the U.S. aluminium market strengthened modestly, with CFTC aluminium speculative net positions rising to 0.5K contracts, up from 0.3K previously. The latest data, updated on 22 May 2026, signals a slight increase in net long exposure among traders.

While the move is incremental, the uptick suggests a cautious shift toward a more optimistic stance on aluminium prices. Market participants may be positioning around expectations of changing demand dynamics or supply conditions, though the overall level of speculative interest remains relatively muted in absolute terms.

This gradual build in net long positions will be watched closely by analysts and investors as an early indicator of how sentiment in the broader base metals complex may evolve in the coming weeks.