FX.co ★ Nasdaq 100 Bears Pull Back as CFTC Data Shows Sharply Reduced Short Positions

Speculative sentiment toward the Nasdaq 100 has turned notably less bearish, according to the latest Commitments of Traders data from the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). As of 21 August 2026, net speculative positions in Nasdaq 100 futures have narrowed to -10.4K contracts, a sharp move from the previous reading of -39.3K.

The shift suggests that traders who had been positioned aggressively against the tech-heavy index have been closing out short positions or adding longs, reducing the overall net short exposure. While the positioning remains in negative territory, the magnitude of the change indicates a significant easing of pessimism toward U.S. large-cap growth and technology names linked to the Nasdaq 100.

Market participants will now be watching to see whether this repositioning reflects a durable improvement in risk appetite for U.S. equities or a temporary adjustment following prior downside bets. The updated data could influence short-term trading strategies around Nasdaq 100 futures and related derivatives as investors reassess the balance of risks in the U.S. equity market.