FX.co ★ Speculators Deepen Net Short Bets on Sterling as CFTC Data Shows Larger GBP Bearish Position

Speculative investors have increased their bearish bets on the British pound, according to the latest Commitments of Traders data from the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). As of the update on 13 March 2026, GBP speculative net positions have fallen to -84.2K, down from a previous level of -72.7K.

The move indicates that traders are holding a larger net short position in sterling than before, suggesting growing pessimism or hedging activity around the UK currency. While the data does not explain the drivers behind the shift, the widening negative balance highlights a strengthening conviction among speculators that the pound may face further downside pressure in the near term.

Market participants often watch these positioning figures as a gauge of broader sentiment. A more negative net position can amplify volatility if traders begin to unwind shorts, but for now, the data points to an environment where bearish views on the pound have become more pronounced compared with the prior reporting period.