FX.co ★ Speculators Trim Net Short Bets on Sterling as CFTC Data Show Slight Position Shift

Speculative traders have marginally reduced their net short exposure to the British pound, according to the latest Commitments of Traders data. The CFTC GBP speculative net positions improved from -54.7K to -52.0K contracts, based on figures updated on 24 April 2026.

While the positioning remains firmly in negative territory, the shift suggests that bearish sentiment toward the pound has eased slightly. A smaller net short position can indicate that some traders are covering previous downside bets or are becoming less pessimistic about the UK currency’s near-term prospects.

The adjustment, though modest, will be closely watched by market participants as an indicator of changing sentiment toward the United Kingdom’s economic and monetary policy outlook, with any sustained trend away from deep net shorts potentially signaling a gradual reassessment of risks around sterling.