FX.co ★ Speculators Trim Bearish Bets on S&P 500 Futures as Net Shorts Narrow

Speculative positioning in S&P 500 futures became slightly less bearish in the latest reporting period, according to CFTC data updated on 22 May 2026. Net speculative positions improved to -140.6K contracts, compared with a previous level of -143.8K.

While the overall stance remains net short, the modest narrowing in bearish bets suggests some easing of pessimism among traders toward the U.S. equity benchmark. The shift indicates that a portion of speculative participants have either reduced downside exposure or begun to cautiously re‑enter long positions, though sentiment is still tilted toward expectations of potential weakness in the S&P 500.