Speculative traders have slightly reduced their bearish bets on the British pound, according to the latest Commitment of Traders (CFTC) data released on 07 August 2026. Net speculative positions in GBP improved to -57.8K from a previous -64.8K, indicating a modest narrowing of overall short exposure.
While sentiment toward sterling remains negative in aggregate, the reduction in net shorts suggests some market participants may be scaling back expectations of further downside for the currency. The shift could reflect profit-taking on existing short positions or a cautious reassessment of risks around the UK economic outlook and monetary policy trajectory.
The move in positioning will be closely watched by FX traders as a potential early signal of changing momentum in GBP markets, even as the pound continues to trade under the weight of a still-substantial net short bias.