FX.co ★ Speculators Deepen Net Short Bets on Pound as CFTC Positions Widen

Speculative traders increased their bearish bets on the British pound, with CFTC GBP speculative net positions slipping further into negative territory, according to the latest data updated on 16 October 2026.

Net positions fell from -97.6K to -107.0K, indicating that market participants are holding a larger net short position on the UK currency than previously. The move suggests growing pessimism or hedging activity toward the pound, as more traders are positioned for potential further weakness.

While the data alone does not explain the underlying drivers, the continued expansion of net short positions highlights a cautious or negative sentiment toward sterling in speculative markets at this point in time.