Speculative traders in S&P 500 futures have slightly reduced their bearish stance, according to the latest data from the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) updated on 30 October 2026. Net speculative positions in S&P 500 futures improved to -134.4K contracts, compared with -142.7K previously.
While positioning remains firmly in net short territory, the shift suggests some traders are scaling back outright bearish bets or cautiously adding to long exposure. The modest narrowing in net shorts may reflect adjustments to evolving expectations around U.S. equity valuations, interest rates, or macroeconomic conditions, as market participants reassess risk heading into the next data and policy cycle.
