Speculative interest in U.S. crude oil futures increased notably, with CFTC crude oil speculative net positions rising to 141.3K from a previous level of 117.8K, according to data updated on 20 February 2026. The latest figures indicate a stronger net long stance among speculative traders compared with the prior reading.
The shift from 117.8K to 141.3K suggests that market participants have grown more optimistic about the outlook for crude oil prices, increasing their exposure on the long side. This build-up in net long positions is closely watched by investors as a gauge of sentiment and risk appetite in the U.S. oil market.
