Net speculative positions in S&P 500 futures have turned notably less bearish, according to the latest data from the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). As of 03 April 2026, net speculative positions stood at -42.5K, an improvement from the previous level of -80.9K.
The shift indicates that while speculators remain net short on the S&P 500, the intensity of bearish positioning has eased significantly. A move from -80.9K to -42.5K suggests that some market participants have either covered short positions or initiated new long positions, reflecting reduced pessimism toward U.S. equities. Investors will be watching upcoming macroeconomic data and corporate earnings to gauge whether this trend toward less negative sentiment continues.
