Speculative investors have increased their bearish exposure to U.S. natural gas, with net positions falling further into negative territory, according to the latest data from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). As of 17 July 2026, speculative net positions in natural gas stood at -178.6K, down from the previous reading of -165.3K.
The widening net short position suggests that market participants are growing more pessimistic about natural gas price prospects, adding to existing downside pressure. The shift reflects a continued tilt toward selling rather than buying among speculative traders in U.S. natural gas futures and options.
