FX.co ★ Speculators Deepen Net Short in U.S. Aluminium Futures as CFTC Data Shows Slight Deterioration

Net speculative positioning in U.S. aluminium futures edged further into negative territory, according to the latest data from the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) updated on 27 February 2026. The aluminium speculative net position slipped from -2.7K contracts previously to -2.9K, signaling a modest increase in bearish sentiment among traders.

While the move represents only a slight deterioration, the persistence of net short positioning suggests that speculative investors remain cautious on aluminium. The incremental shift may reflect ongoing skepticism about near-term price prospects or demand conditions, as market participants continue to reduce long exposure or add to short positions.

The data will be closely watched by traders and analysts as an indicator of sentiment in the U.S. aluminium market, with any further expansion of net shorts potentially reinforcing downward pressure on prices and shaping expectations for the metal’s performance in the weeks ahead.