20.02.202620:30:00UTC+00Speculators Flip to Net Long Yen as CFTC Data Signals Sharp Sentiment Reversal

Speculative positioning in the Japanese yen has swung back into positive territory, marking a notable shift in market sentiment toward the currency. According to data updated on 20 February 2026, CFTC-tracked JPY speculative net positions rose to 13.0K from a previous reading of -19.1K.

The move from a net short to a net long stance suggests that traders have significantly reduced their bearish bets on the yen and are now positioning for potential appreciation. This reversal in positioning may reflect changing expectations around Japan’s economic outlook or global risk dynamics, with market participants increasingly favoring the yen as conditions evolve.

While the data do not provide detail on the drivers behind the shift, the magnitude of the change in speculative interest highlights the yen’s re-emergence as a currency to watch in global FX markets. Investors will be monitoring upcoming economic releases and policy signals for confirmation of this new trend in sentiment toward the Japanese currency.