2026.05.2219:30:00UTC+00Speculators Deepen Bearish Bets on Kiwi as CFTC NZD Net Shorts Edge Lower

Speculative traders have increased their bearish positions on the New Zealand dollar, with the latest CFTC NZD speculative net positions slipping further into negative territory. According to data updated on 22 May 2026, net positions fell to -40.6K from a previous level of -39.1K, indicating a modest build-up in short exposure to the kiwi.

The move suggests that market participants are becoming slightly more cautious on New Zealand’s currency, adding to net short positions rather than scaling them back. While the shift is not dramatic, the continued negative reading highlights an underlying skepticism toward the NZD’s near-term prospects among speculative traders.

This incremental rise in net shorts may reflect broader positioning trends, as investors reassess relative yields, global risk appetite, and New Zealand’s economic backdrop. The latest data will be closely watched for signs of whether this bearish tilt strengthens or begins to unwind in the coming weeks.