Core Insights - Short interest data provides insights into investor sentiment and potential risks in the stock market, helping gauge market confidence in a company's future [1][2] - Understanding short interest calculations and interpretations can lead to better investment decisions and awareness of price movement influences [1] What Is Short Interest Data? - Short interest measures the number of shares sold short but not yet repurchased, expressed as a percentage of the float or as a "days to cover" ratio [2] - FINRA is the official source for short interest data in the U.S., collecting reports from broker-dealers twice monthly [3][4] Data Sources and Reporting - Exchanges like Nasdaq and NYSE also publish short interest figures, but FINRA is mandated to collect and disseminate this information [4] - Brokerages may provide daily short interest data from various sources, but official figures are reported semi-monthly [5] Interpreting Short Interest - High short interest indicates bearish sentiment, suggesting many investors expect a price decline [6] - Conversely, excessively high short interest can lead to a short squeeze if positive news prompts short sellers to cover their positions [7] Using Short Interest Data - Short interest data can help traders and investors identify opportunities, manage risks, and understand market sentiment [9] - Context is crucial; short interest should be analyzed alongside other metrics like volume, float, and price action for effectiveness [11] The Takeaway - Effective use of short interest data involves more than just looking at percentage figures; combining it with other analytical tools can reveal signs of risk or sentiment shifts [12][13] - Investors may track short interest across sectors to gauge broader sentiment changes [14]