ShortAtlas methodology
How to read short selling data
A step-by-step guide to reading ShortAtlas ticker pages, including as-of dates, short volume, Short Interest, and limitations.
Start with the dates
The first step is to check the as-of date for daily short-volume data and the settlement date for Short Interest. These fields often come from different publication cycles.
A ticker page can show fresh daily short-volume data and a different Short Interest settlement date at the same time.
Separate activity from balance
Daily short-volume data describes reported trading activity for a trading day. Short Interest describes an open short-position balance as of a settlement date.
Reading them as separate metrics prevents a common mistake: treating a high daily short-volume ratio as proof of a high open short position.
Check missing-data states
A supported ticker can be present in the ShortAtlas universe but missing from the latest daily short-volume source file. The page should be read as a valid-symbol-but-no-latest-data state.
Missing data is not a signal. It usually reflects source coverage, publication timing, or symbol-specific availability.
A short checklist
Read the as-of date for daily short volume. Read the settlement date for Short Interest. Confirm the two are not the same cycle. Check whether the ratio denominator is reported total volume rather than consolidated volume. Note whether short exempt volume is present.
Working through those five points before interpreting anything prevents most of the errors people make with public short-selling data.