The article doesn't specify, but it sounds like these are mutual fund managers that were interviewed. Most of them can't go short. Also you have to love journalists. Check the sub-headline: "LONDON (MarketWatch) - The outlook for equities darkened in February, with fund managers more risk averse than at any time in the last seven years" The outlook (probability for positive future returns) for equities has - if anything - BRIGHTENED with funds holding larger positions of cash, not darkened. Morons.
A bunch of shorts whose next market action is covering (buying) is more bullish than mere sidelined cash.