Bio
Saqib is COO and co-founder at A47 AI, where he runs operations and leads the prediction-markets initiative. He covers crypto, Web3, and the decentralization of the sport and entertainment economy.
Editorial Responsibility
As A47's prediction-markets and crypto editor, I am responsible for our coverage of these markets and Web3 — ensuring it is grounded in real product, data, and revenue rather than speculation.
Previous experience · 14+ years
- · WPP Media (GroupM PK, Wavemaker PH)
- · MYCO
- · ARY Digital Network
Education
MBA Marketing, SZABIST
Areas of expertise
Categories overseen
Stories from Saqib Pathan’s desk
8486 stories- Economy· World
US-Iran military tensions drive oil prices up by 1%
Oil prices have increased by 1% due to escalating military operations involving the US and Iran. This rise is triggered by renewed strikes and discussions of expanding military actions, prompting investor reactions in the stock market. The long-term implication is a likely continuation of volatility in the oil market, affecting global economic stability and energy prices.
3 sourcesJul 16
- Business· World
Volkswagen announces plans to cut up to 50,000 jobs amid restructuring efforts
Volkswagen has revealed intentions to eliminate up to 50,000 jobs globally as part of a significant restructuring initiative. This decision is driven by the company's need to address declining profits and increasing competition, particularly from Chinese automakers. The long-term implication of this move suggests a potential transformation in Volkswagen's operational strategy and workforce management to enhance competitiveness in the automotive industry.
4 sourcesJul 16
- Business· World
De Beers suspends production at Venetia diamond mine for two years
De Beers has announced a two-year halt in production at its Venetia diamond mine in South Africa due to declining demand and low rough-stone prices. This decision is a response to the severe downturn in the diamond industry, which is currently facing significant pricing pressures. The long-term implication may involve further strategic shifts within De Beers and the broader diamond market as it adapts to changing consumer behaviors and economic conditions.
3 sourcesJul 16
- Business· World
Chipotle opens first restaurant in Monterrey, Mexico amid local skepticism
Chipotle Mexican Grill has announced the opening of its first outlet in Monterrey, Mexico, marking a significant expansion into the country. This move is driven by the company's need to boost its international presence due to slowing domestic sales. The long-term implication may involve a redefinition of Chipotle's brand perception as it navigates local competition and consumer preferences in authentic Mexican cuisine.
3 sourcesJul 16
- Economy· World
Bank of Canada maintains interest rate at 2.25% amid inflation concerns
The Bank of Canada has decided to keep its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 2.25% for the sixth consecutive time. This decision is driven by persistent inflation and sluggish economic activity, which have made rate cuts or increases unlikely at this moment. In the long term, the central bank will continue to monitor economic indicators closely before making any future adjustments to its monetary policy.
3 sourcesJul 16
- Economy· World
Oil prices surge nearly 10% amid escalating US-Iran conflict in the Middle East
Oil prices have risen sharply following recent attacks in the Middle East. The conflict involving the US and Iran has triggered concerns about potential disruptions to global oil supply. As tensions persist, oil prices are likely to remain volatile, impacting global economic stability and market performance.
4 sourcesJul 16
- Business· UAE
Dubai initiates Dh2 billion road project to enhance traffic infrastructure
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has launched a Dh2 billion project aimed at improving traffic conditions by connecting six major routes. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize the city's transportation infrastructure and address ongoing congestion issues. Long-term, these developments are expected to significantly enhance urban mobility and support Dubai's growth as a global hub.
3 sourcesJul 15
- Crypto· World
Ethereum achieves 99.98% reduction in energy consumption post-Merge
Ethereum's energy consumption has decreased dramatically following its transition to a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism known as 'The Merge'. This significant reduction is occurring now as the Cambridge report highlights Ethereum's improved sustainability profile, making it more appealing to environmentally conscious investors. In the long term, this shift may influence broader trends in the cryptocurrency space, potentially leading to increased adoption and regulatory support for energy-efficient blockchain solutions.
3 sourcesJul 15
- Crypto· MENA
Pakistan's crypto regulator engages Islamic scholars after fatwa declares cryptocurrency haram
Islamic scholars in Pakistan have declared cryptocurrency transactions, including USDT payments, as haram, prompting the country's crypto regulator to seek dialogue. This ruling is occurring now due to the growing intersection of Islamic finance principles and modern digital asset practices. The long-term implication could be a significant shift in cryptocurrency regulation in Pakistan, potentially impacting market dynamics and investor confidence.
3 sourcesJul 15
- Crypto· MENA
Thailand intensifies crackdown on cryptocurrency targeting USDT transactions
The Bank of Thailand has begun auditing USDT flows and freezing accounts as part of a major regulatory effort against cryptocurrency. This initiative is triggered by significant financial losses linked to scams, estimated to reach $3.4 billion by 2025. The long-term implication is a potential reshaping of the cryptocurrency landscape in Thailand, influencing regulatory approaches in Southeast Asia.
3 sourcesJul 15
- Crypto· World
Ripple CEO reveals near shutdown due to SEC lawsuit and $150 million in legal fees
Ripple was on the verge of shutting down as it faced a significant legal battle with the SEC, incurring $150 million in legal fees. The immediate trigger for this crisis was the ongoing lawsuit questioning the legality of XRP sales, which has been a contentious issue since 2020. The long-term implication of this situation could reshape regulatory frameworks for the entire cryptocurrency industry, influencing how other firms navigate similar challenges.
5 sourcesJul 15
- Crypto· World
Bitcoin Improvement Proposal 110 Faces Major Opposition from Key Advocates
The Bitcoin Improvement Proposal 110 (BIP-110) is encountering significant backlash as its deadline approaches, with zero miner support reported. This resistance is driven by concerns from influential figures like Michael Saylor and Adam Back, who argue that the proposal threatens the network's decentralization and could lead to a split. The ongoing debate highlights the challenges of regulating data on the Bitcoin blockchain while maintaining its foundational principles, indicating a pivotal moment for the cryptocurrency's governance.
6 sourcesJul 15
- Crypto· World
US and UK unveil 10-point roadmap for tokenization and stablecoin regulation
The US and UK governments have announced a 10-point roadmap to align regulations on tokenization and stablecoins. This initiative is driven by the US's preparation to implement a 2025 law on payment stablecoins, aiming to enhance transparency and stability in digital finance. The long-term implication is a potential model for global regulatory cooperation in digital assets, fostering greater investor confidence and collaboration between the two largest financial markets.
3 sourcesJul 15
- Economy· World
Oil prices rise over 3% amid US-Iran military tensions
Oil prices surged by more than 3% following renewed military strikes between the US and Iran. The immediate trigger for this spike was US airstrikes in response to Iranian attacks on commercial vessels, raising concerns about potential disruptions to oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. In the long term, this escalation may lead to increased volatility in global energy markets and further fluctuations in oil prices.
6 sourcesJul 15
- Business· World
Delta Air Lines CEO warns of sustained high oil prices impacting airfare
Delta Air Lines has reported strong quarterly earnings while acknowledging that high oil prices will persist, affecting airfare costs. CEO Ed Bastian's comments come as the airline industry faces rising operational costs and increased demand for travel. The long-term implication suggests that budget airlines may struggle to adapt to these economic pressures, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape of the industry.
3 sourcesJul 15
- Economy· World
China's exports surge by 27% in June 2026 driven by AI demand
China's exports increased by 27% in June 2026 compared to the previous year, exceeding market expectations. This surge is attributed to strong demand in the artificial intelligence sector, occurring despite a struggling domestic economy. If this trend continues, it may signal a potential recovery for China's economy and impact global trade dynamics.
3 sourcesJul 15
- Economy· MENA
Fitch Ratings affirms Saudi Arabia's A+ credit rating with stable outlook
Fitch Ratings has confirmed Saudi Arabia's long-term foreign-currency issuer default rating at A+ with a stable outlook. This affirmation is driven by the Kingdom's strong fiscal position, substantial financial reserves, and resilience amid regional geopolitical tensions. The long-term implication suggests that Saudi Arabia's ongoing investments and economic strategies will likely support recovery and growth despite current challenges.
4 sourcesJul 14
- Business· UAE
UAE Ministry of Interior Issues Warning on Investment Fraud Schemes
The UAE Ministry of Interior has alerted the public about rising investment fraud schemes and provided guidance on identifying them. This warning comes as investment fraud becomes a growing concern in the UAE, necessitating immediate public awareness. Long-term, this initiative aims to enhance financial literacy and protect residents from potential financial losses.
3 sourcesJul 14
- Economy· UAE
Gold prices in the UAE decline, boosting demand for bullion investments
Gold prices in the UAE have dropped by up to AED 6.5 per gram, with 24-karat gold now priced at AED 496.5 per gram. This decline has triggered increased consumer interest in gold bullion as investors view current prices as an attractive entry point. As demand for gold bars rises, the market is likely to see sustained interest from both consumers and investors anticipating future price increases.
4 sourcesJul 14
- Economy· World
South Korea announces record budget for fiscal 2027 fueled by AI semiconductor tax revenues
South Korea has unveiled a historic budget exceeding 800 trillion won ($530 billion) for fiscal 2027, driven by a surge in tax revenues from the booming AI semiconductor industry. This financial strategy is prompted by the government's desire to capitalize on the current growth in the AI sector, viewing the tax windfall as a unique investment opportunity. Long-term, this approach may enhance South Korea's global competitiveness and set a precedent for future fiscal policies focused on growth rather than savings.
3 sourcesJul 14