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
4394 stories- Economy· World
Gold Prices Rise Following Iran's Announcement of Strait of Hormuz Reopening
On April 17, 2026, U.S. gold futures increased by 1.5% after Iran's foreign ministry announced the Strait of Hormuz was open to commercial vessels during a ceasefire. This announcement came amid a U.S. naval blockade and ongoing geopolitical tensions, prompting a temporary reduction in risk premiums. The long-term implication suggests continued volatility in gold and oil markets as the situation evolves with the potential for renewed conflict or further diplomatic efforts.
2 sourcesApr 18Very High
- Economy· World
Brent Crude Prices Drop Following Iran's Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz
On April 18, 2026, Brent crude futures fell to $90.38 per barrel, marking a significant decline in global oil prices. This drop was triggered by Iran's announcement that the Strait of Hormuz would remain open for commercial vessels, easing previous tensions that had disrupted oil supplies. The long-term implication suggests a potential stabilization in oil markets, contingent on the adherence to the ceasefire and ongoing diplomatic negotiations between the U.S. and Iran.
4 sourcesApr 18High
- Economy· MENA
Moody's Revises Bahrain and Iraq Sovereign Outlooks to Negative Due to Regional Conflict Disruptions
On April 17, 2026, Moody's Investors Service changed the sovereign outlooks for Bahrain and Iraq from stable to negative while affirming their respective B2 and Caa1 ratings. This revision is triggered by economic disruptions from the ongoing regional conflict, particularly the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has severely impacted hydrocarbon exports and tourism. Long-term implications include increased credit risks for both nations, potentially leading to further economic instability if the conflict persists and export routes remain compromised.
2 sourcesApr 18Low
- Business· MENA
Dubai Chambers Engages Philippine Business Leaders to Enhance Investment Cooperation
A delegation from Dubai Chambers met with Philippine business leaders in Manila to discuss enhancing bilateral investment cooperation. This initiative follows the recent establishment of Dubai International Chamber's representative office in Manila, reflecting a growing interest in fostering economic ties. The long-term implication is the potential for increased investment flows and collaboration in key sectors such as AI and digital transformation between the two regions.
2 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· UAE
UAE Federal Tax Authority Initiates Emirati Tax Agent Programme Training for 50 Nationals
The UAE Federal Tax Authority has launched the first phase of the Emirati Tax Agent Programme, training an initial cohort of 50 Emirati nationals. This initiative is driven by the need for specialized local expertise in tax compliance following the introduction of VAT and corporate tax in the UAE. Long-term, this program aims to certify 500 Emirati tax agents over three years, enhancing national capabilities in the evolving tax landscape.
3 sourcesApr 18Low
- Business· World
Meta Platforms to Lay Off 10% of Workforce Starting May 20, 2026
Meta Platforms has announced plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 10%, affecting around 8,000 employees, with layoffs set to begin on May 20, 2026. This decision is driven by the company's need to reallocate resources towards increasing investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure amid rising capital costs. The long-term implication suggests a continued trend of workforce reductions across the tech industry as companies adapt to the financial pressures of AI advancements.
2 sourcesApr 18Moderate
- Economy· World
Oil Prices Drop Over 10% After Strait of Hormuz Reopens Amid Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire
Global oil prices fell sharply on April 17, 2026, following the announcement of the temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. This development coincided with a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, alleviating concerns over oil supply disruptions through this critical maritime chokepoint. In the long term, the situation may lead to a reevaluation of U.S.-Iran negotiations and regional stability, impacting global oil markets and inflation rates.
2 sourcesApr 18Very High
- Economy· World
University of Chicago Economist Critiques AI Job Displacement Models
Alex Imas published an opinion piece challenging traditional economic views on AI's impact on job displacement, particularly highlighting risks to low-dimensional jobs like trucking and warehousing. This critique is prompted by recent advancements in AI technologies that threaten to automate these roles more rapidly than previously anticipated. Imas advocates for a comprehensive data collection initiative to better understand demand elasticity and its implications for the labor market in the long term.
3 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· World
U.S. Fertilizer Buyers Redirect Shipments Overseas Amid Iran War Price Surge
In the week of April 17, 2026, U.S. buyers redirected imported urea nitrogen fertilizer shipments overseas from the Port of New Orleans as global prices soared due to the Iran War. This shift occurred as the conflict disrupted over 30% of global fertilizer exports, creating a significant price premium overseas. The long-term implication is a potential increase in food prices and supply constraints for U.S. farmers, prompting shifts in crop planting strategies.
2 sourcesApr 18Low
- Business· World
Berkshire Hathaway CEO Greg Abel Sells Stocks Managed by Todd Combs
Berkshire Hathaway CEO Greg Abel has divested stocks previously managed by Todd Combs, marking a significant portfolio adjustment within the company. This decision follows Combs' departure to JPMorgan Chase in December 2025 and Abel's assumption of leadership in January 2026. The long-term implication may involve a strategic shift in Berkshire's investment approach as Abel consolidates control over the portfolio amidst a substantial cash position.
2 sourcesApr 18Low
- Business· World
U.S. Judge Blocks Nexstar-Tegna Merger Citing Antitrust Violations
U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley has issued a preliminary injunction preventing the $6.2 billion merger between Nexstar Media Group and Tegna Inc. due to concerns over reduced competition and potential job losses. This ruling comes after lawsuits from multiple state attorneys general and DirecTV, despite previous federal approvals. The long-term implication may lead to increased scrutiny of media mergers and a potential shift in regulatory approaches to antitrust enforcement in the industry.
3 sourcesApr 18Moderate
- Business· UAE
Dubai International Chamber Opens Representative Office in Manila to Boost UAE-Philippines Trade
Dubai International Chamber inaugurated its new representative office in Manila on April 14, 2026, to strengthen economic ties between Dubai and the Philippines. This move is driven by a significant increase in bilateral non-oil trade, which reached Dh3.58 billion in 2025, marking a 17 percent year-on-year growth. The establishment of this office is part of Dubai's broader strategy to enhance its global business presence and attract foreign investment through the 'Dubai Global' initiative.
3 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia's Inflation Rate Rises to 1.8% in March 2026
Saudi Arabia's annual consumer price inflation rate increased to 1.8% in March 2026, up from 1.7% in February. This rise was primarily driven by a 3.9% increase in housing, utilities, and rents, reflecting stable economic conditions under the Vision 2030 diversification efforts. The long-term implication suggests continued monitoring of inflation trends as they may influence consumer spending and foreign investment in the region.
5 sourcesApr 18Low
- Business· MENA
Yasir Al-Rumayyan Confirms NEOM Projects Remain Active Amid PIF Restructuring
On April 14, 2026, Yasir Al-Rumayyan announced that no NEOM projects have been canceled, despite ongoing restructuring efforts. This reassurance follows recent speculation about project terminations due to financial sustainability concerns and escalating costs. The long-term implication is that NEOM will continue to evolve as a key component of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, focusing on phased implementation and prioritizing the Oxagon industrial zone.
7 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· World
Spot Gold Prices Decline Amid US-Iran Negotiations and Stronger Dollar
On April 15, 2026, spot gold prices retreated 0.9 percent from a monthly peak of $4,871 to $4,798 per ounce. This decline was triggered by renewed US-Iran negotiations that eased safe-haven demand, alongside a strengthening US dollar. The long-term implication suggests that continued diplomatic progress may further diminish gold's appeal as a safe-haven asset, impacting global commodity markets.
3 sourcesApr 18Low
- Business· UAE
Dubai Municipality Reports 36% Progress on AED 500 Million Deira Stormwater Project
Dubai Municipality announced a 36% completion of the first phase of the Deira stormwater drainage project, which aims to enhance urban resilience and flood protection. This progress follows severe flooding in April 2024 that highlighted the need for improved drainage infrastructure in the region. The long-term implication is a significant upgrade in Dubai's stormwater management capabilities, aligning with the broader AED 30 billion Tasreef program for urban development.
3 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi PIF Board Approves 2026–2030 Investment Strategy Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
On 15 April 2026, the Board of Directors of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund approved a new investment strategy for 2026–2030. This decision is driven by the need to enhance sustainable value creation and economic diversification amid ongoing global economic shifts. The long-term implication is a strengthened position for the PIF in global markets, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives and potentially increasing non-oil GDP contributions.
5 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· World
S&P 500 Index Reaches Historic Closing High of 7,126.06 Amid Middle East Peace Optimism
The S&P 500 index achieved a record closing high of 7,126.06 on April 17, 2026, marking a significant milestone in U.S. stock market performance. This surge was triggered by investor optimism surrounding potential peace developments in the Middle East, alongside strong earnings from the tech sector and favorable economic indicators. The long-term implication suggests a continued bullish trend in global markets as geopolitical tensions ease and economic stability is anticipated.
3 sourcesApr 18High
- Economy· UAE
UAE-Azerbaijan CEPA officially enters into force enhancing bilateral trade
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between the UAE and Azerbaijan officially entered into force on April 15, 2026. This moment follows the agreement's signing in July 2025 and reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen economic ties amid the UAE's diversification strategy. Long-term, this partnership is expected to facilitate increased investment flows and position Azerbaijan as a key trade gateway connecting the Middle East, Central Asia, and Europe.
5 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· UAE
UAE and Jordan Finalize $2.3 Billion Railway Development Agreements
On April 16, 2026, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan signed agreements worth $2.3 billion to develop a 360-kilometer railway network connecting mining regions to Aqaba Port. This initiative is driven by the need to modernize logistics for Jordan's phosphate and potash exports, reducing transport costs and enhancing economic competitiveness. The long-term implication is a strengthened economic partnership between the UAE and Jordan, fostering regional integration and job creation in the mining sector.
6 sourcesApr 18Low