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- Business· World
Kering Shares Drop 10% Amid Continued Decline in Gucci Sales
Kering's shares fell by up to 10% following an 8% decline in first-quarter sales for Gucci, marking the brand's 11th consecutive quarterly drop. This downturn is attributed to geopolitical tensions, particularly the Iran war, which has reduced spending in the Middle East and softened demand in China. The long-term implication may involve Kering's strategic reset under CEO Luca de Meo, aiming to revive Gucci's desirability by 2028 amidst ongoing market challenges.
3 sourcesApr 18Low
- Crypto· World
UK FCA Initiates Consultation on Cryptoasset Regulation Ahead of 2027 Framework
The UK Financial Conduct Authority has launched Consultation Paper CP26/13 to gather feedback on perimeter guidance for cryptoasset activities. This initiative is prompted by the upcoming regulatory regime set to take effect on October 25, 2027, following the enactment of the FSMA (Cryptoassets) Regulations 2026. The long-term implication is a structured regulatory environment for cryptoassets in the UK, enhancing consumer protection and market integrity while transitioning firms from existing compliance frameworks.
6 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· MENA
IMF Chief Warns of Economic Challenges Amid Ongoing Middle East Conflict and High Oil Prices
On April 15, 2026, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva warned that the global economy faces tough times if the Middle East conflict continues and oil prices remain elevated. This warning follows recent disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz due to U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, which have caused significant supply chain breakdowns and inflationary pressures. In the long term, the IMF anticipates increased financing demands of $20-50 billion to support affected countries, particularly those reliant on energy imports and facing economic vulnerabilities.
6 sourcesApr 18Low
- Crypto· World
Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs Launch Bitcoin ETFs Following SEC Approval of Generic Listing Standards
Morgan Stanley has launched the Morgan Stanley Bitcoin Trust ETF on the NYSE, while Goldman Sachs has filed for its Bitcoin Premium Income ETF. This development is triggered by the SEC's recent adoption of generic listing standards that facilitate ETF approvals, allowing major financial institutions to offer Bitcoin products. The long-term implication is a likely increase in institutional adoption of Bitcoin, as evidenced by significant inflows and competitive pressures among financial firms.
8 sourcesApr 18Moderate
- Business· World
PNC Financial Services Group Raises 2026 Net Interest Income Growth Forecast to 14.5 Percent
On April 15, 2026, PNC Financial Services Group elevated its full-year net interest income growth forecast to 14.5 percent following strong first-quarter loan growth. This adjustment is driven by an 11 percent year-over-year increase in average loans and the successful integration of FirstBank, which added significant assets. The long-term implication suggests PNC may continue to expand its market presence and profitability amid a challenging economic environment.
3 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· World
Oil Prices Stabilize as U.S.-Iran Negotiations Continue
Oil prices remained flat on April 15, 2026, with WTI crude settling at $91.29 per barrel amid ongoing U.S.-Iran negotiations and uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. The current stabilization is driven by a balance of diplomatic optimism and geopolitical risks, including a U.S. naval blockade and previous disruptions to oil flows. Long-term implications suggest that any successful diplomatic resolution could lead to a significant drop in oil prices as markets adjust to improved supply conditions.
5 sourcesApr 18Moderate
- Business· World
Alphabet's Stake in SpaceX Revealed at 5% in Alaska Filing
Alphabet Inc. disclosed a 5% stake in SpaceX, down from 6.11%, in a regulatory filing in Alaska. This reduction follows a series of funding rounds and a recent merger that diluted early investments, coinciding with heightened speculation about SpaceX's impending IPO. The long-term implication suggests Alphabet could realize a significant financial windfall if SpaceX achieves its projected $2 trillion valuation at IPO.
3 sourcesApr 18Low
- Business· MENA
X-Energy Launches IPO Aiming for $814 Million to Fund Nuclear Innovations
X-Energy, an Amazon-backed nuclear technology firm, has initiated its initial public offering (IPO) to raise up to $814 million at a valuation of $7.51 billion. This move comes as the company seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for clean energy solutions driven by AI data centers and electrification. The long-term implication is a potential shift in the energy landscape, with increased investment in nuclear technology to meet rising global energy needs and support decarbonization efforts, particularly in regions like the UAE.
3 sourcesApr 18Low
- Business· World
Doug Field Leaves Ford Amid Major EV Strategy Overhaul
Ford Motor Company announced the departure of Doug Field, its chief electric vehicle, digital, and design officer, as part of a significant organizational restructuring. This change is prompted by ongoing operational losses in the EV sector and a need to realign strategies to better compete against Chinese rivals. The long-term implication suggests Ford will intensify its focus on a new Product Creation and Industrialization unit to revitalize its electric vehicle initiatives and regain market competitiveness.
4 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· World
Eurozone Inflation Rate Climbs to 2.6% Amid Energy Price Surge
The Eurozone's annual HICP inflation rate has increased to 2.6% in March 2026, up from 1.9% in February. This rise is primarily driven by a significant surge in energy prices, which have jumped to 5.1% year-on-year due to the ongoing conflict in Iran. The long-term implication suggests that the European Central Bank may need to adopt a more hawkish monetary policy to combat rising inflation rates.
6 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· World
US Approaches Net Crude Oil Exporter Status Amid Iran War Disruptions
In the week ending April 14, 2026, U.S. net crude oil imports fell to 66,000 barrels per day, the lowest since 2001, positioning the country close to net exporter status for the first time since World War II. This shift is driven by increased U.S. crude exports to Asia and Europe, which have surged due to disruptions in Middle Eastern supplies caused by the ongoing U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict. Long-term, this development may reshape global energy markets and reduce reliance on Middle Eastern oil, impacting geopolitical dynamics.
3 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· World
Japan Announces $10 Billion Financial Framework to Support Southeast Asian Oil Procurement
On April 15, 2026, Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi unveiled a $10 billion financial support package aimed at assisting Southeast Asian nations in securing crude oil from alternative suppliers. This initiative is a direct response to recent disruptions in oil supply chains caused by escalating conflicts in the Middle East, particularly affecting the Strait of Hormuz. Long-term, this framework is expected to enhance energy security and economic interdependence among Japan and Southeast Asian countries amidst ongoing regional supply challenges.
3 sourcesApr 18Moderate
- Business· World
PepsiCo Achieves 8.5% Revenue Growth in Q1 2026 Following Price Cuts on Snacks
PepsiCo reported an 8.5% revenue increase to $19.44 billion for Q1 2026, attributed to strategic price reductions on key snack brands. The immediate trigger for this shift was the implementation of price cuts of up to 15% on popular products like Lay’s and Doritos, aimed at reversing demand erosion from previous price hikes. Long-term, this strategy is expected to enhance consumer repurchase behavior and stabilize market share against private-label competitors.
3 sourcesApr 18Moderate
- Crypto· World
Circle CEO Predicts Launch of Yuan-Backed Stablecoin to Enhance Global Currency Role
Jeremy Allaire, CEO of Circle Internet Group, announced a significant opportunity for a yuan-backed stablecoin during an interview in Hong Kong. This prediction comes as China seeks to internationalize the yuan amid ongoing geopolitical shifts and competition in digital currencies. The emergence of such a stablecoin could reshape global payment systems and enhance China's economic influence over the long term.
4 sourcesApr 18High
- Crypto· World
Charles Schwab Launches Spot Bitcoin and Ethereum Trading for U.S. Retail Clients
On April 16, 2026, Charles Schwab Corporation announced the launch of Schwab Crypto, enabling spot trading of Bitcoin and Ethereum for eligible retail clients. This rollout is driven by increased regulatory clarity from the SEC and CFTC, which has facilitated the establishment of such trading platforms. The long-term implication is a potential shift in the cryptocurrency market landscape, as mainstream adoption may stabilize Bitcoin and Ethereum prices amid growing institutional interest.
5 sourcesApr 18High
- Business· World
Madison Air Solutions Completes $2.23 Billion IPO on NYSE
Madison Air Solutions Corporation raised $2.23 billion in its initial public offering, marking the largest U.S. industrial IPO since 1999. This significant capital influx is driven by the increasing demand for advanced cooling solutions in data centers, particularly due to the expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure. The successful IPO indicates a robust recovery in the IPO market and suggests further investments in AI-related industrial sectors are likely to follow.
3 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· World
Oil Futures Rise as U.S.-Iran Negotiations Continue Amid Strait of Hormuz Tensions
On April 16, 2026, oil futures rose as global markets awaited the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This shift is driven by U.S. officials tightening the naval blockade on Iranian ports, sustaining fears of supply disruptions despite ongoing negotiations. The long-term implication is a potential for continued volatility in oil prices and market reactions as diplomatic efforts unfold.
4 sourcesApr 18Low
- Economy· World
Henry Paulson Warns of Financial Fallout from Weakening U.S. Treasury Demand
Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson has issued a warning about the potential for severe financial consequences if demand for U.S. Treasuries declines. This warning comes amid rising national debt, which has surpassed $39 trillion, and increasing yields that are eroding investor confidence. The long-term implication could be a systemic threat to global financial markets, necessitating emergency intervention plans to stabilize the situation.
4 sourcesApr 18Moderate
- Business· World
Surge in Jet Fuel Prices Threatens Spirit Airlines' Bankruptcy Exit
Spirit Airlines faces significant challenges in emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy as jet fuel prices have surged to $4.24 per gallon, nearly double the projected costs. This price spike is driven by the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, which has disrupted oil supplies and invalidated Spirit's financial assumptions. If the current trend continues, the airline may be forced to consider liquidation as creditor objections mount and liquidity dwindles.
4 sourcesApr 18High
- Economy· World
G7 Finance Ministers Call for Action to Mitigate Economic Impact of Iran Conflict
On April 16, 2026, G7 finance ministers and central bank governors convened in Washington, D.C., issuing a statement urging measures to limit the economic fallout from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East involving Iran. This call to action comes as the war has led to significant disruptions in energy supplies and rising oil prices, prompting concerns over inflation and economic stability. The long-term implication is a coordinated international effort to stabilize markets and prevent further escalation of the conflict's economic consequences.
5 sourcesApr 18Low