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
4453 stories- Economy· World
Brent Crude Oil Prices Exceed $95 Amid US-Israel-Iran Conflict
Brent crude oil prices have surpassed $95 per barrel as the US-Israel-Iran war escalates, impacting global oil markets. The immediate cause of this surge is the disruption of key supply routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, amid faltering ceasefire negotiations. Long-term implications suggest continued volatility in oil prices as geopolitical tensions persist and analysts forecast prices to remain elevated through mid-2026.
2 sourcesApr 15Low
- Crypto· World
Tether Increases Bitcoin Reserves by $70 Million to Over 97,000 BTC
On April 15, 2026, Tether transferred 951 Bitcoin worth approximately $70 million from Bitfinex to its reserve wallet, raising its total holdings to 97,141 BTC. This transfer is part of Tether's ongoing strategy to allocate up to 15% of its net realized operating profits to Bitcoin purchases, enhancing the stability of its USDT stablecoin. The long-term implication is a strengthened reserve backing for USDT, potentially increasing institutional confidence in Tether's financial practices amid regulatory scrutiny.
5 sourcesApr 15Low
- Business· World
Allbirds rebrands as NewBird AI after selling footwear assets and pivoting to AI infrastructure
Allbirds Inc. has announced a strategic shift from sustainable footwear production to AI computing infrastructure, rebranding itself as NewBird AI. This pivot follows a significant asset sale to American Exchange Group and aims to address ongoing revenue declines by targeting the demand for high-performance AI compute resources. The long-term implication suggests a potential transformation of the company into a key player in the AI infrastructure market, despite skepticism regarding the adequacy of its funding and operational capabilities.
3 sourcesApr 15Very High
- Economy· World
IMF Confirms Bank of Japan's Ability to Manage Inflation Amid Ongoing Iran War
The IMF has stated that the Bank of Japan can effectively navigate the inflationary pressures resulting from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East involving Iran. This assertion comes as oil prices surge past $120 per barrel due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting concerns about inflation in Japan. In the long term, this situation may lead the BoJ to continue its gradual rate hikes, aiming for policy normalization by late 2027 despite external shocks.
2 sourcesApr 15Low
- Crypto· World
World Liberty Financial Implements Token Lockup Proposal Affecting Early Investors Until 2030
World Liberty Financial has proposed a governance measure to lock 80% of early investors' tokens for two years, followed by a two-year vesting period, preventing full liquidity until 2030. This decision comes amid rising investor grievances over transparency and centralized control, particularly following a significant drop in token price. The long-term implication may lead to increased scrutiny of governance practices in cryptocurrency platforms and potential regulatory responses as investor dissatisfaction grows.
2 sourcesApr 15High
- Business· UAE
Mark Mobius, influential figure in emerging markets investing, passes away at 89
On April 15, 2026, Mark Mobius, a pioneer in emerging markets investing, died in Singapore at the age of 89. His death comes shortly after he had announced plans for a new investment venture in Dubai, reflecting his ongoing commitment to the region's economic potential. The long-term implication of his passing may lead to a reevaluation of investment strategies in emerging markets, particularly among UAE investors who valued his insights and advocacy.
2 sourcesApr 15High
- Economy· World
Oil Prices Steady Amid Shipping Disruptions in Strait of Hormuz and US-Iran Ceasefire Talks
Oil prices remained stable on April 15, 2026, with Brent crude at $94.93 per barrel as shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz countered optimism from US-Iran ceasefire discussions. The immediate cause of this stability is the ongoing blockade by the US on Iranian ports, which has severely limited oil shipments through the vital Strait, despite recent diplomatic efforts. Long-term, the situation may lead to continued volatility in global oil markets and increased geopolitical tensions in the region as negotiations progress or stall.
2 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· World
US Imposes Sanctions on Iranian Oil Shipping Network Led by Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani
On April 15, 2026, the U.S. Department of the Treasury sanctioned over two dozen individuals and entities involved in Iran's oil transportation network. This action follows the death of Ali Shamkhani and aims to disrupt revenue streams supporting the Iranian regime and its proxies amid heightened enforcement of sanctions. The long-term implication may involve increased operational costs for shadow fleet operators and further isolation of Iran's oil exports in the global market.
2 sourcesApr 15Moderate
- Business· World
United Airlines Faces Senate Opposition to Proposed Merger with American Airlines
On April 15, 2026, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal publicly warned United Airlines against pursuing a takeover of American Airlines. This warning follows reports of United CEO Scott Kirby pitching the merger idea to President Donald Trump, raising concerns over potential consumer harm and antitrust issues. The long-term implication may involve increased regulatory scrutiny and challenges for the merger, impacting the competitive landscape of the U.S. airline industry.
2 sourcesApr 15Moderate
- Business· World
Alphabet's Google stake in SpaceX valued at $100 billion ahead of IPO
Alphabet Inc.'s Google LLC disclosed a 6.11% stake in SpaceX, valued at approximately $100 billion, as SpaceX targets a $2 trillion IPO. This valuation comes after a merger with xAI and reflects the significant growth in SpaceX's launch services and Starlink broadband. The long-term implication suggests that Alphabet's investment could further fuel its AI initiatives and influence the tech investment landscape.
2 sourcesApr 15Moderate
- Business· World
Sazerac Proposes $15 Billion Acquisition of Brown-Forman Amid Merger Talks with Pernod Ricard
Sazerac Company has made a $15 billion acquisition offer for Brown-Forman Corporation, proposing $32 per share. This proposal comes as Brown-Forman is already in merger discussions with Pernod Ricard, highlighting the competitive landscape in the spirits industry. The long-term implication may involve increased consolidation in the sector, potentially leading to regulatory scrutiny and a bidding war for Brown-Forman's assets.
2 sourcesApr 15Moderate
- Economy· World
CFTC Investigates Billion-Dollar Oil Trades Linked to Trump Iran Policy Changes
The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission has launched investigations into suspicious billion-dollar trades in oil futures and stocks that occurred just before President Trump's announcements regarding military actions in Iran. These trades, executed minutes before significant policy shifts, are being scrutinized for potential insider trading amid ongoing market volatility. The long-term implication could lead to stricter regulations and oversight in the commodities market to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
2 sourcesApr 15Moderate
- Economy· World
U.S. Treasury Secretary Projects Gasoline Prices to Fall to $3 by Late Summer 2026
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a projection that gasoline prices will decline to $3 per gallon between June 20 and September 20, 2026. This forecast is driven by anticipated reductions in crude oil prices amid ongoing negotiations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which have been affected by Middle Eastern tensions. If successful, this could alleviate economic pressures from recent spikes in gasoline prices, influencing consumer behavior and energy policy.
2 sourcesApr 15Moderate
- Business· World
Federal Jury Finds Live Nation and Ticketmaster Liable for Antitrust Violations in U.S. Ticketing Market
A federal jury in Manhattan has ruled that Live Nation Entertainment and Ticketmaster illegally monopolized the U.S. concert ticketing market, overcharging consumers by $1.72 per ticket. This verdict follows a lengthy trial initiated by 34 states after the U.S. Department of Justice withdrew from a parallel case, highlighting ongoing consumer backlash against the companies. The ruling could lead to significant structural changes in the industry, including potential divestitures or a breakup of the companies to foster competition.
14 sourcesApr 15Very High
- Business· UAE
Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange Lists New KraneShares ETFs Focusing on AI and Shari'ah-Compliant Income
The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange has announced the listing of two new exchange-traded funds, KraneShares AGIX and KWIN, aimed at providing investors with exposure to artificial intelligence technologies and Shari'ah-compliant income strategies. This move is triggered by a surge in regional demand for innovative investment products and follows previous successful ETF listings. In the long term, this expansion is likely to position Abu Dhabi as a leading hub for thematic investing in the MENA region.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Business· UAE
Bernstein Initiates Coverage of MENA Energy Sector Highlighting ADNOC Gas and Fertiglobe
Bernstein Research has initiated coverage of the MENA energy sector, designating ADNOC Gas and Fertiglobe as top investment picks with Outperform ratings. This move comes as the firms demonstrate strong cashflow visibility and alignment with the UAE's energy self-sufficiency goals amid regional geopolitical tensions. The long-term implication suggests increased investor confidence in UAE energy assets and potential growth in the sector as it adapts to market demands.
4 sourcesApr 15Low
- Business· UAE
UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure Initiates Nationwide Microgrid Project
On April 13, 2026, the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure announced the launch of an innovative microgrid project for federal government buildings. This initiative follows a successful pilot in 2025 at the ministry's headquarters, aimed at enhancing energy security and sustainability amid emergencies. The long-term implication is a significant shift towards decentralized energy systems across federal facilities, supporting the UAE's vision for advanced infrastructure and net-zero emissions by 2050.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Crypto· UAE
UAE Capital Market Authority Launches New Regulatory Framework for Virtual Assets
On April 13, 2026, the UAE's Capital Market Authority issued a comprehensive regulatory framework for virtual assets, expanding regulated activities from three to eight. This initiative is driven by the need to enhance market integrity and investor protection amid rapid growth in the virtual asset sector. The long-term implication is that this framework positions the UAE as a leading digital finance hub in the MENA region, attracting institutional investments and fostering innovation.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· MENA
Al-Ain Reports Spot Crude Oil Prices Near 150 USD Amid US-Iran Tensions
On April 15, 2026, Al-Ain news claimed that spot crude oil prices are approaching 150 USD per barrel. This assertion comes during escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly a US naval blockade on Iranian oil exports and ongoing ceasefire negotiations. If unverified claims persist, they could exacerbate market volatility and influence global oil pricing strategies.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Business· UAE
DWTC Free Zone partners with Wio Bank to enhance digital banking for businesses
On April 13, 2026, the Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Wio Bank to streamline digital banking services for businesses. This partnership is driven by the need to improve financial onboarding processes amid Dubai's push for a robust digital economy. Long-term, this initiative is expected to bolster Dubai's position as a leading hub for entrepreneurship and innovation in the region.
3 sourcesApr 15Low