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· UAE
Central Bank of the UAE Partners with Vermeg to Establish Central Securities Depository for Debt and Sukuk
On April 13, 2026, the Central Bank of the UAE announced the appointment of Vermeg as the lead technology partner for a new Central Securities Depository aimed at enhancing the management of national debt and Sukuk. This initiative is driven by the UAE's goal to modernize its financial infrastructure and attract investment amid a projected $350 billion debt capital market by 2026. The long-term implication is a strengthened position for the UAE in global capital markets, fostering innovation and efficiency in post-trade operations.
5 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· UAE
Emirates Development Bank Launches Daily AED 20 Million Financing to Support UAE Businesses Amid Supply Chain Challenges
On April 14, 2026, Emirates Development Bank initiated a daily injection of 20 million AED to assist UAE companies grappling with global supply chain disruptions. This action is prompted by escalating liquidity needs among manufacturers, technology firms, and food producers due to market volatility. The long-term implication is a strengthened local supply chain and enhanced operational stability for critical sectors in the UAE economy.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Business· MENA
Lenovo Opens Regional Headquarters in Riyadh for Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa
Lenovo has inaugurated its regional headquarters for the Middle East, Türkiye, and Africa in Riyadh, marking a significant expansion in the region. This strategic move is driven by Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to attract global firms and enhance local manufacturing capabilities. The establishment of this headquarters is expected to bolster job creation and position Riyadh as a leading tech hub in the region.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· MENA
U.S. Energy Secretary Predicts Peak Oil Prices Due to Strait of Hormuz Disruptions
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced that global oil prices are expected to peak within weeks as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains disrupted. This forecast follows a U.S.-Iran conflict that has led to a naval blockade and significant supply constraints in the region. Long-term, the energy market may face sustained volatility until maritime traffic stabilizes and diplomatic resolutions are achieved.
4 sourcesApr 15Moderate
- Economy· World
U.S. Stock Markets Surge Amid Renewed Hopes for U.S.-Iran Negotiations
Major U.S. stock indices rose on April 14, 2026, driven by optimism surrounding potential negotiations between Washington and Tehran. This surge follows a recent deadlock in talks in Islamabad, where former President Trump indicated Iranian willingness to negotiate, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions. If negotiations progress, it could lead to greater market stability and reduced volatility in energy prices, particularly benefiting Gulf economies.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· MENA
Tadawul All Share Index Reaches Highest Close Since November 2025
On April 14, 2026, the Tadawul All Share Index (TASI) rose by 59.41 points to close at 11,486.18, marking its highest level since November 2025. This increase is attributed to a year-to-date rally of approximately 9.5%, driven by positive investor sentiment and stable oil markets. The sustained upward trend suggests continued growth in the Saudi stock market, potentially attracting further investments and bolstering economic confidence in the region.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· World
European Stocks Rise on Hopes of US-Iran Peace Talks
On April 14, 2026, the pan-European STOXX 600 index increased by 1%, reaching its highest level in over a month. This surge was triggered by renewed optimism regarding potential peace negotiations between the US and Iran amidst ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Long-term, this development may stabilize European markets and reduce energy cost pressures, influencing economic forecasts and investor sentiment across the region.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Finance Minister Highlights Economic Resilience and Reform Commitment
On April 14, 2026, Saudi Arabia's Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan affirmed the Kingdom's ability to manage economic shocks while continuing structural reforms during a roundtable in Washington, D.C. This statement comes amid the 2026 IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings, where global economic uncertainties are prompting discussions on the need for diversification and investment. The long-term implication is that Saudi Arabia aims to solidify its position as a reliable partner for sustainable growth in the face of ongoing global economic challenges.
6 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· World
2026 IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings Address Global Economic Challenges
The 2026 Spring Meetings of the IMF and World Bank are currently taking place in Washington, D.C., focusing on global economic stability amid geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions. This gathering is prompted by recent compounded shocks to the global economy, including conflicts in the Middle East and high debt levels in developing nations. Long-term implications include calls for enhanced multilateral cooperation to safeguard growth and financial stability in the face of ongoing challenges.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia Forecasted to Lead Gulf Economic Growth at 3.1% Amid Regional Turmoil
The International Monetary Fund's latest report projects Saudi Arabia's GDP growth at 3.1% for 2026, positioning it as the most resilient economy in the Gulf amid disruptions from the Iran war. This resilience is attributed to Saudi Arabia's strategic infrastructure investments, including the activation of east-west pipelines to bypass the closed Strait of Hormuz, while Qatar faces an 8.6% contraction due to the shutdown of its LNG facility. Long-term, Saudi Arabia's adaptability may enhance its regional economic dominance and support its Vision 2030 diversification goals.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Business· World
AD Ports Group Initiates Investment Framework for Constanța Port in Romania
On April 14, 2026, AD Ports Group signed a framework agreement with Romania's National Company Maritime Ports Administration SA to explore investment opportunities in Constanța Port. This initiative is driven by AD Ports Group's strategy to enhance its presence along the Middle Corridor trade route amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. The long-term implication is expected to be a strengthened logistics network that facilitates trade between Asia and Europe, benefiting regional supply chains.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· UAE
UAE and Philippines Central Banks Sign MoU to Enhance Payment Systems
On April 14, 2026, the Central Bank of the UAE and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas signed a Memorandum of Understanding to integrate their instant payment platforms. This agreement is driven by the need to improve remittance efficiency for the large Filipino expatriate community in the UAE, which significantly contributes to bilateral economic ties. The long-term implication is expected to be a strengthened financial ecosystem that fosters innovation and collaboration in fintech and Islamic finance between the two nations.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Business· UAE
Dubai Properties Awards AED 1.1 Billion Contracts for 850 Townhouses in Villanova Expansion
Dubai Properties has awarded contracts worth AED 1.1 billion to Metac General Contracting for the construction of 850 townhouses in the Villanova community. This decision is driven by strong buyer demand for family-oriented suburban housing amid a significant increase in real estate transactions in Dubai. The expansion is expected to enhance the housing inventory and support the ongoing suburban migration trend in the region.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· World
IMF Warns Central Banks Against Premature Tightening Amid Middle East Conflict
On April 14, 2026, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva cautioned central banks globally against rushing into monetary tightening policies due to ongoing Middle East war risks. This warning comes as the conflict has led to a 20% shortfall in global oil and gas supplies, exacerbating inflationary pressures and financial market volatility. If the conflict persists, it could result in severe economic instability and hinder recovery efforts, prompting central banks to reconsider their monetary strategies.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Business· UAE
Dubai International Airport Maintains Status as World's Busiest International Airport for 12th Year
Dubai International Airport has been ranked as the world's busiest international airport for the 12th consecutive year, processing 95.2 million passengers in 2025. This achievement is attributed to the recovery of global air travel and the expansion of Emirates Airline's network, alongside increased tourism to Dubai. The long-term implication suggests continued investments in airport infrastructure to accommodate growing passenger traffic and maintain its competitive edge in the aviation sector.
6 sourcesApr 15Low
- Business· UAE
Burj Al Arab to Undergo First Major Restoration in 27 Years
Jumeirah Group has announced a phased 18-month restoration of the Burj Al Arab, marking its first major overhaul since its opening in 1999. This initiative is driven by the need to conserve the hotel's opulent interiors and maintain its status as a luxury icon amid Dubai's broader efforts to preserve modern architectural landmarks. The long-term implication is expected to enhance Dubai's tourism appeal and economic resilience by securing the hotel's legacy as a premier hospitality asset.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· World
US Dollar Index Hits Six-Week Low Amid Optimism for US-Iran Talks
On April 15, 2026, the US dollar index stabilized at 98.13 points, its lowest level in over six weeks, relinquishing most gains recorded since the US-Israeli war with Iran erupted on February 28. This decline is attributed to renewed optimism over potential resumption of US-Iran negotiations, as indicated by President Trump, which has reduced the dollar's safe-haven demand. The long-term implication may involve a shift in global currency dynamics and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts amidst ongoing inflation risks.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· World
Spot Gold Prices Fall as US Dollar Strengthens and US-Iran Peace Talks Loom
Spot gold prices declined 0.3% to $4,828.07 per ounce on April 15, 2026, following a one-month high. This drop is attributed to the US dollar recovering from a multi-month low and growing optimism for renewed US-Iran peace negotiations, which reduced the demand for safe-haven assets. In the long term, continued stabilization of gold prices may depend on the outcomes of geopolitical discussions and dollar movements.
15 sourcesApr 15Low
- Economy· UAE
Nafis Program Announces Gradual Salary Support Reduction for Emiratis in Private Sector
On April 15, 2026, the Nafis federal program detailed the reasons for the phased reduction in salary support allocated to UAE nationals working in the private sector. This adjustment is triggered by the program's extension to 2040 and aims to promote self-reliance as beneficiaries' salaries exceed AED 20,000. The long-term implication is a shift towards a performance-driven culture in the UAE labor market, encouraging sustainable career growth for Emiratis.
3 sourcesApr 15Low
- Business· UAE
UAE and Uzbekistan Ministers Discuss Economic Partnerships in Dubai
On April 14, 2026, UAE and Uzbekistan ministers convened in Dubai to enhance bilateral partnerships in new economy sectors. This meeting was triggered by Uzbekistan's economic reforms and the UAE's strategic positioning as a global investment hub, aiming to capitalize on mutual interests in tourism, fintech, and renewable energy. The long-term implication is the potential for increased trade and investment flows between the two nations, particularly through the upcoming Investopia Tashkent collaboration.
6 sourcesApr 15Low