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
7501 stories- Business· World
Wispr Flow Secures $280 Million in Series B Funding at $2 Billion Valuation
Wispr Flow raised $280 million in a Series B funding round, achieving a valuation of $2 billion. This funding round was triggered by increasing investor interest in voice-based AI technologies, following the company's previous funding success. The long-term implication is the potential for Wispr Flow to enhance its dictation platform and proprietary speech models, solidifying its position in the AI market.
4 sources10h agoModerate
- Crypto· World
US Treasury Proposes Stablecoin Regulation Under GENIUS Act
On August 17, 2026, the US Department of the Treasury issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to define stablecoin issuance and sales under the GENIUS Act. This regulatory move is prompted by the need to establish compliance standards for both domestic and foreign stablecoin issuers ahead of the act's implementation in January 2027. The long-term implication is a more structured regulatory environment for stablecoins, potentially influencing global digital asset markets and compliance practices.
7 sources10h agoLow
- Crypto· World
People's Bank of China Expands Digital Yuan Network to 30 Banks
The People's Bank of China has expanded its digital yuan operating network to include 30 banks by adding eight new authorized institutions. This expansion is occurring as part of ongoing reforms to transition the digital yuan from pilot programs to widespread use, coinciding with the implementation of the upgraded 2.0 framework. The long-term implication is a strengthened infrastructure for the digital yuan, enhancing its role in both domestic and international financial transactions.
5 sources10h agoModerate
- Economy· World
Canada and U.S. Reach Temporary Agreement to Pause Tariffs on $20 Billion in Exports
The United States and Canada have reached a provisional agreement to pause 50% tariffs on approximately $20 billion in Canadian exports. This pause comes after intensive negotiations led by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to avert duties that were set to take effect due to ongoing trade disputes. The long-term implication may involve further negotiations on market access and economic security commitments between the two nations.
8 sources10h agoLow
- Business· World
La-Z-Boy Reports Fiscal First-Quarter Net Loss Amid Declining Sales
La-Z-Boy Inc. reported a fiscal first-quarter net loss of $2.3 million on August 18, 2026, due to a 3% decline in sales. This downturn is attributed to reduced consumer demand and lower foot traffic in retail stores, reflecting a challenging economic environment for discretionary purchases. The long-term implication suggests ongoing pressures for the U.S. furniture sector as consumer spending remains cautious in the face of economic uncertainty.
4 sources10h agoLow
- Economy· World
Spot Gold Reaches 4,342.81 USD per Ounce Amid Rate-Hike Speculation
On August 19, 2026, spot gold rose to 4,342.81 USD per ounce. This increase was driven by investor anticipation of the U.S. Federal Reserve's July meeting minutes, alongside declining Treasury yields and a weaker dollar. Long-term, the elevated gold prices may shift demand dynamics in the jewelry market and influence investment strategies among consumers.
4 sources15h agoLow
- Business· World
Apple Implements Tiered Commission Structure for EU App Transactions Starting October 2026
Apple has announced a new tiered commission structure for in-app transactions in the European Union, set to take effect on October 1, 2026. This change is a direct response to regulatory requirements under the Digital Markets Act, which mandates modifications to Apple's App Store practices. The long-term implication is a potential shift in app distribution strategies and payment processing standards across the industry, benefiting smaller developers and increasing competition.
4 sources15h agoLow
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia to Increase Saudization Rate for Project Management Roles to 70 Percent by 2027
Saudi Arabia has announced a new policy to raise the Saudization rate for project management professions in the private sector to 70 percent, effective February 14, 2027. This decision is part of the government's ongoing efforts to enhance national workforce participation under Vision 2030, targeting specialized roles such as project management directors and engineers. The long-term implication is a significant shift in the labor market dynamics, potentially increasing employment opportunities for Saudi nationals while impacting the hiring practices of private sector entities.
3 sources16h agoLow
- Economy· World
Gold Prices Increase Amid Weak U.S. Dollar Following July Employment Data
On August 17, 2026, gold prices rose 0.65% to $4404.91 per ounce due to a weaker U.S. dollar and lower expectations for Federal Reserve interest rate hikes. This shift was triggered by disappointing U.S. non-farm payroll data for July, which indicated a slowdown in job growth and reduced inflationary pressures. In the long term, this trend may lead to increased demand for gold as a safe-haven asset amidst ongoing economic uncertainty.
3 sources16h agoLow
- Business· UAE
L'IMAD Launches Tender Offer for Full Ownership of AD Ports Group
L'IMAD, through its subsidiary ADQ, has initiated a voluntary tender offer to acquire the remaining 24.58% of shares in AD Ports Group at AED 6.25 per share. This move follows the announcement of intent on August 17, 2026, and aims to consolidate full ownership under Abu Dhabi government control amid efforts to centralize strategic infrastructure assets. If successful, the acquisition could lead to the potential delisting of AD Ports from the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and further strengthen Abu Dhabi's control over critical logistics and trade infrastructure.
6 sources16h agoLow
- Economy· World
Israel's War Costs Estimated at 420 Billion Shekels with Long-Term Defense Spending Projections of 1.5 Trillion Shekels
Haaretz has reported that the cumulative cost of Israel's ongoing war has reached approximately 420 billion shekels, marking it as the longest and most expensive conflict in the nation's history. This financial burden is attributed to the prolonged military operations following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, compounded by the need for increased defense expenditures amid changing military doctrines. In the long term, Israel is likely to face significant fiscal challenges and increased public debt as defense spending is projected to escalate dramatically over the next decade.
3 sources16h agoLow
- Business· UAE
Nakheel Begins Handover of 892 Homes in Jebel Ali Village Dubai
On August 17, 2026, Nakheel commenced the handover of 892 homes in the redeveloped Jebel Ali Village, marking a significant milestone in the community's revival. This initiative follows the completion of residential construction and infrastructure improvements, aimed at modernizing a historic site originally built for port workers. The long-term implication is the establishment of a low-density residential community that supports family relocation and enhances the housing landscape in Dubai.
3 sources16h agoLow
- Economy· World
Gold Prices Approach $4,400 per Ounce Amid Economic Uncertainty
On August 18, 2026, spot gold prices surged to $4,396.91 per ounce, reflecting a 0.46% increase. This rise is driven by heightened safe-haven demand from investors and institutions amid ongoing economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. The long-term implication suggests that gold prices may continue to rise as market participants await critical economic data and Federal Reserve policy decisions.
3 sources16h agoLow
- Business· UAE
Emirates Transport Prepares 10,000 School Buses for 2026-2027 Academic Year
Emirates Transport has confirmed the operational readiness of approximately 10,000 school buses as of August 18, 2026. This initiative is driven by the upcoming academic year starting on August 31, 2026, necessitating comprehensive safety training for drivers and supervisors. The long-term implication is a strengthened commitment to student safety and reliable transportation services across the UAE's expanding educational landscape.
4 sources17h agoLow
- Economy· UAE
Ajman Reports Dh2.91 Billion in Rental Contracts for H1 2026 Indicating Strong Housing Demand
Ajman Municipality announced the registration of 73,472 rental contracts valued at Dh2.91 billion for the first half of 2026. This surge is attributed to supportive legislation and infrastructure improvements that cater to housing needs and investor interest. The long-term implication suggests continued growth in Ajman's real estate sector, potentially influencing housing markets across the UAE.
3 sources17h agoLow
- Economy· UAE
DIEZ Reports 96% Occupancy and Significant Growth in H1 2026
In the first half of 2026, the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) achieved a 96% occupancy rate across its zones, alongside a 13% increase in operating companies and a 24% rise in workforce. This surge is attributed to growing investor confidence and the successful implementation of Dubai's D33 economic agenda. Looking ahead, DIEZ is expected to continue enhancing its competitiveness through digital transformation and AI integration, further solidifying Dubai's position as a global economic hub.
3 sources17h agoLow
- Business· UAE
Dubai RTA Completes Major Upgrade of Al Marabea’ Street to Enhance Traffic Flow
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has completed significant upgrades to a 1.1-kilometre stretch of Al Marabea’ Street, increasing road capacity by 30 percent and reducing peak-hour travel times by the same margin. This project is a response to the growing vehicular demand due to Dubai's rapid urban expansion and aims to alleviate congestion on a key arterial route. Long-term, these enhancements are expected to improve overall traffic efficiency and support ongoing urban development in the emirate.
3 sources17h agoLow
- Economy· UAE
UAE Banking Sector Reports Dh90.8 Billion Profit and Dh5.3 Trillion in Assets for 2025
UAE banks reported a net profit of Dh90.8 billion for 2025, marking an 11.7% increase year-on-year, alongside total assets reaching Dh5.3 trillion. This growth is attributed to expanded domestic lending, significant deposit inflows, and improved asset quality, reflecting sustained economic activity in the region. The long-term implication suggests a continued strengthening of the banking sector's resilience and potential for further economic expansion in the UAE.
4 sources17h agoLow
- Business· MENA
Saudi Arabia mandates airlines to verify passenger travel documents before boarding
Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation has issued a directive requiring all airlines operating at its airports to verify passengers' travel documents. This measure is being implemented to ensure compliance with evolving international travel requirements and to prevent travel disruptions. Long-term, this could lead to stricter travel regulations and enhanced security protocols in the region's aviation sector.
3 sources17h agoLow
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund Launches Six Economic Ecosystems Strategy for 2026-2030
On August 17, 2026, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund announced a strategic shift to invest in six integrated economic ecosystems as part of its Vision Portfolio for the 2026-2030 period. This initiative is driven by the need for greater integration across assets to enhance long-term value and private sector participation under the Vision 2030 framework. The long-term implication is a potential transformation of the Saudi economy towards a more diversified and sustainable model, fostering increased private sector involvement and global competitiveness.
6 sources17h agoLow