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
8617 stories- Economy· MENA
Saudi Public Investment Fund unveils new strategy for 2026-2030 to bolster economic diversification
The Saudi Public Investment Fund has announced a new strategic plan for 2026-2030 aimed at enhancing its financial resilience and supporting the country's economic diversification. This initiative is triggered by the PIF's ambition to exceed 10 trillion riyals in assets by 2030, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals. Long-term, this strategy is expected to significantly contribute to the growth of Saudi Arabia's non-oil economy and enhance its role as a global investor.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Business· UAE
UAE withdraws from OPEC impacting global oil dynamics
The United Arab Emirates has announced its withdrawal from OPEC, a significant shift in the oil production landscape. This decision is driven by the UAE's pursuit of greater energy independence and is seen as a move to stabilize fuel prices. In the long term, this could lead to increased competition in the energy market and influence oil production strategies among other nations.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Economy· MENA
Gulf Central Banks Maintain Interest Rates Following US Federal Reserve Decision
Gulf central banks, including those in the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar, have decided to keep their interest rates unchanged in response to the US Federal Reserve's recent announcement. This coordinated approach reflects a strategy to ensure monetary stability amid global economic fluctuations. In the long term, Gulf banks are likely to continue monitoring US economic indicators to adjust their policies as necessary for regional stability and growth.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Business· UAE
UAE launches National Programme to Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience
The UAE has initiated a program to enhance the resilience of its supply chains. This initiative is a response to ongoing global supply chain challenges, aiming to secure essential supplies of food, medical, and industrial goods. The successful implementation of this program could significantly improve the UAE's supply chain stability, ensuring that essential goods remain accessible during global crises.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Business· UAE
DIFC reports 62% increase in new company registrations in Q1 2026
The Dubai International Financial Centre attracted 775 new companies in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 62% increase from the previous year. This surge is driven by growing international confidence in Dubai's economic environment and its strategic position as a leading financial hub. The long-term implication is that DIFC is likely to continue its expansion, solidifying its status as a preferred destination for global businesses.
4 sourcesMay 2Low
- Economy· World
Gas prices in Europe rise over 5% amid U.S. sanctions on Iran
Gas prices in the Netherlands and Britain surged by over 5% following reports of the U.S. extending its maritime blockade on Iranian ports. This increase is driven by rising concerns about potential disruptions to supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz. As geopolitical tensions escalate, energy markets in Europe are likely to remain volatile, impacting prices and supply stability in the long term.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Business· UAE
Dubai removes minimum property value requirement for investor visas
Dubai has announced the elimination of the minimum property value requirement for solo investor visas and updated residency rules for property investors. This policy shift is aimed at attracting more international buyers and stimulating demand in the real estate market at this critical moment. The long-term implication is a potential surge in property transactions and foreign investment, revitalizing Dubai's real estate sector and contributing to broader economic growth.
4 sourcesMay 2Moderate
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia reports 2.8% GDP growth in Q1 2026 driven by non-oil sector
Saudi Arabia's economy achieved a 2.8% year-on-year growth in GDP during the first quarter of 2026, primarily fueled by the non-oil sector. This growth comes despite a 1.5% quarterly decline in real GDP, largely due to a significant contraction in oil activities. The ongoing expansion of the non-oil sector suggests a potential shift towards a more diversified economy, although reliance on oil remains a critical concern for future stability.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Business· UAE
UAE launches digital bank account service for tourists
The Central Bank of the UAE has introduced a new service allowing tourists to open digital bank accounts upon arrival. This initiative is part of the UAE's broader digital transformation efforts aimed at enhancing financial inclusion and promoting cashless transactions. In the long term, this move is expected to strengthen the UAE's position as a leading financial hub and improve the overall tourism experience.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Business· UAE
UAE launches AI-driven hiring initiative to enhance labor market productivity
The UAE has initiated a new AI-powered project aimed at improving labor market efficiency and attracting skilled professionals. This development is driven by the country's strategy to implement advanced AI models in government operations at this specific moment. Long-term, this initiative is expected to position the UAE as a competitive global destination for skilled labor and reshape workforce dynamics in the region.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Economy· MENA
GCC Trade Cooperation Committee Holds 70th Meeting to Enhance Regional Trade Relations
The 70th meeting of the GCC Trade Cooperation Committee was held to discuss trade agreements and commercial law implementation. This meeting was triggered by the need to address challenges in intra-regional trade and to promote economic integration among member states. The long-term implication is that the GCC will likely continue to strengthen its trade framework and expand international partnerships.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Business· UAE
Emirates SkyCargo Launches Weekly Freighter Service to Toronto
Emirates SkyCargo has initiated a new weekly freighter service to Toronto Pearson Airport, enhancing air cargo connectivity between Canada and the UAE. This move is driven by a 24% year-on-year increase in exports from Canada to the UAE, necessitating additional cargo capacity. The long-term implication is a strengthened economic relationship between the two countries, potentially leading to further expansions in air cargo services.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Export-Import Bank signs reinsurance agreement with U.S. counterpart
The Saudi Export-Import Bank has finalized a reinsurance agreement with the U.S. Export-Import Bank. This agreement is aimed at enhancing trade relations and supporting local businesses in Saudi Arabia to acquire U.S. capital goods. The long-term implication is a potential increase in bilateral trade and investment opportunities between the two nations.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Economy· World
Gold prices decline amid rising oil prices and inflation concerns
Gold prices are experiencing a decline due to rising oil prices and inflation fears. This shift is occurring as market participants react to the implications of increased oil costs on overall economic stability. In the long term, continued inflation concerns may lead to increased volatility in the gold market and influence investment strategies.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Economy· World
Oil prices surge amid stalled US-Iran negotiations and heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz
Oil prices have increased by over a dollar due to the deadlock in U.S.-Iran negotiations. The ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and U.S. Navy actions, are driving this situation. Long-term implications include continued volatility in oil prices and potential disruptions in global supply chains as negotiations remain unresolved.
3 sourcesMay 2Very High
- Economy· World
Gold prices decline as rising oil prices heighten inflation concerns
Gold prices have dropped to $4614.98 per ounce, reflecting a 2% weekly loss. This decline is triggered by escalating oil prices, which are intensifying inflation worries and leading to expectations of sustained high interest rates. In the long term, continued inflation concerns may further pressure gold prices, influencing investment strategies in the precious metals market.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Economy· UAE
Dubai Financial Market experiences surge in investor accounts and trading volume
In the first four months of 2026, the Dubai Financial Market added 32,170 new investor accounts and saw a trading surge of Dh61 billion. This growth is driven by an influx of foreign investors and the registration of 775 new firms in Dubai's finance hub. The long-term implication suggests that the DFM is positioned for continued growth, potentially enhancing its status as a leading financial center in the region.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Business· World
Uber expands app to include hotel bookings through Expedia partnership
Uber has added hotel booking capabilities to its app, marking its first venture into the travel sector. This initiative is part of Uber's strategy to evolve into a 'super app' that offers multiple services beyond ride-hailing. The long-term implication could see Uber reshaping the competitive landscape of both the ride-hailing and travel industries as it integrates more services to enhance user engagement.
4 sourcesMay 2Low
- Business· World
Founders Fund raises record $6 billion for late-stage investments
Founders Fund has closed a $6 billion growth fund, marking its largest fundraising effort to date. This significant capital influx is driven by strong investor confidence, particularly from limited partners including sovereign wealth funds. The fund positions Founders Fund to capitalize on growth opportunities in established companies, potentially influencing the technology and investment sectors.
3 sourcesMay 2Moderate
- Business· World
Roblox reports significant decline in daily active users and stock price following earnings miss
Roblox has reported a drop in daily active users to 132 million, leading to a significant decline in its stock price after missing earnings expectations. This decline is attributed to the implementation of new age-verification and child-safety features that have hindered user growth. In the long term, Roblox may need to balance safety measures with user engagement strategies to stabilize its performance and regain investor confidence.
3 sourcesMay 2High