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
8632 stories- Economy· World
Brent Crude Oil Prices Exceed $120 Amid U.S. Plans to Extend Iranian Port Blockade
On April 29, 2026, Brent crude oil prices surged above $120 per barrel following reports of U.S. preparations to extend the naval blockade of Iranian ports. This escalation is driven by stalled negotiations with Iran and a directive from President Trump to prolong restrictions after a White House meeting. The long-term implication could be a significant increase in global energy prices and further instability in the oil market if the blockade continues.
9 sourcesApr 30Very High
- Business· World
United Airlines Ends Merger Talks with American Airlines
United Airlines has officially abandoned its merger discussions with American Airlines following the latter's rejection of the proposal. The talks were initiated by United's CEO Scott Kirby, who cited potential economic benefits for the airline industry. This development underscores the ongoing competitive dynamics in the airline sector, suggesting that both airlines will now focus on independent strategies to maintain market share.
5 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· World
US Stock Futures Rise on Strong Tech Earnings Amid Iran Conflict Escalation
US stock futures increased on April 29, 2026, driven by positive earnings reports from major technology firms like Alphabet and Amazon. The surge in oil prices is attributed to escalating tensions between the US and Iran, which have raised concerns over supply disruptions. This situation may lead to heightened volatility in global markets as investors react to both corporate performance and geopolitical risks.
8 sourcesApr 30Low
- Business· UAE
UAE Withdraws from OPEC and OPEC+ to Enhance Production Flexibility
The United Arab Emirates announced its withdrawal from OPEC and OPEC+, effective May 1, 2026. This decision is driven by the need for greater production flexibility amid global demand changes and ongoing regional conflicts affecting oil supply. The long-term implication is that the UAE aims to increase its oil production capacity independently, potentially reshaping its role in the global energy market.
99 sourcesApr 30Very High
- Business· World
Ford Motor Company Reports $2.5 Billion Q1 2026 Profit Driven by Tariff Refund
Ford Motor Company announced a first-quarter profit of $2.5 billion, significantly up from $500 million in the same period last year, largely due to a $1.3 billion refund from invalidated U.S. import tariffs. This financial boost comes after the U.S. Supreme Court's February ruling against certain tariffs, prompting a federal refund process initiated in April 2026. Looking ahead, Ford's increased earnings outlook suggests a potential recovery in the automotive sector despite ongoing commodity cost challenges.
7 sourcesApr 30Moderate
- Business· World
Purdue Pharma to Dissolve Following $225 Million Criminal Sentence for Opioid Crisis Role
A federal judge has approved a $225 million criminal sentence for Purdue Pharma, leading to the company's dissolution. This decision comes after years of legal battles over the company's involvement in the opioid epidemic. The long-term implication is the establishment of a new company focused on addressing the opioid crisis, signaling a shift towards greater accountability in the pharmaceutical industry.
4 sourcesApr 30Moderate
- Economy· World
Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Amid Iran War Inflation and Warsh Nomination Progress
The Federal Open Market Committee decided to maintain the federal funds rate at 3.5%–3.75% during its April 2026 meeting. This decision comes as inflation rises due to the ongoing Iran war, which has disrupted oil supplies and increased prices. Looking ahead, the nomination of Kevin Warsh as the new Fed chair may signal a shift in monetary policy direction amidst geopolitical uncertainties and economic challenges.
13 sourcesApr 30High
- Business· World
Disney Retains ESPN Amid Streaming Strategy Shift
Disney has decided to keep ESPN within its corporate structure, halting plans for a spinoff. This decision is driven by CEO Josh D'Amaro's focus on enhancing streaming growth while maintaining control over the sports network. In the long term, this move may provide stability for Disney as it navigates the competitive media landscape and reassesses its strategic direction.
5 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· World
U.S. gasoline prices hit $4.23 per gallon amid US-Iran conflict
The U.S. national average price for gasoline has surged to $4.23 per gallon, the highest in nearly four years. This increase is driven by a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by the U.S. and Iran, coupled with seasonal demand and refinery maintenance. The long-term implication is a potential strain on consumer budgets and increased economic pressure on lower-income households as oil prices remain elevated.
13 sourcesApr 30High
- Economy· World
Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady Amid Inflation and FOMC Dissent
The Federal Reserve decided to maintain the federal funds rate at 3.5 to 3.75 percent during its recent meeting, marking a significant moment with four dissenting votes. This decision comes in response to ongoing elevated inflation driven by global energy price increases linked to the Iran conflict. The long-term implication suggests a cautious approach to monetary policy as the Fed navigates political scrutiny and economic pressures ahead of leadership changes.
9 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· World
Federal Reserve Maintains Interest Rates Amid Geopolitical Tensions and Leadership Transition
The Federal Reserve decided to keep the federal funds rate steady at 3.5–3.75% during its recent FOMC meeting, marking a significant moment as it may be Jerome Powell's final meeting as chair. This decision comes in response to heightened inflation driven by surging oil prices due to the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran, alongside mixed labor market signals. Looking ahead, the Fed's stance may lead to increased scrutiny on future rate adjustments as inflationary pressures persist and a new chair is set to take over.
26 sourcesApr 30Moderate
- Business· World
Meta Platforms Reports Strong Q1 2026 Earnings and Increases Capital Expenditure Forecast
Meta Platforms announced its Q1 2026 earnings, exceeding revenue expectations with $56.31 billion and a 33% year-over-year growth. The immediate trigger for this announcement was the company's robust advertising performance and the need to invest in AI infrastructure, leading to a raised capital expenditure forecast of $125–145 billion. Long-term, this indicates a strategic pivot towards AI development, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape in the tech industry as Meta seeks to enhance its capabilities against rivals like OpenAI and Google.
7 sourcesApr 30High
- Economy· World
Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady Amid Highest Dissent Since 1992
On April 29, 2026, the Federal Open Market Committee voted 8–4 to maintain the federal funds rate target at 3.5–3.75 percent, marking the highest number of dissenting votes in nearly 34 years. This decision comes as the committee navigates solid economic growth alongside persistent inflation driven by global energy price increases linked to Middle East tensions. The long-term implication may involve increased policy uncertainty and potential shifts in monetary strategy as inflationary pressures persist.
9 sourcesApr 29High
- Economy· World
US gas prices hit record high of $4.23 per gallon amid Iran conflict
Gas prices in the United States have surged to $4.23 per gallon, the highest level since the onset of the war with Iran. This increase is driven by ongoing disruptions in oil supplies from the Middle East, exacerbated by the conflict. The long-term implication suggests that continued geopolitical instability may lead to further fluctuations in gas prices and economic pressures on consumers.
4 sourcesApr 29Moderate - Business· UAE
Abu Dhabi to Launch Paid Parking System in Mohamed Bin Zayed City by 2026
Abu Dhabi has announced the implementation of a paid parking system in Mohamed Bin Zayed City, set to launch on May 6, 2026. This initiative is being driven by Q Mobility as part of a broader strategy to enhance urban mobility and manage parking resources effectively. The long-term implication is a potential shift towards more structured urban management and improved public services across the city.
4 sourcesApr 29Low
- Business· World
Chiesi Farmaceutici acquires KalVista Pharmaceuticals for $1.9 billion
Chiesi Farmaceutici SpA has announced its acquisition of KalVista Pharmaceuticals Inc. for approximately $1.9 billion. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing Chiesi's portfolio in rare immunology at a time when the market is increasingly focused on specialized healthcare solutions. The long-term implication is that this acquisition could position Chiesi as a stronger player in the rare immunology sector, potentially leading to further investments and innovations in this field.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Business· World
General Dynamics Reports Strong Q1 2026 Earnings Driven by Marine Systems Growth
General Dynamics has reported higher revenue and exceeded quarterly earnings estimates, primarily due to significant growth in its marine-systems sales. This strong performance has led to a 6% increase in the company's stock price, reflecting investor confidence. Looking ahead, General Dynamics is well-positioned for continued growth in the marine and aerospace sectors, although it must navigate potential market fluctuations and changes in defense spending policies.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Business· World
UBS reports 80% increase in Q1 net profit amid market volatility
UBS has announced an 80% increase in net profit for the first quarter, reaching $3 billion. This surge is primarily driven by heightened trading activity resulting from recent market volatility linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Looking ahead, UBS's strong financial performance positions it favorably as it continues to integrate Credit Suisse and adapt to evolving market conditions.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Economy· World
Australia's inflation rate rises to 4.6% amid energy shock from Iran conflict
Australia's inflation rate surged to 4.6% in March 2026, marking the highest level in two-and-a-half years. This increase is driven by rising fuel prices linked to the ongoing conflict in Iran, creating significant economic pressure. As inflation continues to rise, the Reserve Bank of Australia is likely to implement further interest rate hikes to stabilize the economy.
3 sourcesApr 29High
- Economy· UAE
UAE launches Dh1 billion fund to enhance industrial sector
The UAE has established a national fund worth Dh1 billion aimed at bolstering its industrial sector. This initiative is part of the country's broader strategy to enhance industrial resilience and diversify its economy. The long-term implication is expected to stimulate growth and innovation within key industries in the UAE.
3 sourcesApr 29Low