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
U.S. stock markets decline as oil prices surpass $100 amid Iran conflict uncertainty
U.S. stock futures have fallen as oil prices surged above $100 per barrel due to escalating tensions related to the Iran conflict. This decline follows a period of record highs for the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average, driven by investor concerns over energy costs and geopolitical instability. As the situation in Iran remains unresolved, market volatility is expected to persist, impacting global economic stability.
3 sourcesApr 24Low
- Economy· World
Brent crude oil prices exceed $105 amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz
Brent crude oil prices have surged past $105 per barrel due to heightened geopolitical tensions and stalled negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. The immediate trigger for this price increase is the recent attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. Long-term implications suggest that continued instability in the region could lead to further volatility in oil prices and impact global energy markets.
4 sourcesApr 24Low
- Business· World
Heidi O’Neill appointed as new CEO of Lululemon amid sales decline
Lululemon Athletica Inc. has appointed Heidi O’Neill as its new CEO, effective September. This leadership change is prompted by the company's recent struggles with declining North American sales and product quality issues. O’Neill's experience at Nike is expected to play a crucial role in revitalizing the brand and addressing these challenges moving forward.
5 sourcesApr 24Moderate
- Economy· World
Oil Prices Exceed $100 Amid US-Iran Naval Tensions
On April 23, 2026, oil prices surged over 3 percent, with Brent crude settling at $105.07 per barrel due to escalating naval tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The immediate trigger was Iran's seizure of two cargo ships and the US Navy's blockade on Iranian ports, which heightened market uncertainty. Long-term implications suggest sustained high oil prices if the fragile cease-fire between the US and Iran deteriorates further.
11 sourcesApr 24Moderate
- Business· World
Bob Iger joins Thrive Capital as advisor after leaving Disney
Bob Iger has been appointed as an advisor to Thrive Capital following his departure from Disney. This move is driven by Iger's previous experience with Thrive and his desire to re-enter the venture capital space. His involvement is likely to influence future investments in the tech and media sectors, reshaping Thrive's portfolio strategy.
4 sourcesApr 24Moderate
- Economy· World
Crude oil prices rise amid escalating US-Iran tensions
Oil prices have surged as peace negotiations between the US and Iran have stalled, exacerbated by recent air attacks. The immediate trigger for this increase is the ongoing military actions and a blockade affecting the critical Strait of Hormuz. In the long term, these geopolitical tensions are likely to keep oil prices volatile, influencing global energy markets significantly.
3 sourcesApr 24Very High
- Business· World
Microsoft Initiates Voluntary Buyout Program for 7% of U.S. Workforce
On April 23, 2026, Microsoft announced a voluntary buyout offer to approximately 7% of its U.S. workforce, targeting long-tenured employees. This initiative is driven by the need to reduce headcount in response to rising costs associated with artificial intelligence infrastructure investments. The long-term implication is a strategic shift towards AI prioritization, potentially leading to further workforce restructuring in the tech industry.
10 sourcesApr 24High
- Economy· World
Oil prices rise amid escalating U.S.-Iran tensions
Oil prices have increased for five consecutive days due to heightened concerns over U.S.-Iran negotiations. The immediate trigger is the approaching deadline for a cease-fire in talks, compounded by reports of violence affecting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Long-term implications suggest continued volatility in oil prices as geopolitical tensions persist in the region.
4 sourcesApr 24High
- Business· World
Intel Reports Strong Q1 2026 Earnings Driven by AI Demand
Intel Corporation announced a revenue of $13.6 billion for Q1 2026, marking its sixth consecutive revenue beat. This surge is attributed to increased demand for data center and AI products amid a strategic company reset. The long-term implication suggests continued growth in AI-related sectors, positioning Intel favorably in the competitive semiconductor market.
7 sourcesApr 24Very High
- Business· World
Citadel Criticizes NYC Mayor's Tax Proposal Amid Investment Concerns
Citadel's leadership has publicly opposed NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani's 'tax the rich' video, which prominently featured Ken Griffin's $238 million penthouse. This backlash comes as Citadel considers a $6 billion investment in Midtown Manhattan, raising concerns about the impact of local tax policies on their financial commitments. The situation may lead to a reevaluation of investment strategies in New York City, potentially influencing how other corporations respond to similar political pressures.
3 sourcesApr 24High
- Economy· UAE
Dubai Gold Prices Drop to Dh566.75 Amid US-Iran Tensions and Global Market Weakness
Dubai's 24K gold prices fell to Dh566.75 per gram on April 23, 2026, reflecting a decline driven by weaker global bullion prices and a stronger US dollar. This price drop coincides with ongoing US-Iran tensions and rising oil prices, which have heightened inflation concerns. The long-term implication suggests that continued geopolitical instability may further impact gold demand and pricing in the region.
7 sourcesApr 24Low
- Business· World
Intel reports Q1 2026 earnings exceeding expectations with significant stock price surge
Intel's Q1 2026 earnings report revealed a revenue of $13.58 billion, surpassing analyst forecasts and resulting in a stock price increase of over 15%. This surge is attributed to strong performance and positive market forecasts, particularly in the AI sector. Looking ahead, Intel's focus on AI partnerships suggests a trajectory for sustained growth and enhanced market positioning in the technology industry.
4 sourcesApr 24High
- Business· World
Nike announces 1,400 job cuts to enhance efficiency amid sales decline
Nike has announced it will lay off approximately 1,400 employees, primarily in its technology sector, as part of a strategy to improve operational efficiency. This decision comes in response to a prolonged sales slump that has prompted the company to streamline its workforce. The long-term implication may involve further restructuring efforts as Nike seeks to regain market strength and adapt to changing consumer demands.
3 sourcesApr 24Moderate
- Business· World
ABF announces demerger of Primark from food business amid market concerns
Associated British Foods will separate its fashion chain Primark into a standalone company next year. This decision is driven by a significant drop in Primark's share price and concerns over consumer spending due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The long-term implication is that both Primark and ABF's food operations may better focus on their core markets and recover from recent challenges.
5 sourcesApr 24Low
- Economy· MENA
Closure of Strait of Hormuz Drives Oil Prices Above $105 Per Barrel
Oil prices have surged due to the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The immediate trigger is the ongoing deadlock in negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, which exacerbates uncertainty in the oil market. Long-term implications suggest that the energy industry may need to adapt to alternative transport scenarios if the situation persists.
4 sourcesApr 24Moderate
- Economy· World
UK unemployment rate drops to 4.9% amid declining wage growth
The UK's unemployment rate has fallen to 4.9%, the lowest since last summer. This decline is occurring despite a significant drop in wage growth, raising concerns about potential job cuts linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Long-term, the labor market may face increased volatility and instability as external pressures continue to impact employment trends.
3 sourcesApr 24Low
- Economy· World
UK accelerates clean energy transition amid Middle East conflict
Britain has announced plans to decouple electricity costs from fluctuating gas prices in response to rising energy concerns due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This initiative is driven by the need to address potential energy supply shortages expected in Europe this summer. In the long term, this shift may influence broader European energy strategies and market dynamics as countries seek to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
3 sourcesApr 24Moderate
- Economy· World
France announces €6 billion budget freeze in response to Iran war impact
The French government has declared a freeze on approximately €6 billion in spending to address the financial repercussions of the ongoing war in Iran. This decision comes as Finance Minister Roland Lescure warns of significant economic fallout, prompting the government to adjust its growth and inflation forecasts. Long-term, these measures may lead to further fiscal policy adjustments as geopolitical tensions continue to affect European economies.
3 sourcesApr 24Low
- Business· World
Tim Cook announces resignation as Apple CEO effective September 2026
Tim Cook has announced his resignation as CEO of Apple, effective September 2026. This decision comes as Cook's 15-year tenure has been marked by a strong emphasis on user privacy, despite facing scrutiny over concessions to foreign governments. The transition in leadership may significantly influence Apple's future approach to privacy and international relations.
3 sourcesApr 24Low
- Economy· World
Karex Bhd to raise condom prices by up to 30% due to Iran war supply chain disruptions
Karex Bhd, the world's largest condom manufacturer, has announced a price increase of 20% to 30% in response to supply chain disruptions caused by the ongoing Iran war. The immediate trigger for this decision is the heightened demand and rising production costs resulting from increased freight costs and shipping delays. Long-term implications may include further price hikes in essential goods as manufacturers continue to face challenges from the Iran conflict.
5 sourcesApr 24Moderate