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
5886 stories- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia's tourism sector shows resilience amid regional tensions
Saudi Arabia's tourism sector has experienced a limited slowdown of 5-6% in the first five months of 2026 due to ongoing regional geopolitical challenges. The immediate cause for this slowdown is the impact of these tensions on international travel, although domestic tourism remains strong. Looking ahead, the Kingdom is optimistic about accelerated growth driven by new projects and improved connectivity as part of its Vision 2030 goals.
3 sourcesJun 21
- Business· UAE
UK Lifts Travel Advisory for UAE Boosting Dubai's Tourism Prospects
The UK has lifted its travel advisory for the UAE, signaling a significant shift in travel policy. This decision follows a recent peace deal between the US and Iran, contributing to a more stable regional environment. As a result, Dubai is expected to experience a resurgence in tourism and business activities, enhancing its global standing as a travel hub.
3 sourcesJun 21
- Economy· MENA
Kuwait to Increase Oil Production to Two Million Barrels Per Day Following Strait of Hormuz Reopening
Kuwait has announced plans to boost its oil production to two million barrels per day within a week. This decision comes in response to the recent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which facilitates oil transport in the region. The long-term implication is a potential stabilization of oil supply and prices in the Gulf, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
3 sourcesJun 21
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia records 123 million tourists and SR304 billion in tourism spending in 2025
Saudi Arabia has achieved a record 123 million tourists and SR304 billion in tourism spending in 2025. This surge is driven by a strategic shift towards non-religious travel, which now makes up over half of all inbound visits. The long-term implication is that tourism will increasingly play a vital role in the country's economic diversification and global travel positioning.
6 sourcesJun 21
- Economy· UAE
UAE Workers Show Renewed Confidence Following US-Iran Peace Agreement
UAE workers are returning to jobs with renewed confidence as a US-Iran peace deal brings hope for economic recovery. This shift is occurring now due to the alleviation of previous job loss concerns and the optimism expressed by business owners. Long-term, this development may lead to significant economic stability and growth in the UAE.
3 sourcesJun 21
- Economy· UAE
UAE Achieves Top Global Rankings in Competitiveness and Education
The UAE has ranked 5th globally and 1st for economic performance in the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2026. This recognition is driven by the country's strong economic performance and advancements in higher education, including Khalifa University entering the top 150 of a global league table. The long-term implication is that the UAE is likely to attract more international partnerships and investments, further solidifying its role as a key player in the global economy.
4 sourcesJun 21
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia ranks 13th in global competitiveness and maintains top cybersecurity position
Saudi Arabia has advanced to 13th place in the 2026 IMD World Competitiveness rankings, marking a significant improvement from 36th in 2017. This progress is driven by ongoing reforms and enhancements in economic performance, government efficiency, and infrastructure. As the Kingdom continues to strengthen its competitiveness and cybersecurity, it is likely to attract increased foreign investment and bolster its global economic standing.
4 sourcesJun 21
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia announces $60 million financial support package for Yemen's public sector salaries
Saudi Arabia has provided $60 million to Yemen to support public sector salaries and an additional 224 million riyals to address the government's budget deficit. This financial assistance is aimed at stabilizing Yemen's economy amidst ongoing challenges due to conflict and instability. The long-term implication is that continued support from Saudi Arabia may lead to improved economic conditions and stability in Yemen.
4 sourcesJun 21
- Economy· MENA
Lebanon Resumes Exports to Saudi Arabia After Five-Year Ban
Lebanon has resumed exports to Saudi Arabia, marking the end of a five-year ban due to smuggling issues. The ban was lifted following positive measures taken by Lebanese authorities to enhance security and restore trade relations. This development is expected to revitalize Lebanon's economy and strengthen bilateral ties with Saudi Arabia.
4 sourcesJun 21
- Business· World
Israeli AI Company Dream Secures $260 Million Funding Round
Dream, an Israeli AI company, has raised $260 million, tripling its valuation to $3 billion. This funding round, completed in June 2026, reflects strong investor confidence in the company's potential for growth in AI and cybersecurity services. As Dream leverages this capital, it is likely to enhance its technological capabilities and expand its global market presence.
3 sourcesJun 21
- Business· World
Rivian Faces Class Action Lawsuit Over Misleading Self-Driving Claims
Rivian is currently facing a class action lawsuit alleging that it misrepresented the self-driving capabilities of its R1T truck and R1S SUV. This legal action is triggered by claims from plaintiffs that Rivian has made false promises about its vehicles' autonomous features for the past five years. The outcome of this lawsuit could significantly impact Rivian's reputation and future sales, potentially leading to increased scrutiny and regulatory changes in the self-driving technology sector.
3 sourcesJun 21
- Crypto· World
Tether to Wind Down Gold-Backed Stablecoin aUSDT and Alloy Platform
Tether has announced the discontinuation of its gold-backed stablecoin aUSDT and the Alloy platform due to insufficient market demand. This decision comes as part of a strategic review aimed at refocusing on its primary stablecoin USDT and the XAUT gold token. The long-term implication is that Tether aims to enhance its liquidity and competitive position in the cryptocurrency market.
5 sourcesJun 21
- Crypto· World
Rodney Burton pleads guilty in $1.8 billion HyperFund crypto fraud case
Rodney Burton, also known as 'Bitcoin Rodney', has pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges related to the HyperFund fraud scheme that defrauded investors of $1.8 billion. This plea comes amid increasing scrutiny and calls for regulatory oversight in the cryptocurrency sector. The long-term implication may lead to stricter regulations and enhanced protective measures for investors in the crypto market.
6 sourcesJun 21
- Crypto· World
Binance Faces Regulatory Pressure Ahead of EU MiCA Deadline
Binance's regulatory status in Europe is under scrutiny as it approaches the MiCA enforcement deadline. The uncertainty surrounding its compliance has led to a nearly 5% drop in the value of Binance Coin (BNB), reflecting broader market concerns. The outcome of Binance's licensing efforts will likely influence the future landscape of cryptocurrency regulation in Europe.
3 sourcesJun 21
- Crypto· World
Malta's MFSA Proposes New Legal Framework for Decentralized Autonomous Organizations
Malta's financial regulator, the MFSA, has launched a consultation proposing a new legal category for decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) as part of its regulatory framework for decentralized finance (DeFi). This initiative is driven by the need for regulatory clarity in the evolving DeFi landscape, particularly as many projects challenge traditional governance structures. The long-term implication could see Malta positioning itself as a leader in DeFi regulation within the European Union, influencing similar frameworks across the region.
3 sourcesJun 21
- Crypto· World
Capital B secures $120 billion financing plan to enhance Bitcoin treasury strategy
Capital B shareholders have approved a substantial financing framework to support the company's Bitcoin accumulation strategy. This decision comes as part of a growing trend among corporations to invest in Bitcoin as a treasury asset. The long-term implication may lead to increased volatility in the cryptocurrency market and influence other firms to adopt similar strategies.
3 sourcesJun 21
- Crypto· World
Ireland launches 30-point strategy to combat financial crime in cryptocurrency
Ireland has unveiled a comprehensive financial crime strategy focused on addressing risks associated with cryptocurrency. This initiative is triggered by the government's recognition of digital assets as significant threats for money laundering and terrorism financing. In the long term, this strategy may influence global regulatory standards for cryptocurrency and encourage other nations to adopt similar measures.
4 sourcesJun 21
- Crypto· World
European Commission Revises MiCA Framework Amid Binance Scrutiny
The European Commission is seeking feedback on revisions to its Markets in Crypto-Assets regulatory framework, focusing on stablecoins and decentralized finance. This move comes as Binance faces scrutiny regarding its EU licensing ahead of the MiCA implementation deadline in 2026. The evolving regulatory landscape is likely to significantly impact the operational frameworks for crypto businesses in Europe.
3 sourcesJun 21
- Business· MENA
HSBC Australia faces A$35 million penalty for scam protection failures
HSBC's Australian unit has admitted to significant shortcomings in its scam protection measures, resulting in a proposed penalty of A$35 million. This action is initiated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission due to ongoing regulatory scrutiny of financial institutions in Australia. The outcome may influence future regulatory actions regarding customer protection in the financial sector.
3 sourcesJun 21
- Crypto· World
Prediction markets achieve record $10.8 billion weekly trading volume driven by World Cup 2026
Prediction markets have reached a record trading volume of $10.8 billion in a week. This surge is primarily triggered by significant events such as the World Cup 2026 and the associated increase in crypto betting activity. The long-term implication suggests a growing integration of cryptocurrency within sports economics, potentially reshaping fan engagement and business models in the industry.
3 sourcesJun 21