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
8664 stories- Economy· MENA
World Bank Proposes Up to $100 Billion Aid for Middle East War Impacted Countries
On April 14, 2026, the World Bank announced a potential mobilization of $80–100 billion in funding for countries affected by the ongoing Middle East war. This initiative is triggered by the urgent need to address economic disruptions, including energy price surges and inflation, exacerbated by the conflict. Long-term, this funding could reshape financial support mechanisms for developing nations facing crises similar to those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
3 sourcesApr 17Low
- Business· World
Jefferies Upgrades Bloom Energy to Hold Following Oracle's AI Data Center Partnership Expansion
On April 14, 2026, Jefferies upgraded Bloom Energy's rating from Sell to Hold as the stock surged 21%. This adjustment followed Oracle's announcement expanding its partnership with Bloom Energy to deploy up to 2.8 gigawatts of solid-oxide fuel cell systems for U.S. AI data centers. The long-term implication is that Bloom Energy is positioned to become a key player in the essential infrastructure for AI, enhancing its revenue visibility amid increasing demand for onsite power solutions.
6 sourcesApr 17Low
- Business· World
Anthropic Rejects $800 Billion Venture Capital Offers Amid Rapid Growth
Anthropic PBC has received multiple unsolicited venture capital offers valuing the company at over $800 billion but has chosen to rebuff these overtures. This decision comes as the company experiences significant revenue growth, doubling its valuation from $350 billion in February 2026 to a $30 billion annualized run-rate. The long-term implication suggests Anthropic may be positioning itself for a potential IPO later in 2026, reflecting the intense competition in the AI sector.
9 sourcesApr 17High
- Crypto· World
Deutsche Börse Group invests $200 million in Kraken parent Payward Inc.
On April 14, 2026, Deutsche Börse Group announced a $200 million strategic investment in Payward Inc., acquiring a 1.5% stake that implies a $13.3 billion valuation. This investment follows a partnership initiated in late 2025 aimed at integrating traditional finance with cryptocurrency trading and custody solutions. The long-term implication is the potential for enhanced institutional access to cryptocurrency markets and the acceleration of hybrid market infrastructure development.
9 sourcesApr 17Moderate
- Business· MENA
LVMH Achieves 1% Organic Revenue Growth Amid Middle East Conflict Impacting Sales
LVMH reported a 1% organic revenue growth for Q1 2026 despite a significant decline in its Fashion & Leather Goods division due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The immediate trigger for this situation is the escalation of conflict with Iran, which has led to reduced tourist spending and footfall in key Gulf markets like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. In the long term, LVMH's resilience may prompt strategic shifts in luxury retail operations and brand investments to mitigate future risks from geopolitical instability.
3 sourcesApr 17Low
- Business· World
Airlines Implement Fare Hikes and Capacity Cuts Due to Jet Fuel Crisis Amid Iran War
Airlines globally are raising ticket prices and cutting flight schedules as a jet fuel supply crisis intensifies due to the ongoing Iran War. The immediate trigger is the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has led to a doubling of jet fuel prices and severe shortages in Europe. Long-term implications include potential systemic disruptions in air travel and increased costs for consumers as airlines struggle to manage fuel expenses.
3 sourcesApr 17Low
- Business· MENA
Kering Shares Drop 10% After Gucci Reports 14% Sales Decline in Q1 2026
Kering shares fell by up to 10% on April 15, 2026, following a disappointing 14% decline in Gucci's Q1 sales, marking the brand's 11th consecutive quarterly drop. The immediate cause is attributed to weakening demand in China and disruptions from the ongoing Iran war affecting Middle Eastern consumers. In response, Kering's CEO announced a turnaround strategy aimed at revitalizing Gucci and improving profitability by 2028.
4 sourcesApr 17Low
- Crypto· World
UK FCA Initiates Consultation on Cryptoasset Regulation Ahead of 2027 Implementation
The UK Financial Conduct Authority has launched consultation paper CP26/13 to gather feedback on the regulatory framework for cryptoassets, set to transition to a comprehensive regime by October 2027. This initiative is prompted by the need for clarity on regulated activities and compliance requirements for crypto firms following recent legislative changes. The long-term implication is a more structured regulatory environment that may enhance market confidence and competitiveness in the UK crypto sector.
6 sourcesApr 17Low
- Economy· World
IMF Chief Warns of Economic Challenges Amid Ongoing Middle East Conflict and High Oil Prices
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has issued a warning about potential global economic difficulties if the Middle East conflict continues and oil prices remain elevated. This alert follows significant disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz due to recent US-Israeli military actions against Iran, which have already downgraded global growth forecasts. Long-term, sustained high oil prices could lead to increased financing demands from low-income countries and further strain on global economic stability.
6 sourcesApr 17Low
- Crypto· World
Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs Enter Bitcoin ETF Market Following SEC Reforms
Morgan Stanley launched the MSBT spot Bitcoin ETF on April 8, 2026, while Goldman Sachs filed for a Bitcoin Premium Income ETF on April 14, 2026. These actions were triggered by the SEC's adoption of generic listing standards in September 2025, which simplified the ETF approval process. The long-term implication is a significant increase in institutional and retail access to Bitcoin investments, potentially transforming the cryptocurrency landscape.
16 sourcesApr 17High
- Business· World
PNC Financial Services Group Raises 2026 Net Interest Income Growth Forecast to 14.5%
PNC Financial Services Group has elevated its full-year 2026 net interest income growth forecast to approximately 14.5% following a strong first-quarter performance driven by organic loan growth and the integration of FirstBank. This adjustment comes in response to robust client activity and favorable economic conditions, including recent Federal Reserve interest rate cuts. The long-term implication suggests a strengthened competitive position for PNC in the U.S. banking sector as it capitalizes on increased loan demand and expands its market presence.
3 sourcesApr 17Low
- Economy· World
Copper Prices Rise to One-Month High Amid U.S.-Iran Ceasefire Hopes
Copper futures surged to their highest level in over a month, reaching $6.09 per pound, following indications from U.S. President Donald Trump about a potential end to the U.S.-Iran war. This price increase is driven by easing concerns over supply disruptions and optimism surrounding a two-week ceasefire that is set to expire on April 21, 2026. If the ceasefire is extended, it could lead to a more stable market for industrial metals and improved global economic conditions.
3 sourcesApr 17Low
- Economy· MENA
IMF Warns of Economic Slowdown in Middle East Due to Ongoing War Disruptions
On April 16, 2026, the IMF announced that the Middle East is experiencing a significant economic downturn as a result of the war that began on February 28, 2026. This conflict has severely disrupted oil and gas output, leading to a projected real GDP growth of only 1.1 percent for 2026, far below previous forecasts. In the long term, this situation underscores the urgent need for regional economic resilience and integration among affected countries.
3 sourcesApr 17Low
- Business· World
Jane Street Group invests $7 billion in CoreWeave AI cloud platform
Jane Street Group has committed $6 billion to CoreWeave's AI cloud services and invested an additional $1 billion in equity. This strategic move is driven by the increasing demand for specialized AI cloud resources and the need for enhanced machine learning capabilities in trading. The long-term implication is a strengthened partnership that positions both companies to capitalize on the growing AI infrastructure market.
8 sourcesApr 17Moderate
- Business· World
U.S. SEC Approves Elimination of Pattern Day Trader Rule
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has approved a FINRA proposal to eliminate the Pattern Day Trader rule, which mandated a minimum equity of $25,000 for certain trading activities. This change is driven by advancements in trading technology and a push for more accessible trading environments for retail investors. The long-term implication is expected to be an increase in retail trading activity and a shift in risk management practices among brokerages.
4 sourcesApr 17High
- Business· World
Google LLC's Stake in SpaceX Diluted to 5% Ahead of IPO Valuation
On April 15, 2026, Alphabet's Google LLC disclosed a reduction of its stake in SpaceX from 6.11% to approximately 5% following a recent merger and corporate transactions. This dilution is occurring as SpaceX prepares for a high-valuation IPO, targeting over $2 trillion. The long-term implication suggests that Alphabet could realize a significant liquidity event, potentially valuing its stake at $100 billion upon the IPO's success.
3 sourcesApr 17High
- Economy· World
CFTC Launches Investigation into Suspicious Oil Futures Trades Linked to Trump Iran Policy Changes
The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission has initiated an investigation into suspicious oil futures trades that occurred shortly before President Trump's announcements regarding Iran. This investigation is triggered by significant trades executed just minutes before key policy shifts, raising concerns of potential insider trading. The long-term implication may involve increased regulatory scrutiny and potential reforms in trading practices within the commodities market to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
4 sourcesApr 17High
- Economy· MENA
Oil Prices Stabilize as U.S.-Iran Cease-Fire Negotiations Continue
On April 15, 2026, oil futures remained flat amid ongoing U.S.-Iran negotiations for a cease-fire extension and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The immediate cause for this stabilization is the balance between U.S. inventory draws and the uncertainty surrounding diplomatic progress between Washington and Tehran. Long-term, the outcome of these talks will significantly influence global oil prices and regional stability in the Middle East.
5 sourcesApr 17Low
- Economy· World
Oil Prices Remain Stable Amid Doubts Over US-Iran Peace Talks Impacting Strait of Hormuz
Oil prices showed minimal fluctuation on April 16, 2026, as investors remain skeptical about the effectiveness of ongoing US-Iran peace negotiations to resolve disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. This skepticism follows the collapse of recent talks and the imposition of a US blockade on Iranian ports, which has exacerbated the already significant oil supply interruptions. Long-term, the continued instability in the region may lead to sustained volatility in global oil markets and potential economic repercussions for oil-dependent nations.
3 sourcesApr 17Low
- Economy· World
U.S. Treasury Yields Climb to 4.29% Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions
U.S. Treasury yields rose to 4.29% on April 15, 2026, as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East intensified, particularly due to a U.S. blockade of Iranian ports. This increase is driven by concerns over inflation risks linked to rising oil prices and ongoing instability in the region. In the long term, sustained tensions may lead to further volatility in global financial markets and heightened economic pressures on affected nations.
3 sourcesApr 17Low