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
8690 stories- Crypto· MENA
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. This investment follows a partnership initiated in December 2025 aimed at integrating traditional finance with regulated crypto trading. The long-term implication is the potential for enhanced institutional access to crypto markets, particularly benefiting regions like the UAE as regulatory frameworks evolve.
9 sourcesApr 16Moderate
- Business· MENA
LVMH Reports 2% Organic Revenue Decline in Fashion Division Amid Middle East Conflict
LVMH's Fashion and Leather Goods division experienced a 2% organic revenue decline in Q1 2026, attributed to reduced sales and footfall in Gulf states due to ongoing regional conflict. This decline follows a strong start to the year, with the conflict impacting consumer behavior and tourism in key markets like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The long-term implication suggests that continued geopolitical instability may further strain luxury retail growth in the Middle East, prompting LVMH to focus on geographic diversification and brand investments to mitigate risks.
5 sourcesApr 16Low
- Business· World
Kering Shares Drop 10% Following Gucci's Continued Sales Decline
On April 15, 2026, Kering shares fell by up to 10% after Gucci reported an 8% decline in first-quarter sales, marking the 11th consecutive quarterly drop. This decline is attributed to ongoing brand revival challenges and a significant downturn in Middle Eastern retail sales due to the Iran conflict. The long-term implication suggests that Kering may need to reassess its strategic direction and recovery efforts in the luxury market amid geopolitical pressures.
4 sourcesApr 16Low
- Business· World
ASML Increases 2026 Sales Forecast to €36–40 Billion Driven by AI Chip Demand
ASML Holding NV has raised its full-year 2026 net sales forecast to between €36 billion and €40 billion due to surging demand for AI-related semiconductor infrastructure. This upward revision follows robust Q1 2026 financial results and is triggered by accelerated customer capacity expansions amid ongoing global chip shortages. The long-term implication suggests that ASML's growth will continue as AI investments by major chipmakers and hyperscalers drive further demand for advanced semiconductor manufacturing technologies.
10 sourcesApr 16Moderate
- Crypto· World
UK FCA Begins Consultation on Cryptoasset Regulatory Framework Ahead of 2027 Implementation
On 14 April 2026, the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) launched a public consultation on draft guidance for the upcoming cryptoasset regulatory regime. This initiative is driven by the need for industry feedback on stablecoin issuance and trading platform operations as the UK prepares for a comprehensive regulatory framework set to take effect on 25 October 2027. The long-term implication is a more structured and competitive crypto sector in the UK, aimed at enhancing consumer protection and fostering industry growth.
4 sourcesApr 16Low
- Economy· World
IMF Chief Warns of Economic Challenges Due to Ongoing Middle East Conflict and High Oil Prices
On April 15, 2026, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva warned of 'tough times ahead' for the global economy if the Middle East conflict persists and oil prices remain high. This warning follows the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, which has led to significant disruptions in oil supply and rising prices. Long-term implications include a potential demand for $20-50 billion in IMF financing to support affected nations, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, as global growth forecasts are downgraded amid inflation risks.
6 sourcesApr 16Low
- Business· World
Venezuela and Chevron Sign Agreements to Expand Oil Production in Orinoco Belt
On April 13, 2026, Venezuela and Chevron signed two agreements to expand Chevron's oil production in the Orinoco Oil Belt. The deals were triggered by the recent easing of U.S. sanctions following the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro, allowing Chevron to increase its stake in the Petroindependencia joint venture. This strategic move is likely to enhance Venezuela's oil output and attract further foreign investment, reshaping the global oil market dynamics.
4 sourcesApr 16Moderate
- Crypto· World
Goldman Sachs Registers Bitcoin Premium Income ETF with SEC
Goldman Sachs filed a registration statement for the Goldman Sachs Bitcoin Premium Income ETF on April 14, 2026. This move is driven by increasing institutional demand for yield-generating bitcoin strategies amid a stable bitcoin market. The long-term implication suggests a shift in Wall Street's approach to cryptocurrency investments, focusing on income-oriented products.
11 sourcesApr 16High
- Economy· World
COMEX Copper Futures Rise on U.S. Signals of Iran War Resolution
COMEX copper futures surged to a one-month high of $6.09 per pound on April 15, 2026, following indications from U.S. President Donald Trump of a potential permanent ceasefire in the U.S.-Iran war. The immediate trigger for this price increase was Trump's statements suggesting the conflict could conclude soon, easing fears of supply chain disruptions. Long-term, this development may stabilize global commodity markets and alleviate inflationary pressures linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
3 sourcesApr 16Low
- Business· World
PNC Financial Services Group Raises 2026 Net Interest Income Growth Forecast to 14.5%
PNC Financial Services Group reported a first-quarter net income of $1.8 billion and elevated its full-year net interest income growth forecast to 14.5%. This adjustment follows the successful integration of FirstBank and a significant increase in loan growth, reflecting strong client activity. The long-term implication suggests a continued consolidation trend in the U.S. banking sector as firms seek to enhance profitability amid competitive pressures.
3 sourcesApr 16Low
- Business· World
CoreWeave Secures $6 Billion AI Cloud Deal with Jane Street
CoreWeave has signed a $6 billion multi-year agreement with Jane Street for AI cloud computing services. This partnership is driven by Jane Street's need for enhanced GPU-based computing resources to support its machine learning applications in trading. The deal highlights the increasing demand for AI infrastructure in the financial sector, suggesting further investments in AI technologies are likely as competition intensifies.
8 sourcesApr 16Moderate
- Economy· World
U.S. SEC Removes $25,000 Minimum for Pattern Day Trader Rule
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has approved the elimination of the $25,000 minimum equity requirement for the Pattern Day Trader rule. This regulatory change is prompted by advancements in trading technology and calls for more accessible trading for retail investors. In the long term, this reform is expected to increase trading volume and participation among smaller investors, potentially leading to greater market volatility.
4 sourcesApr 16Very High
- Economy· World
Finance Ministers from 11 Nations Call for Full Ceasefire Implementation Amid Economic Disruptions
Finance ministers from 11 countries issued a joint statement urging the U.S., Israel, and Iran to fully implement their ceasefire following a fragile two-week truce. This call comes in response to ongoing economic disruptions and risks to global energy security stemming from the conflict, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz. The long-term implication is a coordinated fiscal response aimed at stabilizing markets and preventing further inflationary pressures as the IMF downgrades global growth forecasts due to the war's impact.
3 sourcesApr 16Low
- Economy· World
U.S. Natural Gas Futures Rise Ahead of EIA Storage Report
On April 16, 2026, U.S. natural gas futures increased by 0.4% to $2.61 per million British thermal units, breaking a five-session decline. This uptick is driven by expectations of strong LNG export demand and forecasts for warmer weather, coinciding with the upcoming EIA storage report. In the long term, sustained demand recovery could stabilize prices and enhance U.S. export competitiveness in the global LNG market.
3 sourcesApr 16Low
- Economy· World
U.S. Treasury Yields Increase Amid Ongoing Middle East Tensions
U.S. Treasury yields rose on April 15, 2026, as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly the U.S.-Iran conflict, continue to escalate. This rise is attributed to inflation concerns driven by high oil prices and the U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has led to a selloff in Treasurys. Long-term, these developments may hinder economic stability and influence Federal Reserve policy decisions regarding interest rates.
3 sourcesApr 16Low
- Economy· World
Gold Prices Drop as U.S.-Iran Peace Talks Resume Amid Investor Optimism
Spot gold prices fell 1% to $4,794.67 per ounce after reaching a one-month high, while still securing weekly gains of approximately 1%. This decline follows renewed optimism regarding U.S.-Iran peace negotiations, which are set to resume shortly after an initial round failed to yield results. The ongoing talks could stabilize gold prices and influence broader market dynamics as geopolitical tensions ease.
8 sourcesApr 16Low
- Economy· World
WSJ Dollar Index Continues Decline Amid Bearish Yen Signals and U.S.-Iran Tensions
On April 16, 2026, the WSJ Dollar Index fell 0.01% to 95.18, marking its eighth consecutive day of decline. This decline is triggered by bearish signals against the yen and softer U.S. economic data, including rising jobless claims and subdued inflation. The long-term implication suggests increased volatility in global forex markets, particularly as traders anticipate potential Federal Reserve rate cuts and geopolitical developments in the Middle East.
5 sourcesApr 16Low
- Economy· World
Harvard Professor Projects $1 Trillion Cost for Ongoing Iran War Impacting U.S. Taxpayers
On April 14, 2026, Professor Linda Bilmes warned that the ongoing Iran War could cost U.S. taxpayers $1 trillion, significantly higher than Pentagon estimates. This projection arises from underreported costs associated with military operations, including replacement expenses and long-term benefits amid a national debt of $39 trillion. The long-term implication suggests intensified congressional debates over defense budgets and potential economic strain on U.S. taxpayers as the conflict continues.
3 sourcesApr 16Low
- Business· World
Doug Field Leaves Ford Amid Major EV Restructuring
Ford Motor Company announced the departure of Doug Field, its chief EV, digital, and design officer, effective next month. This change comes as part of a broader reorganization aimed at merging various teams under COO Kumar Galhotra, following significant financial losses in the EV sector. The long-term implication is a strategic shift towards integrating EV development with industrialization efforts to enhance competitiveness against global rivals.
4 sourcesApr 16Moderate
- Economy· World
Oil Prices Fall as US-Iran Negotiations Show Signs of Progress
Oil prices declined on April 16, 2026, with Brent crude falling 0.5 percent to $94.49 per barrel amid optimism for a potential US-Iran agreement on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. This shift is driven by renewed diplomatic efforts mediated by Pakistan, following a previous round of talks that ended without resolution. If successful, this could stabilize oil markets and alleviate supply disruptions affecting global energy prices in the long term.
7 sourcesApr 16Low