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- Business· World
China Implements Diversified Energy Strategies to Address Supply Disruptions from Iran War
China is actively mitigating energy supply risks as of April 12, 2026, by employing diversified strategies in response to disruptions caused by the ongoing Iran war. The immediate trigger for these measures is the significant halt in oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and U.S. actions in Venezuela. In the long term, these strategies are likely to enhance China's energy security and position it favorably against regional competitors amid ongoing global market volatility.
2 sourcesApr 12Moderate
- Economy· World
2026 IMF-World Bank Meetings Focus on Economic Recovery from Iran War
The 2026 Spring Meetings of the IMF and World Bank are currently underway, addressing the economic repercussions of the Iran War that began on February 28, 2026. This urgent gathering is prompted by significant global economic shocks, including lowered growth forecasts and rising inflation, necessitating emergency financial support for vulnerable nations. In the long term, these discussions may lead to coordinated fiscal measures aimed at stabilizing economies and fostering recovery in developing countries affected by the conflict.
2 sourcesApr 12Low
- Business· UAE
Bernstein Initiates Coverage of MENA Energy Sector Highlighting ADNOC Gas and Fertiglobe
On April 12, 2026, Bernstein Research began coverage of the MENA energy sector, naming ADNOC Gas and Fertiglobe as top investment picks. This move is driven by the firms' strong cash flow visibility and the UAE's robust energy strategy, which aims for gas self-sufficiency by 2030. The long-term implication is an increased investor confidence in the MENA energy market, potentially attracting more international capital and enhancing regional economic stability.
2 sourcesApr 12Low
- Business· MENA
Saudi Arabia Restores East-West Pipeline and Manifa Field Production After Attacks
The Saudi Ministry of Energy announced the full restoration of the East-West pipeline and Manifa oil field production following recent attacks that disrupted operations. This restoration comes after a significant loss of capacity, with 700,000 barrels per day affected in the pipeline and 300,000 barrels per day at Manifa. The swift recovery is expected to stabilize global oil supply and reinforce confidence in Saudi Arabia's energy infrastructure amidst ongoing regional tensions.
2 sourcesApr 12Moderate
- Business· UAE
Bernstein Research Initiates Coverage of MENA Energy Sector Highlighting ADNOC Gas and Fertiglobe
On April 12, 2026, Bernstein Research began coverage of the MENA energy sector, designating ADNOC Gas and Fertiglobe as top investment opportunities. This initiative is driven by the UAE's strong governance model and strategic goals for gas self-sufficiency by 2030, which enhance the appeal of these companies. Long-term, this could lead to increased investor interest in UAE energy assets and further capital inflow into the sector.
3 sourcesApr 12Low
- Economy· UAE
UAE Launches Innovative Sharia-Compliant Financial Tools to Enhance Individual Savings
The United Arab Emirates has established an advanced model for individual savings through innovative Sharia-compliant financial tools, as highlighted by recent data from the UAE Central Bank. This initiative is driven by the need for economic diversification and financial empowerment, particularly following the launch of Retail Sukuk by the Ministry of Finance in October 2025. Long-term, this model is expected to foster greater financial inclusion and resilience among citizens and residents, contributing to the overall stability of the UAE's economy.
2 sourcesApr 12Low
- Business· World
South Korea Advances Crude Oil Supply Negotiations with Kazakhstan Amid Middle East Shipping Disruptions
South Korea is nearing a crude oil supply agreement with Kazakhstan as announced by Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan. This development follows a diplomatic mission aimed at diversifying energy imports due to ongoing shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz caused by regional conflicts. The long-term implication is that South Korea may reduce its reliance on Middle Eastern oil, potentially reshaping its energy security strategy.
3 sourcesApr 12Low
- Business· UAE
Dubai Chambers and China Council Discuss Economic Cooperation Expansion
Dubai Chambers held a bilateral meeting with the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Shanghai to enhance economic relations. This meeting is a continuation of efforts to deepen investment and trade partnerships, particularly in the digital economy, following a significant increase in Chinese companies joining Dubai's business ecosystem. Long-term, this collaboration is expected to solidify Dubai's position as a global trade hub and stimulate further cross-border investments.
3 sourcesApr 12Low
- Economy· MENA
Egypt's Urban Inflation Hits 15.2% Amid Fuel Price Hikes Linked to Iran War
Egypt's annual urban consumer inflation rate surged to 15.2% in March 2026, up from 13.4% in February, as families in urban centers face rising food and transport costs. This inflation spike is primarily driven by fuel price increases of 14-30% due to the geopolitical impacts of the ongoing Iran war. Long-term, this economic strain is likely to lead to increased household austerity measures and potential social unrest as purchasing power continues to erode.
3 sourcesApr 12Low
- Economy· UAE
DIFC Launches Temporary Relief Package for Businesses Amid Economic Challenges
On April 9, 2026, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) introduced a targeted package of temporary economic support measures for its business and retail community. This initiative is a direct response to economic pressures stemming from the ongoing Iran war, which has led to increased operational costs and decreased business morale in the region. The long-term implication is a strengthened resilience of Dubai's financial ecosystem, potentially stabilizing the local economy during turbulent times.
3 sourcesApr 12Low
- Business· MENA
Saudia Airlines Resumes Partial Flights Between Jeddah and Dubai-Abu Dhabi
Saudia Airlines has resumed partial daily flights between Jeddah and Dubai-Abu Dhabi starting April 11, 2026, after a suspension due to regional military escalations. The resumption follows a 43-day halt initiated on February 28, 2026, due to security concerns amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. This development signals a potential stabilization of regional airspace and may lead to a gradual recovery in aviation markets and travel connectivity in the region.
4 sourcesApr 12Low
- Economy· World
Wall Street Closes Mixed Amid US-Iran Ceasefire and Diplomatic Talks
Wall Street indices experienced a mixed close on April 10, 2026, as investors reacted to a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran while anticipating high-level diplomatic negotiations in Islamabad. The immediate trigger for market fluctuations was the ongoing conflict's impact on oil prices and inflation, alongside the upcoming talks aimed at extending the ceasefire. Long-term implications may include increased market volatility and shifts in energy prices depending on the outcomes of the negotiations and regional stability.
3 sourcesApr 12Low
- Economy· World
Spot Gold Prices Decline Amid Strong Dollar and US-Iran Ceasefire Uncertainty
Gold prices fell to $4,775 per ounce on April 10, 2026, despite a weekly gain of 1.8%, influenced by a stronger US dollar and doubts regarding the US-Iran ceasefire. The immediate cause of this decline stems from rising skepticism about geopolitical stability, particularly the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran. In the long term, continued fluctuations in gold prices may signal shifting investor sentiment and potential adjustments in Federal Reserve interest rate policies.
4 sourcesApr 12Low
- Economy· UAE
UAE to Host 2029 World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi
The United Arab Emirates has been selected to host the 2029 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund in Abu Dhabi. This decision follows a competitive bid process and reflects the UAE's growing influence as a stable financial hub amid global economic recovery. The long-term implication is an anticipated increase in foreign investment and enhanced international economic collaboration for the UAE.
6 sourcesApr 12Moderate
- Economy· UAE
UAE Banks Federation Highlights Economic Resilience Through Central Bank Support Package
The UAE Banks Federation's Advisory Council of CEOs convened on April 10, 2026, to discuss the banking sector's performance and the Central Bank's proactive support measures. This meeting follows the Central Bank's announcement of a comprehensive support package aimed at enhancing financial institutions' resilience amid global economic pressures. The long-term implication is a strengthened financial sector positioning the UAE as a leading global financial hub, capable of converting challenges into growth opportunities.
3 sourcesApr 12Low
- Business· UAE
Dubai Real Estate Market Achieves AED 16.73 Billion in Transactions for Week Ending April 10, 2026
The Dubai Land Department reported 4,529 real estate transactions totaling AED 16.73 billion for the week ending April 10, 2026. This surge is attributed to sustained demand from local and international investors, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions. The long-term implication suggests continued resilience in the Dubai real estate market, potentially leading to increased asset values and housing costs.
4 sourcesApr 12Low
- Business· UAE
Dubai Chambers and Indonesian Ambassador Discuss Bilateral Trade Enhancement
On April 10, 2026, Dubai Chambers convened with Indonesian Ambassador Yuda Nugraha to strengthen bilateral trade and investment cooperation. This meeting is driven by a significant increase in Indonesian company registrations in Dubai, reflecting a growing interest in the UAE as a business hub. The long-term implication is the potential for expanded economic ties and increased foreign investment in Dubai's strategic sectors.
3 sourcesApr 12Low
- Economy· World
US Department of Energy Releases Additional Oil Loans Amid Middle East Tensions
On April 10, 2026, the United States Department of Energy awarded contracts for 8.48 million barrels of crude oil loans from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to four companies amid the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. This decision is driven by the need to stabilize surging fuel prices caused by supply disruptions in the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. In the long term, these actions may lead to increased volatility in global oil markets and further geopolitical tensions in the region.
3 sourcesApr 12Low
- Business· UAE
Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Promotes Dubai as a Hub for Sustainable Investments
On April 11, 2026, Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met with Brookfield CEO Bruce Flatt to discuss enhancing sustainable investment opportunities in Dubai. This meeting is driven by Dubai's ongoing efforts to attract global investors and strengthen its economic recovery post-pandemic. The long-term implication is likely to be an increase in foreign direct investment, further solidifying Dubai's status as a leading global investment hub.
3 sourcesApr 12Low
- Business· MENA
Saudi Arabia Suspends Energy Facility Operations Following Attacks
On April 9, 2026, Saudi Arabia announced the suspension of operational activities at several critical energy facilities due to multiple recent attacks. The immediate trigger for this disruption is the heightened regional tensions and direct assaults on key infrastructure, resulting in significant production losses. Long-term implications include increased volatility in global oil markets and potential economic repercussions for the region, particularly affecting fuel costs in neighboring countries like the UAE.
8 sourcesApr 12Low