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
Glencore and Mercuria Increase LNG Offtake Agreements with Commonwealth LNG
Glencore and Mercuria have expanded their liquefied natural gas offtake agreements with Commonwealth LNG to a combined total of 4.5 million tons per annum. This expansion follows the termination of Jera Co.'s contract, allowing for increased commitments from both companies at this critical juncture in U.S. LNG export growth. The long-term implication is a strengthened position for Commonwealth LNG as it moves towards full commerciality and final investment decisions expected soon.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· World
Mexico's Inflation Rises to 4.63% Prompting Central Bank Rate Cut
Mexico's annual headline inflation accelerated to 4.63% in the first half of March 2026, surpassing market expectations due to rising food and energy prices. This inflation spike triggered a split vote among the Bank of México's Governing Board, resulting in a 3-2 decision to lower the benchmark interest rate to 6.75%. The long-term implication is a delayed convergence to the central bank's 3% inflation target, now projected for Q2 2027 amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Crypto· World
Binance Launches Prediction Markets Feature via Predict.fun Integration
Binance has integrated a prediction markets feature into its Wallet application, allowing users to trade probabilities on real-world events as of April 9, 2026. This launch is driven by the explosive growth of prediction markets, which have seen monthly trading volumes exceed $20 billion, prompting Binance to enhance its offerings. The long-term implication is a potential shift in the competitive landscape of prediction markets, positioning Binance as a major player against existing platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi.
5 sourcesApr 9High
- Crypto· MENA
Iran Implements Cryptocurrency Toll for Oil Tankers Post Cease-Fire
Iran has mandated cryptocurrency payments for a $1-per-barrel toll on oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz following the April 8, 2026, US-Iran cease-fire. This shift is driven by Iran's need to circumvent international sanctions amid ongoing economic pressures and the rial's devaluation. The long-term implication is the potential expansion of Iran's $7.8 billion cryptocurrency economy as it seeks to integrate digital payments into state revenue streams while facing increased scrutiny from the US and its allies.
3 sourcesApr 9High
- Business· World
Disney Announces Layoffs of Up to 1,000 Positions Under New CEO Josh D'Amaro
The Walt Disney Company has reported plans to eliminate up to 1,000 positions, primarily in the marketing department, as part of a restructuring effort. This decision comes shortly after CEO Josh D'Amaro took office on March 18, 2026, and follows previous consolidations aimed at addressing profitability challenges in streaming and linear television. The layoffs signal a strategic shift towards streamlining operations, which may lead to further workforce reductions in the future as the company adapts to industry pressures.
4 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· UAE
DIFC and DFSA Implement Support Measures Amid Regional Disruptions
On April 9, 2026, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Authority announced a targeted package of economic support measures and regulatory relief to assist firms affected by regional disruptions. This initiative is a direct response to the operational challenges stemming from the recent escalation of the Iran-UAE conflict, which has impacted business continuity in the region. The long-term implication is a strengthened resilience for the DIFC as a financial hub, ensuring stability and operational continuity for over 8,000 firms during geopolitical tensions.
3 sourcesApr 9Low
- Crypto· World
Bitcoin Approaches $72,000 as Whale Takes $80 Million Short Position
Bitcoin neared $72,000 on April 9, 2026, as an anonymous whale initiated $80 million in leveraged short positions on BTC and ETH. This move coincided with an 8% weekly price gain for Bitcoin, despite a backdrop of extreme market fear and macroeconomic uncertainties. The long-term implication suggests potential volatility in the crypto market, particularly if Bitcoin surpasses the liquidation threshold of $73,700 set by the whale's positions.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Business· World
Gemini Space Station Shares Rise Over 10% Amid Acquisition Interest in European Operations
On April 9, 2026, shares of Gemini Space Station rose more than 10% during trading on the Nasdaq exchange. This surge follows reports of potential buyers evaluating the acquisition of its shuttered operations in Europe and the UK for regulatory licenses. The long-term implication suggests a strategic pivot for Gemini as it navigates ongoing market challenges and regulatory hurdles in international jurisdictions.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Business· World
Volkswagen Halts ID.4 Electric Vehicle Production in Chattanooga Due to Declining U.S. Demand
Volkswagen announced the cessation of ID.4 electric SUV production at its Chattanooga plant, effective mid-April 2026. This decision is prompted by a significant drop in U.S. EV sales following the removal of the federal tax credit in September 2025. The long-term implication suggests a strategic shift towards gasoline-powered SUVs, reflecting broader challenges in the EV market and potential impacts on future electric vehicle investments.
3 sourcesApr 9Low
- Business· MENA
ExxonMobil and Chevron report 6% production declines due to Iran war disruptions
ExxonMobil and Chevron disclosed a 6% decline in global oil and gas production for Q1 2026, attributing this drop to operational shutdowns caused by Iranian missile strikes on energy facilities in Qatar and the UAE. The immediate trigger for these disruptions is the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war, which has escalated since late February 2026, leading to significant damage to energy infrastructure. Long-term implications include potential prolonged repairs and continued volatility in global energy markets, with analysts warning of inflationary pressures stemming from these supply constraints.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Business· UAE
Dubai Real Estate Transactions Increase 31% to AED 252 Billion in Q1 2026
Dubai's real estate transactions surged 31% year-on-year to AED 252 billion in Q1 2026, with 60,303 transactions recorded. This growth is driven by sustained demand from investors, bolstered by economic fundamentals and strategic initiatives like the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. Long-term, this trend indicates a strengthening real estate market in Dubai, likely attracting further foreign investment and supporting the city's economic goals.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· UAE
UAE Central Bank Governor Leads Delegation to 2026 IMF-World Bank Meetings
Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE, is leading a delegation to the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C. from April 13 to 18, 2026. This participation is driven by the UAE's commitment to enhancing international cooperation and financial innovation amid evolving global economic conditions. The long-term implication is the reinforcement of the UAE's position as a key player in global financial governance and stability.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Crypto· World
Bitmine Immersion Technologies Uplists to NYSE and Expands Buyback Program to $4 Billion
Bitmine Immersion Technologies successfully uplisted to the New York Stock Exchange on April 9, 2026, and expanded its share repurchase authorization from $1 billion to $4 billion. This strategic move follows a significant pivot towards accumulating Ethereum, coinciding with a resurgence in market sentiment after geopolitical tensions eased. In the long term, this could enhance Bitmine's market position and influence in the cryptocurrency sector as it continues to build its Ethereum treasury.
2 sourcesApr 9High
- Economy· World
IMF Projects Up to $50 Billion in New Lending Demands Due to Middle East War Spillovers
On April 9, 2026, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva forecasted a demand for $20–50 billion in additional balance-of-payments support stemming from economic disruptions caused by the ongoing Middle East war. This projection is triggered by significant supply shocks, including a 13% reduction in global oil flows and a 20% cut in liquefied natural gas, alongside broader impacts on trade and food security. In the long term, this could lead to increased inflation and public debt levels, prompting the IMF to urge coordinated policy responses to mitigate economic fallout.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· MENA
Oil Prices Approach $100 per Barrel Amid US-Iran Ceasefire and Strait of Hormuz Disruptions
Oil prices surged near $100 per barrel as traders reacted to a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran amidst ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The immediate trigger for this spike is the limited shipping traffic and high tolls imposed by Iran, which continue to threaten global oil supply despite the ceasefire agreement. Long-term implications may include sustained volatility in oil markets and potential geopolitical escalations if the ceasefire fails to stabilize the region.
3 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· World
EIA Reports Significant Natural Gas Storage Increase Exceeding Analyst Expectations
The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported a 50 Bcf increase in natural gas storage for the week ending April 3, 2026, surpassing expectations of 41-46 Bcf. This unexpected rise is attributed to milder spring weather and robust production levels, contributing to total inventories reaching 1,911 Bcf. The long-term implication suggests continued bearish pressure on natural gas prices due to ample supply conditions.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Business· UAE
Estée Lauder Files Lawsuit Against Jo Malone and Zara UK for Trademark Infringement
Estée Lauder Companies has initiated legal proceedings against Jo Malone, her brand Jo Loves, and Zara UK, alleging breach of contract and trademark infringement related to a 1999 agreement. This lawsuit comes after the use of Malone's name on Zara fragrance packaging sparked disputes over contractual rights and brand integrity. The outcome may set significant precedents for founder-named businesses and their branding rights in the luxury market.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· World
IMF Projects Global Economic Growth Slowdown Amid Middle East Truce
On April 9, 2026, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva announced a downward revision of global economic growth forecasts, citing ongoing impacts from the U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict. This announcement comes just before the IMF's Spring Meetings and is driven by persistent oil supply disruptions and inflation pressures stemming from the war. In the long term, central banks are likely to maintain interest rates as they assess the economic fallout from the conflict and its implications for global markets.
3 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Business Confidence Index Declines to 52.1 Amid US-Israel-Iran Conflict
The Saudi Business Confidence Index registered a decline to 52.1 points for March 2026, reflecting a drop of 14.2% from the previous month. This shift is attributed to ongoing geopolitical tensions stemming from the US-Israel-Iran conflict that began on February 28, which has disrupted economic activities in the region. In the long term, this may lead to increased efforts in economic diversification and resilience strategies under Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Business· UAE
DFSA Implements Temporary Regulatory Relief for DIFC Financial Services Community
On April 9, 2026, the Dubai Financial Services Authority announced a package of temporary regulatory relief measures aimed at supporting the DIFC financial services community. This initiative is a response to an exceptional operating environment, likely influenced by regional geopolitical tensions affecting firms' operations. The long-term implication is the potential strengthening of investor confidence and operational resilience within Dubai's financial sector, safeguarding employment and economic stability.
2 sourcesApr 9Low