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· World
CFTC Files Lawsuits Against States Over Crypto Prediction Markets Amid Insider Trading Investigations
The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission has initiated lawsuits against Arizona, Connecticut, and Illinois, asserting federal jurisdiction over prediction markets. This legal action follows ongoing Department of Justice investigations into potential insider trading on platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi, triggered by concerns over the classification of event contracts. The long-term implication may lead to a more unified federal regulatory framework for prediction markets, impacting how these platforms operate in the U.S. and potentially influencing international regulatory approaches.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Crypto· World
Fartcoin Experiences 28% Price Drop Following Liquidation Event on Hyperliquid
Fartcoin's price fell 28% on April 9, 2026, after a failed long position manipulation led to significant liquidations on the Hyperliquid exchange. The immediate trigger was a $3.02 million liquidation loss that activated Auto-Deleveraging, benefiting short position traders. This incident highlights ongoing volatility and risks in the decentralized cryptocurrency derivatives market, potentially leading to increased scrutiny and regulatory discussions in the future.
2 sourcesApr 9Moderate
- Economy· World
U.S. PCE Inflation Rises 0.4% Amid Escalating Iran Conflict
The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis reported a 0.4% increase in the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index for February 2026, indicating persistent inflation pressures. This rise comes just before the onset of the Iran War on February 28, 2026, which has been exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and military actions. The long-term implication suggests that ongoing conflict may further elevate inflation rates and complicate economic recovery efforts in the U.S. and globally.
2 sourcesApr 9High
- Economy· World
US Personal Consumption Expenditures Report Shows Real Spending Increase Amid Persistent Inflation
The US Bureau of Economic Analysis reported a 0.1% increase in real personal consumption expenditures for February 2026, despite a core inflation rate of 3.0% year-over-year. This data release comes at a time of declining personal income and ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the US-Iran conflict, which are contributing to inflationary pressures. The sustained inflation is likely to limit the Federal Reserve's ability to reduce interest rates, impacting consumer spending and economic growth in the long term.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· World
US Initial Jobless Claims Rise to 219000 Indicating Labor Market Stability
Initial jobless claims in the United States increased by 16000 to a seasonally adjusted 219000 for the week ending April 4, 2026. This rise follows a revised figure of 203000 from the previous week, reflecting ongoing stability in the labor market despite minor fluctuations. The long-term implication suggests that the labor market will continue to show resilience, potentially influencing Federal Reserve policy decisions in the near future.
2 sourcesApr 9Moderate
- Economy· World
U.S. Stocks Decline Amid Fragile Iran Ceasefire and Economic Data Releases
U.S. stocks opened slightly lower on April 9, 2026, following a two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran that was brokered by Pakistan. The immediate downturn is attributed to skepticism over the ceasefire's stability and the release of key economic data, including PCE inflation and jobless claims. Long-term implications may include continued volatility in global markets and potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy regarding Iran and the region.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Business· World
Meta Platforms Removes Ads for Social Media Addiction Lawsuits Following Legal Verdicts
Meta Platforms has begun removing advertisements from law firms seeking plaintiffs for social media addiction lawsuits as of April 9, 2026. This action follows a recent California jury verdict that found Meta and YouTube negligent in contributing to mental health issues among minors due to addictive platform designs. The long-term implication may involve increased scrutiny and regulatory pressure on social media companies regarding user safety and advertising practices.
4 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· World
IMF Warns Iran War Will Leave Lasting Damage on Global Economy
On April 9, 2026, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva warned that the ongoing Iran war would inflict permanent scars on the global economy, even if a durable peace is achieved. This assessment follows a six-week conflict that has severely disrupted oil supplies and eroded market confidence, prompting the IMF to downgrade growth projections. In the long term, the economic fallout is likely to lead to increased volatility in global markets and a reevaluation of geopolitical risks by investors and policymakers alike.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· World
Oil Prices Surge Towards $100 Amid US-Iran Ceasefire Uncertainty
Oil prices have rebounded to nearly $100 per barrel as of April 9, 2026, reflecting market skepticism about the sustainability of a recent US-Iran ceasefire. This surge follows the announcement of a fragile ceasefire by President Trump, which has not alleviated tensions in the region, particularly with Iran's continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The long-term implication suggests ongoing volatility in global oil markets, potentially impacting economic stability and energy policies worldwide.
2 sourcesApr 9High
- Economy· World
U.S. Initial Jobless Claims Rise to 219,000 Amid Stable Labor Market
U.S. initial jobless claims increased to 219,000 for the week ending April 4, 2026, reflecting a rise of 16,000 from the previous week. This uptick comes as the labor market remains resilient, with continuing claims falling to the lowest level in nearly two years. Long-term implications suggest that while the labor market is stable, any significant increases in jobless claims could signal shifts in economic conditions ahead.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· UAE
UAE Banking Assets Reach 5.47 Trillion Dirhams by February 2026
Total banking assets in the UAE increased to 5.472 trillion dirhams by the end of February 2026, marking a 1.1 percent rise from the previous month. This growth is attributed to expansions in credit and deposits, primarily driven by the private sector's contributions. The sustained increase in banking assets indicates a robust economic environment, likely leading to further investments and lending opportunities in the region.
3 sourcesApr 9Low
- Business· UAE
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise and Blackstone Credit & Insurance Launch $1.6 Billion Aircraft Leasing Program
On April 9, 2026, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) and Blackstone Credit & Insurance (BXCI) announced the launch of the Equator program, targeting $1.6 billion in annual investments for commercial aircraft leasing. This initiative is driven by the post-pandemic recovery in aviation and rising demand for flexible leasing solutions amid supply chain constraints. The long-term implication is the strengthening of Dubai's position as a global aviation hub, potentially generating high-skilled jobs and enhancing economic diversification in the region.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Business· MENA
Tesla Develops New Compact Electric SUV for Production in China
Tesla Inc. is developing a new smaller, cheaper all-electric compact SUV targeted for production at its Shanghai Gigafactory. This initiative is triggered by competitive pressures in China and a strategic pivot from previous robotaxi efforts. The long-term implication is a potential revival of Tesla's low-cost EV strategy, aiming to regain market share against rivals like BYD while addressing declining traditional EV sales.
2 sourcesApr 9High
- Economy· World
Oil Prices Rise to $98 Amid US-Iran Ceasefire Fragility
On April 9, 2026, oil prices surged to $98.09 per barrel following a decline in global stock indices due to concerns over a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran. The immediate trigger for this volatility was the re-closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran and Israeli military actions in Lebanon, which heightened regional tensions. In the long term, this situation is likely to lead to increased instability in oil markets and ongoing geopolitical negotiations, particularly with permanent talks scheduled in Pakistan.
4 sourcesApr 9Moderate - Crypto· UAE
VARA Clarifies Token Issuance Framework for Virtual Assets in Dubai
On April 9, 2026, VARA published guidance defining a three-category framework for virtual asset token issuance in Dubai. This update is driven by the need for regulatory clarity and enhanced investor protections in a rapidly evolving digital asset market. The long-term implication is that Dubai is solidifying its position as a global crypto hub, potentially attracting more licensed virtual asset service providers and investments.
3 sourcesApr 9Low
- Business· UAE
Mubadala Investment Company Reports 17% Growth in Assets Under Management to $385 Billion
Mubadala Investment Company announced a 17% increase in assets under management to $385 billion for the year 2025. This growth is attributed to strategic global investments and partnerships, including a record AED 143 billion deployed across various sectors. The long-term implication is a strengthened position for Mubadala as a key player in global investment, supporting UAE's economic diversification efforts.
5 sourcesApr 9Low
- Crypto· World
Bithumb Files for Provisional Seizure of $8 Million in Bitcoin Due to Payout Error
On April 9, 2026, South Korean cryptocurrency exchange Bithumb petitioned a local court to freeze seven bitcoin worth approximately $8 million held by users who refused to return funds from a mistaken promotional payout. This legal action follows a February 6 error where Bithumb mistakenly credited 620,000 BTC instead of Korean won, leading to significant sell-offs and account freezes. The long-term implication may involve increased regulatory scrutiny and potential changes in how cryptocurrency exchanges manage promotional events and user funds.
3 sourcesApr 9Low
- Business· World
Vinted Reports €1.1 Billion Revenue with 47% GMV Growth Following European Expansion
Vinted announced its 2025 financial results, achieving €1.1 billion in revenue and a 47% increase in Gross Merchandise Value amid its expansion into Latvia, Estonia, and Slovenia. This growth is driven by increased investments in logistics and new product categories, despite a decline in net profit due to expansion costs. The long-term implication suggests Vinted will continue to pursue aggressive growth strategies, including potential expansion into the US market.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· World
US Dollar Index Rebounds Amid Uncertainty Over US-Iran Ceasefire
On April 9, 2026, the US Dollar Index (DXY) fluctuated after significant losses, reflecting market caution regarding the fragile US-Iran ceasefire. This volatility was triggered by investor concerns over potential ceasefire violations and ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Long-term implications suggest that if the ceasefire fails, the dollar may experience renewed strength as a safe-haven asset amidst escalating geopolitical risks.
2 sourcesApr 9Low
- Economy· MENA
Oil Prices Surge Amid Fragile U.S.-Iran Cease-Fire and Strait of Hormuz Shipping Limits
Oil prices increased significantly on April 9, 2026, with Brent crude rising 3.6% to $98.20 per barrel due to concerns over a fragile U.S.-Iran cease-fire and restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The immediate trigger for this price surge is the limited transit of only four ships through the strait, the lowest in April, coupled with ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Long-term implications suggest that continued instability in the region could lead to sustained high oil prices and further disruptions in global supply chains.
3 sourcesApr 9Moderate