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
4326 stories- Business· World
Amazon reports record profits driven by cloud computing growth
Amazon has announced a significant increase in profits and net sales for its fiscal first quarter, primarily fueled by its cloud computing division. This surge is occurring now due to the fastest sales growth in over three years, driven by rising demand for artificial intelligence computing power. Looking ahead, Amazon's substantial investments in expanding data center capacity are likely to enhance its competitive edge in the growing AI market.
4 sourcesMay 2Low
- Economy· World
U.S. GDP Grows 2 Percent in Q1 2026 Despite Iran War and Rising Energy Prices
The U.S. economy experienced a 2 percent annualized growth rate in the first quarter of 2026, even as the conflict in Iran escalated and energy prices surged. This growth is attributed to increased consumer spending and private investment, despite the ongoing disruptions caused by the war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Long-term, persistent energy price volatility and geopolitical tensions may hinder future economic stability and growth prospects.
6 sourcesMay 2Moderate
- Economy· World
US inflation reaches highest level in nearly three years amid Iran war
A key inflation measure in the United States surged to its highest level in nearly three years, primarily driven by rising gas prices amid the ongoing Iran war. This spike in inflation complicates the Federal Reserve's plans for potential interest rate cuts, leading to divisive opinions within the central bank. As inflation continues to rise, the Federal Reserve will need to carefully assess its monetary policy approach, balancing the need to control inflation with the potential impact on economic growth.
3 sourcesMay 2High
- Economy· World
U.S. stock markets reach record highs amid oil price volatility from U.S.-Iran tensions
U.S. stock markets have hit record highs as oil prices experience significant volatility due to escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran. This surge in stock prices is driven by strong corporate performances, particularly from major companies like Caterpillar, amidst fears of supply disruptions in the oil market. The ongoing geopolitical situation is likely to continue influencing both oil prices and stock market performance in the near future.
3 sourcesMay 2Low
- Economy· World
Brent Crude Oil Prices Fall to $108.27 Amid U.S.-Iran Conflict Tensions
On May 1, 2026, Brent crude oil prices settled at $108.27 per barrel after reaching a four-year high of over $120 the previous day. This decline is attributed to ongoing volatility in U.S.-Iran peace talks and a U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has been in place since early March. The long-term implication suggests continued instability in global oil markets, with potential for further price fluctuations as geopolitical tensions persist.
7 sourcesMay 2Low
- Business· World
Trump Approves Bridger Pipeline Expansion to Transport Canadian Crude Oil
U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an order authorizing the Bridger Pipeline Expansion, which will facilitate the transport of Canadian crude oil from the U.S.-Canada border to Wyoming. This approval comes amid ongoing discussions about energy infrastructure and environmental concerns, signaling a renewed focus on energy projects. The long-term implication could reshape energy transport dynamics in North America, contingent on regulatory approvals and public acceptance.
4 sourcesMay 2Low
- Economy· World
Brent Crude Oil Surges Past $126 Amid US Naval Blockade of Iranian Ports
On April 30, 2026, Brent crude oil futures reached an intraday peak of $126 per barrel, marking a four-year high during the ongoing US-Iran war standoff. The surge in prices is driven by a US naval blockade of Iranian ports aimed at pressuring Iran to dismantle its nuclear program, which has disrupted oil shipments through the critical Strait of Hormuz. This escalation in oil prices is likely to have long-term implications for global energy markets and could exacerbate inflationary pressures worldwide.
19 sourcesMay 2High
- Economy· World
US gas prices reach highest levels since 2022 amid Iran conflict
Gas prices in the United States have surged to an average of $4.39 per gallon, the highest since 2022. This increase is driven by rising crude oil prices and geopolitical tensions related to the ongoing conflict in Iran. If these tensions persist, further increases in gas prices are likely as supply disruptions continue to impact the market.
5 sourcesMay 2Moderate
- Business· World
Spirit Airlines faces imminent shutdown amid financial crisis
Spirit Airlines is preparing to cease operations due to severe financial difficulties and failed negotiations for a $500 million rescue package. The airline's situation has worsened due to rising jet fuel costs and unsuccessful attempts to secure funding. If operations cease, it could significantly impact the airline industry and travelers alike.
3 sourcesMay 2High
- Business· World
U.S. Government Proposes Taxpayer-Funded Takeover of Spirit Airlines Amid Bankruptcy Crisis
On May 1, 2026, the U.S. administration submitted a final proposal for a taxpayer-funded takeover of Spirit Airlines, which is currently undergoing Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This proposal is triggered by the airline's severe financial distress, exacerbated by rising jet fuel costs linked to the ongoing Iran war and significant cumulative losses. If approved, this intervention could reshape the airline industry by potentially preserving thousands of jobs and altering government involvement in private sector bailouts.
12 sourcesMay 2Moderate
- Economy· World
U.S. stock market reaches record highs amid Iran war negotiations
The U.S. stock market, particularly the S&P 500, has achieved its best monthly performance since November 2020. This surge is attributed to positive diplomatic signals from Iran regarding U.S. proposals to end the ongoing conflict. If negotiations continue to progress, the market may stabilize, potentially leading to a more predictable energy sector and economic environment.
3 sourcesMay 1Low
- Business· World
Colgate-Palmolive reports increased sales despite decline in net income
Colgate-Palmolive's Q1 results reveal a rise in sales driven by strong international demand, even as net income fell to $646 million. This performance is attributed to broad-based growth across its product lines, particularly in international markets. Looking ahead, the company is expected to continue leveraging its international markets for future growth while addressing challenges in domestic earnings.
3 sourcesMay 1Low - Economy· World
U.S. stock futures maintain gains following record monthly increases in April
U.S. stock futures are holding onto gains after the S&P 500 and Nasdaq composite achieved their largest monthly increases since 2020. This positive momentum is driven by investor optimism following a strong performance in April, with a slight uptick in S&P 500 contracts. Looking ahead, market participants will closely monitor upcoming economic indicators and corporate earnings that could influence future trading trends.
3 sourcesMay 1Low - Business· UAE
UAE withdraws from OPEC and OPEC+ amid strategic realignment
The UAE has officially withdrawn from OPEC and OPEC+. This decision is driven by the UAE's strategic and economic priorities, particularly in light of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The long-term implication may involve a shift in the UAE's oil production strategy and its relationships with other oil-producing nations.
4 sourcesMay 1Moderate - Economy· MENA
Saudi Real Estate Refinance Company acquires 3 billion Riyal mortgage portfolio from Al Rajhi Bank
The Saudi Real Estate Refinance Company has signed an agreement to purchase a residential mortgage portfolio valued at 3 billion Saudi Riyals from Al Rajhi Bank. This move is aimed at enhancing liquidity in the housing finance market and providing flexible financing solutions for Saudi families. The long-term implication is a potential increase in investments in the housing sector, improving access to home financing for many families in Saudi Arabia.
3 sourcesMay 1Low
- Business· UAE
DEWA Sets World Record for Lowest Electricity Customer Minutes Lost
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority has achieved a new world record by reducing electricity customer minutes lost to just 0.82 minutes per year. This milestone is attributed to DEWA's investment in advanced technologies and smart grid systems, reflecting a commitment to service reliability. The long-term implication is that this achievement positions Dubai as a leader in utility service reliability, potentially attracting further investment and enhancing urban development initiatives.
3 sourcesMay 1Low
- Business· UAE
Dubai Islamic Bank and Aldar Properties Report Strong Q1 2026 Financial Results
Dubai Islamic Bank and Aldar Properties announced robust financial results for the first quarter of 2026, with DIB achieving a pre-tax profit of Dh2.1 billion and Aldar reporting a net profit of Dh2.3 billion. This positive performance is attributed to increased revenues and strong market positions in the UAE's financial and real estate sectors. The results indicate a resilient economic environment in the UAE, suggesting potential for continued growth in these industries.
3 sourcesMay 1Low
- Business· MENA
STC Group reports 12% net profit increase in Q1 2026 driven by revenue growth and strategic initiatives
STC Group announced a 12% increase in net profit for Q1 2026, reflecting strong financial performance with revenues rising to nearly $5.3 billion. This growth is attributed to the company's strategic initiatives, particularly the Silklink project aimed at enhancing digital infrastructure in Syria. As STC continues to invest in telecommunications, it positions itself to capitalize on the growing demand for digital services in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.
4 sourcesMay 1Low
- Business· MENA
Saudi Arabia to Host 24th ERRA Conference in 2027
Saudi Arabia has been selected to host the 24th annual conference of the Energy Regulators Regional Association in Riyadh from February 1 to 3, 2027. This decision was announced during the 23rd ERRA conference in Slovakia, reflecting the Kingdom's ambition to enhance its role in the global electricity sector. The long-term implication is that this event may solidify Saudi Arabia's leadership in innovative energy regulation and influence global practices in electricity management.
3 sourcesMay 1Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi stock market index rises to 11,238.07 points amid strong trading activity
The Saudi stock market index increased by 58.12 points, closing at 11,238.07 points. This rise is attributed to robust trading volumes, with approximately 5.8 billion Riyals exchanged in the market. The positive momentum suggests potential for continued growth in the Saudi market, contingent on broader economic conditions and company performances.
3 sourcesMay 1Low