
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- Economy· World
Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Amid Iran War Inflation and Warsh Nomination Progress
The Federal Open Market Committee decided to maintain the federal funds rate at 3.5%–3.75% during its April 2026 meeting. This decision comes as inflation rises due to the ongoing Iran war, which has disrupted oil supplies and increased prices. Looking ahead, the nomination of Kevin Warsh as the new Fed chair may signal a shift in monetary policy direction amidst geopolitical uncertainties and economic challenges.
13 sourcesApr 30High
- Business· World
Disney Retains ESPN Amid Streaming Strategy Shift
Disney has decided to keep ESPN within its corporate structure, halting plans for a spinoff. This decision is driven by CEO Josh D'Amaro's focus on enhancing streaming growth while maintaining control over the sports network. In the long term, this move may provide stability for Disney as it navigates the competitive media landscape and reassesses its strategic direction.
5 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· World
U.S. gasoline prices hit $4.23 per gallon amid US-Iran conflict
The U.S. national average price for gasoline has surged to $4.23 per gallon, the highest in nearly four years. This increase is driven by a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by the U.S. and Iran, coupled with seasonal demand and refinery maintenance. The long-term implication is a potential strain on consumer budgets and increased economic pressure on lower-income households as oil prices remain elevated.
13 sourcesApr 30High
- Economy· World
Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady Amid Inflation and FOMC Dissent
The Federal Reserve decided to maintain the federal funds rate at 3.5 to 3.75 percent during its recent meeting, marking a significant moment with four dissenting votes. This decision comes in response to ongoing elevated inflation driven by global energy price increases linked to the Iran conflict. The long-term implication suggests a cautious approach to monetary policy as the Fed navigates political scrutiny and economic pressures ahead of leadership changes.
9 sourcesApr 30Low
- Economy· World
Federal Reserve Maintains Interest Rates Amid Geopolitical Tensions and Leadership Transition
The Federal Reserve decided to keep the federal funds rate steady at 3.5–3.75% during its recent FOMC meeting, marking a significant moment as it may be Jerome Powell's final meeting as chair. This decision comes in response to heightened inflation driven by surging oil prices due to the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran, alongside mixed labor market signals. Looking ahead, the Fed's stance may lead to increased scrutiny on future rate adjustments as inflationary pressures persist and a new chair is set to take over.
26 sourcesApr 30Moderate
- Business· World
Meta Platforms Reports Strong Q1 2026 Earnings and Increases Capital Expenditure Forecast
Meta Platforms announced its Q1 2026 earnings, exceeding revenue expectations with $56.31 billion and a 33% year-over-year growth. The immediate trigger for this announcement was the company's robust advertising performance and the need to invest in AI infrastructure, leading to a raised capital expenditure forecast of $125–145 billion. Long-term, this indicates a strategic pivot towards AI development, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape in the tech industry as Meta seeks to enhance its capabilities against rivals like OpenAI and Google.
7 sourcesApr 30High
- Economy· World
Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady Amid Highest Dissent Since 1992
On April 29, 2026, the Federal Open Market Committee voted 8–4 to maintain the federal funds rate target at 3.5–3.75 percent, marking the highest number of dissenting votes in nearly 34 years. This decision comes as the committee navigates solid economic growth alongside persistent inflation driven by global energy price increases linked to Middle East tensions. The long-term implication may involve increased policy uncertainty and potential shifts in monetary strategy as inflationary pressures persist.
9 sourcesApr 29High
- Economy· World
US gas prices hit record high of $4.23 per gallon amid Iran conflict
Gas prices in the United States have surged to $4.23 per gallon, the highest level since the onset of the war with Iran. This increase is driven by ongoing disruptions in oil supplies from the Middle East, exacerbated by the conflict. The long-term implication suggests that continued geopolitical instability may lead to further fluctuations in gas prices and economic pressures on consumers.
4 sourcesApr 29Moderate
- Business· UAE
Abu Dhabi to Launch Paid Parking System in Mohamed Bin Zayed City by 2026
Abu Dhabi has announced the implementation of a paid parking system in Mohamed Bin Zayed City, set to launch on May 6, 2026. This initiative is being driven by Q Mobility as part of a broader strategy to enhance urban mobility and manage parking resources effectively. The long-term implication is a potential shift towards more structured urban management and improved public services across the city.
4 sourcesApr 29Low
- Business· World
Chiesi Farmaceutici acquires KalVista Pharmaceuticals for $1.9 billion
Chiesi Farmaceutici SpA has announced its acquisition of KalVista Pharmaceuticals Inc. for approximately $1.9 billion. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing Chiesi's portfolio in rare immunology at a time when the market is increasingly focused on specialized healthcare solutions. The long-term implication is that this acquisition could position Chiesi as a stronger player in the rare immunology sector, potentially leading to further investments and innovations in this field.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Business· World
General Dynamics Reports Strong Q1 2026 Earnings Driven by Marine Systems Growth
General Dynamics has reported higher revenue and exceeded quarterly earnings estimates, primarily due to significant growth in its marine-systems sales. This strong performance has led to a 6% increase in the company's stock price, reflecting investor confidence. Looking ahead, General Dynamics is well-positioned for continued growth in the marine and aerospace sectors, although it must navigate potential market fluctuations and changes in defense spending policies.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Business· World
UBS reports 80% increase in Q1 net profit amid market volatility
UBS has announced an 80% increase in net profit for the first quarter, reaching $3 billion. This surge is primarily driven by heightened trading activity resulting from recent market volatility linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Looking ahead, UBS's strong financial performance positions it favorably as it continues to integrate Credit Suisse and adapt to evolving market conditions.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Economy· World
Australia's inflation rate rises to 4.6% amid energy shock from Iran conflict
Australia's inflation rate surged to 4.6% in March 2026, marking the highest level in two-and-a-half years. This increase is driven by rising fuel prices linked to the ongoing conflict in Iran, creating significant economic pressure. As inflation continues to rise, the Reserve Bank of Australia is likely to implement further interest rate hikes to stabilize the economy.
3 sourcesApr 29High
- Economy· UAE
UAE launches Dh1 billion fund to enhance industrial sector
The UAE has established a national fund worth Dh1 billion aimed at bolstering its industrial sector. This initiative is part of the country's broader strategy to enhance industrial resilience and diversify its economy. The long-term implication is expected to stimulate growth and innovation within key industries in the UAE.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia rebrands street vendors as mobile merchants under new regulations
The Saudi Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has replaced the term 'street vendor' with 'mobile merchant' as part of new regulations aimed at enhancing urban landscapes. This change is occurring now to improve compliance and reduce random practices in mobile trading, reflecting a shift towards a more professional approach. Long-term, this initiative is expected to empower individuals and stimulate economic growth in urban areas through organized mobile trading activities.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Business· UAE
UAE retains top global ranking in entrepreneurship for fifth year
The UAE has been ranked first globally in entrepreneurship for the fifth consecutive year according to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor report. This achievement is attributed to the country's strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, bolstered by supportive government policies and financial systems. Looking ahead, the UAE is expected to further enhance its position as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship through strategic initiatives.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Business· UAE
Prominent Indian Businessman Vasu Shroff Passes Away at 85
Vasu Shroff, a key figure in Dubai's textile industry and the Indian expatriate community, has died at the age of 85. His passing is attributed to natural causes, marking the end of an era for the local business landscape he significantly shaped. The long-term implication is that his legacy will likely inspire future generations of entrepreneurs in Dubai's evolving economy.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi stock market rises amid strong petrochemical trading activity
The Saudi stock market index increased by nearly 47 points, closing at 11168.51, driven by significant trading activity in the petrochemical sector, particularly from Betero Rabigh. This surge follows a period of market recovery and reflects growing investor confidence. The long-term implication suggests potential for continued growth in the Saudi stock market, especially within the petrochemical industry.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia reports alarming levels of workplace stress and health issues
The General Authority for Statistics in Saudi Arabia has released findings indicating that 6.04% of employees are experiencing job-related stress, highlighting significant health and safety concerns. This surge in reported stress levels is prompting organizations to reassess workplace conditions and mental health support systems. In the long term, companies are likely to invest more in employee wellness programs to enhance productivity and job satisfaction.
3 sourcesApr 29Low
- Crypto· World
Ethereum Foundation Unstakes 17,035 ETH Amid Market Concerns
The Ethereum Foundation has unstaked 17,035 ETH, valued at approximately $40 million, raising alarms about potential market volatility. This decision follows the foundation nearing its staking target of 70,000 ETH, prompting speculation about its impact on ETH's price stability. In the long term, this move may lead to increased selling pressure and a reassessment of ETH's market trajectory by analysts and investors.
5 sourcesApr 29Low