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
IAG warns of potential fare increases due to fuel crisis linked to Strait of Hormuz closure
International Airlines Group has announced that airfares may rise as a result of increased jet fuel costs following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This situation is triggered by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have led to rising oil prices. If the fuel crisis continues, travelers could face higher ticket prices and potential flight cancellations in the near future.
3 sourcesApr 27Low
- Economy· World
US Ends Oil Purchase Waivers for Iran and Russia
The U.S. has announced it will not renew waivers for purchasing oil from Iran and Russia. This decision is driven by ongoing economic warfare strategies and lobbying from developing countries concerned about rising oil prices. The long-term implication is likely increased volatility in global oil markets and heightened diplomatic tensions with both nations.
4 sourcesApr 27Low
- Business· World
California jet fuel supply hits three-year low amid Middle East tensions
California's jet fuel stock has fallen to just over 2.6 million barrels, the lowest level since 2023. This decline is driven by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and concurrent refinery shutdowns in California, exacerbated by the ongoing Iran war. As a result, travelers may face significant disruptions and flight cancellations during the summer season due to rising fuel prices and limited availability.
3 sourcesApr 27Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi stock market closes higher with Tadawul All Share Index at 11,122 points
On April 26, 2026, the Saudi stock market closed at 11,122 points, reflecting a 0.11% increase in the Tadawul All Share Index. This positive movement is driven by ongoing investor interest despite mixed stock performances during the trading session. The long-term implication suggests that investors will remain vigilant for upcoming economic indicators and corporate earnings reports that could further influence market dynamics.
3 sourcesApr 26Low - Economy· MENA
Syria launches first foreign currency and gold market in 70 years
Syria has established the Damascus Market for foreign currencies and gold, marking a significant shift in its economic policy. This initiative, announced by the Central Bank Governor, aims to enhance financial stability and improve monetary policy at a critical moment for the country's economy. If successful, this market could foster increased investor confidence and pave the way for further financial reforms in Syria.
3 sourcesApr 26Low - Business· MENA
Saudi Awwal Bank reports slight decline in Q1 2026 net profit amid stable income growth
Saudi Awwal Bank announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2026, showing a net profit of SAR 2.086 million, a 2% decrease from the previous year. This decline is attributed to challenging market conditions despite a 10% increase in net loans and a 14% rise in customer deposits. The bank's strong capital base and commitment to sustainability position it for continued growth and resilience in the banking sector.
3 sourcesApr 26Low - Business· MENA
Saudi Arabia ranks first in Global Entrepreneurship Monitor 2025–2026 report
Saudi Arabia has secured leading positions in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor 2025–2026 report, particularly excelling in Entrepreneurial Finance and the National Entrepreneurship Context Index. This achievement is driven by a significant rise in early-stage entrepreneurial activity, which increased from 12.1% in 2018 to 28.9% in 2025. The long-term implication is that Saudi Arabia is likely to attract more investments and talent, further establishing itself as a global leader in entrepreneurship aligned with its Vision 2030 objectives.
3 sourcesApr 26Low - Business· UAE
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank Achieves Record Q1 2026 Profit of AED 3.781 Billion
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank reported a record profit before tax of AED 3.781 billion for Q1 2026, marking a 30 percent increase year-on-year. This surge is attributed to significant loan growth and diversification of income streams, alongside operational efficiencies. The results indicate a strong confidence in the UAE's economic fundamentals and suggest continued growth in the banking sector amid ongoing diversification efforts.
6 sourcesApr 26Low
- Business· UAE
Aldar Properties acquires logistics assets from KEZAD for 650 million AED
Aldar Properties has announced the acquisition of logistics assets from KEZAD valued at 650 million AED. This strategic move is driven by the growing demand for logistics infrastructure in the UAE's economy. The acquisition is expected to enhance Aldar's competitive position in the logistics market, potentially leading to further investments in the sector.
3 sourcesApr 26Low
- Business· UAE
Dubai Taxi Company expands fleet with acquisition of 600 new taxi license plates
Dubai Taxi Company has acquired 600 new taxi license plates, increasing its fleet to 6,817 vehicles. This strategic move is driven by the growing demand for transportation services in Dubai and aligns with the emirate's vision for a smart mobility ecosystem. The phased rollout of the new vehicles starting in July 2026 is expected to enhance service quality and operational efficiency.
4 sourcesApr 26Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Riyal Sukuk Approved for Major Global Bond Indices
Saudi Arabia's government sukuk have been approved for inclusion in the J.P. Morgan GBI-EM and Bloomberg Emerging Markets Local Currency Government Index. This decision follows the Kingdom's capital market reforms under Vision 2030, which have enhanced the attractiveness of its debt instruments. The long-term implication is expected to be increased investor confidence and liquidity in Saudi debt markets, potentially lowering borrowing costs and integrating local markets further into the global financial system.
9 sourcesApr 26Low
- Economy· World
Gold prices decline 2.5% amid inflation fears linked to Middle East conflict
Gold prices fell by 2.5% over the past week, marking their first weekly loss in five weeks. This decline is driven by rising inflation concerns exacerbated by increasing oil prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Investors are likely to remain cautious as they monitor developments in the region that could further impact market stability and gold demand.
3 sourcesApr 26Low - Economy· UAE
Gold prices in Dubai decline for the first time in four weeks
Gold prices in Dubai have fallen between 8.5 and 14.75 dirhams this past week, marking their first weekly decline after three consecutive weeks of increases. This drop is primarily driven by rising oil prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. As these factors continue to evolve, the gold market is likely to experience further volatility in the near future.
3 sourcesApr 26Low
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Vision 2030's 2025 Annual Report Shows 90% Initiative Completion Rate
The 2025 annual progress report for Saudi Vision 2030, released on April 24, 2026, indicates that 90% of its 1,290 initiatives are either completed or on track. This significant milestone is attributed to the ongoing commitment of the Saudi leadership to economic diversification and social empowerment as the program marks its 10th anniversary. The long-term implication suggests a strengthened position for Saudi Arabia in the global economy, enhancing its attractiveness for investment and tourism as it aims for further growth by 2030.
8 sourcesApr 26Low
- Business· World
Microsoft rebrands gaming division back to Xbox under new CEO Asha Sharma
Microsoft has officially renamed its gaming division from Microsoft Gaming back to Xbox. This change is driven by new CEO Asha Sharma's strategy to enhance player engagement and flexible pricing while reevaluating exclusive game offerings. The long-term implication may lead to a more competitive position in the gaming market, potentially attracting a larger player base.
4 sourcesApr 26High - Crypto· World
Pantera Capital urges Satsuma Technology to liquidate bitcoin holdings amid share price collapse
Satsuma Technology is facing a critical decision as Pantera Capital has called for the liquidation of its remaining $50 million in bitcoin holdings following a staggering 99% drop in share price. This urgent recommendation comes as the company's financial strategy is under scrutiny due to the drastic decline in its market value. The outcome of this liquidation could set a precedent for other cryptocurrency-related firms grappling with similar market pressures.
4 sourcesApr 26Low - Crypto· World
Sam Bankman-Fried Withdraws Motion for New Trial Amid Ongoing Appeal
Sam Bankman-Fried has withdrawn his motion for a new trial while maintaining his appeal and request for a new judge in his criminal case. This decision is driven by his concerns about receiving a fair trial under the current judge overseeing his case. The outcome of his appeal will significantly influence his legal strategy and future proceedings in the cryptocurrency sector.
4 sourcesApr 26Low - Business· World
FTX's Sale of Cursor Stake Results in $3 Billion Loss
FTX sold its 5% stake in the AI coding startup Cursor for $200,000, which has since surged in value to approximately $3 billion. This significant financial oversight occurred during FTX's bankruptcy proceedings, highlighting the challenges in asset management during such crises. The incident may lead to increased scrutiny and reevaluation of asset liquidation strategies in future bankruptcy cases to prevent similar losses.
3 sourcesApr 26Low - Crypto· World
Ethereum's taker volume increases by 72% as traders target $2,600 liquidity gap
Ethereum's taker volume surged by 72% in the last 48 hours, indicating a significant increase in trading activity. This spike is driven by traders focusing on a liquidity gap around the $2,600 mark, suggesting strong buying interest. If this bullish trend continues, Ethereum may experience further price increases as traders capitalize on the identified liquidity opportunity.
3 sourcesApr 26Low - Crypto· World
Tether Freezes $344 Million in USDT at U.S. Law Enforcement Request
Tether has frozen $344 million in USDT tokens linked to unlawful conduct, marking a significant regulatory intervention in the cryptocurrency space. This action comes amid increasing scrutiny from U.S. authorities and follows a major hack in the decentralized finance sector. The long-term implication may involve stricter compliance measures for stablecoin issuers, potentially leading to increased market volatility and operational challenges.
4 sourcesApr 26Moderate