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
8425 stories- Business· World
Disney plans free ad-supported streaming tier for Disney+
Disney has announced plans to explore a free, ad-supported streaming tier for its Disney+ service. This decision follows a strong earnings report and aims to attract more price-sensitive consumers amid competitive pressures from other streaming services. The introduction of this tier could significantly reshape Disney's market position and subscriber growth in the streaming industry.
6 sourcesAug 8
- Business· World
Severe turbulence injures 17 on Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi
An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi experienced severe turbulence, resulting in injuries to 17 individuals, including passengers and crew. The incident has prompted an aviation investigation into the causes of the turbulence. As investigations continue, the aviation industry may implement new measures to enhance safety and prevent similar incidents in the future.
3 sourcesAug 8
- Business· World
OpenAI settles discrimination claims with DOJ for $3.2 million
OpenAI has reached a $3.2 million settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice over allegations of discrimination against American workers in favor of foreign applicants. The settlement comes as a response to claims that OpenAI did not sufficiently prioritize hiring U.S. citizens before sponsoring visa holders for permanent residency. This case may lead to increased scrutiny and potential reforms in hiring practices across the tech industry to ensure compliance with U.S. labor laws.
4 sourcesAug 8
- Economy· World
Gold prices rise amid mixed signals on U.S.-Iran negotiations
Gold prices increased slightly as investors reacted to conflicting reports regarding potential negotiations between the United States and Iran. This shift is occurring now due to heightened geopolitical tensions and the anticipation of upcoming U.S. employment data that could influence interest rates. The long-term implication suggests that gold prices may remain volatile as market participants closely monitor these geopolitical developments and economic indicators.
3 sourcesAug 7
- Economy· World
Strait of Hormuz crisis triggers historic oil supply shock impacting global markets
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has resulted in the largest oil supply shock in history, with over 2.6 billion barrels lost since the crisis began. This unprecedented disruption is occurring now due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the region. Long-term, the situation is likely to force energy markets to adapt significantly, with Saudi Aramco's operational resilience becoming crucial for maintaining global supply stability.
4 sourcesAug 7
- Economy· UAE
UAE's GDP grows by 3% in Q1 2026 driven by non-oil sector expansion
The UAE's GDP has increased by 3% in the first quarter of 2026, reaching AED 485 billion. This growth is primarily attributed to a 4.8% expansion in the non-oil sector, which now constitutes 79.4% of the national economy. The long-term implication suggests that the UAE will continue to strengthen its economic diversification strategy, enhancing its resilience against regional challenges.
6 sourcesAug 7
- Economy· MENA
IMF Reports Acceleration in Syria's Economic Recovery Amid Ongoing Poverty Challenges
The International Monetary Fund has announced an acceleration in Syria's economic recovery and approved a technical assistance program for the country. This positive assessment follows the IMF's recent mission to Syria, which highlighted the urgent need for banking reforms to address widespread poverty. Long-term, the implementation of these reforms could lead to sustainable growth and improved living conditions for Syrian citizens.
4 sourcesAug 7
- Economy· World
Gold prices rise amid market fluctuations
Gold prices have increased slightly, reaching approximately $4,059.81 per ounce. This rise is driven by improving market sentiment and fluctuations in metal markets. Long-term, these trends suggest ongoing volatility in the gold market, which investors should closely monitor for strategic implications.
4 sourcesAug 7
- Business· UAE
Dubai's RTA Achieves 30% Reduction in Traffic Congestion on Latifa bint Hamdan Street
The Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai has successfully implemented traffic improvements on Latifa bint Hamdan Street, resulting in a 30% reduction in congestion during peak hours. This significant enhancement is attributed to recent upgrades aimed at improving traffic flow in the city. The long-term implication suggests that such successful infrastructure projects may lead to further investments in road management strategies across Dubai.
3 sourcesAug 7
- Business· UAE
Emirates and Etihad cancel multiple flights to Bahrain and Kuwait due to operational issues
Emirates and Etihad have announced the cancellation of several daily flights to Bahrain and Kuwait, effective until at least August 5. This disruption is attributed to ongoing operational challenges faced by airlines in the UAE. The long-term implication may involve increased scrutiny on airline operations and potential adjustments in travel plans for passengers in the region.
3 sourcesAug 7
- Economy· World
Gold prices hit one-month high amid weaker dollar and falling oil prices
Gold prices surged to a one-month peak driven by a softer dollar and lower oil prices. This shift is occurring as investors await critical U.S. employment data that could influence future interest rate decisions. If geopolitical tensions de-escalate, gold prices may continue to rise, reflecting ongoing market volatility and investor sentiment.
3 sourcesAug 7
- Business· MENA
Dana Gas and Crescent Petroleum Begin Natural Gas Supplies to Iraq's Ministry of Electricity
Dana Gas and Crescent Petroleum have commenced the supply of 100 MMscf/d of natural gas to Iraq's Ministry of Electricity. This initiative is driven by the need to enhance electricity generation in Kirkuk following the expansion of the Khor Mor gas processing facility. The long-term implication is a potential increase in energy security and further investments in Iraq's energy sector to meet growing electricity demands.
3 sourcesAug 7
- Business· UAE
Wynn Resorts announces opening date and increased cost for UAE's first licensed integrated gaming resort
Wynn Resorts has confirmed that its Wynn Al Marjan Island resort in Ras Al Khaimah will open in September 2027, with the project cost rising to $5.7 billion. This increase in cost, up by $600 million, is attributed to the complexities of developing a large-scale integrated resort amid rising expenses. The long-term implication is that this project will significantly enhance the UAE's position as a luxury travel destination and boost its tourism sector.
3 sourcesAug 7
- Business· MENA
Saudi Aramco reports 42% profit increase in Q2 2026 driven by rising oil prices
Saudi Aramco announced a net profit of 121.51 billion SAR for Q2 2026, reflecting a 41.9% year-on-year increase. This surge in profits is primarily attributed to higher oil prices resulting from ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. Looking ahead, Aramco's financial strength positions it to effectively navigate potential market volatility and geopolitical uncertainties.
5 sourcesAug 7
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia approves new land development framework to boost housing market
The Saudi Cabinet has approved a framework allowing investors to develop land and construct housing units in exchange for partial ownership of the land. This decision is part of the Kingdom's broader efforts to enhance housing availability and support economic diversification under Vision 2030. The initiative is expected to attract more investment in the real estate sector and improve living conditions for residents in the long term.
3 sourcesAug 7
- Economy· MENA
Saudi Arabia's consumer spending reaches SAR 425 billion in Q1 2026 driven by e-commerce growth
Consumer spending in Saudi Arabia has surged to SAR 425 billion in Q1 2026, reflecting a significant increase in both e-commerce and point-of-sale transactions. This growth is triggered by a 42% rise in e-commerce sales and a 33% increase in POS spending, indicating a robust retail environment. The long-term implication suggests that traditional retail sectors may need to adapt as consumer preferences increasingly shift towards online shopping.
3 sourcesAug 7
- Crypto· World
Bitcoin price rises as Jim Cramer announces plans to sell holdings over quantum computing fears
Jim Cramer has announced his intention to sell his Bitcoin holdings due to concerns about the impact of quantum computing on cryptocurrency security. This announcement coincides with a 1.6% increase in Bitcoin's price, indicating market resilience despite negative sentiment from a prominent figure. The cryptocurrency market may continue to thrive as investors counter fears with confidence, particularly through the 'inverse Cramer' meme.
3 sourcesAug 7
- Business· World
HappyRobot secures $150 million in Series C funding reaching $1.2 billion valuation
HappyRobot, a San Francisco-based AI startup, has successfully raised $150 million in a Series C funding round, achieving a valuation of $1.2 billion. This funding round was led by Prysm Capital and co-led by Eurazeo, reflecting a growing investor interest in AI-driven automation technologies. The long-term implication is that HappyRobot is poised to disrupt traditional supply chain roles, potentially reshaping the industry landscape and labor dynamics.
3 sourcesAug 7
- Crypto· World
Bitgo transitions WBTC infrastructure to Chainlink CCIP for enhanced security
Bitgo has replaced LayerZero with Chainlink's Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol as the exclusive provider for Wrapped Bitcoin cross-chain transfers. This shift is prompted by recent security incidents in the crypto space, including a significant exploit that has led to a migration of assets to Chainlink. The long-term implication is a potential industry-wide trend towards adopting more secure cross-chain solutions to protect user assets.
3 sourcesAug 7
- Crypto· World
BNY Mellon partners with Galaxy Digital to launch institutional crypto staking services
BNY Mellon has announced a partnership with Galaxy Digital to offer institutional crypto staking services. This collaboration is occurring as traditional financial institutions increasingly seek to integrate cryptocurrency offerings into their service models. The long-term implication is that this move may attract more institutional investors to the cryptocurrency market, fostering greater adoption and innovation in digital asset services.
4 sourcesAug 7