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
4339 stories- Crypto· World
BlackRock significantly increases Bitcoin holdings amid market volatility
BlackRock has acquired 30,000 BTC, investing over $900 million in Bitcoin within five days. This surge in investment is driven by rising demand for Bitcoin ETFs and a strategic move to stabilize its position in the cryptocurrency market. The long-term implication suggests that continued institutional interest may lead to a potential supply shock and price stabilization in the Bitcoin market.
3 sourcesApr 24High
- Crypto· World
U.S. Senate Advances CLARITY Act Amid Crypto Community Debate
The U.S. Senate Banking Committee is moving forward with the CLARITY Act, which aims to clarify the regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies. This legislative push is driven by a coalition of crypto firms urging swift action to prevent the industry from migrating offshore. The long-term implications could significantly reshape the regulatory landscape and market conditions for digital assets in the U.S.
3 sourcesApr 24High
- Crypto· World
Bitcoin price declines amid escalating Middle East geopolitical tensions
Bitcoin has retreated from a peak of $79,500 to around $78,000 due to heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict has triggered increased market volatility, impacting investor sentiment in the cryptocurrency space. As geopolitical uncertainties persist, Bitcoin's price is likely to remain volatile, prompting investors to exercise caution in their trading strategies.
3 sourcesApr 24Low
- Crypto· World
Over 120 Cryptocurrency Firms Call for Urgent Senate Action on Digital Asset Market Clarity Act
More than 120 cryptocurrency organizations have urged the U.S. Senate Banking Committee to schedule a markup of the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act. This push comes as the bill, which aims to clarify regulatory roles between the SEC and CFTC, has stalled in the Senate due to opposition from banking lobbyists. If not addressed promptly, the delays could lead to a significant shift of crypto investment and innovation towards more favorable regulatory environments like those in Dubai.
7 sourcesApr 24High
- Crypto· World
Arbitrum Security Council Freezes 30,766 ETH Following KelpDAO Exploit
On April 21, 2026, the Arbitrum Security Council froze 30,766 ETH valued at approximately $71 million in response to a significant exploit of KelpDAO that occurred on April 18. The immediate trigger for this action was the draining of $292 million from KelpDAO due to a vulnerability in LayerZero's cross-chain messaging protocol, prompting urgent measures to secure the funds. This incident highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in DeFi systems and may lead to increased scrutiny and regulatory discussions surrounding cross-chain protocols and security measures in the crypto space.
8 sourcesApr 24Low
- Crypto· World
KelpDAO attacker launders $175 million in stolen funds through THORChain
The KelpDAO attacker has successfully converted approximately $175 million worth of stolen Ether into Bitcoin following a significant exploit that resulted in a total loss of around $290 million. This laundering operation is occurring now as the attacker seeks to obfuscate the stolen assets amidst ongoing challenges in tracking cryptocurrency thefts. The long-term implication may lead to increased scrutiny and regulatory measures aimed at enhancing security within the decentralized finance ecosystem.
5 sourcesApr 24Moderate
- Crypto· World
Bitcoin Tests Critical $80,000 Resistance Level Amid Market Uncertainty
Bitcoin is currently testing a significant resistance level at $80,000, which could dictate its price direction in the near future. This pivotal moment is driven by mixed market signals and the positioning of ETF investors and whales at critical break-even points. A decisive move above or below this level may set the tone for Bitcoin's market sentiment and price trajectory in the coming weeks.
5 sourcesApr 24Moderate
- Crypto· World
KelpDAO LayerZero bridge exploit causes significant DeFi liquidity crisis
On April 18, 2026, KelpDAO experienced a $292 million exploit through its LayerZero V2 bridge, leading to a 33% decline in total value locked across DeFi protocols. This incident was triggered by the minting of unbacked rsETH tokens, which were deposited into Aave, causing borrowing rates to spike and mass withdrawals. The long-term implication is a heightened scrutiny of DeFi security measures and potential regulatory responses to prevent future exploits.
9 sourcesApr 24High
- Crypto· World
Tether Freezes $344 Million in USDT at U.S. Law Enforcement Request
On April 23, 2026, Tether froze $344 million in USDT stablecoins in response to requests from U.S. law enforcement due to connections to illicit activities. This action is driven by increasing regulatory scrutiny on stablecoins and their potential involvement in crime. As a result, stablecoin issuers may face heightened compliance measures, reshaping the digital currency landscape.
5 sourcesApr 24High
- Crypto· World
KelpDAO exploit triggers $20 billion drop in DeFi value locked
The KelpDAO exploit has resulted in a significant loss of $293 million, causing a $20 billion drop in total value locked in decentralized finance. This incident has raised alarms about security vulnerabilities in DeFi, prompting traditional financial institutions to reassess their blockchain strategies. As a result, ongoing security challenges may lead to a prolonged hesitance from institutional investors to engage with blockchain technologies.
3 sourcesApr 24Moderate
- Crypto· World
KelpDAO hack results in $292 million loss prompting recovery efforts in DeFi
KelpDAO's LayerZero bridge was hacked, leading to a loss of approximately $292 million. The immediate response is a coordinated recovery effort led by Aave and supported by Lido Finance, highlighting vulnerabilities in the DeFi ecosystem. Long-term, this incident may drive stakeholders to push for improved security protocols and greater transparency in decentralized finance.
4 sourcesApr 24Low
- Crypto· World
Significant inflows into Ethereum and Bitcoin ETFs signal growing institutional interest in cryptocurrencies
Ethereum ETFs have recorded inflows of $633 million over the past ten days, while Bitcoin ETFs added $336 million. This surge in investment is driven by increasing institutional interest, potentially influenced by easing geopolitical tensions. In the long term, this trend may lead to bullish market conditions for cryptocurrencies as institutional investors continue to engage with these assets.
5 sourcesApr 24Low
- Crypto· World
Bitcoin price surges to $79,300 amid renewed buyer confidence
Bitcoin's price has surged to over $79,300, marking a significant multi-month high. This rally is triggered by renewed buyer confidence and a substantial liquidation of short positions, totaling over $222 million. The long-term implication suggests that Bitcoin could continue to rise, with traders eyeing potential profit-taking in the $83,000 to $88,000 range.
5 sourcesApr 24High
- Crypto· World
Bitcoin price volatility linked to U.S.-Iran ceasefire negotiations
Bitcoin's price has fluctuated significantly, recently retreating to around $77,500 after a brief surge above $79,000. This volatility is driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions and negotiations regarding a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran. The long-term outlook for Bitcoin will likely depend on the outcomes of these negotiations and their impact on market sentiment.
5 sourcesApr 24Low
- Economy· World
Pakistan secures final $1 billion tranche from Saudi Arabia amid UAE debt challenges
Pakistan has received the last installment of a $3 billion financial support package from Saudi Arabia. This financial boost comes at a critical time as the UAE has opted not to rollover its debt to Pakistan, impacting the country's foreign exchange reserves. The long-term implication is that Pakistan must implement effective economic reforms to ensure stability and attract further investment.
3 sourcesApr 24Low
- Business· World
Revolut announces plans for $200 billion IPO by 2028
Revolut has declared its intention to pursue an initial public offering (IPO) with a target valuation of up to $200 billion, aiming for completion no sooner than 2028. This announcement follows a recent secondary share sale that valued the fintech company at $75 billion, indicating strong investor interest and confidence in its growth trajectory. The long-term implication is that Revolut's IPO could significantly reshape the fintech landscape and investor sentiment in the sector leading up to its market entry.
4 sourcesApr 24Low
- Business· World
Victory Giant Technology's IPO in Hong Kong Raises $2.6 Billion with 60% Surge
Victory Giant Technology made a significant debut on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, raising $2.6 billion and seeing its shares surge by 60%. This event is driven by the increasing global demand for AI technologies and the company's role as a supplier for Nvidia. The successful IPO indicates a robust future for AI-related investments, suggesting further growth in the sector as technology continues to evolve.
4 sourcesApr 24Low
- Economy· World
Iran war triggers historic energy crisis with global oil supply losses
The ongoing war in Iran has resulted in a significant loss of oil supply, with estimates reaching up to one billion barrels. This crisis is exacerbated by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route, and predictions of worsening demand destruction. As the conflict continues, global energy markets are likely to face unprecedented challenges and volatility, with traders closely monitoring developments for potential stabilization or further escalation.
5 sourcesApr 24High
- Economy· World
JPMorgan Raises S&P 500 Target to 7600 Points Amid AI Optimism
JPMorgan has increased its S&P 500 price target to 7600 points, reflecting a significant shift in market sentiment. This adjustment is driven by renewed enthusiasm for artificial intelligence and a perceived easing of geopolitical tensions. The long-term implication suggests that investors will closely monitor AI advancements and geopolitical stability as key factors influencing market trends.
4 sourcesApr 24Low
- Economy· World
Gold prices decline in the U.S. while stabilizing in the Middle East amid geopolitical tensions
Gold prices have settled 2.25% lower in the U.S. market, marking a significant decline for the second consecutive session. This shift is driven by investor caution as they await clarity on U.S.-Iran peace talks, which are influencing market sentiment. As geopolitical tensions persist, fluctuations in gold prices are expected to continue, reflecting ongoing market reactions to these developments.
3 sourcesApr 24Low