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- Economy· World
Surge in Asian Stock Markets Driven by South Korean Tech Rally
Asian stock markets have experienced a significant surge, led by a record jump in South Korean technology shares. This rally is triggered by strong U.S. tech earnings that have renewed investor interest in artificial intelligence investments. The long-term implication suggests continued market volatility and growth potential in the tech sector, particularly in AI, influenced by both domestic and international economic policies.
3 sourcesAug 2
- Business· World
WestJet cancels 86 flights amid looming flight attendant strike
WestJet has canceled 86 flights in anticipation of a potential strike by flight attendants. This preemptive action follows a 72-hour strike notice issued by the Canadian Union of Public Employees. If negotiations do not progress, further operational disruptions are likely as the deadline approaches.
3 sourcesAug 2
- Economy· World
US Treasury yields reach 19-year high as Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady
The Federal Reserve's decision to maintain interest rates has resulted in the 30-year US Treasury yield surging to its highest level in nearly two decades. This spike is driven by market concerns regarding the Fed's effectiveness in managing inflation amidst persistent economic pressures. As borrowing costs rise, the implications for economic growth and investment strategies are becoming increasingly critical.
4 sourcesAug 2
- Economy· World
US Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady Amid Inflation Concerns
The US Federal Reserve has decided to maintain its key interest rate, resulting in government borrowing costs reaching a 19-year high. This decision comes as inflation remains above the Fed's target and is exacerbated by ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the US-Iran conflict. In the long term, investors should brace for increased market volatility as the Fed navigates these economic challenges and geopolitical risks.
4 sourcesAug 2
- Economy· World
US GDP growth slows to 1.5% in Q2 2026 amid persistent inflation
The U.S. economy's GDP growth rate has decelerated to 1.5% in the second quarter of 2026, down from 2.1% in the previous quarter. This slowdown is occurring as inflation remains above the Federal Reserve's target, recorded at 3.3%, prompting concerns about economic stability. In the long term, the Federal Reserve may need to adjust interest rates to address these economic challenges and sustain recovery.
6 sourcesAug 2
- Business· MENA
Iraq and Turkey finalize oil export agreement to enhance pipeline capacity
Iraq and Turkey have signed a one-year agreement to export 750,000 barrels of oil per day through a pipeline to the Turkish port of Ceyhan. This deal is a strategic response to ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, allowing Iraq to diversify its oil export routes. The long-term implication may lead to increased stability in Iraq's oil exports and influence regional energy dynamics.
3 sourcesAug 1
- Business· MENA
MERA Oil consortium initiates $5 billion refinery project in the Gulf
MERA Oil has initiated plans for a $5 billion refinery and energy export complex in the Gulf. This move is driven by a strategic shift to enhance energy export capabilities while bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. The successful establishment of this refinery could reshape energy export dynamics in the Gulf region.
3 sourcesAug 1
- Business· UAE
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise completes $9 billion acquisition of Macquarie AirFinance
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise has finalized its acquisition of Macquarie AirFinance, acquiring 100% of its outstanding share capital. This strategic move, originally announced in February 2026, positions DAE as the third-largest aircraft lessor globally and enhances its fleet significantly. The long-term implication is a strengthened competitive edge for DAE in the aviation sector, likely leading to increased partnerships and fleet expansion.
3 sourcesAug 1
- Business· UAE
Dubai Investments acquires full ownership of Clemenceau Medical Centre Dubai
Dubai Investments has completed the acquisition of an additional 80% stake in Clemenceau Medical Centre Dubai, bringing its total ownership to 100%. This strategic move is driven by the company's aim to enhance operational flexibility and capitalize on growth opportunities in the healthcare sector. The acquisition positions Dubai Investments to explore future expansion plans and strengthen its portfolio in a rapidly evolving market.
3 sourcesAug 1
- Business· UAE
Nasdaq Dubai lists $13.8 billion in new bonds and sukuk in H1 2026
Nasdaq Dubai has recorded 33 new listings of fixed income instruments worth $13.8 billion in the first half of 2026. This surge in listings is driven by increasing investor confidence in the UAE's financial market. The long-term implication suggests that Nasdaq Dubai is set to enhance its status as a key financial hub, potentially attracting more international investors.
3 sourcesAug 1
- Business· MENA
UAE and Egypt Sign Agreement to Expand Air Transport Rights Over Five Years
The UAE and Egypt have signed a deal to gradually increase air services over the next five years. This agreement is driven by the rising demand for travel between the two nations, aiming to enhance connectivity, tourism, and trade. Long-term, this initiative is expected to significantly strengthen economic ties and create new opportunities for airlines in both countries.
3 sourcesAug 1
- Business· World
Prince Alwaleed bin Talal acquires 5% stake in Lucid Group for $129.5 million
Prince Alwaleed bin Talal has purchased a 5% stake in Lucid Group, investing approximately $129.5 million. This investment comes as Lucid faces significant financial challenges, including heavy losses and weak demand for its electric vehicles. The long-term implication is that this backing may help stabilize Lucid's financial situation and improve its market perception, potentially leading to strategic changes within the company.
4 sourcesAug 1
- Economy· MENA
IMF Projects 5.5% Economic Growth for Saudi Arabia by 2027 Driven by AI Adoption
The International Monetary Fund has forecasted a 5.5% growth in Saudi Arabia's economy by 2027, with potential boosts of up to 6% attributed to the adoption of artificial intelligence. This projection comes as Saudi Arabia continues to implement reforms under its Vision 2030 initiative, which has been pivotal in transforming the economy. In the long term, the integration of AI and ongoing reforms are likely to position Saudi Arabia as a key player in both regional and global economic landscapes.
3 sourcesAug 1
- Economy· MENA
IMF Projects 5.5% Growth for Saudi Economy by 2027
The International Monetary Fund has forecasted a 5.5% growth for the Saudi economy by 2027, highlighting the resilience of its non-oil sectors. This projection comes amid ongoing economic reforms and diversification efforts under Vision 2030, which are crucial for sustaining growth. Long-term, the successful implementation of these reforms is expected to enhance Saudi Arabia's economic stability and reduce reliance on oil revenues.
3 sourcesAug 1
- Business· UAE
Dubai real estate market records $3.2 billion in transactions in one week
Dubai's real estate sector has seen a significant surge, with $3.2 billion in transactions recorded last week, including a luxury apartment sale. This boom is driven by strong demand for high-end properties, as evidenced by nearly half a trillion dirhams in transactions over the first seven months of 2026. The ongoing luxury market expansion is likely to attract more investors and high-net-worth individuals, further solidifying Dubai's status as a premier real estate destination.
3 sourcesAug 1
- Business· MENA
PwC Faces Scrutiny Over AI-Generated Reports with Fabricated Sources
PwC's Middle East reports have been found to contain significant amounts of AI-generated content, including false references. This issue has arisen as consulting firms increasingly rely on AI for research, raising concerns about the authenticity of their outputs. The long-term implication is a potential push for stricter regulations and verification processes within the consulting industry to restore credibility and trust.
4 sourcesAug 1
- Business· World
X Corp. settles legal dispute with World Federation of Advertisers
X Corp. has reached a settlement with the World Federation of Advertisers regarding allegations of a coordinated boycott against the platform. This resolution follows a multiyear legal battle that saw advertisers reduce spending on X after Elon Musk's acquisition. The agreement suggests a potential recovery in advertising relationships and revenue for X in the future.
5 sourcesAug 1
- Crypto· World
Ionic Digital achieves successful Nasdaq debut with $2.8 billion valuation
Ionic Digital, a spinoff from Celsius Network, made a strong debut on Nasdaq, closing at $62.90 and achieving a market valuation of approximately $2.8 billion. The immediate cause of this event is the growing interest in cryptocurrency-related stocks following the challenges faced by Celsius Network. In the long term, this successful listing may encourage more cryptocurrency firms to pursue public offerings, potentially reshaping the investment landscape in the sector.
4 sourcesAug 1
- Crypto· World
Zcash's Ironwood pool attracts $80 million in deposits on launch day
Zcash's new Ironwood pool successfully garnered approximately $80 million in deposits within its first day of operation. This surge in deposits follows a significant security upgrade aimed at addressing vulnerabilities in the previous Orchard pool. The long-term implication is that this upgrade may enhance user confidence and lead to increased adoption and investment in Zcash's privacy-focused offerings.
3 sourcesAug 1
- Business· World
Freehand secures $75 million in Series B funding for AI supply chain solutions
Freehand has raised $75 million in Series B funding to enhance its AI-driven solutions for managing supply chain expenditures in large enterprises. This funding round, co-led by Battery Ventures and NewRoad Capital Partners, comes as enterprises increasingly seek automation to improve operational efficiency. The investment is expected to position Freehand as a leader in supply chain automation, potentially setting new industry standards for efficiency and cost savings.
3 sourcesAug 1