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
4344 stories- Crypto· World
Blockchain.com launches perpetual futures trading in DeFi wallet
Blockchain.com has introduced perpetual futures trading in its DeFi wallet, enabling self-custodied Bitcoin trading across over 190 markets. This initiative is driven by the anticipation of regulatory clarity in the U.S. regarding derivative contracts. In the long term, this move may enhance user engagement and lead to increased market participation in decentralized finance platforms as regulations evolve.
3 sourcesApr 22Low
- Crypto· World
Kelp DAO suffers $292 million exploit linked to North Korea's Lazarus Group
On April 18, 2026, Kelp DAO experienced a significant exploit resulting in the theft of $292 million worth of rsETH tokens through its LayerZero-based cross-chain bridge. The breach was triggered by compromised LayerZero RPC nodes and a DDoS attack, which forced the system to rely on tainted verifiers. This incident is likely to lead to increased scrutiny and potential regulatory changes in the DeFi sector as security vulnerabilities are reassessed and addressed.
10 sourcesApr 22High
- Crypto· World
Nium partners with Coinbase to integrate USDC for global payments
Nium has officially launched its partnership with Coinbase to enable USDC-based payments and fiat payouts across over 190 countries. This integration is driven by the increasing demand for cryptocurrency solutions in cross-border transactions. In the long term, this collaboration positions Nium to enhance its market share and influence in the fintech sector, particularly in international payments.
3 sourcesApr 22Low
- Crypto· World
Bitcoin Surges Past $77,000 Amid US-Iran Ceasefire Expiration
Bitcoin's price surged beyond $77,000 on April 21, 2026, leading to nearly $40 million in short liquidations on cryptocurrency exchanges. This spike was triggered by the impending expiration of a temporary ceasefire between the US and Iran, which heightened Bitcoin's appeal as a safe-haven asset. The long-term implication is a potential increase in Bitcoin's role as a geopolitical hedge amid ongoing tensions in the region.
9 sourcesApr 22Moderate
- Crypto· MENA
Bybit invests $8 million in Malaysian crypto exchange Hata
Bybit has led an $8 million funding round for the Malaysian crypto exchange Hata. This investment coincides with Malaysia's efforts to enhance its regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies and digital assets. The backing from Bybit is likely to accelerate innovation and competitiveness in Malaysia's growing digital asset ecosystem.
3 sourcesApr 22Low
- Crypto· World
Bank of Korea Governor Prioritizes CBDCs Over Stablecoins in Inaugural Address
The newly appointed Governor of the Bank of Korea, Hyun-Song Shin, has emphasized the importance of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) and bank-issued deposit tokens while omitting stablecoins from his first policy address. This shift is occurring as South Korea intensifies its scrutiny of the crypto market and seeks to modernize its currency framework. The long-term implication may lead to a more regulated digital currency environment in South Korea, impacting both local and international crypto markets.
4 sourcesApr 22Low
- Crypto· World
Strategy Surpasses BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust in Bitcoin Holdings
On April 20, 2026, Strategy announced the acquisition of 34,164 BTC for $2.54 billion, elevating its total holdings to 815,061 BTC and overtaking BlackRock's IBIT ETF. This significant purchase was made possible by aggressive accumulation strategies during a bear market, led by Michael Saylor. The long-term implication is a potential shift in corporate treasury strategies as companies increasingly compete with passive Bitcoin ETFs for market dominance.
15 sourcesApr 22High
- Business· World
AST SpaceMobile's stock drops 14% after satellite launch failure
AST SpaceMobile Inc. faced a significant decline in its stock price following the failure of Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket to successfully launch its BlueBird satellite. This incident, which occurred on April 20, 2026, raises concerns about the reliability of Blue Origin's launch services and its impact on AST SpaceMobile's operations. In the long term, this setback may hinder AST SpaceMobile's growth plans and investor confidence, necessitating a strategic response from the company to restore trust in its satellite deployment capabilities.
3 sourcesApr 22Moderate
- Business· World
Revolut delays IPO to 2028 to focus on U.S. market expansion
Revolut has announced that its initial public offering (IPO) is now set for 2028, marking a significant delay in its market entry plans. This postponement is driven by the company's strategic decision to prioritize its expansion into the U.S. market, including the pursuit of a U.S. bank charter. The long-term implication is that this shift may reshape Revolut's global fintech influence and competitive landscape by the time of its IPO.
4 sourcesApr 22Low
- Business· World
Eli Lilly acquires Kelonia Therapeutics for up to $7 billion
Eli Lilly has announced its acquisition of Kelonia Therapeutics, a biotech firm specializing in cancer gene therapies, in a deal valued at up to $7 billion. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing Lilly's cancer treatment portfolio and is one of the largest biotech startup purchases in recent years. The acquisition is expected to strengthen Lilly's position in the competitive cancer treatment market and potentially lead to breakthroughs in gene therapy applications.
5 sourcesApr 22Low
- Business· World
Honeywell sells productivity solutions unit to Brady Corp for $1.4 billion
Honeywell International Inc. has announced the sale of its productivity solutions business to Brady Corp. for $1.4 billion. This divestiture is part of Honeywell's strategy to streamline its operations amid ongoing restructuring efforts. The acquisition is expected to enhance Brady's capabilities and market position in the industrial sector, indicating a trend towards consolidation in the industry.
3 sourcesApr 22Low
- Business· World
Project Prometheus Secures $10 Billion Funding Round at $38 Billion Valuation
Project Prometheus, an AI startup co-led by Jeff Bezos, is nearing the closure of a $10 billion funding round at a $38 billion valuation. This surge in funding is driven by increasing investor interest in applied AI technologies, particularly in manufacturing and logistics, amid a broader venture capital boom. The successful funding round is likely to accelerate advancements in physical AI applications, positioning the startup as a key player in the evolving AI landscape.
6 sourcesApr 22High
- Economy· World
Iran war disrupts Canadian firms' economic outlook and raises inflation expectations
The ongoing conflict in Iran has negatively impacted inflation expectations among Canadian firms after a period of improving outlooks. This shift is occurring as concerns about trade tensions and tariffs were already high, exacerbating the economic landscape. In the long term, Canadian firms may face ongoing challenges in managing inflation and maintaining positive economic sentiment as the situation evolves.
3 sourcesApr 22Low
- Business· World
Elon Musk increases SpaceX ownership ahead of IPO
Elon Musk has purchased $1.4 billion in SpaceX shares from employees, enhancing his control over the company. This acquisition is strategically timed as SpaceX prepares for its IPO, targeting a valuation of $1.75 trillion. The move solidifies Musk's influence, which may shape the company's direction as it navigates the public offering process.
3 sourcesApr 22Low
- Economy· MENA
Pakistan secures final $1 billion tranche from Saudi Arabia amid UAE debt rollover refusal
Pakistan has received the last installment of a $3 billion financial package from Saudi Arabia. This financial assistance is crucial as the UAE has declined to extend its debt rollover to Pakistan, increasing the urgency for support. The long-term implication is that Pakistan may stabilize its economy temporarily, but will need ongoing reforms and international backing for sustainable recovery.
3 sourcesApr 22Moderate
- Business· World
Revolut announces plans for IPO targeting valuation up to $200 billion
Revolut has revealed its intention to pursue an initial public offering (IPO) with a valuation goal between $150 billion and $200 billion, aiming for a launch no earlier than 2028. This announcement follows a recent secondary share sale that valued the fintech company at $75 billion, indicating strong growth ambitions. The long-term implication is that Revolut's IPO could significantly alter the fintech landscape and investor dynamics in the coming years.
4 sourcesApr 22Moderate
- Business· World
QXO Acquires TopBuild for $17 Billion to Consolidate Building Products Sector
On April 19, 2026, QXO announced its acquisition of TopBuild Corp. for $17 billion, marking a significant move in the building products distribution industry. This acquisition is driven by QXO's strategy to consolidate a fragmented market and position itself as a major player in North America. The long-term implication is QXO's ambition to build a $50 billion enterprise through further acquisitions in traditional sectors, potentially reshaping the industry landscape.
6 sourcesApr 22Moderate
- Business· World
Victory Giant Technology's IPO in Hong Kong Raises $2.6 Billion with 60% Surge
Victory Giant Technology, a Chinese AI component manufacturer, experienced a remarkable 60% surge in its debut on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange after raising $2.6 billion. This strong market performance is driven by heightened investor interest in AI technologies, reflecting confidence in the sector's growth potential. As the demand for AI components continues to rise, Victory Giant is positioned for rapid expansion and increased market presence in the coming years.
5 sourcesApr 22Moderate
- 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 bullish outlook for U.S. stocks. This adjustment is driven by renewed optimism in 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 22Moderate
- Crypto· World
Kalshi and Polymarket to Launch Perpetual Futures in Cryptocurrency Market
Kalshi and Polymarket are racing to introduce crypto perpetual futures. This shift is driven by their need to adapt to the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency trading and to compete more effectively in the market. The long-term implication is that this move could redefine the competitive dynamics in the crypto trading space, potentially attracting new investors and reshaping market strategies.
3 sourcesApr 22High