Trading
With the diversity of the species and settlements throughout the galaxy, it is impossible to supply a complete trade directory across the microlink data network. For this reason, this condensed guide contains only the most common and noteworthy trade guidelines. A complete data set can be obtained by contacting the CoreVax Trade Index department of Data Services (Access No.: E/196781262-P1). A charge will be made for this service and the department reserves the right to restrict access and/or refuse requests.
Commodities and Prices
"If you can think of it, someone will be selling it". The problem with maxim though is that there are simply too many items to keep track of. For this reason the CoreVax Trade Index was established. This list of the most useful trade items allows you to quickly compare prices between one system and another. You can spot trends, find potential markets, and hopefully make your fortune. The CoreVax Trade Index allows you to view the current buying and selling price of the commodities in the CURRENT SYSTEM via your Trade Computer.
What you buy and where you sell it depends entirely on your good self but it's worth remembering that as in all economic states, the rule of supply and demand applies. When a system requires a commodity (possibly because it cannot be produced locally) they will generally pay through the nose for it. Likewise a system rich in a commodity will generally sell at a low price and have absolutely no market for buying such an item.
Systems DO change though and what was once a lucrative trade route in the past may no longer be profitable. Shifting trends, planetary evolution, and even a influx of simple traders can radically change a system's needs. This is what the clever trader looks out for and those looking to reap millions should always keep an eye on the buy/sell prices and look to exploit new avenues.
For a current listing of the CoreVax Trade Index, please refer to document CTI-MAT35971-52.
The Trade Computer
Trading is the very lifeblood of the galaxy and successful traders can reap huge financial rewards. The Trade Computer is your link to the Galaxy Trade Network and allows you to buy and sell commodities.
Buying
The Trade Computer allows you to view the prices of commodities available to you, from the planets which you able to reach. Pressing the F3 button will set the Trade Computer into Buy mode. You will then be presented with a list of reachable planet names.
A planet name in blue denotes the planet you are orbiting.
A planet name in white denotes a reachable planet.
A planet name in green denotes your chosen planet.
If you are in orbit around a planet, this will be highlighted. If several planets are reachable, the up and down arrow buttons can be used to scroll through the list.
Double clicking on a planet name will select it, and to view the prices for this planet, click on the prices button at the right edge of the display.
NOTE: Actual trading/transfer of commodities can only occur when in orbit around a planet.
When you have selected a commodity, enter the amount that you wish to buy. The Trade Computer will warn you if you have insufficient funds or hold space.
Once your transaction has been setup, the Bid button appears. Clicking on this will complete the transaction.
Selling
The Trade Computer allows you to view the prices of commodities available to you, from the planets which you are able to reach. Pressing the F4 button will set the Trade Computer into Sell mode. You will then be presented with a list of reachable planet names.
If you are in orbit around a planet, this planet be highlighted.
NOTE: Actual trading/transfer of commodities can only occur when in orbit around a planet.
Click a planet name to highlight it (in green), then select the 'prices' button. This will list the commodities required by the planet, along with price offered and the quantity needed.
The up and down arrow buttons will scroll up and down through lists as before, and these can be used to select commodities. Attempting to select an item which you are not carrying at the time will result in the Trade Computer issuing a warning message. If you are carrying the commodity needed and are willing to sell it (at the price offered), click the 'select' button.
NOTE: If you have a greater quantity than is required, the buyer will only buy what he/she requires. If your quantity is less than is required, your entire stock will be transferred.
For more information please refer to the following:
The Mechanics of Space Navigation (Ref. No.: HH-900013#012)
The Control Interface (Ref. No.: GC127#689291)