The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word PRE-EMPTS
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
P
R
E
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E
M
P
T
S
More clues leading to the result PRE-EMPTS
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Anticipates" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case anticipates = pre-empts.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does PRE-EMPTS mean?
PRE-EMPTS verb- To appropriate something (before someone else does).
- To displace something, or take precedence over something.
- To secure (land, etc.) by the right of preemption.
- To make a preemptive bid at bridge.