The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word TIE-UPS
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
T
I
E
-
U
P
S
More clues leading to the result TIE-UPS
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "links" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case links = tie-ups.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 TIE-UPS mean?
TIE-UPS noun- A temporary interruption or cessation of a normal activity