The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word SWAPPING
S
W
A
P
P
I
N
G
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "trading" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case trading = swapping.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 SWAPPING mean?
SWAPPING verb- To exchange or give (something) in an exchange (for something else).
- To hit, to strike.
- To beat the air, or ply the wings, with a sweeping motion or noise; to flap.
- To descend or fall; to rush hastily or violently.
- The act by which something is swapped; an exchange.
- Large; whopping