The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word THRONING
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
T
H
R
O
N
I
N
G
Buddy explains!
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 THRONING mean?
THRONING verb- To place on a royal seat; to enthrone.
- To place in an elevated position; to give sovereignty or dominion to; to exalt.
- To be in, or sit upon, a throne; to be placed as if upon a throne.