Cryptic crossword clue
Took a punt from graduate, on left-hand bank, and drifted 7

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word GAMBLED

I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
G
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Took a punt" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case took a punt = gambled.
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 GAMBLED mean?

GAMBLED verb
  1. To take a risk, with the potential of a positive outcome.
  2. To play risky games, especially casino games, for monetary gain.
  3. To risk (something) for potential gain.
  4. To interact with equipment at a casino

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