Economics, Economics, Economics

The only way I ever survive economically is through tech trading.

Otherwise, the obvious improvement to planet quality (soil/habitat) and the econ improvements are a must.

Don't build too many social improvement unless you need them. Often your moral is fine, especially if your planet quality is good, and you don't need the virtual reality center, entertainment center, etc.

I also give away obsolte ships to allies. They have a monthly upkeep and after awhile a battlecruiser is just worthless.

Lastly, build multiple starbases from your trading center. The economic benenfits from multiple starbases keep piling up.

I'm no expert, so I'm looking forward to other advice.

Good luck,

C&P

Starbases. Build some along trade routes, maximize trade bonus modules. Grab the econ bonus resource to build a starbase on (globe with green grid lines). Of course it goes without saying that you need to have trade routes...

I tend to build the trade good social projects, then sell them to everybody, even minor races. Leasing gives you income over a period of time.

And lastly, use governors. Not to control economy but to control what social projects to build. I only build morale stuff if the planet is under 50 morale. Planets that are not as good productivity wise I don't bother to build things like shipyards and fusion plants... And I place a higher priority on projects that yield a plus to my economy. Morale wise, then, I build news networks first even though it only gives a small boost to morale, it gives other bonuses too (influence and I think econ).

erm, forgot to add... I usually try to keep my money between -100 and 200... i.e., I play with the spending slider a lot, adjusting as necessary to either reduce my debt or reduce my reserve. In the early game having too big a reserve tends to go to tribute anyway, as the bloody drengin tend to extort from me...

Try PQ 10% + Economy bonus as ability picks and then pick the party that gives extra Morale. It's a potent combination that allows 70% taxation and 100% spend. Make sure you improve your government type as quickly as possible.