After a rather epic hiatus of several years, I have decided to get back into Disco. First order of business is to establish my trading character, so if anyone has any tips/leads/advice on how to get on the ladder in the new version, I'd appreciate it massively.
I remember you. Recently came back after a ~2 year hiatus myself.
I think the best tip is to join a faction for trading, because they will set you up and help you out. Past that it depends on what you want to trade. IMG seems to be the most open Sirius trader, but trading inside Gallia is quite profitable too.
Zoner trading is always profitable, and can be fairly RP-rich if you play it right, but a lot of people dislike Zoners on the principle of how neutral they remain and that people use them to powertrade. Some do, but Zoners can be really fun to RP. Oh, and check the contraband list for houses, to make sure you're violating no laws while trading!