Economy and Wealth

Economy and Wealth measure the productivity of a colony. More productive colonies produce more income, which the ruler of that colony may spend or invest as they see fit. The currency most commonly accepted in the colonies is the rare metal viridium.

Codex
"Most of the inhabitants of the colonies work and live directly within the territory their patron house controls. For labouring in the hydroponic farms, mines, and shipyards they are fed and housed in cramped quarters. Skilled workers may be rewarded with better conditions, but few ever see any money.

Even noble houses conduct much of their trade in goods or services directly, bartering food for ore, or exploiting whatever technology that house was lucky enough to end up controlling within its territory. However the universal need for viridium, a rare metal that is vital for ship construction and maintenance, has led to its adoption as a common currency, facilitating longer distance trade.

Houses with vassals take a close interest in their economic activities, trying to find ways to improve the productivity of their territory as a whole. Ruling houses also sometimes use their wealth to improve common areas of the colony, reasoning that the increase in tribute over time will make up for their short term generosity."