So many threads on this topic. Mr. Braben doesn't want this to become a spreadsheet game where commander's control stuff from behind desks. It's one commander, one cockpit. I hope they'll have other "end game" material, and even though I would love to own my own station/planet, I don't think it'll ever happen.
Early game: Survive and try to build up enough assets to get somewhere
Late game: Survive and try not to loose what you have to people who have less assets but more greed.
Stations: What Commander? Do you think you're some kind of megacorporation CEO?