Crossword Genius

Now editors have to have been obliged (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

owed

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'been obliged' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'now editors have to have' is the wordplay.
'to have' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'OWED' is hidden within 'now editors have'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for owed that I've seen before include "Had a duty to pay" , "In debt to" , "Was due to pay" , "Was obliged to pay" , "(Sum) due for payment" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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