> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://bart-protocol.gitbook.io/bart-protocol/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://bart-protocol.gitbook.io/bart-protocol/overview/why-barter.md). # Why BARTER? It is without a doubt that bartering has been the main medium of exchange throughout human history, a system of exchange in which participants in a transaction directly exchange goods or services for other goods or services without using a medium of exchange, such as money Bartering with different assets provides users with endless combo trading opportunities. We want to make trading more fun again, where your imagination is the limit. Help users to unlock their younger selves that once traded toys, games, lunch meals, trading cards, etc. without the involvement of money. Bartering, lending, or borrowing a basket of assets will allow users to enjoy various benefits such as having access to social clubs, events, yield farming, metaverses, etc. depending on the received assets. When people barter, everyone benefits because they receive items that they want and even people without money can get something in exchange for what they currently have. Overlooking the price creates an arbitrage opportunity for users to capitalize on. We strive to change the way users think about the value creation of NFTs, especially how they can be used as versatile financial instruments. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://bart-protocol.gitbook.io/bart-protocol/overview/why-barter.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.