What is a key characteristic of a non-cash exchange?

A key characteristic of a non-cash exchange is that it involves direct trade without the use of money or currency. This type of exchange, often referred to as barter, allows individuals or entities to trade goods and services directly for other goods and services, bypassing the monetary system altogether. In this scenario, the value of the items being exchanged is negotiated between the parties involved rather than being represented through a cash transaction.

This concept reinforces the idea that economies can function through non-monetary methods, especially in instances where cash is not readily available or in communities where money may not hold value. The other options involve transactions that incorporate the use of cash or monetary value, thereby distinguishing them from the essence of a non-cash exchange.