> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ackinacki.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ackinacki.com/for-users/buy-sell-shell/introduction.md).

# Introduction

## What is SHELL?

[**SHELL**](/glossary.md#shell) is the utility token of the Acki Nacki network ([ECC](/glossary.md#extra-currency-collection) index 2), designed to compensate [NACKL](/glossary.md#nackl) holders for the computing resources the network provides. It can be converted to [VMSHELL](/glossary.md#vmshell) to cover network fees at a 1:1 ratio (reverse conversion is not possible). It can be freely transferred between different [Dapp IDs](/glossary.md#dapp-id).

## Fixed Exchange Rate

The SHELL exchange rate is fixed and the same for all participants:

> **1 USDC = 100 SHELL**

This rate never changes and is independent of market conditions. When buying, you always receive exactly 100 SHELL for every USDC spent. When selling, you always receive exactly 1 USDC for every 100 SHELL.

## Two Ways to Buy SHELL

| Method            | Application                                       | Payment                            | Speed                       |
| ----------------- | ------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------- | --------------------------- |
| Cryptocurrency    | [Shell Buyer App](https://shellbuy.ackinax.com/)  | Visa, Mastercard, USDT, USDC, etc. | Depends on payment provider |
| ECC USDC directly | [Acki Nacki Wallet](https://ackinacki.com/wallet) | ECC USDC (network-native currency) | Instant                     |

## Selling SHELL

Selling SHELL is done exclusively through the **Acki Nacki Wallet**. You place an order (lots), and when a buyer comes along, your lots are sold automatically on a first-come-first-served (FIFO) basis. Learn more in [How to Sell SHELL](/for-users/buy-sell-shell/selling-shell/how-to-sell-shell.md#prerequisites).

## What's Next?

If you're just getting started with SHELL, we recommend reading [Key Concepts](/for-users/buy-sell-shell/key-concepts.md) first, then proceeding to the relevant buying or selling section.