WACO, Texas (KWTX) - The Texas Stock Exchange is now open, marking what supporters call a milestone for finance in the state - though broader trading is not expected to begin until later this year at the earliest.

The exchange is designed to offer a more cost-effective way for companies to list their stock publicly, with more flexible regulations for businesses looking to go public.

Its stated goal is to make public trading more accessible for small and midsized companies.