Synonyms for the term "American stock exchanges" include NYSE, NASDAQ, AMEX, and CBOE. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is the largest and most famous stock exchange in the world. The NASDAQ, on the other hand, is an electronic stock exchange and is known for listing technology-related stocks. The American Stock Exchange (AMEX) has been acquired by NYSE and now operates under the name NYSE American. The Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE) is an options exchange that also offers trading in other investment vehicles. All these exchanges provide companies with the ability to raise capital through public offerings of stocks and other securities, while providing investors a platform to buy and sell those securities.