Ares Management To Fill Kellanov's Spot In The S&P 500 Index

Major index restructuring is underway as S&P Dow Jones Indices confirms significant composition changes to benchmark indices, with the most notable shift occurring in the S&P 500. Ares Management (symbol: ARES) will take the place previously held by Kellanov (K) ahead of Thursday’s market open on December 11. The transition follows Mars Inc.'s acquisition of Kellanov, with completion anticipated imminently subject to customary final closing requirements.

This represents a notable shift in the large-cap index composition, reflecting ongoing corporate consolidation in the investment management sector. The move underscores how M&A activity continues to reshape major stock indices.

Parallel changes are simultaneously affecting the S&P SmallCap 600 index. Vital Farms Inc. (VITL) will assume the position vacated by Heidrick & Struggles Intl Inc. (HSII) starting December 11, as Advent International and Corvex Private Equity finalize their acquisition of the executive search firm. The transaction is expected to conclude shortly, contingent on satisfaction of standard closing conditions.

Further index adjustments include Sezzle Inc. (SEZL) replacing Vital Energy Inc. (VTLE) in the SmallCap 600 effective December 15. This change stems from Crescent Energy Co. (CRGY), already a SmallCap 600 constituent, acquiring Vital Energy. Like other pending deals, the transaction completion is anticipated soon, pending fulfillment of customary closing requirements.

These successive index modifications highlight the dynamic nature of equity market composition, where corporate transactions and strategic acquisitions regularly reshape the constituent makeup of major benchmarks.