Reddit (RDDT) shares soared 5% in pre-market trading on Thursday, as investors speculate about the social media platform's potential inclusion in the S&P 500 index. The surge comes amid discussions about possible changes to the index's composition following Paramount Global's pending sale to Skydance Media.

According to analyst Melissa Roberts from Stephens, the communications sector is currently underrepresented in the S&P 500. This could open the door for Reddit to be considered as a potential addition to the index. The analyst notes that Reddit's smaller market capitalization compared to other candidates like AppLovin and Robinhood might make it a less disruptive replacement for Paramount, should the index committee decide to make a change.

However, investors should note that inclusion in the S&P 500 is not guaranteed. The index committee has several factors to consider, including market capitalization, sector representation, and overall market conditions. While Reddit's potential inclusion is generating excitement, the final decision rests with S&P Dow Jones Indices, and they may opt to maintain the current index composition or choose a different company for inclusion.