** Shares of AI–powered cloud communications firm RingCentral RNG.N up 4.5% before the bell at $28.59 as co poised to join S&P SmallCap 600 index .SPCY on Thurs

** RNG to replace Hillenbrand Inc HI.N in SPCY prior to market open on Feb 12, S&P Dow Jones Indices said late Mon

** Industrial equipment maker HI being acquired by Lone Star Funds for $2.3 bln

** Stephens analyst Melissa Roberts said she expects passive funds will need to buy 10.5 mln RNG shares implying nearly 8 days of buying demand

** Belmont, California-based RNG has ~86 mln shares outstanding for ~$2.3 bln market cap

** Through Mon, shares down 5% YTD and off roughly 20% over the past 12 months

** 6 of 17 analysts rate shares "strong buy" or "buy", 11 rate "hold"; median PT $32, per LSEG

** RNG slated to report Q4 results on Feb 19 after market close

(Lance Tupper is a Reuters market analyst. The views expressed are his own)

((lance.tupper@tr.com 1-646-279-6380))