Group 1 - Block shares increased by over 10% in extended trading as the fintech company prepares to join the S&P 500, replacing Hess [1] - The addition of Block to the S&P 500 is part of a series of changes, including The Trade Desk replacing Ansys [2][3] - Block's inclusion reflects the growing tech presence in the S&P 500, highlighting the market cap gains of tech companies [4] Group 2 - Block, formerly known as Square, has diversified into crypto, lending, and other financial services since its founding in 2009 [4] - Despite a 14% decline in shares this year, Block maintains a market cap of approximately $45 billion, significantly above the median company in the S&P 500 [5]