BUZZ — Steris gains on $2.1 bln Xodus Medical buy

* Steris PLC shares up more than 2% at $219.32 * The medical equipment maker says it will buy privately held surgical products maker Xodus Medical for $2.1 bln * Co says acquisition will deepen its presence in hospitals and laboratories, where demand for its sterilization products and consumables remains strong * Co expects about $300 million in cash tax benefits, bringing the net purchase price to ~$1.8 billion. * Co plans to fund the deal primarily with debt; expects it to close by December 31 * 7 of 10 brokerages rate the stock "buy" or above, 3 "hold"; median PT - $270 - data compiled by LSEG * Including session's moves, stock down 13.5% YTD (Reporting by Miraanta Lowrance in Bengaluru) ((miraanta.lowrance@thomsonreuters.com)