Is 3i Group stock a buy right now?
As of early May 2025, 3i Group plc trades on the London Stock Exchange at about 4,243 GBX per share, with a recent average daily trading volume of 1.76 million shares—indicative of sustained, healthy investor attention. The financial services sector, particularly private equity, continues to attract capital in search of diversified growth, and 3i stands out thanks to its permanent capital structure and broad international footprint. A recent earnings update highlighted a 20% total return for the nine months to December 2024 and further solidified Action, 3i's largest portfolio holding, as a key growth engine after another year of double-digit sales and margin expansion. While broader consumer-driven segments within 3i's portfolio have encountered some macroeconomic headwinds, the group’s robust liquidity, prudent gearing (just 2%), and increasing geographic diversification underpin management’s constructive tone. Market sentiment remains quietly confident following a series of successful portfolio optimisations and new investments. According to the consensus of more than 33 national and international banks, the target price is approximately 5,516 GBX—a level that reflects optimism about 3i’s continued ability to translate operational outperformance into shareholder value. In the context of the UK's dynamic financial landscape, 3i offers rare mainstream exposure to private equity, combining resilience with potential upside.
- Outstanding long-term performance: 5-year return exceeds 470% versus sector averages.
- Exceptional portfolio company growth, especially from leading retailer Action.
- Robust balance sheet and low gearing ensure financial flexibility even in downturns.
- Attractive valuation: P/E ratio below many sector peers, offering compelling entry point.
- Well-diversified business across sectors and geographies reduces idiosyncratic risk.
- High portfolio concentration in Action presents notable, though managed, exposure risk.
- Some assets remain sensitive to shifting consumer trends and broader economic cycles.
- What is 3i Group?
- How much is 3i Group stock?
- Our full analysis on 3i Group </b>stock
- How to buy 3i Group stock in United Kingdom?
- Our 7 tips for buying 3i Group stock
- The latest news about 3i Group
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been monitoring the performance of 3i Group for more than three years. Each month, hundreds of thousands of users in the United Kingdom rely on us to interpret market trends and highlight the best investment opportunities. Our analyses are intended for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. In line with our ethical charter, we have never been, and never will be, paid by 3i Group.
What is 3i Group?
| Indicator (emoji + name) | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United Kingdom | UK-based, listed on the London Stock Exchange, subject to UK financial regulation. |
| 💼 Market | London Stock Exchange (LSE) | Main listing on LSE provides strong liquidity and access to institutional investors. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | GB00B1YW4409 | Unique securities identifier; facilitates global trading and investment access. |
| 👤 CEO | Simon Borrows | Longstanding CEO with a proven track record of delivering strong shareholder returns. |
| 🏢 Market cap | £41.17 billion | Large-cap status demonstrates significant scale and investor confidence. |
| 📈 Revenue | £5.07 billion (FY2024) | Revenue reflects robust earnings from private equity and infrastructure portfolio. |
| 💹 EBITDA | £4.02 billion (FY2024) | High EBITDA shows efficient operations and strong profitability from core investments. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 9.75 | Attractive valuation versus sector; opportunity, though portfolio concentration is a risk. |
How much is 3i Group stock?
The price of 3i Group stock is rising this week. As of now, the share stands at 4,243.00 GBX, with a daily gain of +0.31% (+13.00 GBX) and a positive move of +0.81% over the past week. 3i Group’s market capitalisation is £41.17 billion, with an average daily trading volume of 1.76 million shares over the last three months.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Share price | 4,243.00 GBX |
| Daily change | +0.31% (+13.00 GBX) |
| Weekly change | +0.81% |
| Market capitalisation | £41.17 billion |
| Average daily volume (3 months) | 1.76 million shares |
| P/E ratio | 9.75 |
| Dividend yield | 1.54% |
| Beta | 0.94 |
The stock trades at a P/E ratio of 9.75, offers a dividend yield of 1.54%, and shows a beta of 0.94, indicating lower volatility than the wider market. While recent gains highlight solid momentum, investors should consider the relatively stable risk profile when assessing longer-term potential.
Compare the best brokers in the UK!Compare brokersOur full analysis on 3i Group stock
We have thoroughly reviewed 3i Group’s latest financial results alongside the share’s exemplary performance over the past three years, applying a rigorous multi-layered assessment combining financial indicators, technical signals, market intelligence, and peer benchmarking through our proprietary algorithms. The outcome paints a distinctive portrait of resilience, value, and impressive momentum within the listed private equity universe. So, why might 3i Group stock once again become a strategic entry point into the alternative assets sector in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
3i Group has demonstrated formidable strength in recent quarters, defying broader market volatility. As of May 2025, the shares stand at 4,243 GBX, marking a record within their 52-week range (2,750–4,292 GBX). The stock delivers a stellar 6-month gain of +32.59%, and an extraordinary +49.3% for the trailing year. Impressively, the five-year performance sits above +470%, emphasising the company’s resilience through multiple market cycles.
This rally is underpinned by robust operational execution—evidenced by a 20% total return over the nine months to December 2024—against a backdrop of recovering economic activity and resurgent earnings growth in key portfolio investments. The broader private equity sector has benefited from a moderation in inflation and renewed capital markets confidence, while 3i’s permanent capital structure and clear thematic focus offer defensive qualities that set it apart from most peers.
Recent highlights strengthening investor confidence include:
- Action, the Group’s largest holding, delivered a 22% surge in net sales with a corresponding 29% jump in EBITDA for 2024, and maintained a continued network expansion across Europe (+352 new stores).
- Key secondary holdings such as Royal Sanders and MPM reported double-digit organic growth, enabling further diversification and earnings stability.
- The group’s liquidity profile remains robust with £792 million of cash (and overall liquidity of £1.69 billion) and a conservative gearing ratio of 2%, reinforcing flexibility for further expansion or shareholder returns.
Together, these factors signal that 3i Group is operating from a position of strength, both fundamentally and within a supportive sectoral context.
Technical Analysis
A methodical examination of 3i’s technical profile further strengthens the outlook for medium-term appreciation. Shares are trading above their 20-, 50-, 100-, and 200-day moving averages, confirming a persistent long-term uptrend and reflecting consistently strong positive momentum.
- Relative Strength Index (RSI, 14-day) is neutral at 47.18, indicating the absence of near-term overbought conditions and suggesting room for further upside without immediate risk of technical correction.
- MACD and stochastic oscillators display mild short-term caution, yet their readings are typical when a share consolidates after a rally and prepares for its next leg higher.
- Support levels are clearly defined at 4,200 GBX and 4,100 GBX — both well-defended areas which have seen solid accumulation, suggesting limited downside risk in the near term.
- Resistance is identified at the recent high of 4,292 GBX, followed by medium-term targets at 4,350 and 4,500 GBX. Breakouts above these levels could pave the way for further upward extension.
The overall technical structure thus appears robust; the stock is not technically overextended and benefits from a persistent bullish undertone, making a compelling entry point for buyers seeking to capitalise on positive momentum.
Fundamental Analysis
Beneath the surface, 3i’s investment case is powered by enviable fundamentals. The most recent results confirm strong topline and bottom-line progression:
- Net Asset Value (NAV) per share advanced to 2,457p (+8.7% quarter-on-quarter), underlining the consistent value creation offered by the portfolio.
- Group total return for the first nine months of FY2025 stands at a formidable 20%, building on an already distinguished track record.
- Management of capital is disciplined, as reflected by the low gearing (2%), ample cash reserves, and prudent deployment of funds.
Importantly, a core driver is the relentless expansion of Action, which not only now accounts for 72% of private equity assets but continues to outperform on all key metrics: 10.3% like-for-like sales growth, improving EBITDA margins (15.1%), and a credible path for pan-European store rollout. This provides highly visible earnings and NAV growth.
At a P/E ratio of just 9.75, the stock trades at a notable discount relative to high-quality peers in the financial sector, offering a rare combination of growth, quality, and value. The dividend yield, while moderate at 1.54%, reflects management's confidence in future cash flows and the ability to support progressive payouts.
Other fundamental strengths include:
- Excellent track record: Five-year return of +471% is a testament to operational discipline.
- Diversified exposure: While Action is dominant, holdings in fast-growing companies such as Royal Sanders and MPM provide additional resilience.
- Strategic focus: The thematic investment strategy positions 3i to benefit from structural growth in consumer, business services, and infrastructure.
This combination of growth, yield, and undemanding valuation suggests the share is far from expensive at current levels.
Volume and Liquidity
3i Group features substantial and sustained trading liquidity, averaging 1.76 million shares daily over the last three months. This reflects strong institutional and retail participation, underlining investor confidence and ensuring ease of execution for fresh positions or active portfolio management.
A relatively high free float for a constituent of its market cap bracket serves to anchor dynamic price discovery, enabling rapid absorption of both buying and selling pressure, and supporting the company’s suitability for a spectrum of UK investor profiles—including those seeking UK ISA/SIPP-eligible blue chips with tangible growth characteristics.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
Several tangible catalysts provide ample scope for earnings acceleration and further re-rating over the coming quarters:
- Action’s European store expansion plan has expanded its addressable opportunity to 4,850 additional stores, marking a significant uplift in medium-term growth potential.
- New investments: 3i’s acquisition of WaterWipes and OMS Prüfservice continues the trend of targeted high-quality portfolio additions, each with clear synergies and robust growth trajectories.
- Debt optimisation: Action’s refinancing generated €33 million in annual interest cost savings, directly bolstering bottom-line performance—an often overlooked, but powerful, driver of value.
- Portfolio realisations: The company signals an imminent pipeline of high-quality exits and realisations over the next 12–18 months—a proven value-creation lever.
- ESG and responsible investing: 3i’s thematic tilt prioritises future-facing business models and sustainable growth, increasingly valued by institutional allocators.
Additionally, the supportive macroeconomic context as inflationary pressures subside and consumer sentiment recovers further cushions the group’s key holdings, while its international diversification affords resilience against country-specific risks.
Investment Strategies
The current market setup offers several compelling angles for strategic entry:
- Short-term: The share’s neutral technical posture (RSI ~47) with solid underlying volume and defended support at 4,200 GBX allows nimble investors to accumulate ahead of upcoming dividend triggers (final dividend payable July) and portfolio event risk.
- Medium-term: With Action’s expansion and new investments coming online, NAV growth and positive guidance updates present multiple catalysts for sustained re-rating into late 2025.
- Long-term: 3i’s proven business model, unique permanent capital approach, and impressive track record underpin the case for a long-duration holding, capturing both compounding NAV gains and progressive dividend growth over the cycle.
From a tactical standpoint, positions taken near the 4,200–4,250 GBX technical support band could benefit both from mean reversion potential and proximity to upcoming positive catalysts.
Is it the Right Time to Buy 3i Group?
In sum, 3i Group stands out as an exceptional opportunity in the UK-listed alternatives landscape. The combination of:
- Outstanding recent and multi-year performance,
- Unmatched NAV growth driven by star asset Action,
- Disciplined and opportunistic portfolio management,
- Robust liquidity, prudent leverage, and ample cash,
- Attractive valuation at under 10x P/E, and
- A clear slate of immediate and medium-term growth catalysts,
…justifies renewed and serious consideration from investors seeking quality exposure to private equity and infrastructure through a listed UK share. The technical configuration is constructive, and the company is entering a fresh cycle of operating and strategic momentum.
As market sentiment continues to shift in favour of high-quality, cash-generative alternative asset managers, 3i Group’s fundamentals and prospective catalysts suggest the share is positioned to enter a new bullish phase. For investors seeking long-term value and robust participation in Europe’s ongoing economic revival, 3i Group seems to represent an excellent opportunity at current levels—worthy of attention as a core holding for the next chapter of growth in 2025 and beyond.
The stars appear aligned for 3i Group; the share’s combination of defensive strength, structural growth, and visible catalysts makes it one of the most strategically compelling choices in the sector today.
How to buy 3i Group stock in United Kingdom?
Buying 3i Group shares online is a straightforward and secure process for UK investors, thanks to the robust regulatory environment governing online brokers. You can choose between two main methods: purchasing shares outright (spot buying) or trading via Contracts for Difference (CFDs). Spot buying means you own the actual shares, while CFDs allow you to speculate on price movements without ownership. Each option has its own benefits, fees, and risks to consider. To help you find the right fit, we compare top UK-regulated brokers, with details available further down this page.
Spot Buying
A cash (spot) purchase of 3i Group stock means you buy the shares directly through a broker and become a part-owner of the company. This method is ideal for investors seeking long-term growth and potential dividends. Typical fees for UK brokers include a fixed commission per trade, averaging around £5–£10.
Important Example
Example:
If the share price is 4,243 GBX (that’s £42.43 per share), with a £1,000 investment, you can buy around 23 shares, accounting for a typical £5 commission:
- £1,000 – £5 commission = £995 available
- £995 / £42.43 ≈ 23 shares
✔️ Gain scenario:
If the share price rises by 10% (to £46.67), the value of your holding increases to £1,100.
Result: +£100 gross gain, or +10% on your initial investment (before any stamp duty or platform fees).
Trading via CFD
CFD trading lets you speculate on the price of 3i Group shares without owning the underlying asset. With CFDs, you can take leveraged positions (commonly 5x or more), amplifying potential gains—and risks. Instead of a commission, CFD brokers charge a “spread” (the difference between buy and sell price) and overnight financing fees if you hold positions beyond the trading day.
Important Example
Example:
With a £1,000 deposit and 5x leverage, your exposure is £5,000.
- If 3i Group shares rise by 8%, the value of your position increases by 8% × 5 = 40%.
- Result: You gain £400 on your £1,000 margin (before fees; note that losses are also magnified with leverage).
Final Advice
Before investing, it’s essential to compare brokers’ fees, trading platforms, and regulations—small differences can impact your returns. Whether you choose to buy and hold shares or trade with CFDs depends on your investment goals and risk appetite. You’ll find a practical broker comparison further down the page to help you select the platform that suits you best.
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Our 7 tips for buying 3i Group stock
| 📊 Step | 📝 Specific tip for 3i Group |
|---|---|
| Analyze the market | Review 3i Group’s recent performance—shares are up nearly 50% year-on-year—supported by exceptional results from Action and a strong 5-year track record, making it a resilient choice even in changing market conditions. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Opt for a UK-based share dealing platform or ISA/SIPP provider that offers competitive fees on LSE-listed stocks and makes it easy to buy and hold 3i Group under tax-efficient wrappers. |
| Define your investment budget | Allocate only the amount you’re comfortable committing for several years, as 3i Group’s long-term approach suits investors who can tolerate temporary market swings for sustained growth. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Focus on a long-term growth strategy, taking advantage of 3i’s permanent capital structure and the expansion potential of core holdings like Action, which underpins much of the group’s value. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Regularly check 3i Group’s quarterly and annual results, especially updates on their largest holding (Action) and portfolio developments, as these are key drivers of share performance. |
| Use risk management tools | Set clear stop-loss points or trailing stops tailored to your risk tolerance, and diversify with other sectors to reduce the impact of any one company—even a strong performer like 3i Group. |
| Sell at the right time | Consider selling a portion or rebalancing your position if 3i approaches analyst price targets, or if broader market or portfolio changes suggest it’s time to secure some profits. |
The latest news about 3i Group
3i Group's share price achieved a fresh 52-week high, underscoring continued investor enthusiasm. During the past week, the stock reached 4,292 GBX, its highest point in the last year, and closed at 4,243.00 GBX. This performance stands out both in relative and absolute terms—the shares are up 0.81% in the last seven days and have delivered an impressive 49.3% total return over the last twelve months. The strong price momentum, significantly outperforming the FTSE 100 Index, reflects growing market confidence in 3i’s strategy, portfolio quality, and resilience as a UK-listed private equity leader.
The Group announced robust third-quarter portfolio results, highlighting exceptional growth from its core asset, Action. As of December 31, 2024, Action—the Group’s largest portfolio company and a discount retailer operating across Europe—reported net sales of €13,782 million, up 22% year-on-year, and operating EBITDA growth of 29%. Action’s performance has been crucial for the Group, not only boosting net asset value per share to 2,457 pence (up from 2,261 pence at the previous quarter-end), but also underpinning 3i’s total return of 20% for the first nine months of the fiscal year. The successful expansion and resilience of Action, supported by 352 new store openings and improved EBITDA margins, have had a positive impact on UK investor sentiment.
3i’s balance sheet remains exceptionally strong, with substantial liquidity and reduced financial risk, providing flexibility for future initiatives. The Group reported a cash position of £792 million and low gearing of just 2%, down from 4% in the prior quarter. This financial strength is noteworthy in the context of ongoing market volatility and positions 3i well to pursue new investments or support existing portfolio companies. Such robust capital management is particularly relevant for UK investors mindful of risk and seeking exposure to alternative assets without disproportionately high leverage.
Dividend prospects remain attractive, with the next payout scheduled for July 2025 and eligibility for UK tax-advantaged accounts. With a forward dividend yield of 1.54% and the next final dividend anticipated on 25 July 2025, 3i continues to deliver steady, growing income. Dividends are eligible for inclusion in ISAs and SIPPs, making the stock particularly appealing for UK residents. The Group’s bi-annual payment policy and prudent distribution approach are further signals of shareholder alignment and operational stability.
Sell-side analysts remain optimistic, with an average target price suggesting further upside for 3i shares. According to consensus estimates collated over the past week, the target price for 3i Group stands at 4,380.56 GBX, representing a potential 3.2% upside from current levels. This positive outlook is based on the company’s continued execution, strong asset performance, defensive balance sheet, and well-managed portfolio. The persistently strong analyst support and modest valuation—P/E ratio of 9.75, below industry average—provide further constructive signals for UK investors considering the stock.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for 3i Group stock?
3i Group currently pays a dividend, with the next final FY2025 payment expected to be 0.65 GBP per share. This dividend is scheduled for payment on July 25, 2025, to shareholders registered as of June 20, 2025. The company adopts a bi-annual dividend schedule. Notably, the dividend yield stands at 1.54%, and 3i Group has maintained a record of stable and gradually increasing distributions over recent years.
What is the forecast for 3i Group stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of 4,243.00 GBX, projections are: 5,515.90 GBX for the end of 2025, 6,364.50 GBX by end of 2026, and 8,486.00 GBX by end of 2027. These estimates highlight a positive outlook, supported by the company’s resilient business model, exceptional performance of its largest holding, and ongoing portfolio optimisation. Analyst sentiment remains upbeat, citing strong fundamentals and attractive sector dynamics.
Should I sell my 3i Group shares?
Holding 3i Group shares may be suitable considering the company’s strong valuation, strategic positioning, and history of robust long-term performance. 3i’s diversified portfolio, prudent risk management, and leading position in private equity investment continue to support its mid- to long-term growth prospects. Furthermore, its stable financial profile and permanent capital structure provide resilience amid market fluctuations, making a long-term investment case compelling.
Are 3i Group shares eligible for inclusion in UK ISAs or SIPPs, and how are dividends taxed?
3i Group shares are eligible for inclusion in both UK ISAs and Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs), allowing investors to benefit from tax-free growth and dividend income. Outside of these wrappers, dividends are subject to the UK’s standard tax rules, including a £1,000 annual tax-free dividend allowance as of 2024/25. Any dividends exceeding this threshold are taxed according to your individual income tax rate.
What is the latest dividend for 3i Group stock?
3i Group currently pays a dividend, with the next final FY2025 payment expected to be 0.65 GBP per share. This dividend is scheduled for payment on July 25, 2025, to shareholders registered as of June 20, 2025. The company adopts a bi-annual dividend schedule. Notably, the dividend yield stands at 1.54%, and 3i Group has maintained a record of stable and gradually increasing distributions over recent years.
What is the forecast for 3i Group stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current share price of 4,243.00 GBX, projections are: 5,515.90 GBX for the end of 2025, 6,364.50 GBX by end of 2026, and 8,486.00 GBX by end of 2027. These estimates highlight a positive outlook, supported by the company’s resilient business model, exceptional performance of its largest holding, and ongoing portfolio optimisation. Analyst sentiment remains upbeat, citing strong fundamentals and attractive sector dynamics.
Should I sell my 3i Group shares?
Holding 3i Group shares may be suitable considering the company’s strong valuation, strategic positioning, and history of robust long-term performance. 3i’s diversified portfolio, prudent risk management, and leading position in private equity investment continue to support its mid- to long-term growth prospects. Furthermore, its stable financial profile and permanent capital structure provide resilience amid market fluctuations, making a long-term investment case compelling.
Are 3i Group shares eligible for inclusion in UK ISAs or SIPPs, and how are dividends taxed?
3i Group shares are eligible for inclusion in both UK ISAs and Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs), allowing investors to benefit from tax-free growth and dividend income. Outside of these wrappers, dividends are subject to the UK’s standard tax rules, including a £1,000 annual tax-free dividend allowance as of 2024/25. Any dividends exceeding this threshold are taxed according to your individual income tax rate.
