UK's 3i rises after new buyback launch, NAV growth

** Shares of private equity group 3i Group III.L up 3.4% at 2,654 pence

** Co commences second buyback programme of up to £750 million, to be completed by May 2027 end

** III says NAV per share on September 30 this year increased to 3,154 pence vs NAV per share of 3,030 pence on March 31

** Co expects full-year like-for-like sales growth to be around 4%, with earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization margin likely to be 14.7% or 14.8%

** As of last close, stock down ~18.5% YTD