Investment Instruments

Total money market mutual fund assets rose $9.56 billion to $2.748 trillion for the week, the Investment Company Institute said Thursday.

Long term care cost inflation is creating new challenges for financial professionals and their clients, as uncertainty about equities, a soft housing market and rising healthcare costs have stunted the growth of many retirement portfolios.

S&P 500 defined pensions remain underfunded by $245 billion, despite slight growth in 2010.

A new survey from the Retirement Income Industry Association found clients and advisors would benefit from receiving more informatin about their existing immediate income annuity contracts.

AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company announced that Michael Healy was elected to the position of executive vice president by the Board of Directors.

A flash mob of dancing "grandmas" took over Times Square yesterday, kicking off a nationwide tour and contest to help those caring for aging parents and loved ones.