Total U.S. money market mutual fund assets rose $32.33 billion to $2.644 trillion for the week that ended Wednesday, according to the Investment Co. Institute.

The number of people seeking U.S. unemployment aid fell sharply last week as a temporary spike caused by Superstorm Sandy has faded. Weekly applications have fallen back to a level consistent with modest hiring.

One of the key players in a case involving fraudulent use of the New York state pension system will not have to serve jail time, despite pleading guilty over three years ago.

Ohio lawmakers moved quickly Wednesday to pass a bill setting training and certification requirements for a new group of professionals who will help guide consumers through the new health insurance exchange.