U.S. economic growth accelerated at a faster pace than previous estimates, according to U.S. Commerce Department’s fourth-quarter gross domestic product report. Fourth-quarter GDP grew at an annual pace of 3.1 percent, up from the Bureau of Economic Analysis’ previous estimate of 2.8 percent. The report, issued Friday, cites stronger consumer spending. Consumer spending rose 4 percent, the biggest increase since the fourth quarter of 2006. Inventory and business investment both rose, while exports of goods and services fell. Corporate profits increased 2.3 percent in the quarter, led by banks and other financial firms. The financial-services sector saw its profits grow...