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Thursday’s business headlines

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Here’s a look at Thursday’s business headlines.

Vaccine

The White House has selected five candidates as part of its “operation Warp Speed” initiative to accelerate the development of a coronavirus vaccine.

The New York Times reports the five companies that have been selected are Moderna Astrazeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Merck and Pfizer.

The company’s treatments are in various stages of trials.

The goal is still a vaccine by the end of the year.

Eli Lilly said this week it has started the first human trial of an antibody therapy designed to treat COVID-19.

Delta Air lines

Delta Air Lines says it will extend social distancing measures on its flights through Sept. 30 and will block the selection of middle seats and cap seating in every cabin.

Reuters reported last month the airline would keep planes to no more than 60% full through at least July, adding more flights to its schedule than demand would usually justify, citing sources.

The goal is to convince passengers worried about COVID-19 to return to flying.

Amazon

Amazon is ending its $2 pay increase for warehouse workers instituted after the outbreak of the coronavirus.

Business Insider says Amazon warehouse workers around the nation expressed their frustration with the company’s decision to end the pay raise.

Although Amazon warehouses were overwhelmed with demand in March and April, reports suggest that Amazon’s warehouse operations have mostly returned to normal.

401K

Retirement savers will now have access to private equity investments through their 401K plans.

Private equity investments are viewed as riskier – which means they offer the opportunity for more reward but also for greater losses.

The goal is to increase the range of investment options available to defined contribution plans.