Comyn loses his deputy; No ship to Red Sea; Inside the secret CEO school

Almost half of all Virgin Australia flights delayed in November
Some 62 per cent of domestic Qantas flights arrived on time, with Transport Minister Catherine King warning the government could act if issues persisted.

Billionaire Richard White spends $11m on Rolling Stone’s local owner
The WiseTech founder, worth an estimated $10.5 billion, will bankroll ASX-listed Vinyl Group’s acquisition of The Brag Media.

ACCC rejects Treasury’s attempts to copy US, NZ merger laws
The competition watchdog has warned Treasury that two of the government’s three proposals for merger reforms would fail to fix systemic problems, leaving consumers, small businesses and farmers worse off.

Around the world

More states gear up to hear challenges to Trump’s eligibility
More than a dozen other states have pending legal challenges under the same amendment, according to US media reports.

Over 100 container ships reroute as US weighs Red Sea response
Insurance premiums are surging for those who do cross the Red Sea, freight rates are up and so are oil prices – all potential factors for more inflation.

EU, France deliver migration crackdowns as populists surge
A “breakthrough” deal could end years of infighting over illegal immigrants. Emmanuel Macron needed a key rival’s support for his tough reforms.

Hamas leader visits Egypt amid intensive talks on new ceasefire
Ismail Haniyeh, who usually lives in Qatar, typically wades publicly into diplomacy only when progress seems likely.

Matter of opinion

Inside the secret school for ASX CEOs
Chanticleer has been given a rare look inside the invite-only course for new ASX150 CEOs, which is the brainchild of BHP chairman Ken MacKenzie, writes Chanticleer.

Shippers know the Suez is always a crisis waiting to happen
The channel should still be used, when it’s safe, as the savings are great. But knowing there’s a backup is enough assurance that the global economy won’t crash, writes Tim Culpan.

Business life

Beyond power and politics in Washington DC, a surprising culinary find
The US capital is buzzing with the traditional restaurants and tantalising aromas of Ethiopia. Here are seven eateries to try.

Naughty and nice: seven Christmas films for a cooler Yule
Whether you love a sappy classic or a darker take on the festive season, here are some of our favourites to help you escape some viewing nightmares before Christmas.

Deep-fried mince pies are worth trying, really
The batter coating adds crunch, while the filling becomes richer and gooier.