10-K

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-K

(Mark One)
[x]	ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011

OR

[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ______ to ______.

Commission file number 1-15202

W. R. BERKLEY CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware	22-1867895
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
475 Steamboat Road, Greenwich, CT (Address of principal executive offices)	06830 (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (203) 629-3000

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each Class	Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common Stock, par value $.20 per share	New York Stock Exchange
6.75% Trust Originated Preferred Securities	New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. 

 Yes SNo o

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act. 

 Yes  o   No S

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes S   No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes S     No o

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K or any amendment to this Annual Report on Form 10-K. S

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company”

in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer S		Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o	(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes o     No S

The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates (computed by reference to the price at which the common stock was last sold) as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter was $3,736,987,598.

Number of shares of common stock, $.20 par value, outstanding as of February 16, 2012: 137,880,895

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the Company’s definitive proxy statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2011, are incorporated herein by reference in Part III.

			Page
SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT
	PART I
ITEM	1.	BUSINESS	1
ITEM	1A.	RISK FACTORS	21
ITEM	1B.	UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS	30
ITEM	2.	PROPERTIES	30
ITEM	3.	LEGAL PROCEEDINGS	30
ITEM	4.	RESERVED	30
	PART II
ITEM	5.	MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES	31
ITEM	6.	SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA	32
ITEM	7.	MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS	32
ITEM	7A.	QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK	54
ITEM	8.	FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA	55
ITEM	9.	CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE	89
ITEM	9A.	CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES	90
ITEM	9B.	OTHER INFORMATION	92
	PART III
ITEM	10.	DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE	93
ITEM	11.	EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION	93
ITEM	12.	SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS	93
ITEM	13.	CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE	93
ITEM	14.	PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES	93
	PART IV
ITEM	15.	EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES	93
EX-10.12		FORM OF 2011 PERFORMANCE UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT UNDER THE W. R. BERKLEY CORPORATION LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN
EX-10.14		SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS AGREEMENT BETWEEN WILLIAM R. BERKLEY AND THE COMPANY AS AMENDED AND RESTATED AS OF DECEMBER 21, 2011
EX-23		CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
EX-31.1		CERTIFICATION OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a) /15d-14(a)
EX-31.2		CERTIFICATION OF THE CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a) /15d-14(a)
EX-32.1		CERTIFICATION OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANNES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
EX-101		INSTANCE DOCUMENT
EX-101		SCHEMA DOCUMENT
EX-101		CALCULATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT
EX-101		LABELS LINKBASE DOCUMENT
EX-101		PRESENTATION LINKBASE DOCUMENT
EX-101		DEFINITION LINKBASE DOCUMENT

SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT

UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES

LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995

This is a “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This document may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Some of the forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “believes,” “expects,” “potential,” “continued,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seeks,” “approximately,” “predicts,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “anticipates” or the negative version of those words or other comparable words. Any forward-looking statements contained herein including statements related to our outlook for the industry and for our performance for the year 2012 and beyond, are based upon our historical performance and on current plans, estimates and expectations. The inclusion of this forward-looking information should not be regarded as a representation by us that the future plans, estimates or expectations contemplated by us will be achieved. They are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to:

• the cyclical nature of the property casualty industry;

• the impact of significant competition;

• the long-tail and potentially volatile nature of the insurance and reinsurance business;

• product demand and pricing;

• claims development and the process of estimating reserves;

• investment risks, including those of our portfolio of fixed maturity securities and investments in equity securities, including investments in financial institutions, municipal bonds, mortgage-backed securities, loans receivable, investment funds, real estate, merger arbitrage and private equity investments;

• the effects of emerging claim and coverage issues;

• the uncertain nature of damage theories and loss amounts;

• natural and man-made catastrophic losses, including as a result of terrorist activities;

• general economic and market activities, including inflation, interest rates and volatility in the credit and capital markets;

• the impact of conditions in the financial markets and the global economy, and the potential effect of legislative, regulatory, accounting or other initiatives taken in response to it, on our results and financial condition;

• continued availability of capital and financing;

• the success of our new ventures or acquisitions and the availability of other opportunities;

• the availability of reinsurance;

• our retention under the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002, as amended;

• the ability of our reinsurers to pay reinsurance recoverables owed to us;

• foreign currency and political risks relating to our international operations;

• other legislative and regulatory developments, including those related to business practices in the insurance industry;

• credit risk relating to our policyholders, independent agents and brokers;

• changes in the ratings assigned to us or our insurance company subsidiaries by rating agencies;

• the availability of dividends from our insurance company subsidiaries;

• our ability to attract and retain key personnel and qualified employees;

• potential difficulties with technology and/or data security;

• the effectiveness of our controls to ensure compliance with guidelines, policies and legal and regulatory standards; and

• other risks detailed in this Form 10-K and from time to time in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

We describe these risks and uncertainties in greater detail in Item 1A, Risk Factors. These risks and uncertainties could cause our actual results for the year 2012 and beyond to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement we make. Any projections of growth in our revenues would not necessarily result in commensurate levels of earnings. Our future financial performance is dependent upon factors discussed elsewhere in this Form 10-K and our other SEC filings. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made.

PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

W. R. Berkley Corporation is an insurance holding company that is among the largest commercial lines writers in the United States. It operates in the following segments of the property casualty insurance business:

•Specialty, including excess and surplus lines and admitted specialty lines;

•Regional commercial lines property casualty;

• Alternative Markets, including excess workers' compensation, monoline workers' compensation, accident and health, and insurance services;

• Reinsurance, on both a facultative and treaty basis and participating in business written through Lloyd's of London; and    

• International business in selected regions throughout the world.

Each of our five business segments is comprised of individual operating units that serve a market defined by geography, products, services or types of customers. Each of our operating units is positioned close to its customer base and participates in a niche market requiring specialized knowledge about a territory or product. This strategy of decentralized operations allows each of our units to identify and respond quickly and effectively to changing market conditions and local customer needs, while capitalizing on the benefits of centralized capital, investment and reinsurance management, and corporate actuarial, financial, enterprise risk management and legal staff support.

Our business approach is focused on meeting the needs of our customers, maintaining a high quality balance sheet, and allocating capital to our best opportunities. New businesses are started when opportunities are identified and when the right talent and expertise are found to lead a business. Of the Company's 45 operating units, 38 have been organized and developed internally and seven have been added through acquisition.

    Our Specialty insurance and Reinsurance operations are conducted throughout the United States, and, on a limited basis, outside the United States. Regional insurance operations are conducted across the continental United States in five regions: the Midwest, Northeast, South (excluding Florida and Louisiana), Mid Atlantic, and North Pacific regions. Alternative Markets operations are conducted throughout the United States. Our International operations are conducted primarily in the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, South America, Australia, the Asia Pacific region, Scandinavia and Canada.

Net premiums written, as reported based on United States generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), for each of our operating segments for each of the past five years were as follows:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
	(Amounts in thousands)
Net premiums written:
Specialty	$	1,554,516	$	1,311,831	$	1,260,451	$	1,453,778	$	1,704,880
Regional	1,064,507		1,044,347		1,081,100		1,211,096		1,267,451
Alternative Markets	619,097		582,045		589,637		622,185		656,369
Reinsurance	430,329		401,239		423,425		435,108		682,241
International	688,919		511,464		375,482		311,732		265,048
Total	$	4,357,368	$	3,850,926	$	3,730,095	$	4,033,899	$	4,575,989

1

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Percentage of net premiums written:
Specialty	35.7	%	34.1	%	33.7	%	36.1	%	37.3	%
Regional	24.4		27.1		29.0		30.0		27.7
Alternative Markets	14.2		15.1		15.8		15.4		14.3
Reinsurance	9.9		10.4		11.4		10.8		14.9
International	15.8		13.3		10.1		7.7		5.8
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

Twenty-six of our twenty-seven insurance company subsidiaries rated by A.M. Best Company, Inc. (“A.M. Best”) have ratings of A+ (Superior) (the second highest rating out of 15 possible ratings), and one is rated A (Excellent) (the third highest rating). A.M. Best's ratings are based upon factors of concern to policyholders, insurance agents and brokers and are not directed toward the protection of investors. A.M. Best states: “The Financial Strength Rating opinion addresses the relative ability of an insurer to meet its ongoing insurance obligations. The ratings are not assigned to specific insurance policies or contracts and do not address any other risk.” A.M. Best reviews its ratings on a periodic basis, and its ratings of the Company's subsidiaries are therefore subject to change.

Twenty-two of our twenty-three insurance company subsidiaries rated by Standard & Poor's (“S&P”) have financial strength ratings of A+ (the seventh highest rating out of twenty-seven possible ratings), and one is rated A (the eighth highest rating).

Our Moody's ratings are A2 for Berkley Insurance Company, Berkley Regional Insurance Company and Admiral Insurance Company (the sixth highest rating out of twenty-one possible ratings).

The following sections describe our reporting segments and their operating units in greater detail. These operating units underwrite on behalf of one or more affiliated insurance companies within the group pursuant to underwriting management agreements. Certain operating units are identified by us herein for descriptive purposes only and are not legal entities. Unless otherwise indicated, all references in this Form 10-K to “W. R. Berkley,” “we,” “us,” “our,” the “Company” or similar terms refer to W. R. Berkley Corporation together with its subsidiaries. W. R. Berkley Corporation is a Delaware corporation formed in 1970.

SPECIALTY

Our Specialty lines companies underwrite risks within the excess and surplus lines market and on an admitted basis. The risks are highly complex, often unique exposures that typically fall outside the underwriting guidelines of the standard insurance market or are best served by specialized knowledge of a particular industry. The Specialty lines of business include premises operations, commercial automobile, property, products liability and professional liability lines. The customers in this segment are highly diverse. Business is conducted through the following 20 operating units, each delivering their products through a variety of distribution channels, depending on the customer base and particular risks insured:

Admiral Insurance provides excess and surplus lines coverage for commercial risks that generally consist of hard-to- place, specialized risks that involve moderate to high degrees of hazard. Its lines of business include general liability, professional liability, property, and excess and umbrella coverage. Admiral's expanding professional liability and program operations include special coverages for technology, ambulatory surgery centers, chiropractors and concierge physicians. Its products are distributed exclusively by wholesale brokers.

American Mining Insurance offers workers' compensation insurance as well as general liability, automobile, and excess liability coverages to a broad range of firms within the mining and aggregate industries in the U.S. It also serves as a third-party administrator of workers' compensation mining claims for clients in several states.

Berkley Asset Protection Underwriters provides products designed to protect a broad spectrum of high-value commercial and personal assets, including coverage for fine art risks such as museums, galleries and corporate and private collections; fidelity/crime for commercial and public entity risks; jewelers block for wholesale, retail, manufacturing and mining risks; cash-in-transit carriers and certain inland marine risks. Package coverages include property, general liability, umbrella and workers' compensation.

2

Berkley Aviation offers a wide range of aviation insurance products, including coverage for airlines, helicopters, miscellaneous general aviation operations, non-owned aircraft, fixed-base operations, control towers, airports and other specialized niche programs. It places its business on an admitted and non-admitted basis nationwide.

Berkley Life Sciences offers a comprehensive spectrum of property casualty products to the life sciences industry on a global basis, including primary and excess liability coverage and commercial insurance. It serves pharmaceutical and biologic/biotech companies, medical device companies, dietary supplement manufacturers, medical and research software developers, contract service organizations, research institutions and organizations, and other related businesses.

Berkley Offshore Underwriting Managers is an underwriter of oil and gas exploration and production risks worldwide. It provides coverage for fixed and floating property, as well as operator's extra expense, for international and national oil companies, independent exploration and production companies, contractors, and construction and installation risks.

Berkley Oil & Gas Specialty Services provides property casualty products and risk services to the U.S. energy sector. Its customer base includes oil patch, including operators, drillers, geophysical contractors, well-servicing contractors, and manufacturers/distributors of oil field products.

Berkley Professional Liability is an underwriting management company specializing in professional liability insurance for large publicly-traded and private entities based in the United States and Canada. Its liability coverages include directors and officers, fiduciary, employment practices, and sponsored insurance agents.

Berkley Select specializes in underwriting professional liability insurance with a particular emphasis on large law firms, accounting firms and medical institution facilities. Its products are distributed nationwide through a limited number of brokers.

Berkley Specialty Underwriting Managers has three underwriting divisions. Its entertainment and sports division underwrites property casualty insurance products, both on an admitted and non-admitted basis, for the entertainment industry and sports-related organizations. The environmental division underwrites specialty insurance products for environmental customers such as contractors, consultants and owners of sites and facilities. Its specialty casualty division underwrites excess and surplus lines general liability coverage with an emphasis on product liability.

Berkley Technology Underwriters, which began operations in 2011, provides a broad range of first and third-party insurance programs for technology exposures and technology industries on both a local and global basis.

Berkley Underwriting Partners is a program management company offering both admitted and non-admitted insurance support on a nationwide basis for commercial casualty and inland marine program administrators with specialized insurance expertise. Its book is built around blocks of homogeneous business, or programs, allowing for efficient processes, effective oversight of existing programs and sound implementation of new programs.

Carolina Casualty Insurance provides commercial insurance products and services to the transportation industry with an emphasis on intermediate and long-haul trucking and various classes of business and public automobile coverage. It operates as an admitted carrier in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Clermont Specialty Managers is a provider of package insurance programs for high-end cooperative, condominium, and quality rental apartment buildings and upscale restaurants in the New York, New Jersey and Chicago metropolitan markets.

FinSecure serves the insurance needs of financial institutions, credit unions, mortgage lenders, mortgage servicers and trust managers. It offers a comprehensive range of property, casualty, professional liability, and specialty lines insurance products and loss control services, including financial institution-specific commercial package policies, workers' compensation, umbrella, commercial auto, management liability coverages, and financial institution bonds.

Gemini Transportation Underwriters is a national provider of excess liability insurance for various domestic surface transportation industry businesses. It underwrites liability insurance policies for the railroad industry as well as excess liability policies for the trucking, busing and other industries that use rubber-wheeled vehicles for over-the-road use.

Monitor Liability Managers provides executive and professional liability insurance to small to middle-market risks on a nationwide basis. Its primary professional liability products are directors and officers, employment practices and fiduciary coverages for public and private companies and nonprofit organizations, and errors and omissions policies for accounting and law firms.

3

Nautilus Insurance insures excess and surplus lines risks for small to medium-sized commercial risks with low to moderate susceptibility to loss. It writes commercial excess and surplus lines business nationwide and admitted lines commercial business in a limited number of states. A substantial portion of Nautilus' business is written through its close, long-standing network of general agents, who are chosen on a highly selective basis.

Vela Insurance Services is an underwriting manager that specializes in commercial casualty insurance on an excess and surplus lines basis. Its primary focus is on general liability insurance for construction, manufacturing and general casualty clients and on miscellaneous professional liability coverage distributed through wholesale insurance brokers in the U.S.

Verus Underwriting Managers, which began operations in 2010, is an underwriting management company offering general liability, professional liability and property coverages for small to mid-sized commercial risks in the excess and surplus lines insurance market through a select group of appointed wholesale brokers and agents.

The following table sets forth the percentage of gross premiums written by each Specialty operating unit:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Berkley Specialty Underwriting Managers	14.8	%	12.0	%	8.5	%	9.6	%	9.2	%
Admiral Insurance	14.2		16.7		20.4		24.0		28.2
Nautilus Insurance	13.9		15.9		16.8		17.5		18.2
Monitor Liability Managers	8.2		10.1		10.4		8.6		7.4
Berkley Underwriting Partners	6.5		6.8		6.2		6.8		6.3
Berkley Select	5.5		5.6		5.3		2.9		0.8
Carolina Casualty Insurance	4.9		5.0		9.3		14.8		14.9
Berkley Oil & Gas Specialty Services	4.5		0.9		—		—		—
Vela Insurance Services	4.5		4.9		4.4		5.6		7.9
Berkley Offshore Underwriting Managers	4.1		3.7		2.7		—		—
Berkley Aviation	3.6		3.9		3.6		3.3		3.3
Clermont Specialty Managers	3.5		4.1		4.0		3.7		3.4
Berkley Professional Liability	2.2		2.4		2.1		0.1		—
American Mining Insurance	2.1		2.3		2.2		2.1		0.4
Gemini Transportation Underwriters	2.0		1.9		1.2		—		—
Berkley Asset Protection Underwriters	1.8		1.5		1.1		0.3		—
FinSecure	1.6		1.2		0.6		—		—
Berkley Life Sciences	1.3		1.1		1.2		0.7		—
Verus Underwriting Managers	0.8		—		—		—		—
Berkley Technology Underwriters	—		—		—		—		—
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

4

The following table sets forth the percentages of gross premiums written, by line, by our Specialty insurance operations:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Other liability	31.1	%	29.1	%	29.5	%	32.8	%	38.0	%
Property	20.7		20.4		19.0		15.1		14.4
Professional liability	16.6		18.3		18.1		12.9		9.9
Commercial automobile	8.9		8.2		10.4		16.0		15.8
Products liability	5.6		6.0		7.5		10.2		12.0
Other	17.1		18.0		15.5		13.0		9.9
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

REGIONAL

Our Regional companies provide insurance products and services that meet the specific needs of each regionally differentiated customer base by developing expertise in the niches that drive local communities. They provide commercial insurance products to customers primarily in 45 states and the District of Columbia. Key clients of this segment are small-to-mid-sized businesses and state and local governmental entities. The Regional business is sold through a network of non-exclusive independent agents who are compensated on a commission basis. Our Regional operating units are organized geographically in order to provide them with the flexibility to adapt quickly to local market conditions and customer needs.

Acadia Insurance is a Northeast regional property casualty insurance company offering a broad portfolio of products exclusively through local independent agents in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont. In addition to its general offerings, Acadia has specialized expertise in regional businesses and industries such as construction, lumber and fishing.

Berkley Mid-Atlantic Group provides commercial property casualty coverages to a wide variety of businesses in Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Virginia. Focusing on middle market accounts, it complements its standard writings with specialized products in areas such as transportation, social services, nonprofit organizations and inland as well as ocean marine.

Berkley North Pacific, formerly a branch of Continental Western Group, became a separate operating unit in August 2009. Berkley North Pacific is based in Seattle, Washington, with an office in Boise, Idaho, and operates in five states in the Pacific Northwest region. It offers a full array of commercial property casualty coverages, including specialty programs for transportation, construction, light manufacturing, and agribusiness to businesses in the Pacific Northwest.

Berkley Regional Specialty provides excess and surplus lines coverage on a national basis to small to medium-sized insureds with low to moderate insurance risk. Its product lines include general liability, liquor liability and some property and inland marine coverage. It serves a limited distribution channel consisting of select W. R. Berkley Corporation member company agents.

Berkley Surety provides a broad array of surety products for contract and commercial surety risks, including specialty niches such as environmental and secured credit for small contractors, through an independent agency and broker platform across a nationwide network of 16 field offices.

Continental Western is based in Des Moines, Iowa and provides underwriting and risk management services to customers in 12 states in the Midwest. Its niche offerings are tailored to the local communities in which it operates, including coverages for fire departments, public entities, rural utilities, churches, golf courses, implement dealers and auto service and repair, and specialized programs for agriculture-based businesses.

Regional Excess Underwriters is a full service excess and surplus lines brokerage and general agent offering commercial coverages to agents contracted with W. R. Berkley Corporation member companies and select other agents and brokers throughout the continental United States. Surplus lines risks are placed either within the W. R. Berkley group of insurance companies, or by drawing upon the resources of other non-admitted insurance carriers.

Union Standard Insurance provides commercial property casualty insurance products to a wide range of small to medium-sized commercial entities through independent agents located throughout Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Mississippi,

5

New Mexico, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas. Complementing its standard market offerings, Union Standard also offers specialized products such as farm and ranch, short-haul transportation, and an educational institution program.

The following table sets forth the percentage of gross premiums written by each Regional operating unit:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Acadia Insurance	29.3	%	26.4	%	25.1	%	23.8	%	24.3	%
Continental Western	23.2		23.9		26.3		27.2		27.0
Union Standard Insurance	18.1		18.5		18.5		17.7		17.0
Berkley Mid-Atlantic	17.7		17.9		16.9		15.6		15.6
Berkley Surety	5.2		5.0		3.6		2.9		2.7
Berkley North Pacific	5.1		4.0		3.0		5.3		6.2
Berkley Regional Specialty	1.2		1.2		1.2		1.2		1.1
Assigned risk plans (1)	—		3.1		5.4		6.3		6.1
Other	0.2		—		—		—		—
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

_____________

(1) Assigned risk plans were transferred to the Alternative Markets segment in 2011.

The following table sets forth the percentages of gross premiums written, by line, by our Regional insurance operations:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Commercial multi-peril	37.4	%	35.8	%	34.7	%	34.3	%	34.8	%
Automobile	24.9		25.3		25.3		25.5		25.8
Workers’ compensation	19.1		18.0		18.1		18.2		17.8
Assigned risk plans (1)	—		3.1		5.4		6.3		6.1
Other	18.6		17.8		16.5		15.7		15.5
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

_____________

(1) Assigned risk plans were transferred to the Alternative Markets segment in 2011.

6

The following table sets forth the percentages of direct premiums written by our Regional insurance operations by state:

	Year Ended December 31,
State	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Massachusetts	7.8	%	7.2	%	6.8	%	6.8	%	7.1	%
Texas	6.9		7.1		7.1		6.7		6.4
Pennsylvania	6.5		6.7		6.3		5.7		5.8
Maine	6.1		5.7		5.3		4.7		4.9
New Hampshire	5.8		5.3		5.0		4.9		5.1
Mississippi	3.9		3.6		3.5		3.2		2.8
North Carolina	3.8		4.2		3.6		3.3		3.4
Connecticut	3.6		2.9		3.1		3.0		2.9
Vermont	3.3		3.4		3.1		3.0		3.3
New York	3.2		3.1		2.8		2.3		2.1
Washington	3.2		2.4		1.8		2.8		3.1
Iowa	3.1		3.6		4.0		4.2		4.2
Virginia	3.1		2.8		2.6		2.4		2.4
Kansas	2.9		3.2		5.3		5.8		6.1
Nebraska	2.8		3.0		3.9		3.8		3.8
Minnesota	2.6		2.8		3.0		3.2		3.2
Maryland	2.4		2.2		2.4		2.1		2.1
Wisconsin	2.3		2.8		2.4		2.5		2.5
Missouri	2.3		2.4		2.6		2.8		3.0
Arkansas	2.1		2.3		2.3		2.3		2.5
Colorado	2.0		2.2		3.2		3.7		3.7
Oklahoma	1.8		1.6		1.7		1.5		1.6
South Dakota	1.7		1.8		2.4		2.3		2.2
Illinois	1.4		2.3		2.5		2.7		1.7
Tennessee	1.4		1.5		1.4		1.5		1.6
Alabama	1.3		1.2		1.2		1.1		1.0
New Mexico	1.3		1.3		1.2		1.2		1.2
South Carolina	1.2		1.3		1.3		1.3		1.2
North Dakota	1.2		1.1		1.0		0.9		0.7
Arizona	1.1		1.1		0.9		0.7		0.6
Oregon	0.9		0.8		0.6		1.2		1.3
Idaho	0.8		0.8		0.7		1.1		1.2
Indiana	0.7		1.1		0.9		0.9		1.1
Other	5.5		5.2		4.1		4.4		4.2
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

ALTERNATIVE MARKETS

Often, alternative methods of risk management result in our customers choosing to retain more risk than they might otherwise retain in the traditional insurance market. Our Alternative Markets operating units offer insurance products, analytical tools and risk management services such as loss control and claims management that enable clients to select their risk tolerance and manage it appropriately. These units specialize in insuring, reinsuring and administering self-insurance programs and other alternative risk transfer mechanisms for clients such as commercial and governmental entity employers, employer groups, insurers, and other groups or entities seeking alternative ways to manage their exposure to risks. In addition to providing insurance products, the Alternative Markets segment also provides a wide variety of fee-based services, including claims, administrative and consulting services.

7

Berkley Accident and Health underwrites accident and health insurance and reinsurance products in four primary areas: medical stop loss, managed care, special risk and group captive. It has a diversified product and service portfolio serving a range of clients from small employers, health care organizations, and membership groups to Fortune 500 companies.

Berkley Medical Excess Underwriters insures healthcare organizations such as hospitals and clinics that retain a portion of their risk exposure through a self-funded mechanism and seek to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of their excess risk financing program.

Berkley Net Underwriters focuses on niche insurance products for small and medium-sized commercial risks, using a web-based system to allow producers to quote, bind and service workers' compensation insurance products on behalf of W. R. Berkley Corporation member companies.

Berkley Risk Administrators provides insurance program management services to a variety of organizations, including self-insureds, captives, governmental entities, risk retention groups, and insurance companies. It is also a nationwide third-party claims administrator and is the nation's third largest servicing carrier for workers' compensation assigned risk plans, serving plans in 20 states.

Key Risk Insurance is a provider of workers' compensation insurance products and services for employers in the public and private sectors throughout the Eastern United States. It focuses on middle-market accounts in specialty niches and on larger self-insured entities, with a special emphasis on expert claims and managed-care services. Additionally, Key Risk's affiliate, Key Risk Management Services, Inc., provides third party administration of self-insured workers' compensation programs.

Midwest Employers Casualty provides excess workers' compensation insurance products to individual employers, groups and workers' compensation insurance companies across the United States. Its workers' compensation excess of loss products include self-insured excess of loss coverages, large deductible policies and reinsurance. Through its relationship with Berkley Net Underwriters, Midwest Employers Casualty also offers multi-state coverage for group self-insureds. It has developed sophisticated, proprietary analytical tools and risk management services that help their insureds lower their total cost of risk.

Preferred Employers Insurance focuses exclusively on workers' compensation products and services for businesses in California. It serves over 12,000 customers covering a broad spectrum of industries throughout the state.

Riverport Insurance Services provides property casualty insurance coverages to human services organizations, including nonprofit and for-profit organizations, public entities, and self-insured companies, associations and purchasing groups. Its product offerings include traditional primary coverages, as well as alternative market solutions for clients who wish to retain a larger share of their own risk.

The following table sets forth the percentages of gross premiums written by each Alternative Markets operating unit:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Midwest Employers Casualty	20.3	%	30.7	%	38.3	%	42.1	%	45.1	%
Berkley Accident and Health	15.2		10.6		6.1		4.6		2.6
Key Risk Insurance	14.3		16.1		17.7		18.8		17.6
Berkley Net Underwriters	11.3		10.4		10.6		6.7		3.1
Preferred Employers Insurance	8.5		8.9		8.2		8.3		11.3
Riverport Insurance Services	7.6		8.2		10.2		9.3		7.7
Berkley Medical Excess Underwriters	4.6		5.6		5.2		4.4		4.6
Assigned risk plans (1)	18.2		9.5		3.7		5.8		8.0
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

__________

(1) Assigned risk premiums are written on behalf of assigned risk plans managed by the Company. Assigned risk premiums are 100% reinsured by the respective state-sponsored assigned risk pools.

8

The following table sets forth percentages of gross premium written, by line, by our Alternative Markets operations:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Primary Workers' Compensation	34.8	%	36.9	%	38.5	%	35.6	%	33.9	%
Excess Workers' Compensation	18.9		29.1		36.5		40.4		43.3
Accident & Health	15.2		10.6		6.1		4.6		2.6
Other liability	5.7		4.8		5.3		4.7		3.7
Other	7.2		9.1		9.9		8.9		8.5
Assigned risk plans	18.2		9.5		3.7		5.8		8.0
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

REINSURANCE

We provide other insurance companies and self-insureds with assistance in managing their net risk through reinsurance on either a portfolio basis, through treaty reinsurance, or on an individual basis, through facultative reinsurance.

Berkley Re America is a specialty reinsurance underwriter with an emphasis on providing solutions for insurance companies, or units within insurance companies, that have a successful business model built upon specialization in the products they underwrite. Its lines of business include general and products liability, environmental liability, professional liability, medical malpractice, automobile, umbrella and excess liability, workers' compensation, and property.

Berkley Risk Solutions specializes in casualty insurance and reinsurance transactions that provide solutions to clients' risk-based funding, capital and other strategic business goals. It considers a wide variety of submissions for self-insured, insurance and reinsurance platforms. Through other W. R. Berkley Corporation member companies, Berkley Risk Solutions also offers clients the option of purchasing ancillary services, such as claims handling.

B F Re Underwriters is a direct casualty facultative reinsurance underwriting manager serving clients through a nationwide network of regional offices. Its facultative reinsurance products include automatic, semi-automatic and individual risk assumed reinsurance. B F Re Underwriters also provides its customers value-added services across its lines, including underwriting, claims and actuarial consultation.

Facultative ReSources is a broker market casualty, professional liability and property facultative underwriting manager based in Stamford, Connecticut with branch offices in Chicago, Atlanta and Los Angeles. It provides expertise across many lines of facultative business, and has recently broadened its expertise in a number of specialized areas, including professional liability and property hazards in emerging technologies.

Lloyd's Reinsurance represents the Company's minority participation in a Lloyd's syndicate that writes a broad range of mainly short-tail classes of business.

The following table sets forth the percentages of gross premiums written by each Reinsurance operating unit:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Berkley Re America	66.2	%	65.4	%	58.9	%	52.2	%	39.6	%
Lloyd’s Reinsurance	13.9		15.9		18.8		14.7		22.6
Facultative ReSources	10.5		14.2		19.4		22.1		21.2
B F Re Underwriters	9.5		9.6		9.4		12.2		11.2
Berkley Risk Solutions(1)	(0.1	)	(5.1	)	(6.5	)	(1.2	)	4.6
Hong Kong(2)	—		—		—		—		0.8
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

___________

(1) Berkley Risk Solutions reported return premiums on experience rated contracts in 2008 through 2011.

(2) Hong Kong has been included in Berkley Re Australia’s reported results in the International segment since 2008.

9

The following table sets forth the percentages of gross premiums written, by property versus casualty business, by our Reinsurance operations:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Casualty	69.3	%	67.8	%	70.2	%	82.8	%	76.2	%
Property	30.7		32.2		29.8		17.2		23.8
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

INTERNATIONAL

Through our International operating units, we write business in almost 40 countries worldwide, with branches or offices in 15 locations outside the United States, including the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, South America, Australia, the Asia Pacific region, Scandinavia and Canada. In each of our operating territories, we have built decentralized structures that allow products and services to be tailored to each regional customer base. Our businesses are managed by teams of professionals with expertise in local markets and knowledge of regional environments.

Berkley Canada underwrites specialty, casualty and surety lines of business on behalf of the Canadian branch of Berkley Insurance Company. It specializes in commercial casualty and professional liability, and offers a broad portfolio of risk products that include commercial general liability, umbrella, professional liability, directors' and officers', commercial property and surety, in addition to niche products for specific industries such as technology and life sciences.

Berkley International Latinoamérica is a leading provider of property, casualty, automobile, surety, group life and health and workers' compensation products and services in its operating territories of Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay. Its largest operation, Berkley International Seguros, offers a wide range of property casualty products in Argentina, where it is a leading provider of surety, engineering, cargo and personal accident coverages. Berkley International ART, Berkley International Latinoamérica's workers' compensation carrier in Argentina, is focused on small to medium-sized risks in its operating territories. Berkley International Seguros do Brasil provides surety products to small and medium-sized risks throughout Brazil, and Berkley International Seguros (Uruguay) is a provider of customized property casualty insurance products and services to small and medium-sized businesses in Uruguay.

Berkley Re Asia Pacific, which comprises the Australian, Hong Kong and Singapore branches of Berkley Insurance Company, provides property and casualty reinsurance to the Asia Pacific marketplace. With offices in Brisbane, Sydney, Hong Kong and Singapore, each branch focuses on excess of loss reinsurance, targeting both property and casualty treaty and facultative contracts, through multiple distribution channels.

Berkley Re UK was formed in 2011 to write international property casualty treaty accounts. Its territorial scope will initially includes reinsured clients domiciled in the United Kingdom, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Caribbean.

W. R. Berkley Insurance (Europe) is based in the United Kingdom with offices in Spain, Australia, Ireland, Norway and Germany. Its product offering includes professional indemnity, directors' and officers' liability, medical malpractice, general liability, personal accident and travel, engineering and construction. More recently, it has added expertise in marine, cargo, and commercial property and casualty packages.

W. R. Berkley Syndicate 1967 at Lloyd's focuses on lines of business more global in nature where access to the Lloyd's distribution platform allows us to further expand our international reach. It works actively with select W. R. Berkley Corporation member companies to access business for which the Lloyd's platform is best suited. Syndicate 1967's book of business includes accident and commercial property and a specialized book of marine business.

10

The following table sets forth the percentages of gross premiums written by our International operating units:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Berkley International Latinoamérica	31.4	%	36.9	%	41.0	%	51.8	%	46.8	%
W. R. Berkley Insurance (Europe)	29.1		30.4		33.2		40.1		52.6
Berkley Re Asia Pacific	17.7		15.6		17.8		8.1		—
W. R. Berkley Syndicate 1967	17.6		13.8		5.9		—		—
Berkley Canada	4.0		3.3		2.1		—		—
Berkley Re UK	0.2		—		—		—		—
Philippines (1)	—		—		—		—		0.6
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

_______________________________________

(1) The Philippines operation was sold in March 2007.

Results by Industry Segment

Summary financial information about our segments is presented on a GAAP basis in the following table:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011			2010			2009			2008			2007
	(Amounts in thousands)
Specialty
Revenue	$	1,620,741		$	1,471,566		$	1,483,266		$	1,810,813		$	2,006,027
Income before income taxes	$	292,759		$	296,645		$	220,906		$	375,429		$	516,931
Regional
Revenue	$	1,145,491		$	1,152,447		$	1,177,126		$	1,317,796		$	1,347,800
Income before income taxes	$	32,382		$	117,353		$	106,078		$	108,719		$	215,228
Alternative Markets
Revenue	$	819,949		$	810,673		$	768,683		$	831,622		$	874,899
Income before income taxes	$	146,030		$	178,607		$	162,875		$	201,879		$	248,080
Reinsurance
Revenue	$	517,879		$	522,435		$	487,016		$	635,763		$	893,855
Income before income taxes	$	83,251		$	129,922		$	86,358		$	117,946		$	178,302
International
Revenue	$	656,460		$	485,534		$	351,947		$	322,016		$	284,558
Income before income taxes	$	40,084		$	21,174		$	22,719		$	52,943		$	44,457
Other(1)
Revenue	$	395,464		$	281,414		$	163,140		$	(209,202	)	$	181,258
Loss before income taxes	$	(76,223	)	$	(140,396	)	$	(216,706	)	$	(530,594	)	$	(110,606	)
Total
Revenue	$	5,155,984		$	4,724,069		$	4,431,178		$	4,708,808		$	5,588,397
Income before income taxes	$	518,283		$	603,305		$	382,230		$	326,322		$	1,092,392

_______________________________________

(1) Represents corporate revenues, corporate expenses, net investment gains and losses, and revenues and expenses from investments in wholly-owned, non-insurance subsidiaries that are consolidated for financial reporting purposes.

11

The table below represents summary underwriting ratios on a GAAP basis for our segments. Loss ratio is losses and loss expenses incurred expressed as a percentage of premiums earned. Expense ratio is underwriting expenses expressed as a percentage of premiums earned. Underwriting expenses do not include expenses related to insurance services or unallocated corporate expenses. Combined ratio is the sum of the loss ratio and the expense ratio. The combined ratio represents a measure of underwriting profitability, excluding investment income. A number in excess of 100 indicates an underwriting loss; a number below 100 indicates an underwriting profit:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Specialty
Loss ratio	59.4	%	58.3	%	61.9	%	60.1	%	57.3	%
Expense ratio	32.5	%	32.7	%	31.1	%	28.4	%	26.7	%
Combined ratio	91.9	%	91.0	%	93.0	%	88.5	%	84.0	%
Regional
Loss ratio	68.0	%	60.7	%	61.4	%	65.4	%	59.1	%
Expense ratio	35.9	%	35.9	%	34.2	%	32.3	%	31.4	%
Combined ratio	103.9	%	96.6	%	95.6	%	97.7	%	90.5	%
Alternative Markets
Loss ratio	72.3	%	67.6	%	63.4	%	62.7	%	59.2	%
Expense ratio	26.7	%	25.6	%	25.8	%	24.2	%	23.1	%
Combined ratio	99.0	%	93.2	%	89.2	%	86.9	%	82.3	%
Reinsurance
Loss ratio	61.6	%	52.5	%	57.9	%	64.7	%	65.3	%
Expense ratio	40.4	%	41.0	%	39.1	%	34.7	%	31.3	%
Combined ratio	102.0	%	93.5	%	97.0	%	99.4	%	96.6	%
International
Loss ratio	60.5	%	61.8	%	59.9	%	61.7	%	62.6	%
Expense ratio	40.0	%	40.4	%	40.2	%	38.9	%	32.4	%
Combined ratio	100.5	%	102.2	%	100.1	%	100.6	%	95.0	%
Total
Loss ratio	63.9	%	60.2	%	61.4	%	62.7	%	59.6	%
Expense ratio	34.4	%	34.3	%	32.8	%	30.4	%	28.5	%
Combined ratio	98.3	%	94.5	%	94.2	%	93.1	%	88.1	%

12

Investments

Investment results, before income taxes, were as follows:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011			2010			2009			2008			2007
	(Dollars in thousands)
Average investments, at cost(1)	$	13,631,552		$	13,356,380		$	12,918,039		$	12,939,843		$	12,620,662
Net investment income(1)	$	526,351		$	530,525		$	379,008		$	533,480		$	672,660
Percent earned on average investments(1)	3.9		%	4.0		%	3.0		%	4.2		%	5.4		%
Net investment gains (losses)(2)	$	125,481		$	56,581		$	(38,408	)	$	(356,931	)	$	49,696
Change in unrealized investment gains (losses)(3)	$	147,998		$	176,588		$	557,444		$	(302,211	)	$	(94,957	)

_______________________________________

(1) Includes investments, cash and cash equivalents, trading accounts receivable from brokers and clearing organizations, trading account securities sold but not yet purchased and unsettled purchases.

(2) Represents realized gains and losses on investments not classified as trading account securities.

(3) Represents the change in unrealized investment gains (losses) for available for sale securities.

For comparison, the following are the coupon returns for the Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index and the dividend returns for the S&P 500^® Index:

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index	4.0	%	4.2	%	4.9	%	5.4	%	5.5	%
S&P 500® Index	2.1	%	2.3	%	3.0	%	1.5	%	2.0	%

The percentages of the fixed maturity portfolio categorized by contractual maturity, based on fair value, on the dates indicated, are set forth below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain issuers may have the right to call or prepay certain obligations.

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011		2010		2009		2008		2007
1 year or less	6.6	%	6.7	%	5.3	%	3.2	%	7.4	%
Over 1 year through 5 years	28.3		27.3		27.2		22.9		19.4
Over 5 years through 10 years	25.3		25.9		27.2		29.9		30.2
Over 10 years	25.5		27.1		26.0		26.6		25.1
Mortgage-backed securities	14.3		13.0		14.3		17.4		17.9
Total	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%	100.0	%

At December 31, 2011, the fixed maturity portfolio had an average duration of 3.6 years.

13

Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Reserves

To recognize liabilities for unpaid losses, either known or unknown, insurers establish reserves, which is a balance sheet account representing estimates of future amounts needed to pay claims and related expenses with respect to insured events which have occurred. Estimates and assumptions relating to reserves for losses and loss expenses are based on complex and subjective judgments, often including the interplay of specific uncertainties with related accounting and actuarial measurements. Such estimates are also susceptible to change as significant periods of time may elapse between the occurrence of an insured loss, the report of the loss to the insurer, the ultimate determination of the cost of the loss and the insurer’s payment of that loss.

In general, when a claim is reported, claims personnel establish a “case reserve” for the estimated amount of the ultimate payment based upon known information about the claim at that time. The estimate represents an informed judgment based on general reserving practices and reflects the experience and knowledge of the claims personnel regarding the nature and value of the specific type of claim. Reserves are also established on an aggregate basis to provide for losses incurred but not reported (“IBNR”) to the insurer, potential inadequacy of case reserves and the estimated expenses of settling claims, including legal and other fees and general expenses of administrating the claims adjustment process. Reserves are established based upon the then current legal interpretation of coverage provided.

In examining reserve adequacy, several factors are considered in estimating the ultimate economic value of losses. These factors include, among others, historical data, legal developments, changes in social attitudes and economic conditions, including the effects of inflation. The actuarial process relies on the basic assumption that past experience, adjusted judgmentally for the effects of current developments and anticipated trends, is an appropriate basis for predicting future outcomes. Reserve amounts are necessarily based on management’s informed estimates and judgments using currently available data. As additional experience and other data become available and are reviewed, these estimates and judgments may be revised. This may result in reserve increases or decreases that would be reflected in our results in periods in which such estimates and assumptions are changed.

The risk and complexity of estimating loss reserves are greater when economic conditions are uncertain. It is especially difficult to estimate the impact of inflation on loss reserves given the current economic environment and related government actions. Whereas a slowing economy would generally lead to lower inflation or even deflation, increased government spending would generally lead to higher inflation. A change in our assumptions regarding inflation would result in reserve increases or decreases that would be reflected in our earnings in periods in which such assumptions are changed.

Reserves do not represent an exact calculation of liability. Rather, reserves represent an estimate of what management expects the ultimate settlement and claim administration will cost. While the methods for establishing the reserves are well tested over time, some of the major assumptions about anticipated loss emergence patterns are subject to unanticipated fluctuation. These estimates, which generally involve actuarial projections, are based on management’s assessment of facts and circumstances then known, as well as estimates of trends in claims severity and frequency, judicial theories of liability and other factors, including the actions of third parties, which are beyond the Company’s control. These variables are affected by external and internal events, such as inflation and economic volatility, judicial and litigation trends, reinsurance coverage, legislative changes and claim handling and reserving practices, which make it more difficult to accurately predict claim costs. The inherent uncertainties of estimating reserves are greater for certain types of liabilities where long periods of time elapse before a definitive determination of liability is made. Although the loss reserves included in the Company’s financial statements represent management’s best estimates, setting reserves is inherently uncertain and the Company cannot provide assurance that its current reserves will prove adequate in light of subsequent events.

We discount our liabilities for excess workers’ compensation business and the workers’ compensation portion of our reinsurance business because of the long period of time over which losses are paid. Discounting is intended to appropriately match losses and loss expenses to income earned on investment securities supporting the liabilities. The expected losses and loss expense payout pattern subject to discounting was derived from the Company’s loss payout experience. For non-proportional business, reserves for losses and loss expenses have been discounted using risk-free discount rates determined by reference to the U.S. Treasury yield curve. These discount rates range from 2.3% to 6.5% with a weighted average discount rate of 4.3%. For proportional business, reserves for losses and loss expenses have been discounted at the statutory rate permitted by the Department of Insurance of the State of Delaware of 2.3%. The aggregate net discount, after reflecting the effects of ceded reinsurance, is $892 million, $898 million and $877 million at December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

To date, known asbestos and environmental claims at our insurance company subsidiaries have not had a material impact on our operations. These claims have not materially impacted us because these subsidiaries generally did not insure the larger industrial companies which were subject to significant asbestos or environmental exposures prior to 1986 when an absolute pollution exclusion was incorporated into standard policy language.

Our net reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses relating to asbestos and environmental claims were $34 million and $36 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The Company’s gross reserves for losses and loss adjustment

14

expenses relating to asbestos and environmental claims were $59 million and $51 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Net incurred losses and loss expenses for reported asbestos and environmental claims increased (decreased) by approximately $1 million, $2 million and $(0.6) million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Net paid losses and loss expenses for reported asbestos and environmental claims were approximately $3 million in each of 2011, 2010 and 2009. The estimation of these liabilities is subject to significantly greater than normal variation and uncertainty because it is difficult to make a reasonable actuarial estimate of these liabilities due to the absence of a generally accepted actuarial methodology for these exposures and the potential effect of significant unresolved legal matters, including coverage issues as well as the cost of litigating the legal issues. Additionally, the determination of ultimate damages and the final allocation of such damages to financially responsible parties are highly uncertain.

The table below provides a reconciliation of the beginning of year and end of year property casualty reserves for the indicated years (amounts in thousands):

	2011			2010			2009
Net reserves at beginning of year	$	7,999,521		$	8,147,782		$	8,122,586
Net provision for losses and loss expenses:
Claims occurring during the current year(1)	2,791,860			2,509,933			2,518,849
Decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years(2)(3)	(181,282		)	(253,248		)	(234,008		)
Loss reserve discount amortization	47,787			53,182			51,866
Total	2,658,365			2,309,867			2,336,707
Net payments for claims:
Current year	765,440			641,570			582,605
Prior years	1,721,558			1,811,507			1,751,026
Total	2,486,998			2,453,077			2,333,631
Foreign currency translation	1,224			(5,051		)	22,120
Net reserves at end of year	8,172,112			7,999,521			8,147,782
Ceded reserves at end of year	1,165,022			1,017,028			923,889
Gross reserves at end of year	$	9,337,134		$	9,016,549		$	9,071,671

____________________________________

(1) Claims occurring during the current year are net of discounts of $43,286,000, $67,763,000 and $80,455,000 in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

(2) The decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years is net of discounts. On an undiscounted basis, the estimates for claims occurring in prior years decreased by $182,937,000 in 2011, $246,941,000 in 2010, and $232,040,000 in 2009.

(3) For certain retrospectively rated insurance polices and reinsurance agreements, reserve development is offset by additional or return premiums. Favorable reserve development, net of additional and return premiums, was $182 million, $234 million and $190 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Also, see Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” for further information regarding the decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years.

A reconciliation between the reserves as of December 31, 2011 as reported in the accompanying consolidated GAAP financial statements and those reported on the basis of statutory accounting principles (“SAP”) in the Company’s U.S. regulatory filings is as follows (amounts in thousands):

Net reserves reported in U.S. regulatory filings on a SAP basis	$	7,949,635
Reserves for non-U.S. companies	519,576
Loss reserve discounting(1)	(297,007		)
Ceded reserves	1,165,022
Other	(92		)
Gross reserves reported in the consolidated GAAP financial statements	$	9,337,134

(1) For statutory purposes, the Company discounts its workers’ compensation reinsurance reserves at 2.3% as permitted by the Department of Insurance of the State of Delaware. In its GAAP financial statements, the Company discounts excess workers’ compensation reserves at the risk-free rate and assumed workers’ compensation reserves at the statutory rate.

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The following table presents the development of net reserves for 2001 through 2011. The top line of the table shows the estimated reserves for unpaid losses and loss expenses recorded at the balance sheet date for each of the indicated years. This represents the estimated amount of losses and loss expenses for claims arising in all prior years that are unpaid at the balance sheet date, including losses that had been incurred but not reported to us. The upper portion of the table shows the re-estimated amount of the previously recorded reserves based on experience as of the end of each succeeding year. The estimate changes as more information becomes known about the frequency and severity of claims for individual years.

The “cumulative redundancy (deficiency)” represents the aggregate change in the estimates over all prior years. The impact on the results of operations of the past three years of changes in reserve estimates is shown in the reconciliation tables above. It should be noted that the table presents a “run off” of balance sheet reserves, rather than accident or policy year loss development. Therefore, each amount in the table includes the effects of changes in reserves for all prior years. For example, assume a claim that occurred in 2001 is reserved for $2,000 as of December 31, 2001. Assuming this claim estimate was changed in 2011 to $2,300, and was settled for $2,300 in 2011, the $300 deficiency would appear as a deficiency in each year from 2001 through 2011.

Year Ended December 31,	2001			2002			2003			2004			2005			2006		2007		2008		2009		2010		2011
	(Amounts in millions)
Net reserves, discounted	$	2,033		$	2,323		$	3,505		4,723			$	5,867		$	6,948	$	7,823	$	8,123	$	8,148	$	8,000	$	8,172
Reserve discount	243			293			393			503			575			700		788		846		877		898		892
Net reserves, undiscounted	$	2,276		$	2,616		$	3,898		$	5,226		$	6,442		$	7,648	$	8,611	$	8,969	$	9,025	$	8,898	$	9,064
Net reserves re-estimated as of:
One year later	$	2,450		$	2,889		$	4,220		$	5,440		$	6,499		$	7,560	$	8,431	$	8,737	$	8,778	$	8,715
Two years later	2,671			3,242			4,552			5,588			6,578			7,494		8,239		8,560		8,596
Three years later	2,932			3,611			4,720			5,763			6,592			7,363		8,192		8,420
Four years later	3,233			3,769			4,949			5,816			6,556			7,370		8,137
Five years later	3,339			3,982			5,041			5,834			6,636			7,376
Six years later	3,534			4,069			5,082			5,929			6,677
Seven years later	3,599			4,112			5,176			5,983
Eight years later	3,624			4,187			5,222
Nine years later	3,674			4,224
Ten years later	3,703
Cumulative redundancy (deficiency), undiscounted	$	(1,427	)	$	(1,608	)	$	(1,324	)	$	(757	)	$	(235	)	$	272	$	474	$	549	$	429	$	183	$	—
Cumulative amount of net liability paid through:
One year later	$	794		$	599		$	930		$	1,174		$	1,341		$	1,437	$	1,663	$	1,751	$	1,812	$	1,722
Two years later	1,191			1,216			1,750			2,106			2,363			2,636		2,935		3,106		3,052
Three years later	1,594			1,792			2,389			2,836			3,219			3,558		3,956		4,039
Four years later	1,971			2,223			2,901			3,384			3,856			4,279		4,616
Five years later	2,245			2,552			3,274			3,813			4,327			4,733
Six years later	2,467			2,814			3,582			4,131			4,649
Seven years later	2,642			3,035			3,804			4,355
Eight years later	2,808			3,189			3,966
Nine years later	2,922			3,308
Ten years later	3,011

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The following table presents the development of gross reserves for 2001 through 2011.

Year Ended December 31,	2001			2002			2003			2004			2005			2006		2007		2008		2009		2010		2011
	(Amounts in millions)
Net reserves, discounted	$	2,033		$	2,323		$	3,505		$	4,723		$	5,867		$	6,947	$	7,823	$	8,123	$	8,148	$	8,000	$	8,172
Ceded reserves	731			845			687			727			845			837		855		877		924		1,017		1,165
Gross reserves, discounted	2,764			3,168			4,192			5,450			6,712			7,784		8,678		9,000		9,072		9,017		9,337
Reserve discount	324			384			462			573			654			761		867		944		944		968		953
Gross reserves, undiscounted	$	3,088		$	3,552		$	4,654		$	6,023		$	7,366		$	8,545	$	9,545	$	9,944	$	10,016	$	9,985	$	10,290
Gross reserves re-estimated as of:
One year later	$	3,153		$	3,957		$	5,030		$	6,241		$	7,406		$	8,509	$	9,396	$	9,696	$	9,810	$	9,879
Two years later	3,461			4,353			5,380			6,382			7,529			8,454		9,178		9,566		9,662
Three years later	3,777			4,744			5,546			6,600			7,561			8,300		9,163		9,445
Four years later	4,103			4,885			5,807			6,670			7,508			8,335		9,081
Five years later	4,192			5,132			5,915			6,680			7,617			8,316
Six years later	4,428			5,226			5,956			6,804			7,635
Seven years later	4,500			5,275			6,083			6,839
Eight years later	4,538			5,383			6,107
Nine years later	4,617			5,392
Ten Years later	4,614
Gross cumulative redundancy (deficiency)	$	(1,526	)	$	(1,840	)	$	(1,453	)	$	(816	)	$	(269	)	$	229	$	464	$	499	$	354	$	106	—

Reinsurance

We follow a common industry practice of reinsuring a portion of our exposures and paying to reinsurers a part of the premiums received on the policies that we write. Reinsurance is purchased principally to reduce net liability on individual risks and to protect against catastrophic losses. Although reinsurance does not legally discharge an insurer from its primary liability for the full amount of the policies, it does make the assuming reinsurer contractually liable to the insurer to the extent of the reinsurance coverage. We monitor the financial condition of our reinsurers and attempt to place our coverages only with substantial, financially sound carriers. As a result, generally the reinsurers who reinsure our casualty insurance must have an A.M. Best rating of “A (Excellent)” or better with at least $500 million in policyholder surplus and the reinsurers who cover our property insurance must have an A.M. Best rating of “A-(Excellent)” or better with at least $250 million in policyholder surplus.

Regulation

U.S. Regulation

Our U.S. insurance subsidiaries are subject to varying degrees of regulation and supervision in the jurisdictions in which they do business.

Overview. Our domestic insurance subsidiaries are subject to statutes which delegate regulatory, supervisory and administrative powers to state insurance commissioners. This regulation relates to such matters as the standards of solvency which must be met and maintained; the licensing of insurers and their agents; the nature of and limitations on investments; deposits of securities for the benefit of policyholders; approval of certain policy forms and premium rates; periodic examination of the affairs of insurance companies; annual and other reports required to be filed on the financial condition of insurers or for other purposes; establishment and maintenance of reserves for unearned premiums, loss expenses and losses; and requirements regarding numerous other matters. Our property casualty subsidiaries, other than excess and surplus and reinsurance subsidiaries, must generally file all rates with the insurance department of each state in which they operate. Our excess and surplus and reinsurance subsidiaries generally operate free of rate and form regulation.

Holding Company Statutes. In addition to regulatory supervision of our insurance subsidiaries, we are subject to state statutes governing insurance holding company systems. Typically, such statutes require that we periodically file

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information with the appropriate state insurance commissioner, including information concerning our capital structure, ownership, financial condition and general business operations. Under the terms of applicable state statutes, any person or entity desiring to purchase more than a specified percentage (commonly 10%) of our outstanding voting securities would be required to obtain prior regulatory approval of the purchase. Under Alabama law, which is applicable to us due to our ownership of American Mining Insurance Company, Inc., an Alabama domiciled insurance company, the acquisition of more than 5% of our capital stock is subject to prior regulatory approval.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) has recently adopted amendments to the model holding company law, expanding upon the regulation of holding company systems. When and if adopted by the various states, these laws and regulations may have additional impact upon the Company's operations.

Risk Based Capital Requirements. The NAIC utilizes a Risk Based Capital (“RBC”) formula that is designed to measure the adequacy of an insurer's statutory surplus in relation to the risks inherent in its business. The RBC formula develops a risk adjusted target level of adjusted statutory capital by applying certain factors to various asset, premium and reserve items. The NAIC RBC Model Law provides for four incremental levels of regulatory attention for insurers whose surplus is below the calculated RBC target. These levels of attention range in severity from requiring the insurer to submit a plan for corrective action to actually placing the insurer under regulatory control. The RBC of each of our domestic insurance subsidiaries was above the authorized RBC control level as of December 31, 2011.

Insurance Regulatory Information System. The NAIC also has developed a set of 13 financial ratios referred to as the Insurance Regulatory Information System (“IRIS”). On the basis of statutory financial statements filed with state insurance regulators, the NAIC annually calculates these IRIS ratios to assist state insurance regulators in monitoring the financial condition of insurance companies. The NAIC has established an acceptable range for each of the IRIS financial ratios.

Guaranty Funds. Our U.S. insurance subsidiaries are also subject to assessment by state guaranty funds when an insurer in a particular jurisdiction has been judicially declared insolvent and insufficient funds are available from the liquidated company to pay policyholders and claimants. The protection afforded under a state's guaranty fund to policyholders of the insolvent insurer varies from state to state. Generally, all licensed property casualty insurers are considered to be members of the fund, and assessments are based upon their pro rata share of direct written premiums. The NAIC Model Post-Assessment Guaranty Fund Act, which many states have adopted, limits assessments to an insurer to 2% of its subject premium and permits recoupment of assessments through rate setting. Likewise, several states (or underwriting organizations of which our insurance subsidiaries are required to be members) have limited assessment authority with regard to deficits in certain lines of business.

Additionally, state insurance laws and regulations require us to participate in mandatory property-liability “shared market,” “pooling” or similar arrangements that provide certain types of insurance coverage to individuals or others who otherwise are unable to purchase coverage voluntarily provided by private insurers. Shared market mechanisms include assigned risk plans and fair access to insurance requirement or “FAIR” plans. In addition, some states require insurers to participate in reinsurance pools for claims that exceed specified amounts. Our participation in these mandatory shared market or pooling mechanisms generally is related to the amount of our direct writings for the type of coverage written by the specific arrangement in the applicable state.

Excess and Surplus Lines. The regulation of our U.S. subsidiaries' excess and surplus lines insurance business differs significantly from the regulation of our admitted business. Our surplus lines subsidiaries are subject to the surplus lines regulation and reporting requirements of the jurisdictions in which they are eligible to write surplus lines insurance. Although the surplus lines business is generally less regulated than admitted business, strict regulations apply to surplus lines placements in the laws of every state and the regulation of surplus lines insurance may undergo changes in the future. Federal or state measures may be introduced to increase the oversight of surplus lines insurance in the future.

Dividends. We receive funds from our insurance company subsidiaries in the form of dividends and management fees for certain management services. Annual dividends in excess of maximum amounts prescribed by state statutes may not be paid without the approval of the insurance commissioner of the state in which an insurance subsidiary is domiciled. See “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

Trade Practices. State insurance laws and regulations include numerous provisions governing trade practices

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and the marketplace activities of insurers, including provisions governing marketing and sales practices, policyholder services, claims management and complaint handling. State regulatory authorities generally enforce these provisions through periodic market conduct examinations.

 Investment Regulation.    Investments by our domestic insurance companies must comply with applicable laws and regulations which prescribe the kind, quality and concentration of investments. In general, these laws and regulations permit investments in federal, state and municipal obligations, corporate bonds, preferred and common equity securities, mortgage loans, real estate and certain other investments, subject to specified limits and certain other qualifications.

The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act. The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002, as amended (collectively, “TRIA”), established a Federal program that provides for a system of shared public and private compensation for insured losses resulting from acts of terrorism. The program is effective through December 31, 2014. TRIA is applicable to almost all commercial lines of property and casualty insurance but excludes commercial auto, burglary and theft, surety, professional liability and farm owners' multi-peril insurance. Insurers with direct commercial property and casualty insurance exposure in the United States are required to participate in the program and make available coverage for certified acts of terrorism. The most recent amendment to TRIA broadened the definition of certified acts to include domestic terrorism. Federal participation will be triggered under TRIA when the Secretary of Treasury certifies an act of terrorism. Under the program, the federal government will pay 85% of an insurer's covered losses in excess of the insurer's applicable deductible. The insurer's deductible is based on 20% percent of earned premium for the prior year for covered lines of commercial property and casualty insurance. Based on our 2011 earned premiums, our deductible under TRIA during 2012 will be approximately $542 million. The federal program will not pay losses for certified acts unless such losses exceed $100 million. TRIA limits the federal government's share of losses at $100 billion for a program year. In addition, an insurer that has satisfied its deductible is not liable for the payment of losses in excess of the $100 billion cap.

Federal Regulation. Although the federal government and its regulatory agencies generally do not directly regulate the business of insurance, federal initiatives could have an impact on our business in a variety of ways. In July 2010, President Obama signed into law the Dodd Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”), which effects sweeping changes to financial services regulation in the United States. The Dodd-Frank Act created two new federal government bodies, the Federal Insurance Office (the “FIO”) and the Financial Stability Oversight Council (the “FSOC”), which may impact the regulation of insurance. Although the FIO is prohibited from directly regulating the business of insurance, it has authority to represent the United States in international insurance matters and has limited powers to preempt certain types of state insurance laws. The FIO also can recommend to the FSOC that it designate an insurer as an entity posing risks to the United States financial stability in the event of the insurer's material financial distress or failure. An insurer so designated by FSOC could be subject to Federal Reserve supervision and heightened prudential standards. Based upon our current business model and balance sheet, we do not believe that we will be designated by the FSOC as such an institution. Although the potential impacts of the Dodd-Frank Act on the U. S. insurance industry is not clear, our business could be affected by changes to the U.S. system of insurance regulation or our designation or the designation of insurers or reinsurers with which we do business as systemically significant non-bank financial companies.

In addition, as a result of its direct majority ownership interest in Peyton Street Independent Financial Services Corporation, a thrift holding company (“Peyton Street”), and indirect majority ownership stake in InsurBanc, a federal savings bank (“InsurBanc”), W. R. Berkley Corporation is a “grandfathered savings and loan holding company” and, under the Dodd-Frank Act, is subject to the oversight of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the “Federal Reserve”). As a grandfathered savings and loan holding company, W. R. Berkley Corporation may be subject to certain requirements and restrictions, including those related to its shareholders, management reporting, capital adequacy, dividends and distributions, transactions with affiliates and compensation plans. As Peyton Street's and InsurBanc's operations are currently immaterial to W. R. Berkley's business and results of operations, we are currently pursuing various alternatives in order to terminate W. R. Berkley Corporation's status as a grandfathered savings and loan holding company.

International Regulation

Our insurance subsidiaries based in the United Kingdom are regulated by the Financial Services Authority (the “FSA”). The FSA oversees compliance with established periodic auditing and reporting requirements, risk assessment reviews, minimum solvency margins and individual capital assessment requirements, dividend restrictions, restrictions governing the appointment of key officers, restrictions governing controlling ownership interests and various other

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requirements. Our Lloyd's syndicate is also regulated by the FSA and Lloyd's. Through Lloyd's, we are licensed to write business throughout the world by virtue of Lloyd's international licenses. In each such country, we are subject to the laws and insurance regulation of that country. Additionally, FSA regulations also impact us as “controller” (an FSA defined term) of our U.K.-regulated subsidiaries. Through the FSA's Approved Persons regime, certain employees and directors are subject to regulation by the FSA of their fitness and certain employees are individually registered at Lloyd's.

The European Union's executive body, the European Commission, is implementing new capital adequacy and risk management regulations called “Solvency II” that would apply to our businesses across the European Union beginning as soon as the first quarter of 2013. Solvency II provides for the supervision of group solvency. Under Solvency II, it is possible that the U.S. parent of a European Union subsidiary could be subject to certain Solvency II requirements if the regulator determines that the subsidiary's capital position is dependent on the parent company and the U.S. company is not already subject to regulations deemed “equivalent” to Solvency II. While it is not certain how or if these actions will impact us, we do not currently expect the capital management strategies for our U.S. and international companies will be materially impacted.

Our international underwriting subsidiaries are also subject to varying degrees of regulation in certain countries in Continental Europe, South America, Australia, Southeast Asia and Canada. Generally, our subsidiaries must satisfy local regulatory requirements. While each country imposes licensing, solvency, auditing and financial reporting requirements, the type and extent of the requirements differ substantially. Key areas where country regulations may differ include: (i) the type of financial reports to be filed; (ii) a requirement to use local intermediaries; (iii) the amount of reinsurance permissible; (iv) the scope of any regulation of policy forms and rates; and (v) the type and frequency of regulatory examinations.

Competition

The property casualty insurance and reinsurance businesses are highly competitive, with many insurance companies of various sizes, as well as other entities offering risk alternatives such as self-insured retentions or captive programs, transacting business in the United States and internationally. We compete directly with a large number of these companies. Competition in our industry is largely measured by the ability to provide insurance and services at a price and on terms that are reasonable and acceptable to the customer. Our strategy in this highly fragmented industry is to seek specialized areas or geographic regions where our insurance subsidiaries can gain a competitive advantage by responding quickly to changing market conditions. Our subsidiaries establish their own pricing practices based upon a Company-wide philosophy to price products with the intent of making an underwriting profit. As a result of increased competition, since 2004 we have generally been experiencing both downward pressure on pricing for many of our insurance lines as well as demands by insureds and cedants for better terms and conditions. However, in 2011 rates and terms in the United States and international markets were generally stable and/or showed modest improvements, although certain products continue to experience strong competition.

Competition for Specialty and Alternative Markets business comes from other specialty insurers, regional carriers, large national multi-line companies and reinsurers. Over the last few years, many of our Specialty companies have reduced their writing substantially as standard carriers had increasingly competed for excess and surplus business, although this trend moderated in 2011.

Competition for the reinsurance business comes from domestic and foreign reinsurers, which produce their business either on a direct basis or through the broker market. These competitors include Swiss Re, Munich Re, Berkshire Hathaway, Transatlantic Reinsurance, and Partner Re. Additionally, in recent years our reinsurance writings have reduced substantially as many ceding companies elected to retain more business and the business available has been more competitive.

Our Regional subsidiaries compete with mutual and other regional stock companies as well as national carriers. Additionally, direct writers of property casualty insurance compete with our regional subsidiaries by writing insurance through their salaried employees, generally at a lower acquisition cost than through independent agents such as those used by the Company.

Our International operations compete with native insurance operations both large and small, which in some cases are related to government entities, as well as with branches or local subsidiaries of multinational companies.

Additionally, competition from insurers and reinsurers based in Bermuda and other tax advantaged jurisdictions

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continues to increase, including from domestic based subsidiaries of foreign based entities in the excess and surplus lines businesses.

Employees

As of February 16, 2012, we employed 6,642 individuals. Of this number, our subsidiaries employed 6,537 persons and the remaining 105 persons were employed at the parent company.

Other Information about the Company's Business

We maintain an interest in the acquisition and startup of complementary businesses and continue to evaluate possible acquisitions and new ventures on an ongoing basis. In addition, our insurance subsidiaries develop new coverages or lines of business to meet the needs of insureds.

Seasonal weather variations and other events affect the severity and frequency of losses sustained by the insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries. Although the effect on our business of catastrophes such as tornadoes, hurricanes, hailstorms, earthquakes and terrorist acts may be mitigated by reinsurance, they nevertheless can have a significant impact on the results of any one or more reporting periods.

We have no customer which accounts for 10 percent or more of our consolidated revenues.

Compliance by W. R. Berkley and its subsidiaries with federal, state and local provisions that have been enacted or adopted regulating the discharge of materials into the environment, or otherwise relating to protection of the environment, has not had a material effect upon our capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position.

The Company's internet address is www.wrberkley.com. The information on our website is not incorporated by reference in this annual report on Form 10-K. The Company's annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act are accessible free of charge through this website as soon as reasonably practicable after they have been electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

     Our businesses face significant risks. If any of the events or circumstances described as risks below actually occurs, our businesses, results of operations or financial condition could be materially and adversely affected. In addition to those described below, our businesses may also be adversely affected by risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently consider immaterial.

Risks Relating to Our Industry

Our results may fluctuate as a result of many factors, including cyclical changes in the insurance and reinsurance industry.

The results of companies in the property casualty insurance industry historically have been subject to significant fluctuations and uncertainties. The demand for insurance is influenced primarily by general economic conditions, while the supply of insurance is often directly related to available capacity or the perceived profitability of the business. In recent years, we have faced increased competition in our business, as a result of new entrants and existing insurers seeking to gain market share, resulting in decreased premium rates and less favorable contract terms and conditions. The adequacy of premium rates is affected mainly by the severity and frequency of claims, which are influenced by many factors, including natural disasters, regulatory measures and court decisions that define and expand the extent of coverage and the effects of economic inflation on the amount of compensation due for injuries or losses. In addition, investment rates of return may impact rate adequacy and recently the Federal Reserve has indicated its intention to keep interest rates at historic lows through late 2014. These factors can have a significant impact on ultimate profitability because a property casualty insurance policy is priced before its costs are known as premiums usually are determined long before claims are reported. These factors could produce results that would

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have a negative impact on our results of operations and financial condition.

We face significant competitive pressures in our businesses, which have reduced premium rates and could harm our ability to maintain or increase our profitability and premium volume.

We compete with a large number of other companies in our selected lines of business. We compete, and will continue to compete, with major U.S. and non-U.S. insurers and reinsurers, other regional companies, as well as mutual companies, specialty insurance companies, underwriting agencies and diversified financial services companies, some of which have implicit or explicit government support. Competitiveness in our businesses is based on many factors, including premium charges, ratings assigned by independent rating agencies, commissions paid to producers, the perceived financial strength of the company, other terms and conditions offered, services provided (including ease of doing business over the internet), speed of claims payment and reputation and experience in the lines to be written.

Some of our competitors, particularly in the Reinsurance business, have greater financial and marketing resources than we do. These competitors within the reinsurance segment include Swiss Re, Munich Re, Berkshire Hathaway, Transatlantic Reinsurance, and Partner Re. We expect that perceived financial strength, in particular, will become more important as customers seek high quality reinsurers. Certain of our competitors operate from Bermuda or other tax advantaged or less regulated jurisdictions that may provide them with additional competitive and pricing advantages.

Over the past several years, we have faced increased competition in our business, particularly in our Reinsurance and Specialty segments, as increased supply has led to reduced prices and, at times, less favorable terms and conditions. Our Specialty segment has also encountered competition from admitted companies seeking to increase market share. Although policy rates and terms for these lines of business generally stabilized or showed modest improvements in 2011, we expect to continue to face strong competition in these and our other lines of business and as a result could experience renewed pressure on pricing and policy terms and conditions.

This intense competition could cause the supply and/or demand for insurance or reinsurance to change, which could affect our ability to price our products at attractive rates and retain existing business or write new products at adequate rates or on terms and conditions acceptable to us. If we are unable to retain existing business or write new business at adequate rates or on terms and conditions acceptable to us, our results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Our actual claims losses may exceed our reserves for claims, which may require us to establish additional reserves.

Our gross reserves for losses and loss expenses were approximately $9.3 billion as of December 31, 2011. Our loss reserves reflect our best estimates of the cost of settling claims and related expenses with respect to insured events that have occurred.

Reserves do not represent an exact calculation of liability. Rather, reserves represent an estimate of what management expects the ultimate settlement and claims administration will cost for claims that have occurred, whether known or unknown. The major assumptions about anticipated loss emergence patterns are subject to unanticipated fluctuation. These estimates, which generally involve actuarial projections, are based on management's assessment of facts and circumstances then known, as well as estimates of future trends in claims severity and frequency, inflation, judicial theories of liability, reinsurance coverage, legislative changes and other factors, including the actions of third parties, which are beyond our control.

The inherent uncertainties of estimating reserves are greater for certain types of liabilities, where long periods of time elapse before a definitive determination of liability is made and settlement is reached. In periods with increased economic volatility, it becomes more difficult to accurately predict claim costs. It is especially difficult to estimate the impact of inflation on loss reserves given the current economic environment and related government actions. Reserve estimates are continually refined in an ongoing process as experience develops and further claims are reported and settled. Adjustments to reserves are reflected in the results of the periods in which such estimates are changed. Because setting reserves is inherently uncertain, we cannot assure that our current reserves will prove adequate in light of subsequent events. Should we need to increase our reserves, our pre-tax income for the reporting period would decrease by a corresponding amount.

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We discount our reserves for excess and assumed workers' compensation business because of the long period of time over which losses are paid. Discounting is intended to appropriately match losses and loss expenses to income earned on investment securities supporting liabilities. The expected loss and loss expense payout pattern subject to discounting is derived from our loss payout experience. Changes in the loss and loss expense payout pattern are recorded in the period they are determined. If the actual loss payout pattern is shorter than anticipated, the discount will be reduced and pre-tax income will decrease by a corresponding amount.

The effects of emerging claim and coverage issues on our business are uncertain.

As industry practices and legal, judicial, social and other environmental conditions change, unexpected and unintended issues related to claim and coverage may emerge. These issues may adversely affect our business by either extending coverage beyond our underwriting intent or by increasing the number or size of claims. Examples of emerging claims and coverage issues include, but are not limited to:

• judicial expansion of policy coverage and the impact of new theories of liability;

• plaintiffs targeting property and casualty insurers, including us, in purported class action litigation relating to claims-handling and other practices;

• medical developments that link health issues to particular causes, resulting in liability claims;

• claims relating to unanticipated consequences of current or new technologies, including cyber security related risks;

and

• claims relating to potentially changing climate conditions.

        In some instances, these emerging issues may not become apparent for some time after we have issued the affected insurance policies. As a result, the full extent of liability under our insurance policies may not be known until many years after the policies are issued.

        In addition, the potential passage of new legislation designed to expand the right to sue, to remove limitations on recovery, to extend the statutes of limitations or otherwise to repeal or weaken tort reforms could have an adverse impact on our business.

        The effects of these and other unforeseen emerging claim and coverage issues are difficult to predict and could harm our business and materially and adversely affect our results of operations.

As a property casualty insurer, we face losses from natural and man-made catastrophes.

Property casualty insurers are subject to claims arising out of catastrophes that may have a significant effect on their results of operations, liquidity and financial condition. Catastrophe losses have had a significant impact on our results. For example, weather-related losses were $153 million in 2011, $81 million in 2010, $63 million in 2009, $114 million in 2008, and $34 million in 2007.

Catastrophes can be caused by various events, including hurricanes, windstorms, earthquakes, tsunamis, hailstorms, explosions, severe winter weather and fires, as well as terrorist activities. The incidence and severity of catastrophes are inherently unpredictable but have increased in recent years. The extent of losses from a catastrophe is a function of both the total amount of insured exposure in the area affected by the event and the severity of the event. Some catastrophes are restricted to small geographic areas; however, hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis and other disasters may produce significant damage in large, heavily populated areas. Catastrophes can cause losses in a variety of our property and casualty lines, and most of our past catastrophe-related claims have resulted from severe storms. Seasonal weather variations or the impact of climate change may affect the severity and frequency of our losses. Insurance companies are not permitted to reserve for a catastrophe until it has occurred. It is therefore possible that a catastrophic event or multiple catastrophic events could produce significant losses and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

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Conditions in the financial markets and the global economy have had and may continue to have a negative impact on our results of operations and financial condition, particularly if such conditions continue.

The significant volatility and uncertainty experienced in financial markets around the world during the past several years and the effect of the economic downturn have continued. Although the U.S. and various foreign governments have taken various actions to try to stabilize the financial markets, the ultimate effectiveness of such actions remains unclear. Therefore, volatility and uncertainty in the financial markets and the resulting negative economic impact may continue for some time.

While we monitor conditions in the financial markets, we cannot predict future conditions or their impact on our results of operations and financial condition. Depending on conditions in the financial markets, we could incur additional realized and unrealized losses in our investment portfolio in future periods, and financial market volatility and uncertainty and an economic downturn could have a significant negative impact on third parties that we do business with, including insureds and reinsurers.

We, as a primary insurer, may have significant exposure for terrorist acts.

To the extent an act of terrorism, whether a domestic or foreign act, is certified by the Secretary of Treasury, we may be covered under the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002, as amended (“TRIA”), for up to 85% of our losses for certain property/casualty lines of insurance. However, any such coverage would be subject to a mandatory deductible based on 20% of earned premium for the prior year for the covered lines of commercial property and casualty insurance. Based on our 2011 earned premiums, our deductible under TRIA during 2012 is approximately $542 million. TRIA is in effect through December 31, 2014 unless extended or replaced by a similar program. The coverage provided under TRIA does not apply to reinsurance that we write.

Our earnings could be more volatile because of our significant level of retentions.

As compared to a number of our competitors, we maintain significant retention levels in premiums written. We purchase less reinsurance, the process by which we transfer, or cede, part of the risk we have assumed to a reinsurance company, thereby retaining more risk. As a result, our earnings could be more volatile and increased severities are more likely to have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

We are subject to extensive governmental regulation, which increases our costs and could restrict the conduct of our business.

We are subject to extensive governmental regulation and supervision in both the United States and foreign jurisdictions. Most insurance regulations are designed to protect the interests of policyholders rather than stockholders and other investors. This system of regulation, generally administered in the United States by a department of insurance in each state in which we do business, relates to, among other things:

•standards of solvency, including risk-based capital measurements;

•restrictions on the nature, quality and concentration of investments;

•requirements pertaining to certain methods of accounting;

•rate and form regulation pertaining to certain of our insurance businesses; and

• potential assessments for the provision of funds necessary for the settlement of covered claims under certain policies provided by impaired, insolvent or failed insurance companies.

State insurance departments conduct periodic examinations of the affairs of insurance companies and require the filing of annual and other reports relating to the financial condition of insurance companies, holding company issues and other matters. Our International business is also generally subject to a similar regulatory scheme in each of the jurisdictions where we conduct operations.

Federal financial services modernization legislation and legislative and regulatory initiatives taken or which may be taken in response to the current conditions in the financial markets and the recent economic downturn may

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lead to additional federal regulation of the insurance industry in the coming years.

In July 2010, President Obama signed into law the Dodd Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”), which effected sweeping changes to financial services regulation in the United States. The Dodd-Frank Act established the Financial Stability Oversight Council (“FSOC”), which is authorized to recommend that certain systemically significant non-bank financial companies, including insurance companies, be regulated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve. The Dodd-Frank Act also established a Federal Insurance Office (“FIO”) and authorized the federal preemption of certain state insurance laws. FSOC and the FIO are authorized to study, monitor and report to Congress on the U.S. insurance industry and the significance of global reinsurance to the U.S. insurance market. The potential impact of the Dodd-Frank Act on the U.S. insurance business is not clear. Our business could be affected by changes, whether as a result of the Dodd-Frank Act or otherwise, to the U.S. system of insurance regulation or our designation or the designation of insurers or reinsurers with which we do business as systemically significant non-bank financial companies.

 As a result of its direct majority ownership interest in Peyton Street Independent Financial Services Corporation, a thrift holding company, and indirect majority ownership stake in InsurBanc, a federal savings bank, W. R. Berkley Corporation is a “grandfathered savings and loan holding company” and, under the Dodd-Frank Act, is subject to the oversight of the Federal Reserve. As a grandfathered savings and loan holding company, W. R. Berkley Corporation may be subject to certain requirements and restrictions, including those related to its shareholders, management reporting, capital adequacy, dividends and distributions, transactions with affiliates and compensation plans.

Although U.S. state regulation is the primary form of regulation of insurance and reinsurance, in addition to the changes brought about by the Dodd-Frank Act, Congress has considered over the past years various proposals relating to the creation of an optional federal charter, repeal of the insurance company antitrust exemption from the McCarran Ferguson Act, and tax law changes. We may be subject to potentially increased federal oversight as a financial institution.

With respect to international measures, Solvency II, the EU directive concerning the capital adequacy, risk management and regulatory reporting for insurers and reinsurers which was adopted by the European Parliament in April 2009, may affect our insurance businesses. Implementation of Solvency II by EU member states, which is anticipated at the beginning of 2013, may require us to utilize a significant amount of resources to ensure compliance. In addition, Solvency II may have the effect of increasing the capital requirements of our EU domiciled insurers. Additionally, our capital requirements may be adversely affected if the EU Commission finds that the insurance regimes of our third-country domiciled companies are not “equivalent” to the requirements of Solvency II.

We may be unable to maintain all required licenses and approvals and our business may not fully comply with the wide variety of applicable laws and regulations or the relevant authority's interpretation of the laws and regulations. Also, some regulatory authorities have relatively broad discretion to grant, renew or revoke licenses and approvals. If we do not have the requisite licenses and approvals or do not comply with applicable regulatory requirements, the insurance regulatory authorities could preclude or temporarily suspend us from carrying on some or all of our activities or monetarily penalize us. Also, changes in the level of regulation of the insurance industry, whether federal, state or foreign, or changes in laws or regulations themselves or interpretations by regulatory authorities, may further restrict the conduct of our business.

Risks Relating to Our Business

We cannot guarantee that our reinsurers will pay in a timely fashion, if at all, and, as a result, we could experience losses.

We purchase reinsurance by transferring part of the risk that we have assumed, known as ceding, to a reinsurance company in exchange for part of the premium we receive in connection with the risk. Although reinsurance makes the reinsurer contractually liable to us to the extent the risk is transferred or ceded to the reinsurer, it does not relieve us, the reinsured, of our liability to our policyholders. Our reinsurers may not pay the reinsurance recoverables that they owe to us or they may not pay such recoverables on a timely basis. Accordingly, we bear credit risk with respect to our reinsurers, and if our reinsurers fail to pay us, our financial results would be adversely affected. Underwriting results and investment returns of some of our reinsurers may affect their future ability to pay claims. As of December 31, 2011, the amount due from our reinsurers was approximately $1,216 million, including amounts due from state funds and industry pools where it was intended that we would bear no risk. Certain of these

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amounts due from reinsurers are secured by letters of credit or by funds held in trust on our behalf.

We are subject to credit risk relating to our policyholders, independent agents and brokers.

In addition to exposure to credit risk related to our reinsurance recoverables and investment portfolio, we are exposed to credit risk in several other areas of our business, including credit risk relating to policyholders, independent agents and brokers. For example our policyholders, independent agents or brokers may not pay a part of or the full amount of premiums owed to us or our brokers or other third party claim administrators may not deliver amounts owed on claims under our insurance and reinsurance contracts for which we have provided funds.

As credit risk is generally a function of the economy, we face a greater credit risk in an economic downturn. While we attempt to manage credit risks through underwriting guidelines, collateral requirements and other oversight mechanisms, our efforts may not be successful. For example, to reduce such credit risk, we require certain third parties to post collateral for some or all of their obligations to us. In cases where we receive pledged securities and the applicable counterparty is unable to honor its obligations, we may be exposed to credit risk on the securities pledged and/or the risk that our access to that collateral may be stayed as a result of bankruptcy. In cases where we receive letters of credit from banks as collateral and one of our counterparties is unable to honor its obligations, we are exposed to the credit risk of the banks that issued the letters of credit.

We are rated by A.M. Best, Standard & Poor's, and Moody's, and a decline in these ratings could affect our standing in the insurance industry and cause our sales and earnings to decrease.

Ratings have become an increasingly important factor in establishing the competitive position of insurance companies. Certain of our insurance company subsidiaries are rated by A.M. Best, Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investors. Our ratings are subject to periodic review, and we cannot assure you that we will be able to retain our current or any future ratings.

If our ratings are reduced from their current levels by A.M. Best, Standard & Poor's or Moody's, our competitive position in the insurance industry could suffer and it would be more difficult for us to market our products. A significant downgrade could result in a substantial loss of business as policyholders move to other companies with higher claims-paying and financial strength ratings.

If market conditions cause reinsurance to be more costly or unavailable, we may be required to bear increased risks or reduce the level of our underwriting commitments.

As part of our overall risk and capacity management strategy, we purchase reinsurance for certain amounts of risk underwritten by our insurance company subsidiaries, especially catastrophe risks and those risks with relatively high policy limits. We also purchase reinsurance on risks underwritten by others which we reinsure. Market conditions beyond our control determine the availability and cost of the reinsurance protection we seek to purchase, which may affect the level of our business and profitability. Our reinsurance contracts are generally subject to annual renewal, and we may be unable to maintain our current reinsurance contracts or to obtain other reinsurance contracts in adequate amounts and at favorable rates. In addition, we may be unable to obtain reinsurance on terms acceptable to us relating to certain lines of business that we intend to begin writing. If we are unable to renew our expiring contracts or to obtain new reinsurance contracts, either our net exposures would increase or, if we are unwilling to bear an increase in net exposures, we would have to reduce the level of our underwriting commitments, especially catastrophe exposed risks.

Depending on conditions in the financial markets and the general economy, we may be unable to raise debt or equity capital if needed.

If conditions in the financial markets and the general economy are unfavorable, we may be unable to access debt or equity capital on acceptable terms if needed, which could have a negative impact on our ability to invest in our insurance company subsidiaries and/or to take advantage of opportunities to expand our business, such as possible acquisitions and the creation of new ventures, and inhibit our ability to refinance our existing indebtedness if we desire to do so, on terms acceptable to us.

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Our international operations expose us to investment, political and economic risks, including foreign currency and credit risk.

Our expanding international operations in the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, South America, Australia, the Asia-Pacific region, Scandinavia and Canada expose us to increased investment, political and economic risks, including foreign currency and credit risk. Changes in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies could have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

Our investments in non-U.S.-denominated securities are subject to fluctuations in non-U.S. securities and currency markets, and those markets can be volatile. Non-U.S. currency fluctuations also affect the value of any dividends paid by our non-U.S. subsidiaries to their parent companies in the U.S.

We may not find suitable acquisition candidates or new insurance ventures and even if we do, we may not successfully integrate any such acquired companies or successfully invest in such ventures.

As part of our present strategy, we continue to evaluate possible acquisition transactions and the start-up of complementary businesses on an ongoing basis, and at any given time we may be engaged in discussions with respect to possible acquisitions and new ventures. We cannot assure you that we will be able to identify suitable acquisition targets or insurance ventures, that such transactions will be financed and completed on acceptable terms or that our future acquisitions or start-up ventures will be successful. The process of integrating any companies we do acquire or investing in new ventures may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

We may be unable to attract and retain key personnel and qualified employees.

We depend on our ability to attract and retain key personnel, including our Chairman and CEO, President and COO, senior executive officers, presidents of our operating units, experienced underwriters and other skilled employees who are knowledgeable about our business. If the quality of our underwriting team and other personnel decreases, we may be unable to maintain our current competitive position in the specialized markets in which we operate, and be unable to expand our operations into new markets.

If we experience difficulties with our information technology, telecommunications or other computer systems, our ability to conduct our business could be negatively impacted.

Our business is highly dependent upon our employees' ability to perform necessary business functions in an efficient and uninterrupted fashion. A shut-down of, or inability to access, one or more of our facilities, a power outage or a failure of one or more of our information technology, telecommunications or other computer systems could significantly impair our employees' ability to perform such functions on a timely basis. In the event of a disaster such as a natural catastrophe, terrorist attack or industrial accident, or the infection of our systems by a malicious computer virus, our systems could be inaccessible for an extended period of time. In addition, because our information technology and telecommunications systems interface with and depend on third-party systems, we could experience service denials or failures of controls if demand for our service exceeds capacity or a third-party system fails or experiences an interruption. If our business continuity plans do not sufficiently address such a business interruption, system failure or service denial, our ability to write and process new and renewal business, provide customer service, pay claims in a timely manner or perform other necessary business functions could be significantly impaired and our business could be harmed.

Failure to maintain the security of our networks and confidential data may expose us to liability.

Our operations rely on the secure processing, storage and transmission of confidential and other information in our computer systems and networks. Computer viruses, hackers, employee misconduct and other external hazards could expose our data systems to security breaches. In addition, we routinely transmit and receive personal, confidential and proprietary information by email and other electronic means. Our outsourcing of certain technology and business process functions to third parties may expose us to enhanced risk related to data security. While we attempt to develop secure data transmission capabilities with these third-party vendors and others with whom we do business, we may be unable to put in place such secure capabilities with all of such vendors and third parties and, in addition, these third parties may not have appropriate controls in place to protect the confidentiality of the sensitive information being transferred. Our failure to protect sensitive personal and our proprietary information, whether owing to breaches of our own systems or those of our vendors, could result in significant monetary and reputational damages. These increased risks, and expanding regulatory requirements regarding data

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security, could expose us to data loss, monetary and reputational damages and significant increases in compliance costs. As a result, our ability to conduct our business could be materially and adversely affected.

We could be adversely affected if our controls to ensure compliance with guidelines, policies and legal and regulatory standards are not effective.

Our business is highly dependent on our ability to engage on a daily basis in a large number of insurance underwriting, claim processing and investment activities, many of which are highly complex. These activities often are subject to internal guidelines and policies, as well as legal and regulatory standards, including those related to privacy, anti-corruption, anti-bribery and global finance and insurance matters. Our continued expansion into new international markets has brought about additional requirements. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance that the control system's objectives will be met. If our controls are not effective, it could lead to financial loss, unanticipated risk exposure (including underwriting, credit and investment risk) or damage to our reputation.

Risks Relating to Our Investments

A significant amount of our assets is invested in fixed maturity securities and is subject to market fluctuations.

Our investment portfolio consists substantially of fixed maturity securities. As of December 31, 2011, our investment in fixed maturity securities was approximately $11 billion, or 84% of our total investment portfolio. As of that date, our portfolio of fixed maturity securities consisted of the following types of securities: U.S. Government securities (9%); state and municipal securities (48%); corporate securities (21%); mortgage-backed securities (14%) and foreign government and corporate bonds (8%).

The fair value of these assets and the investment income from these assets fluctuate depending on general economic and market conditions. The fair value of fixed maturity securities generally decreases as interest rates rise. Conversely, if interest rates decline, investment income earned from future investments in fixed maturity securities will be lower. Some fixed maturity securities, such as mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities, also carry prepayment risk as a result of interest rate fluctuations. Additionally, given the historically low interest rate environment, we may not be able to successfully reinvest the proceeds from maturing securities at yields commensurate with our target performance goals.

The value of investments in fixed maturity securities is subject to impairment as a result of deterioration in the credit worthiness of the issuer, default by the issuer (including states and municipalities) in the performance of its obligations in respect of the securities and/or increases in market interest rates. To a large degree, the credit risk we face is a function of the economy; accordingly, we face a greater risk in an economic downturn or recession. Although the historical rates of default on state and municipal securities have been relatively low, our state and municipal fixed maturity securities could be subject to a higher risk of default or impairment due to declining municipal tax bases and revenue. The economic downturn has resulted in many states and municipalities operating under deficits or projected deficits, the severity and duration of which could have an adverse impact on both the valuation of our state and municipal fixed maturity securities and the issuer's ability to perform its obligations thereunder. Additionally, our investments are subject to losses as a result of a general decrease in commercial and economic activity for an industry sector in which we invest, as well as risks inherent in particular securities.

Although we attempt to manage these risks through the use of investment guidelines and other oversight mechanisms and by diversifying our portfolio and emphasizing preservation of principal, our efforts may not be successful. Impairments, defaults and/or rate increases could reduce our net investment income and net realized investment gains or result in investment losses. Investment returns are currently, and will likely continue to remain, under pressure due to the significant volatility experienced in the financial markets, economic uncertainty, more generally, and the shape of the yield curve. As a result, our exposure to the risks described above could materially and adversely affect our results of operations.

We invest some of our assets in equity securities, merger arbitrage securities, investment funds, private equity and real estate related assets, which may decline in value.

We invest a portion of our investment portfolio in equity securities, merger arbitrage securities, investment funds, private equity and real estate related assets and have recently increased our investments in these asset classes

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as a result of the current historically low interest rate environment. At December 31, 2011, our investment in these assets was approximately $2 billion, or 16%, of our investment portfolio. We reported provisions for other than temporary impairments in the value of these assets of approximately $400,000 in 2011, $9 million in 2010 and $63 million in 2009, and losses from investment funds of $6 million in 2010, and $164 million in 2009.

Merger and arbitrage trading securities were $397 million, or 3%, of our investment portfolio at December 31, 2011. Merger arbitrage involves investing in the securities of publicly held companies that are the targets in announced tender offers and mergers. Merger arbitrage differs from other types of investments in its focus on transactions and events believed likely to bring about a change in value over a relatively short time period, usually four months or less. Our merger arbitrage positions are exposed to the risk associated with the completion of announced deals, which are subject to regulatory as well as political and other risks.

Investments in real estate investment funds and limited partnerships and loans receivable were $921 million, or 6%, of our investment portfolio at December 31, 2011. The values of our real estate related investments are subject to fluctuations based on changes in the economy and interest rates in general and real estate valuations in particular. These investments have been subject to significant volatility as a result of the current conditions in the financial markets. In addition, our investments in real estate related assets are less liquid than our other investments.

Risks Relating to Purchasing Our Securities

We are an insurance holding company and, therefore, may not be able to receive dividends in needed amounts.

As an insurance holding company, our principal assets are the shares of capital stock of our insurance company subsidiaries. We have to rely on dividends from our insurance company subsidiaries to meet our obligations for paying principal and interest on outstanding debt obligations, paying dividends to stockholders and repurchasing our shares and paying corporate expenses. The payment of dividends by our insurance company subsidiaries is subject to regulatory restrictions and will depend on the surplus and future earnings of these subsidiaries, as well as regulatory restrictions. During 2012, the maximum amount of dividends that can be paid without regulatory approval is approximately $417 million. As a result, in the future we may not be able to receive dividends from these subsidiaries at times and in amounts necessary to meet our obligations, pay dividends or repurchase shares.

Laws and regulations of the jurisdictions in which we conduct business could delay, deter or prevent an attempt to acquire control of us that stockholders might consider to be desirable, and may restrict a stockholder's ability to purchase our common stock.

Generally, United States insurance holdingcompany laws require that, before a person can acquire control of an insurance company, prior written approvalmust be obtained from the insurance regulatory authorities in the state in which that insurance company isdomiciled. Pursuant to applicable laws and regulations, “control” over an insurer is generally presumed to exist if any person,directly or indirectly, owns, controls, holds the power to vote, or holds proxies representing, 10% or more ofthe voting securities of that insurer (5% for Alabama domiciled insurers, such as us due to our ownership of American Mining). Indirect ownership includes ownership of the shares of our common stock. Thus,the insurance regulatory authorities of the states in which our insurance operating units are domiciled are likely toapply these restrictions on acquisition of control to any proposed acquisition of our commonstock. Some states require a person seeking to acquire control of an insurer licensed but not domiciled in that state tomake a filing prior to completing an acquisition if the acquirer and its affiliates, on the one hand, and the targetinsurer and its affiliates, on the other hand, have specified market shares in the same lines of insurance in that state. Additionally, many foreign jurisdictions where we conduct business impose similar restrictions and requirements.

While these provisions may not require acquisition approval, they can lead to the imposition of conditions on anacquisition that could delay or prevent its consummation.These laws may discourage potential acquisition proposals and may delay, deter or prevent a change in controlof us through transactions, and in particular unsolicited transactions, that some or all of our stockholders mightconsider to be desirable. 

Certain provisions in our organizational documents may have the effect of hindering, delaying or preventing third party takeovers and thus may prevent our stockholders from receiving premium prices for their shares in an unsolicited takeover or make it more difficult for third parties to replace our current management.

Provisions of our Restated Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws, as well as state insurance statutes, may

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hinder, delay or prevent unsolicited acquisitions or changes of our control. These provisions may also have the effect of making it more difficult for third parties to cause the replacement of our current management without the concurrence of our board of directors.

These provisions include:

• our classified board of directors and the ability of our board to increase its size and to appoint directors to fill newly created directorships;

• the requirement that 80% of our stockholders must approve mergers and other transactions between us and the holder of 5% or more of our shares, unless the transaction was approved by our board of directors prior to such holder's acquisition of 5% of our shares; and

• the need for advance notice in order to raise business or make nominations at stockholders' meetings.

These provisions may discourage potential acquisition proposals and may delay, deter or prevent a change in control of us through transactions, and in particular unsolicited transactions, that some or all of our stockholders might consider to be desirable.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

There are no unresolved written comments that were received from the SEC staff 180 days or more before the end of our fiscal year relating to our periodic or current reports under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

W. R. Berkley and its subsidiaries own or lease office buildings or office space suitable to conduct their operations. At December 31, 2011, the Company had aggregate office space of 3,663,698 square feet, of which 1,121,546 were owned and 2,542,152 were leased.

Rental expense for the Company's operations was approximately $33,003,000, $29,936,000 and $28,067,000 for 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Future minimum lease payments are $34,635,000 in 2012, $31,177,000 in 2013 and $222,469,000 thereafter.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

The Company's subsidiaries are subject to disputes, including litigation and arbitration, arising in the ordinary course of their insurance and reinsurance businesses. The Company's estimates of the costs of settling such matters are reflected in its aggregate reserves for losses and loss expenses, and the Company does not believe that the ultimate outcome of such matters will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of operations.

ITEM 4. RESERVED

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PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

The common stock of the Company is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “WRB”.

	Price Range
	High		Low		Dividends Declared Per Share
2011:
Fourth Quarter	$	36.05	$	28.07	$	0.08
Third Quarter	33.26		27.26		0.08
Second Quarter	33.24		31.00		0.08
First Quarter	32.41		26.52		0.07
2010:
Fourth Quarter	$	28.83	$	26.19	$	0.07
Third Quarter	27.66		25.63		0.07
Second Quarter	28.13		25.69		0.07
First Quarter	26.75		23.89		0.06

The closing price of the common stock on February 16, 2012 as reported on the New York Stock Exchange was $36.51 per share. The approximate number of record holders of the common stock on February 16, 2012 was 445.

Set forth below is a summary of the shares repurchased by the Company during the fourth quarter of 2011 and the remaining number of shares authorized for purchase by the Company during such period.

	Total Number of Shares Purchased	Average Price Paid per Share		Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs	Maximum Number of Shares that may yet be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs(1)
October 2011	100,000	$	28.20	100,000	4,782,503
November 2011	—	—		—	10,000,000
December 2011 (2)	195,469	$	34.26	—	10,000,000

_______________________________________

(1) The Company’s repurchase authorization was increased to 10,000,000 shares on November 3, 2011.

(2) Represents shares withheld in connection with exercises of employee stock options.

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

	Year Ended December 31,
	2011			2010			2009			2008			2007
	(Amounts in thousands, except per share data)
Net premiums written	$	4,357,368		$	3,850,926		$	3,730,095		$	4,033,899		$	4,575,989
Net premiums earned	4,160,867			3,835,582			3,805,849			4,289,580			4,663,701
Net investment income	526,351			530,525			379,008			533,480			672,660
Insurance service fees	92,843			85,405			93,245			102,856			97,689
Net investment gains (losses)	125,481			56,581			(38,408		)	(356,931		)	49,696
Revenues from wholly-owned investees	248,678			214,454			189,347			137,280			102,846
Total revenues	5,155,984			4,724,069			4,431,178			4,708,808			5,588,397
Interest expense	112,512			106,969			87,989			84,623			88,996
Income before income taxes	518,283			603,305			382,230			326,322			1,092,392
Income tax expense	(123,550		)	(153,739		)	(73,150		)	(44,919		)	(323,070		)
Noncontrolling interests	70			(279		)	(23		)	(262		)	(3,083		)
Net income to common stockholders	394,803			449,287			309,057			281,141			766,239
Data per common share:
Net income per basic share	2.83			3.02			1.93			1.68			4.05
Net income per diluted share	2.71			2.90			1.86			1.62			3.90
Common stockholders’ equity	29.15			26.26			22.97			18.87			19.92
Cash dividends declared	0.31			0.27			0.24			0.23			0.20
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic	139,688			148,752			160,357			166,956			188,981
Diluted	145,672			155,081			166,574			173,454			196,698
Investments	$	13,439,518		$	12,995,393		$	13,050,238		$	11,143,281		$	11,956,717
Total assets	18,487,731			17,528,547			17,328,596			16,121,158			16,820,005
Reserves for losses and loss expenses	9,337,134			9,016,549			9,071,671			8,999,596			8,678,034
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997			242,784			249,793			249,584			249,375
Senior notes and other debt	1,500,503			1,500,419			1,345,481			1,021,869			1,121,793
Common stockholders’ equity	4,008,426			3,702,876			3,596,067			3,046,319			3,592,368

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Overview

W. R. Berkley Corporation is an insurance holding company that is among the largest commercial lines writers in the United States and operates in five business segments: Specialty, Regional, Alternative Markets, Reinsurance and International. Our decentralized structure provides us with the flexibility to respond quickly and efficiently to local or specific market conditions and to pursue specialty business niches. It also allows us to be closer to our customers in order to better understand their individual needs and risk characteristics. While providing our business units with certain operating autonomy, our structure allows us to capitalize on the benefits of economies of scale through centralized capital, investment and reinsurance management, and actuarial, financial and corporate legal staff support. The Company’s primary sources of revenues and earnings are its insurance operations and its investments.

An important part of our strategy is to form new operating units to capitalize on various business opportunities, with 21 of our 45 units formed since 2006. These newer units are focused on important parts of the economy in the U.S., including healthcare, energy and agriculture, and on growing international markets, including Norway, Australia, the Asia-Pacific region and South America. As a result, our international operations have become an increasingly important part of our business.

The profitability of the Company’s insurance business is affected primarily by the adequacy of premium rates. The ultimate adequacy of premium rates is not known with certainty at the time a property casualty insurance policy is issued because premiums are determined before claims are reported. The ultimate adequacy of premium rates is affected mainly by the severity and frequency of claims, which are influenced by many factors, including natural and other disasters, regulatory measures and court decisions that define and change the extent of coverage and the effects of economic inflation on the amount of compensation for injuries or losses. General insurance prices are also influenced by available insurance capacity, i.e., the level of policyholders’ surplus employed in the industry, and the industry’s willingness to deploy that capital.

Beginning in 2005, the property casualty insurance market became more competitive and insurance rates decreased across most business lines. Increased competition and the impact of the economic downturn also put pressure on policy terms and conditions. While prices began to increase in 2011, loss costs are also increasing and current market price levels for certain lines of business remain below the prices required for the Company to achieve its return objectives. Recently, there have been increased signs of a hardening market, and, with its investments in new businesses, the Company believes it is well-positioned to take advantage of new opportunities. Price changes are reflected in the Company’s results over time as premiums are earned.

The Company’s profitability is also affected by its investment income. The Company’s invested assets, which are derived from its own capital and cash flow from its insurance business, are invested principally in fixed maturity securities. The return on fixed maturity securities is affected primarily by general interest rates, which are at historically low levels, as well as the credit quality and duration of the securities. The Company also invests in equity securities, merger arbitrage, private equity investments, investment funds and real estate.

Critical Accounting Estimates

The following presents a discussion of accounting policies and estimates relating to reserves for losses and loss expenses, assumed premiums and other-than-temporary impairments of investments. Management believes these policies and estimates are the most critical to its operations and require the most difficult, subjective and complex judgments.

Reserves for Losses and Loss Expenses.To recognize liabilities for unpaid losses, either known or unknown, insurers establish reserves, which is a balance sheet account representing estimates of future amounts needed to pay claims and related expenses with respect to insured events which have occurred. Estimates and assumptions relating to reserves for losses and loss expenses are based on complex and subjective judgments, often including the interplay of specific uncertainties with related accounting and actuarial measurements. Such estimates are also susceptible to change as significant periods of time may elapse between the occurrence of an insured loss, the report of the loss to the insurer, the ultimate determination of the cost of the loss and the insurer’s payment of that loss.

In general, when a claim is reported, claims personnel establish a “case reserve” for the estimated amount of the ultimate payment based upon known information about the claim at that time. The estimate represents an informed judgment based on general reserving practices and reflects the experience and knowledge of the claims personnel regarding the nature and value of the specific type of claim. Reserves are also established on an aggregate basis to provide for losses incurred but not reported (“IBNR”) to the insurer, potential inadequacy of case reserves and the estimated expenses of settling claims,

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including legal and other fees and general expenses of administrating the claims adjustment process. Reserves are established based upon the then current legal interpretation of coverage provided.

In examining reserve adequacy, several factors are considered in estimating the ultimate economic value of losses. These factors include, among other things, historical data, legal developments, changes in social attitudes and economic conditions, including the effects of inflation. The actuarial process relies on the basic assumption that past experience, adjusted judgmentally for the effects of current developments and anticipated trends, is an appropriate basis for predicting future outcomes. Reserve amounts are based on management’s informed estimates and judgments using currently available data. As additional experience and other data become available and are reviewed, these estimates and judgments may be revised. This may result in reserve increases or decreases that would be reflected in our results in periods in which such estimates and assumptions are changed.

The risk and complexity of estimating loss reserves have increased under the current financial market conditions. It is especially difficult to estimate the impact of inflation on loss reserves given the current economic environment and related government actions. Whereas a slowing economy would generally lead to lower inflation or even deflation, increased government spending would generally lead to higher inflation. A change in our assumptions regarding inflation would result in reserve increases or decreases that would be reflected in our operations in periods in which such assumptions are changed.

Reserves do not represent an exact calculation of liability. Rather, reserves represent an estimate of what management expects the ultimate settlement and claim administration will cost. While the methods for establishing reserves are well tested over time, some of the major assumptions about anticipated loss emergence patterns are subject to unanticipated fluctuation. These estimates, which generally involve actuarial projections, are based on management’s assessment of facts and circumstances then known, as well as estimates of trends in claims severity and frequency, judicial theories of liability and other factors, including the actions of third parties which are beyond the Company’s control. These variables are affected by external and internal events, such as inflation and economic volatility, judicial and litigation trends, reinsurance coverage, legislative changes and claim handling and reserving practices, which make it more difficult to accurately predict claim costs. The inherent uncertainties of estimating reserves are greater for certain types of liabilities where long periods of time elapse before a definitive determination of liability is made. Because setting reserves is inherently uncertain, the Company cannot provide assurance that its current reserves will prove adequate in light of subsequent events.

Loss reserves included in the Company’s financial statements represent management’s best estimates based upon an actuarially derived point estimate and other considerations. The Company uses a variety of actuarial techniques and methods to derive an actuarial point estimate for each operating unit. These methods include paid loss development, incurred loss development, paid and incurred Bornhuetter-Ferguson methods and frequency and severity methods. In circumstances where one actuarial method is considered more credible than the others, that method is used to set the point estimate. For example, the paid loss and incurred loss development methods rely on historical paid and incurred loss data. For new lines of business, where there is insufficient history of paid and incurred claims data, or in circumstances where there have been significant changes in claim practices, the paid and incurred loss development methods would be less credible than other actuarial methods. The actuarial point estimate may also be based on a judgmental weighting of estimates produced from each of the methods considered. Industry loss experience is used to supplement the Company’s own data in selecting “tail factors” and in areas where the Company’s own data is limited. The actuarial data is analyzed by line of business, coverage and accident or policy year, as appropriate, for each operating unit.

The establishment of the actuarially derived loss reserve point estimate also includes consideration of qualitative factors that may affect the ultimate losses. These qualitative considerations include, among others, the impact of re-underwriting initiatives, changes in the mix of business, changes in distribution sources and changes in policy terms and conditions. Examples of changes in terms and conditions that can have a significant impact on reserve levels are the use of aggregate policy limits, the expansion of coverage exclusions, whether or not defense costs are within policy limits, and changes in deductibles and attachment points.

The key assumptions used to arrive at the best estimate of loss reserves are the expected loss ratios, rate of loss cost inflation, and reported and paid loss emergence patterns. Expected loss ratios represent management’s expectation of losses at the time the business is written, before any actual claims experience has emerged. This expectation is a significant determinant of the estimate of loss reserves for recently written business where there is little paid or incurred loss data to consider. Expected loss ratios are generally derived from historical loss ratios adjusted for the impact of rate changes, loss cost trends and known changes in the type of risks underwritten. Expected loss ratios are estimated for each key line of business within each operating unit. Expected loss cost inflation is particularly important for the long-tail lines, such as excess casualty, and claims with a high medical component, such as workers’ compensation. Reported and paid loss emergence patterns are used to project current reported or paid loss amounts to their ultimate settlement value. Loss development factors are based on the historical emergence patterns of paid and incurred losses, and are derived from the Company’s own experience and industry data. The paid loss emergence pattern is also significant to excess and assumed workers’ compensation reserves because those reserves are discounted to their estimated present value based upon such estimated payout patterns. Management believes the estimates

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and assumptions it makes in the reserving process provide the best estimate of the ultimate cost of settling claims and related expenses with respect to insured events which have occurred; however, different assumptions and variables could lead to significantly different reserve estimates.

Loss frequency and severity are measures of loss activity that are considered in determining the key assumptions described in our discussion of loss and loss expense reserves, including expected loss ratios, rate of loss cost inflation and reported and paid loss emergence patterns. Loss frequency is a measure of the number of claims per unit of insured exposure, and loss severity is a measure of the average size of claims. Factors affecting loss frequency include the effectiveness of loss controls and safety programs and changes in economic activity or weather patterns. Factors affecting loss severity include changes in policy limits, retentions, rate of inflation and judicial interpretations.

Another factor affecting estimates of loss frequency and severity is the loss reporting lag, which is the period of time between the occurrence of a loss and the date the loss is reported to the Company. The length of the loss reporting lag affects our ability to accurately predict loss frequency (loss frequencies are more predictable for lines with short reporting lags) as well as the amount of reserves needed for incurred but not reported losses (less IBNR is required for lines with short reporting lags). As a result, loss reserves for lines with short reporting lags are likely to have less variation from initial loss estimates. For lines with short reporting lags, which include commercial automobile, primary workers’ compensation, other liability (claims-made) and property business, the key assumption is the loss emergence pattern used to project ultimate loss estimates from known losses paid or reported to date. For lines of business with long reporting lags, which include other liability (occurrence), products liability, excess workers’ compensation and liability reinsurance, the key assumption is the expected loss ratio since there is often little paid or incurred loss data to consider. Historically, the Company has experienced less variation from its initial loss estimates for lines of businesses with short reporting lags than for lines of business with long reporting lags.

The key assumptions used in calculating the most recent estimate of the loss reserves are reviewed each quarter and adjusted, to the extent necessary, to reflect historical changes, current trends and other factors observed. If the actual level of loss frequency and severity are higher or lower than expected, the ultimate losses will be different than management’s estimate. The following table reflects the impact of changes (which could be favorable or unfavorable) in frequency and severity, relative to our assumptions, on our loss estimate for claims occurring in 2011 (dollars in thousands):

	Frequency (+/-)
Severity (+/-)	1%		5%		10%
1%	$	56,116	$	168,908	$	309,896
5%	168,908		286,166		432,738
10%	309,896		432,738		586,291

Our net reserves for losses and loss expenses of approximately $8.2 billion as of December 31, 2011 relate to multiple accident years. Therefore, the impact of changes in frequency or severity for more than one accident year could be higher or lower than the amounts reflected above.

Approximately $1.4 billion, or 19%, of the Company’s net loss reserves as of December 31, 2011 relate to assumed reinsurance business. There is a higher degree of uncertainty and greater variability regarding estimates of assumed loss reserves because those estimates are based, in part, upon information received from ceding companies. If information received from ceding companies is not timely or correct, the Company’s estimate of ultimate losses may not be accurate. Furthermore, due to delayed reporting of claim information by ceding companies, the claim settlement tail for assumed reinsurance is extended. Management considers the impact of delayed reporting in its selection of assumed loss development factors.

Information received from ceding companies is used to set initial expected loss ratios, to establish case reserves and to estimate reserves for incurred but not reported losses on assumed reinsurance business. This information, which is generally provided through reinsurance intermediaries, is gathered through the underwriting process and from periodic claim reports and other correspondence with ceding companies. The Company performs underwriting and claim audits of selected ceding companies to determine the accuracy and completeness of information provided to the Company. The information received from the ceding companies is supplemented by the Company’s own loss development experience with similar lines of business as well as industry loss trends and loss development benchmarks.

Following is a summary of the Company’s reserves for losses and loss expenses by business segment as of December 31,

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2011 and December 31, 2010:

(Dollars in thousands)	December 31,
	2011		2010
Specialty	$	2,905,759	$	2,883,823
Regional	1,283,764		1,285,004
Alternative markets	1,986,111		1,867,470
Reinsurance	1,439,136		1,507,353
International	557,342		455,871
Net reserves for losses and loss expenses	8,172,112		7,999,521
Ceded reserves for losses and loss expenses	1,165,022		1,017,028
Gross reserves for losses and loss expenses	$	9,337,134	$	9,016,549

Following is a summary of the Company’s net reserves for losses and loss expenses by major line of business as of December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010:

(Dollars in thousands)	Reported Case Reserves		Incurred But Not Reported		Total
December 31, 2011
General liability	$	890,238	$	1,974,361	$	2,864,599
Workers’ compensation	1,353,328		992,775		2,346,103
Commercial automobile	275,198		195,323		470,521
International	277,857		279,485		557,342
Other	200,969		293,442		494,411
Total primary	2,997,590		3,735,386		6,732,976
Reinsurance	584,909		854,227		1,439,136
Total	$	3,582,499	$	4,589,613	$	8,172,112
December 31, 2010
General liability	$	873,553	$	2,038,814	$	2,912,367
Workers’ compensation	1,188,117		1,022,331		2,210,448
Commercial automobile	325,686		173,247		498,933
International	195,981		259,890		455,871
Other	158,794		255,755		414,549
Total primary	2,742,131		3,750,037		6,492,168
Reinsurance	639,997		867,356		1,507,353
Total	$	3,382,128	$	4,617,393	$	7,999,521

Reserves for excess and assumed workers’ compensation business are net of an aggregate net discount of $892 million and $898 million as of December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively.

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The following table presents development in our estimate of claims occurring in prior years:

	For the Year Ended
	December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010
Favorable reserve development:
Specialty	$	101,397	$	99,447
Regional	40,208		83,732
Alternative markets	3,115		22,158
Reinsurance	24,543		46,816
International	12,019		1,095
Total favorable reserve development	181,282		253,248
Premium offsets(1):
Specialty	622		(134		)
Alternative markets	75		1,485
Reinsurance	—		(20,558		)
Net development	$	181,979	$	234,041

         _____________

(1) Represents portion of reserve development offset by additional or return premiums on retrospectively rated insurance policies and reinsurance agreements.

For the year ended December 31, 2011, estimates for claims occurring in prior years decreased by $182 million. The favorable reserve development in 2011 was primarily attributable to accident years 2007 through 2009. The changes in prior year loss reserve estimates are generally the result of ongoing analysis of recent loss development trends. Original estimates are increased or decreased as additional information becomes known regarding individual claims and aggregate claim trends.

Specialty - The majority of the favorable reserve development for the specialty segment during 2011 and 2010 was associated with excess and surplus (“E&S”) casualty business. E&S insurers are free from rate and form regulation and generally charge higher rates for business than those that are charged in the “standard” market. Beginning in 2002, the E&S business began to experience improved claim frequency (i.e., a lower number of reported claims per unit of exposure). One reason for the lower number of claims was the Company’s introduction of more restrictive policy language which included additional exclusions that eliminated claims that would have previously been covered, particularly for the Company’s building contractor business. In addition, as standard carriers tightened their underwriting criteria, the Company benefited from an influx of accounts from the standard market to the E&S market during these years. The more restrictive policy language and the influx of standard market business resulted in an improved risk profile within the E&S business and a reduction in loss costs that was not expected at the time loss reserves were initially established. In addition, loss severity trends for E&S casualty business have been lower than we had initially expected for the 2005 to 2009 period. We began to recognize these trends in 2007 and have continued to reduce our estimates of ultimate claim costs since then as the magnitude of the frequency trends has become more evident. The favorable reserve development in 2011 was primarily attributable to accident years 2007 through 2009.

Regional - The favorable reserve development for the regional segment during 2011 was primarily related to the general liability portion of commercial multi-peril business and to commercial automobile liability business. The favorable reserve development resulted mainly from lower loss emergence on known case reserves relative to historical levels. The favorable reserve development was primarily attributable to accident years 2007 through 2009.

Alternative Markets - The favorable reserve development for the alternative markets segment during 2011 was related to a decrease in prior year reserves for primary workers’ compensation business and, to a lesser extent, for medical excess business, partially offset by an increase in prior year reserves for excess workers’ compensation business. The majority of favorable reserve development for primary workers’ compensation was related to California business, where the impact of legislative reforms continues to be reflected in improved loss trends. The increase in loss reserves for excess workers’ compensation business was related primarily to increased medical and pharmaceutical costs associated with certain long-term disability claims.

Reinsurance - The favorable development for the reinsurance segment during 2011 was related to umbrella and professional liability treaty business, facultative business and to business written through Lloyd’s of London. The favorable development for the segment was spread across underwriting years 2005 through 2010 and resulted from lower than expected reported losses.

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International - The favorable reserve development for the international segment during 2011 was primarily related to property business written in 2010 by our Lloyd's syndicate and Asia-Pacific reinsurance business.

Loss Reserve Discount - The Company discounts its liabilities for excess and assumed workers’ compensation business because of the long period of time over which losses are paid. Discounting is intended to appropriately match losses and loss expenses to income earned on investment securities supporting the liabilities. The expected losses and loss expense payout pattern subject to discounting was derived from the Company’s loss payout experience. For non-proportional business, reserves for losses and loss expenses have been discounted using risk-free discount rates determined by reference to the U.S. Treasury yield curve. For proportional business, reserves for losses and loss expenses have been discounted at the statutory rate permitted by the Department of Insurance of the State of Delaware of 2.3%. As of December 31, 2011, the aggregate blended discount rates ranged from 2.3% to 6.5%, with a weighted average discount rate of 4.3%. The aggregate net discount, after reflecting the effects of ceded reinsurance, was $892 million and $898 million as of December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively.

Assumed Reinsurance Premiums. The Company estimates the amount of assumed reinsurance premiums that it will receive under treaty reinsurance agreements at the inception of the contracts. These premium estimates are revised as the actual amount of assumed premiums is reported to the Company by the ceding companies. As estimates of assumed premiums are made or revised, the related amount of earned premiums, commissions and incurred losses associated with those premiums are recorded. Estimated assumed premiums receivable were approximately $64 million and $58 million at December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively. The assumed premium estimates are based upon terms set forth in reinsurance agreements, information received from ceding companies during the underwriting and negotiation of agreements, reports received from ceding companies and discussions and correspondence with reinsurance intermediaries. The Company also considers its own view of market conditions, economic trends and experience with similar lines of business. These premium estimates represent management’s best estimate of the ultimate amount of premiums to be received under its assumed reinsurance agreements.

Other-Than-Temporary Impairments (OTTI) of Investments. The cost of securities is adjusted where appropriate to include a provision for decline in value which is considered to be other-than-temporary. An other-than-temporary decline is considered to occur in investments where there has been a sustained reduction in fair value and where the Company does not expect the fair value to recover prior to the time of sale or maturity. Since equity securities do not have a contractual cash flow or maturity, the Company considers whether the price of an equity security is expected to recover within a reasonable period of time.

The Company classifies its fixed maturity securities and preferred stocks by credit rating, primarily based on ratings assigned by credit rating agencies. For purposes of classifying securities with different ratings, the Company uses the lower rating if two ratings were assigned and the middle rating if three ratings were assigned, unless the Company’s own analysis indicates that the lower rating is more appropriate. Securities that are not rated by a rating agency are evaluated and classified by the Company on a case-by-case basis.

Fixed Maturity Securities – For securities that we intend to sell or, more likely than not, would be required to sell, a decline in value below amortized cost is considered to be OTTI. The amount of OTTI is equal to the difference between amortized cost and fair value at the balance sheet date. For securities that we do not intend to sell or expect to be required to sell, a decline in value below amortized cost is considered to be an OTTI if we do not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of a security (i.e., the present value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis of the security).

The portion of the decline in value considered to be a credit loss (i.e., the difference between the present value of cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis of the security) is recognized in earnings. The portion of the decline in value not considered to be a credit loss (i.e., the difference in the present value of cash flows expected to be collected and the fair value of the security) is recognized in other comprehensive income.

Impairment assessments for structured securities, including mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities, collateralized debt obligations and corporate debt, are generally evaluated based on the performance of the underlying collateral under various economic and default scenarios that may involve subjective judgments and estimates by management. Modeling these securities involves various factors, such as projected default rates, the nature and realizable value of the collateral, if any, the ability of the issuer to make scheduled payments, historical performance and other relevant economic and performance factors. If an OTTI determination is made, a discounted cash flow analysis is used to ascertain the amount of the credit impairment.

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The following table provides a summary of all fixed maturity securities in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2011:

(Dollars in thousands)	Number of Securities	Aggregate Fair Value		Unrealized Loss
Unrealized loss less than 20% of amortized cost	182	$	1,200,572	$	42,469
Unrealized loss of 20% or greater of amortized cost:
Less than twelve months	—	—		—
Twelve months and longer	12	82,628		32,080
Total	194	$	1,283,200	$	74,549

A summary of the Company’s non-investment grade fixed maturity securities that were in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011 is presented in the table below.

(Dollars in thousands)	Number of Securities	Aggregate Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Loss
Unrealized loss less than $5 million:
Mortgage-backed securities	15	$	106,923	$	6,115
Corporate	13	48,106		3,461
State and municipal	5	42,197		4,553
Foreign	1	586		12
Unrealized loss $5 million or more
Mortgage-backed security (1)	1	15,945		7,158
Total	35	$	213,757	$	21,299

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(1) This investment is a residential mortgage-backed security that was evaluated based on the performance of the underlying collateral under various economic and default scenarios. The security has met its contractual obligations and the Company expects that it will continue to meet those contractual payment obligations as they become due. Based on this evaluation, the Company does not consider the investment to be OTTI.

The Company has evaluated its fixed maturity securities in an unrealized loss position and believes the unrealized losses are due primarily to temporary market and sector-related factors rather than to issuer-specific factors. None of these securities are delinquent or in default under financial covenants. Based on its assessment of these issuers, the Company expects them to continue to meet their contractual payment obligations as they become due and does not consider any of these securities to be OTTI.

Preferred Stocks – At December 31, 2011, there were six preferred stocks in an unrealized loss position, with an aggregate fair value of $69 million and a gross unrealized loss of $15 million. Four of the six securities are investment-grade. None of these securities are delinquent or in default. Management believes the unrealized losses are due primarily to market and sector related factors and does not consider these to be OTTI. Two of those preferred stocks with an aggregate fair value of $9 million and a gross unrealized loss of $5 million are rated non-investment grade. One of these two securities representing most of the gross unrealized loss has recently reflected improved fundamentals. The Company does not consider this security to be OTTI.

Common Stocks – At December 31, 2011, the Company owned four common stocks in an unrealized loss position with an aggregate fair value of $47 million and an aggregate unrealized loss of $3 million. The Company does not consider these common stocks to be OTTI.

Loans Receivable – The Company monitors the performance of its loans receivable, including current market conditions for each loan and the ability to collect principal and interest. For loans where the Company determines it is probable that the contractual terms will not be met, an analysis is performed and a valuation reserve is established, if necessary, with a charge to earnings. Loans receivable are reported net of a valuation reserve of $20 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010.

The Company monitors the performance of its loans receivable and assesses the ability of the borrower to pay principal and interest based upon loan structure, underlying property values, cash flow and related financial and operating performance of the property and market conditions. Loans receivable with a potential for default are further assessed using discounted cash

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flow analysis and comparable cost and sales methodologies, if appropriate.

Fair Value Measurements.The Company’s fixed maturity and equity securities available for sale and its trading account securities are carried at fair value. Fair value is defined as “the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.” The Company utilizes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for similar assets in active markets. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs may only be used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available. The fair value of the vast majority of the Company’s portfolio is based on observable data (other than quoted prices) and, accordingly, is classified as Level 2.

In classifying particular financial securities in the fair value hierarchy, the Company uses its judgment to determine whether the market for a security is active and whether significant pricing inputs are observable. The Company determines the existence of an active market by assessing whether transactions occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide reliable pricing information. The Company determines whether inputs are observable based on the use of such information by pricing services and external investment managers, the uninterrupted availability of such inputs, the need to make significant adjustments to such inputs and the volatility of such inputs over time. If the market for a security is determined to be inactive or if significant inputs used to price a security are determined to be unobservable, the security is categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Because many fixed maturity securities do not trade on a daily basis, the Company utilizes pricing models and processes which may include benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings and matrix pricing. Market inputs used to evaluate securities include benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers and reference data. Quoted prices are often unavailable for recently issued securities that are infrequently traded or securities that are only traded in private transactions. For publicly traded securities for which quoted prices are unavailable, the Company determines fair value based on independent broker quotations and other observable market data. For securities traded only in private negotiations, the Company determines fair value based primarily on the cost of such securities, which is adjusted to reflect prices of recent placements of securities of the same issuer, financial data, projections and business developments of the issuer and other relevant information.

The following is a summary of pricing sources for the Company's fixed maturity securities available for sale as of December 31, 2011:

Dollars in thousands	Carrying Value		Percent of Total
Pricing source:
Independent pricing services	$	10,599,158	94.7	%
Syndicate manager	111,438		1.0	%
Directly by the Company based on:
Observable data	418,504		3.7	%
Cash flow model	67,828		0.6	%
Total	$	11,196,928	100.0	%

Independent pricing services - The vast majority of the Company’s fixed maturity securities available for sale were priced by independent pricing services (generally one U.S. pricing service plus additional pricing services with respect to a limited number of foreign securities held by the Company). The prices provided by the independent pricing services are generally based on observable market data in active markets (e.g., broker quotes and prices observed for comparable securities). The determination of whether markets are active or inactive is based upon the volume and level of activity for a particular asset class. The Company reviews the prices provided by pricing services for reasonableness based upon current trading levels for similar securities. If the prices appear unusual to the Company, they are re-examined and the value is either confirmed or revised. In addition, the Company periodically performs independent price tests of a sample of securities to ensure proper valuation and to verify our understanding of how securities are priced. As of December 31, 2011, the Company did not make any adjustments to the prices provided by the pricing services. Based upon the Company’s review of the methodologies used by the independent pricing services, these securities were classified as Level 2.

Syndicate manager – The Company has a 15% participation in a Lloyd’s syndicate, and the Company’s share of the securities owned by the syndicate is priced by the syndicate’s manager. The majority of the securities are liquid, short duration

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fixed maturity securities. The Company reviews the syndicate manager’s pricing methodology and audited financial statements and holds discussions with the syndicate manager as necessary to confirm its understanding and agreement with security prices. Based upon the Company’s review of the methodologies used by the syndicate manager, these securities were classified as Level 2.

Observable data – If independent pricing is not available, the Company prices the securities directly. Prices are based on observable market data where available, including current trading levels for similar securities and non-binding quotations from brokers. The Company generally requests two or more quotes. If more than one quote is received, the Company sets a price within the range of quotes received based on its assessment of the credibility of the quote and its own evaluation of the security. The Company generally does not adjust quotes obtained from brokers. Since these securities were priced based on observable data, they were classified as Level 2.

Cash flow model – If the above methodologies are not available, the Company prices securities using a discounted cash flow model based upon assumptions as to prevailing credit spreads, interest rates and interest rate volatility, time to maturity and subordination levels. Discount rates are adjusted to reflect illiquidity where appropriate. These securities were classified as Level 3.

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Results of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2011 and 2010

Business Segment Results

Following is a summary of gross and net premiums written, premiums earned, loss ratios (losses and loss expenses incurred expressed as a percentage of premiums earned), expense ratios (underwriting expenses expressed as a percentage of premiums earned) and GAAP combined ratios (sum of loss ratio and expense ratio) for each of our business segments for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010. The GAAP combined ratio represents a measure of underwriting profitability, excluding investment income. A GAAP combined ratio in excess of 100 indicates an underwriting loss; a number below 100 indicates an underwriting profit.

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010
Specialty
Gross premiums written	$	1,818,344		$	1,525,856
Net premiums written	1,554,516			1,311,831
Premiums earned	1,442,748			1,288,373
Loss ratio	59.4		%	58.3		%
Expense ratio	32.5		%	32.7		%
GAAP combined ratio	91.9		%	91.0		%
Regional
Gross premiums written	$	1,149,362		$	1,160,136
Net premiums written	1,064,507			1,044,347
Premiums earned	1,065,975			1,066,922
Loss ratio	68.0		%	60.7		%
Expense ratio	35.9		%	35.9		%
GAAP combined ratio	103.9		%	96.6		%
Alternative Markets
Gross premiums written	$	827,156		$	702,717
Net premiums written	619,097			582,045
Premiums earned	612,558			608,191
Loss ratio	72.3		%	67.6		%
Expense ratio	26.7		%	25.6		%
GAAP combined ratio	99.0		%	93.2		%
Reinsurance
Gross premiums written	$	453,170		$	425,297
Net premiums written	430,329			401,239
Premiums earned	426,008			419,356
Loss ratio	61.6		%	52.5		%
Expense ratio	40.4		%	41.0		%
GAAP combined ratio	102.0		%	93.5		%
International
Gross premiums written	$	829,281		$	602,071
Net premiums written	688,919			511,464
Premiums earned	613,578			452,740
Loss ratio	60.5		%	61.8		%
Expense ratio	40.0		%	40.4		%
GAAP combined ratio	100.5		%	102.2		%
Consolidated
Gross premiums written	$	5,077,313		$	4,416,077
Net premiums written	4,357,368			3,850,926
Premiums earned	4,160,867			3,835,582
Loss ratio	63.9		%	60.2		%
Expense ratio	34.4		%	34.3		%
GAAP combined ratio	98.3		%	94.5		%

42

Net Income to Common Stockholders. The following table presents the Company’s net income to common stockholders and net income per diluted share for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 (amounts in thousands, except per share data):

	2011		2010
Net income to common stockholders	$	394,803	$	449,287
Weighted average diluted shares	145,672		155,081
Net income per diluted share	$	2.71	$	2.90

The Company reported net income of $395 million in 2011 compared to $449 million in 2010. The decrease in net income was primarily due to a decline in underwriting income partially offset by an increase in net investment gains. The decline in underwriting income was attributable to an increase in catastrophe losses of $72 million and a decrease in favorable prior year reserve development of $52 million. The number of weighted average diluted shares decreased as a result of the Company’s repurchases of its common stock in 2011 and 2010.

Premiums. Gross premiums written were $5,077 million in 2011, an increase of 15% from $4,416 million in 2010. The increase in gross premiums written was primarily due to growth in our specialty and international business segments as a result of expansion into new geographic and product markets. Approximately 80% of policies expiring in 2011 were renewed, compared with a 77% renewal retention rate for policies expiring in 2010. The average rate (i.e., average premium adjusted for change in exposures) for policies that renewed in 2011 increased by approximately 2.3%. Audit premiums were $53 million in 2011 compared with $18 million in 2010.

Beginning in 2005, the property casualty insurance market became more competitive and insurance rates decreased across most business lines. While prices increased in 2011, overall loss costs are also generally increasing and current market price levels for certain lines of business remain below the prices required for the Company to achieve its return objectives. A summary of gross premiums written in 2011 compared with 2010 by line of business within each business segment follows:

• Specialty premiums increased 19% to $1,818 million in 2011 from $1,526 million in 2010 primarily due to increased business in the energy and environmental markets. Gross premiums increased $121 million (27%) for other liability,$65 million (21%) for property lines, $38 million (30%) for commercial automobile, $22 million (11%) for professional liability, $10 million (11%) for products liability and $36 million (13%) for other lines.

• Regional gross premiums decreased 1% to $1,149 million in 2011 from $1,160 million in 2010. Gross premiums increased $14 million (3%) for commercial multiple peril, $11 million (5%) for workers’ compensation and $7 million (4%) for other lines. Gross premiums decreased $7 million (2%) for commercial automobile. Gross premiums written decreased $36 million as a result of the transfer of fully reinsured assigned risk plan premiums to the alternative markets segment in 2011.

• Alternative Markets gross premiums increased 18% to $827 million in 2011 from $703 million in 2010. Excluding assigned risk plans, which are fully reinsured, gross premiums increased 6% to $676 million in 2011 from $636 million in 2010. Gross premiums increased $51 million (68%) for accident and health products, $29 million (11%) for primary workers’ compensation and $13 million (38%) for other liability and decreased $4 million (7%) for other lines. Gross premiums decreased $48 million (24%) for excess workers’ compensation. Fully reinsured assigned risk premiums increased $84 million (including the $36 million transferred from the regional segment) to $151 million in 2011.

• Reinsurance gross premiums increased 7% to $453 million in 2011 from $425 million in 2010. Gross premiums increased 9% to $314 million for casualty business and 1% to $139 million for property business.

• International gross premiums increased 38% to $829 million in 2011 from $602 million in 2010. The increase was primarily due to an increase in business written by our Lloyd’s operation, our companies in Australia, and new insurance branches in Germany and Norway. Gross premiums increased $93 million (64%) for property lines, $53 million (56%) for assumed reinsurance, $27 million (58%) for liability lines, $19 million (18%) for professional liability, $16 million (27%) for workers’ compensation and $6 million (8%) for automobile. In addition, one percentage point of the 38% increase in gross premiums written resulted from changes in foreign exchange rates.

Net premiums written were $4,357 million in 2011, an increase of 13% from $3,851 million in 2010. Ceded reinsurance premiums as a percentage of gross written premiums increased to 14% in 2011 from 13% in 2010. The increase in the percentage of business ceded was due to the increase in premiums written by new companies, which cede a higher portion of their gross premiums, and to growth in premiums written by assigned risk plans, which cede 100% of their gross premiums.

43

Premiums earned increased 9% to $4,161 million in 2011 from $3,836 million in 2010. Insurance premiums (including the impact of rate changes) are generally earned evenly over the policy term. Premiums earned in 2011 are related to business written during both 2011 and 2010.

Net Investment Income. Following is a summary of net investment income for 2011 and 2010:

	Amount						Average Annualized Yield
(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2011		2010
Fixed maturity securities, including cash and cash equivalents and loans receivable	$	483,905		$	501,750		4.0	%	4.1	%
Arbitrage trading account	16,576			27,155			4.9		7.0
Investment funds	9,452			(6,481		)	1.6		(1.3	)
Equity securities available for sale	12,416			11,661			3.5		3.5
Real estate	7,471			—			4.3		—
Gross investment income	529,820			534,085			3.9	%	4.0	%
Investment expenses	(3,469		)	(3,560		)
Total	$	526,351		$	530,525		3.9	%	4.0	%

Net investment income decreased 1% to $526 million in 2011 from $531 million in 2010. The decrease in investment income was due to a decrease in income from arbitrage trading activities, partially offset by income from investment funds (which are reported on a one quarter lag). Average invested assets, at cost (including cash and cash equivalents) were $13.6 billion in 2011 and $13.4 billion in 2010.

Insurance Service Fees. The Company is a servicing carrier of worker's compensation assigned risk plans for 20 states and provides insurance program management services to self-insureds, captives, governmental entities, risk retention groups, and insurance companies. Service fees were $93 million in 2011, up from $85 million in 2010, primarily as a result of an increase in fees from assigned risk plans.

Net Investment Gains. The Company buys and sells securities on a regular basis in order to maximize its total return on investments. Decisions to sell securities are based on management’s view of the underlying fundamentals of specific securities as well as management’s expectations regarding interest rates, credit spreads, currency values and general economic conditions. Net realized gains on investment sales were $126 million in 2011 compared with $66 million in 2010.

Other-Than-Temporary Impairments. The cost of securities is adjusted where appropriate to include a provision for decline in value which is considered to be other-than-temporary. Other-than-temporary impairments were $0.4 million in 2011 compared with $9.2 million in 2010.

Revenues from Wholly-Owned Investees. These revenues were derived from aviation-related businesses that provide services to the general aviation market, including fuel and line service, aircraft sales and maintenance, avionics and engineering services and parts fabrication. Revenues from wholly-owned investees increased to $249 million in 2011 from $214 million in 2010, primarily as a result of higher aircraft sales.

Losses and Loss Expenses. Losses and loss expenses increased to $2,658 million in 2011 from $2,310 million in 2010. The consolidated loss ratio of 63.9% in 2011 was 3.7 points higher than the loss ratio of 60.2% in 2010. Catastrophe losses, net of reinsurance recoveries and reinstatement premiums, were $153 million in 2011 compared with $81 million in 2010, an increase of 1.6 loss ratio points. Catastrophe losses in 2011 included losses from severe wind and hail storms in the United States, an earthquake in Japan and floods in Thailand. Favorable prior year reserve development was $182 million in 2011 compared with $234 million in 2010, a difference of 1.7 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding catastrophe losses and favorable prior year reserve development increased 0.4 points to 64.6% in 2011 from 64.2% in 2010. A summary of loss ratios in 2011 compared with 2010 by business segment follows:

• Specialty - The loss ratio of 59.4% in 2011 was 1.1 points higher than the loss ratio of 58.3% in 2010. Catastrophe losses were $17 million, or 1.2 loss ratio points, in 2011 compared with none in 2010. Favorable prior year reserve development was $102 million in 2011 compared with $99 million in 2010, a difference of 0.6 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding catastrophe losses and favorable prior year reserve development decreased 0.7 points to 65.3% in 2011 from 66.0% in 2010.

• Regional - The loss ratio of 68.0% in 2011 was 7.3 points higher than the loss ratio of 60.7% in 2010. Catastrophe

44

losses were $85 million in 2011 compared with $73 million in 2010, an increase of 1.1 loss ratio points. Favorable prior year reserve development was $40 million in 2011 compared with $84 million in 2010, a difference of 4.1 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding catastrophe losses and favorable prior year reserve development increased 2.1 points to 63.8% in 2011 from 61.7% in 2010 due to earned pricing and loss cost trends.

• Alternative Markets - The loss ratio of 72.3% in 2011 was 4.7 points higher than the loss ratio of 67.6% in 2010. Catastrophe losses were $2 million in 2011 compared with none in 2010, an increase of 0.3 loss ratio points. Favorable prior year reserve development was $3 million in 2011 compared with $24 million in 2010, a difference of 3.4 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding catastrophe losses and favorable prior year reserve development increased 1.0 points to 72.5% in 2011 from 71.5% in 2010.

• Reinsurance - The loss ratio of 61.6% in 2011 was 9.1 points higher than the loss ratio of 52.5% in 2010. Catastrophe losses were $24 million in 2011 compared $4 million in 2010, an increase of 4.7 loss ratio points. Favorable prior year reserve development was $25 million in 2011 compared with $26 million in 2010, a difference of 0.5 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding catastrophe losses and favorable prior year reserve development increased 3.9 points to 61.7% in 2011 from 57.8% in 2010 due to higher non-catastrophe property losses.

• International - The loss ratio of 60.5% in 2011 was 1.3 points lower than the loss ratio of 61.8% in 2010. Catastrophe losses were $25 million in 2011 compared with $4 million in 2010, an increase of 3.2 loss ratio points. Favorable prior year reserve development was $12 million in 2011 and $1 million in 2010, a difference of 1.7 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding catastrophe losses and favorable prior year reserve development decreased 2.8 points to 58.4% in 2011 from 61.2% in 2010 due to improved profitability for our businesses in South America and Australia.

Other Operating Costs and Expenses. Following is a summary of other operating costs and expenses for 2011 and 2010:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010
Underwriting expenses	$	1,432,932		$	1,314,483
Service expenses	75,231			72,372
Net foreign currency (gains) losses	(1,884		)	2,126
Other costs and expenses	115,050			107,381
Total	$	1,621,329		$	1,496,362

Underwriting expenses are comprised of commissions paid to agents and brokers, premium taxes and other assessments and internal underwriting costs. The expense ratio (underwriting expenses expressed as a percentage of premiums earned) was 34.4% in 2011 compared with 34.3% in 2010 due to increases in internal underwriting costs, largely offset by an increase in earned premiums.

Service expenses, which represent the costs associated with the fee-based businesses, increased 4% to $75 million. The increase was due to an increase in general and administrative expenses.

Net foreign currency gains and losses result from transactions denominated in a currency other than the operating unit’s functional currency.

Other costs and expenses, which represent general and administrative expenses that are not allocated to business segments, increased to $115 million in 2011 from $107 million in 2010 due to an increase in general and administrative expenses.

Expenses from Wholly-Owned Investees. These expenses represent costs associated with aviation-related businesses that include cost of goods sold related to aircraft and other sales, labor and equipment costs related to repairs and other services and general and administrative expenses. Expenses from wholly-owned investees were $245 million in 2011 compared to $208 million in 2010 due to higher cost of aircraft sold as a result of higher sales volume.

Interest Expense. Interest expense was $113 million in 2011 compared with $107 million in 2010 due to the issuance of $300 million of 5.375% senior notes in September 2010, partially offset by repayment of $150 million 5.125% senior notes in September 2010.

Income Taxes. The effective income tax rate was 24% in 2011 as compared to 25% in 2010. The effective income tax rate differs from the federal income tax rate of 35% primarily because of tax-exempt investment income and utilization of foreign tax credits, including a reduction of the valuation allowance. Tax exempt investment income comprised a higher portion of the 2011 pre-tax income and as such had a higher impact on the effective tax rate for 2011 compared with 2010.

45

Results of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2010 and 2009

Business Segment Results

Following is a summary of gross and net premiums written, premiums earned, loss ratios (losses and loss expenses incurred expressed as a percentage of premiums earned), expense ratios (underwriting expenses expressed as a percentage of premiums earned) and GAAP combined ratios (sum of loss ratio and expense ratio) for each of our business segments for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009. The GAAP combined ratio represents a measure of underwriting profitability, excluding investment income. A GAAP combined ratio in excess of 100 indicates an underwriting loss; a number below 100 indicates an underwriting profit.

(Dollars in thousands)	2010			2009
Specialty
Gross premiums written	$	1,525,856		$	1,464,205
Net premiums written	1,311,831			1,260,451
Premiums earned	1,288,373			1,354,355
Loss ratio	58.3		%	61.9		%
Expense ratio	32.7		%	31.1		%
GAAP combined ratio	91.0		%	93.0		%
Regional
Gross premiums written	$	1,160,136		$	1,229,786
Net premiums written	1,044,347			1,081,100
Premiums earned	1,066,922			1,116,871
Loss ratio	60.7		%	61.4		%
Expense ratio	35.9		%	34.2		%
GAAP combined ratio	96.6		%	95.6		%
Alternative Markets
Gross premiums written	$	702,717		$	664,749
Net premiums written	582,045			589,637
Premiums earned	608,191			597,932
Loss ratio	67.6		%	63.4		%
Expense ratio	25.6		%	25.8		%
GAAP combined ratio	93.2		%	89.2		%
Reinsurance
Gross premiums written	$	425,297		$	455,968
Net premiums written	401,239			423,425
Premiums earned	419,356			411,511
Loss ratio	52.5		%	57.9		%
Expense ratio	41.0		%	39.1		%
GAAP combined ratio	93.5		%	97.0		%
International
Gross premiums written	$	602,071		$	438,731
Net premiums written	511,464			375,482
Premiums earned	452,740			325,180
Loss ratio	61.8		%	59.9		%
Expense ratio	40.4		%	40.2		%
GAAP combined ratio	102.2		%	100.1		%
Consolidated
Gross premiums written	$	4,416,077		$	4,253,439
Net premiums written	3,850,926			3,730,095
Premiums earned	3,835,582			3,805,849
Loss ratio	60.2		%	61.4		%
Expense ratio	34.3		%	32.8		%
GAAP combined ratio	94.5		%	94.2		%

46

Net Income to Common Stockholders. The following table presents the Company's net income to common stockholders and net income per diluted share for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 (amounts in thousands, except per share data):

	2010		2009
Net income to common stockholders	$	449,287	$	309,057
Weighted average diluted shares	155,081		166,574
Net income per diluted share	$	2.90	$	1.86

The Company reported net income of $449 million in 2010 compared to $309 million in 2009. The increase in net income was primarily due to lower losses from investment funds ($6 million in 2010 compared with $164 million in 2009) and lower other-than-temporary investment impairments ($9 million in 2010 compared with $152 million in 2009). The number of weighted average diluted shares decreased as a result of the Company's repurchases of its common stock in 2010 and 2009.

Premiums.Gross premiums written were $4,416 million in 2010, an increase of 4% from $4,253 million in 2009. The increase in gross premiums written was primarily due to growth in international business as a result of expansion into new markets. In 2010 and 2009, approximately 77% of policies expiring were renewed. The average price of policies renewed in 2010 declined 0.3% from the same period in 2009.

Beginning in 2005, the property casualty insurance became more competitive and insurance rates decreased across most business lines. Although price levels were generally stable in 2009 and 2010, current market price levels for certain lines of business remain below the prices required for the Company to achieve its return objectives. Disparities between the Company's price levels and the pricing available in the market resulted in significant declines in gross premiums written for other liability, commercial automobile, excess workers' compensation and reinsurance during 2009 and 2010. These declines have been more than offset by increased premiums from new business units and expansion into new markets. A summary of gross premiums written in 2010 compared with 2009 by line of business within each business segment follows:

• Specialty gross premiums increased 4% to $1,526 million in 2010 from $1,464 million in 2009. Gross premiums increased 12% for property lines, 6% for professional liability and 2% for other liability. Gross premiums decreased 18% for commercial automobile and 17% for products liability.

• Regional gross premiums decreased 6% to $1,160 million in 2010 from $1,230 million in 2009. Gross premiums decreased 6% for workers' compensation, 6% for commercial automobile and 3% for commercial multiple peril. Gross premiums include assigned risk premiums, which are fully reinsured, of $36 million in 2010 and $66 million in 2009. The decrease in assigned risk premiums was due to the transfer of certain assigned risk premiums from the regional segment to the alternative markets segment in 2010.

• Alternative Markets gross premiums increased 6% to $703 million in 2010 from $665 million in 2009. Gross premiums decreased 16% for excess workers' compensation and increased 1% for primary workers' compensation. Gross premiums include fully reinsured assigned risk premiums of $67 million in 2010 and $24 million in 2009. The increase is primarily due to the transfer from the regional segment described above.

• Reinsurance gross premiums decreased 7% to $425 million in 2010 from $456 million in 2009. Gross premiums decreased 10% to $288 million for casualty business and increased 1% to $137 million for property business.

• International gross premiums increased 37% to $602 million in 2010 from $439 million in 2009. The increase is primarily due to an increase in business written by our recently started operations in Canada, Norway and Brazil and our Lloyd's syndicate. Gross premiums increased 144% for property lines, 30% for liability lines, 24% for workers' compensation, 20% for reinsurance assumed, 6% for automobile and 1% for professional liability.

Net premiums written were $3,851 million in 2010, an increase of 3% from $3,730 million in 2009. Ceded reinsurance premiums as a percentage of gross written premiums increased to 13% in 2010 from 12% in 2009. The increase in the percentage of business ceded was due to the increase in premiums written by new companies, which cede a higher portion of their gross premiums, and to growth in premiums written by assigned risk plans, which cede 100% of their gross premiums.

47

Premiums earned increased 1% to $3,836 million in 2010 from $3,806 million in 2009. Insurance premiums (including the impact of rate changes) are generally earned evenly over the policy term. Premiums earned in 2010 are related to business written during both 2010 and 2009.

Net Investment Income. Following is a summary of net investment income for 2010 and 2009:

	Amount						Average Annualized Yield
(Dollars in thousands)	2010			2009			2010		2009
Fixed maturity securities, including cash and cash equivalents, loans receivable	$	501,750		$	495,140		4.1	%	4.2	%
Arbitrage trading account	27,155			31,023			7.0	%	10.4	%
Investment funds	(6,481		)	(163,862		)	(1.3	)%	(33.5	)%
Equity securities available for sale	11,661			20,295			3.5	%	6.1	%
Gross investment income	534,085			382,596			4.0	%	3.0	%
Investment expenses	(3,560		)	(3,588		)
Total	$	530,525		$	379,008		4.0	%	2.9	%

Net investment income increased 40% to $531 million in 2010 from $379 million in 2009. The increase in investment income was due to a decrease in losses from investment funds (which are reported on a one quarter lag). Average invested assets, at cost (including cash and cash equivalents) were $13.4 billion in 2010 and $12.9 billion in 2009.

Insurance Service Fees.Insurance service fees consist of fee-based services to help clients develop and administer self-insurance programs, primarily for workers' compensation coverage. Service fees decreased to $85 million in 2010 from $93 million in 2009 due to a decline in fees received for claims administration services.

Net Investment Gains. The Company buys and sells securities on a regular basis in order to maximize its total return on investments. Decisions to sell securities are based on management's view of the underlying fundamentals of specific securities as well as management's expectations regarding interest rates, credit spreads, currency values and general economic conditions. Net realized gains on investment sales were $66 million in 2010 compared with $104 million in 2009.

Other-Than-Temporary Impairments. Other-than-temporary impairments were $9 million in 2010 compared with $143 million in 2009. The impairment charge in 2009 was primarily related to debt and preferred stock of major financial institutions that experienced adverse credit events and ratings downgrades during the period, including write-downs of debt issued by Thornburg Mortgage, Inc. and preferred stock issued by Citibank and Bank of America.

Revenues from Wholly-Owned Investees. Revenues from wholly-owned investees were $214 million in 2010 compared with $189 million in 2009. These revenues were derived from aviation-related businesses that were separately purchased in 2007, 2008 and 2009. These companies provide services to the general aviation market, including fuel and line service, aircraft sales and maintenance, avionics and engineering services and parts fabrication. The increase in 2010 revenues is due to the acquisition of an aviation company in June 2009, partially offset by lower aircraft sales in 2010.

Losses and Loss Expenses. Losses and loss expenses decreased to $2,310 million in 2010 from $2,337 million in 2009. The consolidated loss ratio of 60.2% in 2010 was 1.2 points lower than the loss ratio of 61.4% in 2009. Catastrophe losses, net of reinsurance recoveries and reinstatement premiums, were $81 million in 2010 (including $8 million for the earthquake in Chile) compared with $63 million in 2009, an increase of 0.5 loss ratio points. Favorable prior year reserve development was $234 million in 2010 compared with $190 million in 2009, a difference of 1.2 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding catastrophe losses and favorable prior year reserve development decreased 0.5 points to 64.2% in 2010 from 64.7% in 2009. A summary of loss ratios in 2010 compared with 2009 by business segment follows:

• Specialty - The loss ratio of 58.3% in 2010 was 3.6 points lower than the loss ratio of 61.9% in 2009. Favorable prior year reserve development was $99 million in 2010 compared with $69 million in 2009, a difference of 2.6 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding favorable prior year reserve development decreased 1.0 points to 66.0% in 2010 from 67.0% in 2009.

• Regional - The loss ratio was 60.7% in 2010 was 0.7 points lower than the loss ratio of 61.4% in 2009. Catastrophe losses were $73 million in 2010 compared with $63 million in 2009, an increase of 1.3 loss ratio points. Favorable prior year reserve development was $84 million in 2010 compared with $52 million in 2009, a difference of 3.2 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding catastrophe losses and favorable prior year reserve development increased 1.2

48

points to 61.7% in 2010 from 60.5% in 2009 due to earned pricing and loss cost trends.

• Alternative Markets - The loss ratio of 67.6% in 2010 was 4.2 points higher than the loss ratio of 63.4% in 2009. Favorable prior year development was $24 million in 2011 compared with $45 million in 2010, a difference of 3.7 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding favorable prior year reserve development increased 0.5 points to 71.5% in 2011 from 71.0% in 2010.

• Reinsurance - The loss ratio of 52.5% in 2010 was 5.4 points lower than the loss ratio of 57.9% in 2009. Catastrophe losses were $4 million, or 1.0 loss ratio points, in 2010 compared with none in 2009. Favorable prior year reserve development was $26 million in 2010 compared with $16 million in 2009, a difference of 2.4 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding catastrophe losses and favorable prior year reserve development decreased 4.0 points to 57.8% in 2010 from 61.8% in 2009.

• International - The loss ratio of 61.8% in 2010 was 1.9 points higher than the loss ratio of 59.9% in 2009. Catastrophe losses were $4 million, or 0.9 loss ratio points, in 2010 compared with none in 2009. Favorable prior year reserve development was $1 million in 2010 and $8 million in 2009, a difference of 2.1 loss ratio points. The loss ratio excluding catastrophe losses and favorable prior year reserve development decreased 1.1 points to 61.2% in 2010 from 62.3% in 2009.

Other Operating Costs and Expenses. Following is a summary of other operating costs and expenses for 2010 and 2009:

(Dollars in thousands)	2010		2009
Underwriting expenses	$	1,314,483	$	1,248,463
Service expenses	72,372		78,331
Net foreign currency losses	2,126		4,213
Other costs and expenses	107,381		109,831
Total	$	1,496,362	$	1,440,838

Underwriting expenses are comprised of commissions paid to agents and brokers, premium taxes and other assessments and internal underwriting costs. The expense ratio (underwriting expenses expressed as a percentage of premiums earned) increased to 34.3% in 2010 from 32.8% in 2009 primarily due to higher expense ratios for certain underwriting units that experienced a significant decline in earned premiums in 2010.

Service expenses, which represent the costs associated with the fee-based businesses, decreased 8% to $72 million. The decrease was due to lower employment costs and was in line with the rate of decrease in insurance service fees.

Net foreign currency gains and losses result from transactions denominated in a currency other than the operating unit's functional currency. The loss in 2010 was primarily attributable to operating units in the U.K. and resulted from transactions denominated in Australian and Norwegian currencies.

Other costs and expenses, which represent general and administrative expenses that are not allocated to business segments, decreased 2% to $107 million.

Expenses from Wholly-Owned Investees. Expenses from wholly-owned investees were $208 million in 2010 compared to $183 million in 2009. These expenses represent costs associated with aviation-related businesses that were separately purchased in 2007, 2008 and 2009. These include cost of goods sold related to aircraft and other sales, labor and equipment costs related to repairs and other services and general and administrative expenses. The increase in 2010 expenses is due to the acquisition of an aviation company in June 2009, partially offset by lower cost of aircraft sales in 2010.

Interest Expense. Interest expense increased 21.6% to $107 million primarily due to the issuance of $300 million of 7.375% senior notes in September 2009 and $300 million of 5.375% senior notes in September 2010, partially offset by the repayment of $150 million of 5.125% senior notes in September 2010.

Income Taxes. The effective income tax rate was 25% in 2010 as compared to 19% in 2009. The effective income tax rate differs from the federal income tax rate of 35% primarily because of tax-exempt investment income. Tax exempt investment income comprised a smaller portion of the 2010 pre-tax income and as such had a lower impact on the effective tax rate for 2010 compared with 2009.

49

Investments

As part of its investment strategy, the Company establishes a level of cash and highly liquid short-term and intermediate-term securities that, combined with expected cash flow, it believes is adequate to meet its payment obligations.

The Company also attempts to maintain an appropriate relationship between the average duration of the investment portfolio and the approximate duration of its liabilities (i.e., policy claims and debt obligations). The average duration of the investment portfolio was 3.6 years at December 31, 2011 and 2010. The Company’s investment portfolio and investment-related assets as of December 31, 2011 were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	Carrying Value		Percent of Total
Fixed maturity securities:
U.S. government and government agencies	$	976,493	7	%
State and municipal:
Special revenue	2,150,746		16	%
Pre-refunded (1)	1,334,500		10	%
State general obligation	975,576		7	%
Corporate backed	476,273		4	%
Local general obligation	460,329		3	%
Total state and municipal	5,397,424		40	%
Mortgage-backed securities:
Agency	1,200,848		9	%
Residential-Prime	228,893		2	%
Residential-Alt A	82,186		1	%
Commercial	108,419		1	%
Total mortgage-backed securities	1,620,346		13	%
Corporate:
Industrial	1,232,553		9	%
Financial	573,495		4	%
Asset-backed	315,738		2	%
Utilities	193,423		1	%
Other	114,211		1	%
Total corporate	2,429,420		17	%
Foreign government and corporate securities	888,354		7	%
Total fixed maturity securities	11,312,037		84	%
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	319,982		2	%
Preferred stocks	123,457		1	%
Total equity securities available for sale	443,439		3	%
Investment funds	680,638		5	%
Arbitrage trading account	397,312		3	%
Real estate	342,905		3	%
Loans receivable	263,187		2	%
Total investments	$	13,439,518	100	%

 ______________

(1) Pre-refunded securities are securities for which an escrow account has been established to fund the remaining payments of principal and interest through maturity. Such escrow accounts are funded almost exclusively with U.S. Treasury and U.S. government agency securities.

50

Fixed Maturity Securities. The Company’s investment policy with respect to fixed maturity securities is generally to purchase instruments with the expectation of holding them to their maturity. However, management of the available for sale portfolio is considered necessary to maintain an approximate matching of assets and liabilities as well as to adjust the portfolio as a result of changes in financial market conditions and tax considerations.

The Company’s philosophy related to holding or selling fixed maturity securities is based on its objective of maximizing total return. The key factors that management considers in its investment decisions as to whether to hold or sell fixed maturity securities are its view of the underlying fundamentals of specific securities as well as its expectations regarding interest rates, credit spreads and currency values. In a period in which management expects interest rates to rise, the Company may sell longer duration securities in order to mitigate the impact of an interest rate rise on the fair value of the portfolio. Similarly, in a period in which management expects credit spreads to widen, the Company may sell lower quality securities, and in a period in which management expects certain foreign currencies to decline in value, the Company may sell securities denominated in those foreign currencies. The sale of fixed maturity securities in order to achieve the objective of maximizing total return may result in realized gains; however, there is no reason to expect these gains to continue in future periods.

At December 31, 2011, investments in foreign fixed maturity securities were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	Government		Corporate		Total
Australia	$	143,767	$	81,527	$	225,294
United Kingdom	171,828		40,983		212,811
Germany	95,277		27,593		122,870
Canada	64,479		33,274		97,753
Argentina	64,312		—		64,312
Brazil	43,939		—		43,939
Supranational (1)	37,806		—		37,806
Switzerland	—		28,668		28,668
Norway	25,833		—		25,833
Finland	—		11,605		11,605
France	—		4,611		4,611
Singapore	4,609		—		4,609
Chile	3,672		—		3,672
Uruguay	3,155		—		3,155
New Zealand	1,416		—		1,416
Total	$	660,093	$	228,261	$	888,354

_______________

(1) Supranational represents investments in the North American Development Bank, European Investment Bank and Inter-American Development Bank.

Equity Securities Available for Sale. Equity securities available for sale primarily represent investments in high-dividend yielding common and preferred stocks issued by large market capitalization companies.

Investment Funds. At December 31, 2011, the carrying value of investment funds was $681 million, including investments in real estate funds of $373 million and investments in energy funds of $99 million.

Real Estate. Real estate is directly owned property held for investment. At December 31, 2011, real estate consists of two office buildings in London, including one in operation and one under development, and a long-term ground lease in Washington D. C.

Arbitrage Trading Account. The arbitrage trading account is comprised of direct investments in arbitrage securities. Merger arbitrage is the business of investing in the securities of publicly held companies that are the targets in announced tender offers and mergers.

Loans Receivable. Loans receivable, which are carried at amortized cost, have an aggregate cost of $263 million and an aggregate fair value of $245 million at December 31, 2011. Amortized cost of these loans is net of a valuation allowance of $20 million as of December 31, 2011. The six largest loans have an aggregate amortized cost of $187 million and an aggregate fair value of $166 million as of such date and are secured by commercial real estate. These loans earn interest at floating LIBOR-based interest rates and have maturities (inclusive of extension options) through March 2016. The loans are secured by office buildings (86%) and hotels (14%) located primarily in New York City, California, Hawaii and Boston.

51

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Cash Flow. Cash flow provided from operating activities increased to $670 million in 2011 from $451 million in 2010. The increase in cash flow was due primarily to an increase in premium collections and a decrease in income taxes paid, partially offset by an increase in underwriting expenses paid. Paid losses as a percent of earned premiums were 59.8% in 2011 compared with 64.0% in 2010.

As a holding company, the Company derives cash from its subsidiaries in the form of dividends, tax payments and management fees. Maximum amounts of dividends that can be paid without regulatory approval are prescribed by statute. During 2012, the maximum amount of dividends which can be paid without regulatory approval is approximately $417 million. The ability of the holding company to service its debt obligations is limited by the ability of its insurance subsidiaries to pay dividends. In the event dividends, tax payments and management fees available to the holding company were inadequate to service its debt obligations, the Company would need to raise capital, sell assets or restructure its debt obligations.

The Company's insurance subsidiaries' principal sources of cash are premiums, investment income, service fees and proceeds from sales and maturities of portfolio investments. The principal uses of cash are payments for claims, taxes, operating expenses and dividends. The Company expects its insurance subsidiaries to fund the payment of losses with cash received from premiums, investment income and fees. The Company targets an average duration for its investment portfolio that is within one year of the average duration of its liabilities so that portions of its investment portfolio mature throughout the claim cycle and are available for the payment of claims if necessary. In the event operating cash flow and proceeds from maturities and prepayments of fixed income securities are not sufficient to fund claim payments and other cash requirements, the remainder of the Company's cash and investments is available to pay claims and other obligations as they become due. The Company's investment portfolio is highly liquid, with approximately 85% invested in cash, cash equivalents and marketable fixed income securities as of December 31, 2011. If the sale of fixed maturity securities were to become necessary, a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the cost and sales price of securities sold would be recognized.

Debt. At December 31, 2011, the Company had senior notes, junior subordinated debentures and other debt outstanding with a carrying value of $1,744 million and a face amount of $1,761 million. The maturities of the outstanding debt are $4 million in 2012, $201 million in 2013, $26 million in 2014, $200 million in 2015, $2 million in 2016, $450 million in 2019, $300 million in 2020, $77 million in 2022, $1 million in 2023, $250 million in 2037 and $250 million in 2045.

Equity. The Company repurchased 5,218,097, 17,017,479 and 6,382,331 shares of its common stock in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The aggregate cost of the repurchases was $157 million in 2011, $449 million in 2010 and $147 million in 2009. At December 31, 2011, total common stockholders’ equity was $4 billion, common shares outstanding were 137,082,096, and stockholders’ equity per outstanding share was $29.15.

As further described in Note 1(Q) to the consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, the Company plans to apply new FASB guidance regarding deferred acquisition costs as of January 1, 2012. The Company estimates that the effect of adopting this guidance will be a reduction in common stockholders' equity of between $50 million and $60 million as of January 1, 2012.

Total Capital.Total capitalization (equity, senior notes and other debt and junior subordinated debentures) was $5.8 billion at December 31, 2011. The percentage of the Company’s capital attributable to senior notes, junior subordinated debentures and other debt was 30% at December 31, 2011 and 32% at December 31, 2010.

Federal and Foreign Income Taxes

The Company files a consolidated income tax return in the U.S. and foreign tax returns in each of the countries in which it has overseas operations. At December 31, 2011, the Company had a deferred gross tax asset of $433 million (which primarily relates to loss and loss expense reserves and unearned premium reserves) and a gross deferred tax liability of $464 million (which primarily relates to deferred policy acquisition costs and unrealized investment gains). The realization of the deferred tax asset is dependent upon the Company's ability to generate sufficient taxable income in future periods. Based on historical results and the prospects for future operations, management anticipates that it is more likely than not that future taxable income will be sufficient for the realization of this asset.

The Company has not provided U.S. deferred income taxes on the undistributed earnings of approximately $66 million of its non-U.S. subsidiaries since these earnings are intended to be permanently reinvested in the non-U.S. subsidiaries. However, in the future, if such earnings were distributed to the Company, taxes of approximately $5.0 million, assuming all tax credits are realized, would be payable on such undistributed earnings and would be reflected in the tax provision for the year in which these earnings are no longer intended to be permanently reinvested in the foreign subsidiary.

52

Reinsurance

The Company follows customary industry practice of reinsuring a portion of its exposures in exchange for, paying reinsurers a part of the premiums received on the policies it writes. Reinsurance is purchased by the Company principally to reduce its net liability on individual risks and to protect it against catastrophic losses. Although reinsurance does not legally discharge an insurer from its primary liability for the full amount of the policies, it does make the assuming reinsurer liable to the insurer to the extent of the reinsurance coverage. The Company monitors the financial condition of its reinsurers and attempts to place its coverages only with substantial and financially sound carriers.

The following table presents the credit quality of amounts due from reinsurers as of December 31, 2011 (dollars in thousands). Amounts due from reinsurers are net of reserves for uncollectible reinsurance of $3 million in the aggregate.

Reinsurer	Rating	(1)	Amount
Munich Re	AA-		163,420
Swiss Re	AA-	--	72,690
Transatlantic Re	A	--	64,619
Partner Re	A+	--	60,769
Berkshire Hathaway	A++	--	56,042
Axis Capital	A	--	54,121
Lloyd's of London	A+		52,859
Ace Group	A+	--	43,463
Hannover Re Group	A		33,262
Arch Capital Group	A	--	22,983
Other reinsurers rated A- or better		--	166,265
Non-rated and other (2)		--	58,116
Subtotal		--	848,609
Residual market pools (3)		--	367,070
Total			$	1,215,679

_________________

(1)Rating represents S&P rating, or if not rated by S&P, A.M. Best rating.

(2) The majority of "non-rated and other" consists of amounts due from government sponsored reinsurers and amounts that are secured by letters of credit or other forms of collateral.

(3) Many states require licensed insurers that provide workers' compensation insurance to participate in programs that provide workers' compensation to employers that cannot procure coverage from an insurer on a voluntary basis. Insurers can fulfill this residual market obligation by participating in pools where results are shared by the participating companies. The Company acts as a servicing carrier for workers' compensation pools in 18 states. As a servicing carrier, the Company writes residual market business directly and then cedes 100% of this business to the respective pool. As a servicing carrier, the Company receives fee income for its services. The Company does not retain underwriting risk, and credit risk is limited as ceded balances are jointly shared by all the pool members.

As of January 1, 2012, the Company's catastrophe excess of loss reinsurance program provides protection for losses between $30 million and $155 million for the majority of the primary business written by its U.S. companies. The Company has separate catastrophe excess of loss reinsurance for business written through Lloyd's. The catastrophe reinsurance agreements are subject to certain limits, exclusions and reinstatement premiums.

53

Contractual Obligations

Following is a summary of the Company's contractual obligations as of December 31, 2011 (dollars in thousands):

Estimated Payments By Periods	2012		2013		2014		2015		2016		Thereafter
Gross reserves for losses	$	2,359,424	$	1,605,146	$	1,245,398	$	928,858	$	693,795	$	3,457,982
Operating lease obligations	34,635		31,177		26,808		22,646		16,329		156,686
Purchase obligations	53,010		35,235		1,297		1,059		759		687
Junior subordinated debentures	—		—		—		—		—		250,000
Debt maturities	4,373		200,779		26,196		200,000		2,413		1,077,068
Interest payments	111,230		101,285		98,754		91,457		86,730		981,110
Other long-term liabilities	33,850		16,635		19,187		20,062		9,985		69,189
Total	$	2,596,522	$	1,990,257	$	1,417,640	$	1,264,082	810,011		$	5,992,722

The estimated payments for reserves for losses and loss expenses in the above table represent the projected (undiscounted) payments for gross loss and loss expense reserves related to losses incurred as of December 31, 2011. The estimated payments in the above table do not consider payments for losses to be incurred in future periods. These amounts include reserves for reported losses and reserves for incurred but not reported losses. Estimated amounts recoverable from reinsurers are not reflected. The estimated payments by year are based on historical loss payment patterns. The actual payments may differ from the estimated amounts due to changes in ultimate loss reserves and in the timing of the settlement of those reserves.

The Company utilizes letters of credit to back certain reinsurance payments and obligations. Outstanding letters of credit were $29 million as of December 31, 2011. The Company has made certain guarantees to state regulators that the statutory capital of certain subsidiaries will be maintained above certain minimum levels. In addition, the Company has commitments to invest up to $328 million in certain investment funds.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

An off-balance sheet arrangement is any transaction, agreement or other contractual arrangement involving an unconsolidated entity under which a company has (1) made guarantees, (2) a retained or contingent interest in transferred assets, (3) an obligation under derivative instruments classified as equity or (4) any obligation arising out of a material variable interest in an unconsolidated entity that provides financing, liquidity, market risk or credit risk support to the Company, or that engages in leasing, hedging or research and development arrangements with the Company. The Company has no arrangements of these types that management believes may have a material current or future effect on our financial condition, liquidity or results of operations.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market Risk. The fair value of the Company’s investments is subject to risks of fluctuations in credit quality and interest rates. The Company uses various models and stress test scenarios to monitor and manage interest rate risk. The Company attempts to manage its interest rate risk by maintaining an appropriate relationship between the average duration of the investment portfolio and the approximate duration of its liabilities (i.e., policy claims and debt obligations). The average duration for the fixed maturity portfolio was 3.6 years at December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010. In addition, the fair value of the Company’s international investments is subject to currency risk. The Company attempts to manage its currency risk by matching its foreign currency assets and liabilities where considered appropriate.

54

The following table outlines the groups of fixed maturity securities and their average duration at December 31, 2011:

	Effective
Dollars in thousands	Duration
	(Years)	Fair Value
Cash and cash equivalents	—	$	911,742
U. S. government securities	3.9	976,493
State and municipal	3.9	5,409,970
Corporate	4.1	2,430,137
Foreign	3.1	888,354
Mortgage-backed securities	3.6	1,625,956
Loans receivable	3.1	245,169
Total	3.6	$	12,487,821

Duration is a common measure of the price sensitivity of fixed maturity securities to changes in interest rates. The Company determines the estimated change in fair value of the fixed maturity securities, assuming parallel shifts in

the yield curve for treasury securities while keeping spreads between individual securities and treasury securities static. The estimated fair value at specified levels at December 31, 2011 would be as follows (dollars in thousands):

Change in interest rates:	Estimated Fair Value		Change in Fair Value
300 basis point rise	$	11,197,874	$	(1,289,947	)
200 basis point rise	11,607,259		(880,562		)
100 basis point rise	12,037,894		(449,927		)
Base scenario	12,487,821		—
100 basis point decline	12,889,827		402,006
200 basis point decline	13,135,982		648,161
300 basis point decline	13,267,051		779,230

Arbitrage investing differs from other types of investments in that its focus is on transactions and events believed likely to bring about a change in value over a relatively short time period (usually four months or less). The Company believes that this makes arbitrage investments less vulnerable to changes in general stock market conditions. Potential changes in market conditions are also mitigated by the implementation of hedging strategies, including short sales.

Additionally, the arbitrage positions are generally hedged against market declines by purchasing put options, selling call options or entering into swap contracts. The Company's merger arbitrage securities are primarily exposed to the risk of completion of announced deals, which are subject to regulatory as well as transactional and other risks.

55

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

56

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

W. R. Berkley Corporation:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of W. R. Berkley Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, comprehensive income (loss), and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2011. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2011, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated February 28, 2012 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

KPMG LLP

New York, New York

February 28, 2012

57

W. R. BERKLEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

	Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands except per share data)	2011			2010			2009
REVENUES:
Net premiums written	$	4,357,368		$	3,850,926		$	3,730,095
Change in net unearned premiums	(196,501		)	(15,344		)	75,754
Net premiums earned	4,160,867			3,835,582			3,805,849
Net investment income	526,351			530,525			379,008
Insurance service fees	92,843			85,405			93,245
Net investment gains (losses):
Net realized gains on investment sales	125,881			65,786			104,453
Other-than-temporary impairments	(400		)	(9,205		)	(151,727		)
Portion of impairments reclassified to other comprehensive income	—			—			8,866
Net investment gains (losses)	125,481			56,581			(38,408		)
Revenues from wholly-owned investees	248,678			214,454			189,347
Other income	1,764			1,522			2,137
Total revenues	5,155,984			4,724,069			4,431,178
OPERATING COSTS AND EXPENSES:
Losses and loss expenses	2,658,365			2,309,867			2,336,707
Other operating costs and expenses	1,621,329			1,496,362			1,440,838
Expenses from wholly-owned investees	245,495			207,566			183,414
Interest expense	112,512			106,969			87,989
Total operating costs and expenses	4,637,701			4,120,764			4,048,948
Income before income taxes	518,283			603,305			382,230
Income tax expense	(123,550		)	(153,739		)	(73,150		)
Net income before noncontrolling interests	394,733			449,566			309,080
Noncontrolling interests	70			(279		)	(23		)
Net income to common stockholders	$	394,803		$	449,287		$	309,057
NET INCOME PER SHARE:
Basic	$	2.83		$	3.02		$	1.93
Diluted	$	2.71		$	2.90		$	1.86

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

58

W. R. BERKLEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

	December 31,
(Dollars in thousands except share data)	2011			2010
Assets
Investments:
Fixed maturity securities	$	11,312,037		$	11,209,154
Equity securities available for sale	443,439			561,053
Arbitrage trading account	397,312			359,192
Investment funds	680,638			512,411
Loans receivable	263,187			353,583
Real estate	342,905			—
Total investments	13,439,518			12,995,393
Cash and cash equivalents	911,742			642,952
Premiums and fees receivable	1,206,204			1,087,208
Due from reinsurers	1,215,679			1,070,256
Accrued investment income	133,776			138,384
Prepaid reinsurance premiums	258,271			215,816
Deferred policy acquisition costs	448,795			405,942
Property, furniture and equipment	262,275			254,720
Deferred federal and foreign income taxes	—			65,492
Goodwill	90,832			90,581
Trading account receivable from brokers and clearing organizations	318,240			339,235
Current federal and foreign income taxes	9,670			23,605
Other assets	192,729			198,963
Total assets	$	18,487,731		$	17,528,547
Liabilities and Equity
Liabilities:
Reserves for losses and loss expenses	$	9,337,134		$	9,016,549
Unearned premiums	2,189,575			1,953,721
Due to reinsurers	241,204			215,723
Trading account securities sold but not yet purchased	62,514			53,494
Deferred federal and foreign income taxes	31,623			—
Other liabilities	866,229			836,001
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997			242,784
Senior notes and other debt	1,500,503			1,500,419
Total liabilities	14,471,779			13,818,691
Equity:
Preferred stock, par value $.10 per share:
Authorized 5,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding — none	—			—
Common stock, par value $.20 per share:
Authorized 500,000,000 shares, issued and outstanding, net of treasury shares, 137,520,019 and 141,009,834 shares, respectively	47,024			47,024
Additional paid-in capital	941,109			935,099
Retained earnings	4,546,232			4,194,684
Accumulated other comprehensive income	354,851			276,563
Treasury stock, at cost, 97,597,899 and 94,108,084 shares, respectively	(1,880,790		)	(1,750,494		)
Total common stockholders’ equity	4,008,426			3,702,876
Noncontrolling interests	7,526			6,980
Total equity	4,015,952			3,709,856
Total liabilities and equity	$	18,487,731		$	17,528,547

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

59

W. R. BERKLEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

	Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
COMMON STOCK:
Beginning and end of period	$	47,024		$	47,024		$	47,024
ADDITIONAL PAID IN CAPITAL:
Beginning of period	$	935,099		$	926,359		$	920,241
Stock options exercised and restricted units issued including tax benefit	(20,601		)	(17,042		)	(17,665		)
Restricted stock units expensed	26,303			25,584			23,649
Stock options expensed	—			—			12
Stock issued	308			198			122
End of period	$	941,109		$	935,099		$	926,359
RETAINED EARNINGS:
Beginning of period	$	4,194,684		$	3,785,187		$	3,514,531
Net income to common stockholders	394,803			449,287			309,057
Dividends	(43,255		)	(39,790		)	(38,401		)
End of period	$	4,546,232		$	4,194,684		$	3,785,187
ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS):
Unrealized investment gains (losses):
Beginning of period	$	334,747		$	219,394		$	(142,216	)
Unrealized gains on securities not other-than-temporarily impaired	98,015			114,468			365,136
Unrealized gains (losses) on other-than-temporarily impaired securities	(2,343		)	885			(3,526		)
End of period	430,419			334,747			219,394
Currency translation adjustments:
Beginning of period	(42,488		)	(40,371		)	(72,475		)
Net change in period	(18,751		)	(2,117		)	32,104
End of period	(61,239		)	(42,488		)	(40,371		)
Net pension asset:
Beginning of period	(15,696		)	(15,816		)	(14,268		)
Net change in period	1,367			120			(1,548		)
End of period	(14,329		)	(15,696		)	(15,816		)
Total accumulated other comprehensive income	$	354,851		$	276,563		$	163,207
TREASURY STOCK:
Beginning of period	$	(1,750,494	)	$	(1,325,710	)	$	(1,206,518	)
Stock exercised/vested	56,303			45,687			27,322
Stock issued	564			536			630
Stock repurchased	(187,163		)	(471,007		)	(147,144		)
End of period	$	(1,880,790	)	$	(1,750,494	)	$	(1,325,710	)
NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS:
Beginning of period	$	6,980		$	5,879		$	5,361
Change in subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interest	671			814			474
Net (income) loss	(70		)	279			23
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(55		)	8			21
End of period	$	7,526		$	6,980		$	5,879

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

60

W. R. BERKLEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

	Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Net income before noncontrolling interests	$	394,733		$	449,566		$	309,080
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in unrealized foreign exchange gains (losses)	(18,751		)	(2,117		)	32,104
Unrealized holding gains on investment securities arising during the period, net of taxes	177,264			152,235			336,757
Reclassification adjustment for net investment gains (losses) included in net income, net of taxes	(81,647		)	(36,874		)	24,874
Change in unrecognized pension obligation, net of taxes	1,367			120			(1,548		)
Other comprehensive income	78,233			113,364			392,187
Comprehensive income	472,966			562,930			701,267
Comprehensive income (loss) to the noncontrolling interest	125			(287		)	(44		)
Comprehensive income to common shareholders	$	473,091		$	562,643		$	701,223

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

61

W. R. BERKLEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

	Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
CASH FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income to common stockholders	$	394,803		$	449,287		$	309,057
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:
Net investment (gains) losses	(125,481		)	(56,581		)	38,408
Depreciation and amortization	88,012			82,867			78,875
Noncontrolling interests	(70		)	279			23
Investment funds	1,751			49,400			166,685
Stock incentive plans	27,175			27,407			24,465
Change in:
Arbitrage trading account	(8,106		)	(12,993		)	(406,622		)
Premiums and fees receivable	(122,468		)	(41,167		)	17,159
Reinsurance accounts	(161,070		)	(14,960		)	26,010
Deferred policy acquisition costs	(43,738		)	(15,272		)	6,181
Deferred income taxes	44,945			63,866			(52,536		)
Reserves for losses and loss expenses	325,758			(103,745		)	41,923
Unearned premiums	238,499			3,414			(57,261		)
Other	10,269			19,514			123,687
Net cash from operating activities	670,279			451,316			316,054
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from sale of fixed maturity securities	1,293,876			1,554,906			2,436,258
Proceeds from sale of equity securities	159,827			137,990			188,646
Distributions from (contributions to) investment funds	(113,913		)	(53,979		)	(87,011		)
Proceeds from maturities and prepayments of fixed maturity securities	1,697,144			1,374,378			1,214,157
Purchase of fixed maturity securities	(2,815,340		)	(2,755,449		)	(4,869,368		)
Purchase of equity securities	(97,986		)	(193,914		)	(67,309		)
Real Estate purchased	(96,552		)	—			—
Change in loans receivable	92,176			23,317			(11,363		)
Net additions to property, furniture and equipment	(45,320		)	(49,605		)	(30,455		)
Change in balances due to (from) security brokers	(16,194		)	(297		)	144,023
Payment for business purchased, net of cash acquired	(261,992		)	—			(33,812		)
Net cash from (used in) investing activities	(204,274		)	37,347			(1,116,234		)
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net proceeds from issuance of debt	—			309,030			333,589
Net proceeds from stock options exercised	21,963			17,730			5,426
Repayment of senior notes and other debt	(1,310		)	(162,685		)	(11,165		)
Cash dividends to common stockholders	(43,253		)	(49,348		)	(28,843		)
Purchase of common treasury shares	(187,163		)	(471,007		)	(147,144		)
Other	14,550			(2,795		)	21,522
Net cash from (used in) financing activities	(195,213		)	(359,075		)	173,385
Net impact on cash due to change in foreign exchange rates	(2,002		)	(2,066		)	7,390
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	268,790			127,522			(619,405		)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	642,952			515,430			1,134,835
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	911,742		$	642,952		$	515,430

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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W. R. BERKLEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009

(1)Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

(A) Principles of consolidation and basis of presentation

The consolidated financial statements, which include the accounts of W. R. Berkley Corporation and its subsidiaries (the "Company"), have been prepared on the basis of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. Reclassifications have been made in the 2010 and 2009 financial statements to conform to the presentation of the 2011 financial statements. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the revenues and expenses reflected during the reporting period. The most significant items on our balance sheet that involve a greater degree of accounting estimates that are subject to change in the future are the valuation of investments, other than temporary impairments, loss and loss adjustment expense reserves and premium estimates. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

(B) Revenue recognition

Insurance premiums are recognized as written at the inception of the policy. Reinsurance premiums are estimated based upon information received from ceding companies, and subsequent differences from such estimates are recorded in the period they are determined. Insurance and reinsurance premiums are primarily earned on a pro rata basis over the policy term. Fees for services are earned over the period that the services are provided.

Audit premiums are recognized when they are reliably determinable. The change in accruals for earned but unbilled audit premiums increased net premiums written and premiums earned by $1 million in 2011, and decreased net premiums written and premiums earned by $7 million and $23 million in 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Revenues from wholly-owned investees are derived from services provided to the general aviation market, including fuel and line service, aircraft sales and maintenance, avionics and engineering services and parts fabrication. Revenue is recognized upon delivery of aircraft, delivery of fuel, shipment of parts and upon completion of services.

(C) Cash and cash equivalents

Cash equivalents consist of funds invested in money market accounts and investments with an effective maturity of three months or less when purchased.

(D) Investments

Fixed maturity securities classified as available for sale are carried at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of applicable income taxes, excluded from earnings and reported as a component of comprehensive income and a separate component of stockholders' equity. Fixed maturity securities that the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and reported at amortized cost. Investment income from fixed maturity securities is recognized based on the constant effective yield method. Premiums and discounts on mortgage-backed securities are adjusted for the effects of actual and anticipated prepayments on a retrospective basis.

Equity securities classified as available for sale are carried at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of applicable income taxes, excluded from earnings and reported as a component of comprehensive income and a separate component of stockholders' equity.

Equity securities that the Company purchased with the intent to sell in the near-term are classified as trading account securities and are reported at estimated fair value. Realized and unrealized gains and losses from trading activity are reported as net investment income and are recorded at the trade date. Short sales and short call options are presented as trading securities sold but not yet purchased. Unsettled trades and the net margin balances held by the clearing broker are presented as a trading account receivable from brokers and clearing organizations.

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Investment funds are carried under the equity method of accounting. For certain investment funds, the Company's share of the earnings or losses is reported on a one-quarter lag in order to facilitate the timely completion of the Company's consolidated financial statements.

Loans receivable represent commercial real estate mortgage loans and bank loans and are carried at amortized cost. The Company monitors the performance of its loans receivable and establishes an allowance for loan losses for loans where the Company determines it is probable that the contractual terms will not be met, with a corresponding charge to earnings. For loans that are evaluated individually and deemed to be impaired, the Company establishes a specific allowance based on a discounted cash flow analysis and comparable cost and sales methodologies, if appropriate. Individual loans that are not considered impaired and smaller-balance homogeneous loans are evaluated collectively and a general allowance is established if it is considered probable that a loss has been incurred.

The accrual of interest on loans receivable is discontinued if the loan is 90 days past due based on the contractual terms of the loan unless the loan is adequately secured and in process of collection. In general, loans are placed on non-accrual status or charged off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful. Interest on these loans is accounted for on a cash basis until qualifying for return to accrual status. Loans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

Fair value is generally determined based on quoted market prices. For publicly traded securities for which quoted prices are unavailable, the Company determines fair value based on independent broker quotations and other observable market data. For securities traded only in private negotiations, the Company determines fair value based primarily on the cost of such securities, which is adjusted to reflect prices of recent placements of securities of the same issuer, financial data, projections and business developments of the issuer and other relevant information.

Realized gains or losses represent the difference between the cost of securities sold and the proceeds realized upon sale and are recorded at the trade date. The Company uses primarily the first-in, first-out method to determine the cost of securities sold.

The cost of securities is adjusted where appropriate to include a provision for a decline in value which is considered to be other than temporary. An other-than-temporary decline is considered to occur in investments where there has been a sustained reduction in fair value and where the Company does not expect to recover the cost basis of the investment prior to the time of sale or maturity. Since equity securities do not have a contractual cash flow or a maturity, the Company considers whether the price of an equity security is expected to recover within a reasonable period of time.

For fixed maturity securities that the Company intends to sell or, more likely than not, would be required to sell, a decline in value below amortized cost is considered to be an other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”). The amount of OTTI is equal to the difference between amortized cost and fair value at the balance sheet date. For fixed maturity securities that the Company does not intend to sell or believes that it is more likely than not it would not be required to sell, a decline in value below amortized cost is considered to be an OTTI if the Company does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of a security(i.e.,thepresent value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis of the security). The portion of the decline in value considered to be a credit loss (i.e., the difference between the present value of cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis of the security) is recognized in earnings. The portion of the decline in value not considered to be a credit loss (i.e., the difference in the present value of cash flows expected to be collected and the fair value of the security) is recognized in other comprehensive income.

Impairment assessments for structured securities, including mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities, collateralized debt obligations and corporate debt, are generally evaluated based on the performance of the underlying collateral under various economic and default scenarios that may involve subjective judgments and estimates by management. Modeling these securities involves various factors, such as projected default rates, the nature and realizable value of the collateral, if any, the ability of the issuer to make scheduled payments, historical performance and other relevant economic and performance factors. If an OTTI determination is made, a discounted cash flow analysis is used to ascertain the amount of the credit impairment.

Real estate held for investment purposes is initially recorded at the purchase price, which is generally fair value, and is subsequently reported at cost less accumulated depreciation. Real estate taxes, interest and other costs incurred during development and construction are capitalized. Buildings are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the building. Minimum rental income is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Income and expenses from

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real estate are reported as net investment income. The carrying value of real estate is reviewed for impairment and an impairment loss is recognized if the estimated undiscounted cash flows from the use and disposition of the property are less than the carrying value of the property.

(E) Per share data

The Company presents both basic and diluted net income per share (“EPS”) amounts. Basic EPS is calculated by dividing net income by weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS is based upon the weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the year and is calculated using the treasury stock method for stock incentive plans. Common equivalent shares are excluded from the computation in periods in which they have an anti-dilutive effect. Stock options for which the exercise price exceeds the average market price over the period have an anti-dilutive effect on EPS and, accordingly, are excluded from the calculation.

(F) Deferred policy acquisition costs

Acquisition costs incurred in writing insurance and reinsurance business (primarily commissions and premium taxes) are deferred and amortized ratably over the terms of the related contracts. Ceding commissions received on reinsurance contracts are netted against acquisition costs and are recognized ratably over the life of the contract. Deferred policy acquisition costs are presented net of unearned ceding commissions. Deferred policy acquisition costs are reviewed to determine if they are recoverable from future income and, if not, are charged to expense. The recoverability of deferred policy acquisition costs is evaluated separately by each of our operating companies for each of their major lines of business. Future investment income is taken into account in measuring the recoverability of deferred policy acquisition costs.

(G) Reserves for losses and loss expenses

Reserves for losses and loss expenses are an accumulation of amounts determined on the basis of (1) evaluation of claims for business written directly by the Company; (2) estimates received from other companies for reinsurance assumed by the Company; and (3) estimates for losses incurred but not reported (based on Company and industry experience). These estimates are periodically reviewed and, as experience develops and new information becomes known, the reserves are adjusted as necessary. Such adjustments are reflected in the statements of income in the period in which they are determined. The Company discounts its reserves for excess and assumed workers' compensation claims using a risk-free or statutory rate. (See Note 13 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

(H) Reinsurance ceded

The unearned portion of premiums ceded to reinsurers is reported as prepaid reinsurance premiums and earned ratably over the policy term. The estimated amounts of reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses are reported as due from reinsurers. To the extent any reinsurer does not meet its obligations under reinsurance agreements, the Company must discharge its liability. Amounts due from reinsurers are reflected net of funds held where the right of offset is present. The Company has provided reserves for estimated uncollectible reinsurance.

(I) Deposit accounting

Contracts that do not meet the risk transfer requirements of GAAP are accounted for using the deposit accounting method. Under this method, an asset or liability is recognized at the inception of the contract based on consideration paid or received. The amount of the deposit asset or liability is adjusted at subsequent reporting dates using the interest method with a corresponding credit or charge to interest income or expense. Deposit liabilities for assumed reinsurance contracts were $80 million and $95 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

(J) Federal and foreign income taxes

The Company files a consolidated income tax return in the U.S. and foreign tax returns in countries where it has overseas operations. The Company's method of accounting for income taxes is the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using tax rates currently in effect or expected to apply in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to reverse. Interest and penalties, if any, are reported as income tax expense. The Company believes there are no tax positions that would require disclosure under GAAP. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that all or a portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

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(K) Foreign currency

Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions (transactions denominated in a currency other than the entity's functional currency) are reported on the statements of income as other operating costs and expenses. Unrealized gains or losses resulting from translating the results of non-U.S. dollar denominated operations are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income. Revenues and expenses denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars are translated at the weighted average exchange rate during the year. Assets and liabilities are translated at the rate of exchange in effect at the balance sheet date.

(L) Property, furniture and equipment

Property, furniture and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated using the estimated useful lives of the respective assets. Depreciation expense was $40 million, $41 million and $46 million for 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

(M) Comprehensive income

Comprehensive income encompasses all changes in stockholders' equity (except those arising from transactions with stockholders) and includes net income, net unrealized holding gains or losses on available for sale securities, unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments and changes in unrecognized pension obligations.

(N) Goodwill and other intangible assets

Goodwill and other intangibles assets are tested for impairment on an annual basis and at interim periods where circumstances require. The Company's impairment test as of December 31, 2011 indicated that there were minimal impairment losses related to goodwill and other intangible assets. Intangible assets of $29 million are included in other assets as of December 31, 2011 and 2010.

(O) Stock options

The costs resulting from all share-based payment transactions with employees are recognized in the consolidated financial statements using a fair-value-based measurement method.

(P) Statements of cash flows

Interest payments were $111 million, $103 million and $80 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Income taxes paid were $48 million, $123 million and $16 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Other non-cash items include acquisitions and dispositions, unrealized investment gains and losses and pension expense. (See Note 2, Note 10 and Note 25 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

(Q) Recent accounting pronouncements

In October 2010, the FASB (Financial Accounting Standards Board) issued guidance regarding the treatment of costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. This guidance modifies the definition of the types of costs that can be capitalized and specifies that the costs must be directly related to the successful acquisition of a new or renewed insurance contract. This guidance is effective for the quarter ending March 31, 2012. The Company plans to apply this guidance retrospectively and estimates that the effect of adopting this guidance will be a reduction in common stockholders' equity of between $50 million and $60 million as of January 1, 2012.

All other recently issued but not yet effective accounting and reporting guidance is either not applicable to the Company, or is not expected to have a material impact on the Company.

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(2) Acquisitions

In 2011, the Company acquired a business that owned an office building in London for $251 million in cash and an inactive insurance company for $23 million in cash. Approximately $2 million of the aggregate purchase price for these acquisitions was allocated to intangible assets.

The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of net assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011
Fixed maturity securities	$	3,213
Real Estate	256,209
Cash and cash equivalents	12,172
Goodwill	251
Other assets	6,566
Total assets acquired	278,411
Other liabilities assumed	4,247
Net assets acquired	$	274,164

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(3)  Investments in Fixed Maturity Securities

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, investments in fixed maturity securities were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Carrying Value
December 31, 2011
Held to maturity:
State and municipal	$	74,354	$	12,546	$	—		$	86,900	$	74,354
Residential mortgage-backed securities	35,759		5,610		—			41,369		35,759
Corporate	4,996		717		—			5,713		4,996
Total held to maturity	115,109		18,873		—			133,982		115,109
Available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	906,924		69,920		(351		)	976,493		976,493
State and municipal	5,031,275		308,345		(16,550		)	5,323,070		5,323,070
Mortgage-backed securities:
Residential(1)	1,416,427		75,635		(15,894		)	1,476,168		1,476,168
Commercial	105,383		4,054		(1,018		)	108,419		108,419
Corporate	2,328,200		132,311		(36,087		)	2,424,424		2,424,424
Foreign	850,838		42,165		(4,649		)	888,354		888,354
Total available for sale	10,639,047		632,430		(74,549		)	11,196,928		11,196,928
Total investment in fixed maturity securities	$	10,754,156	$	651,303	$	(74,549	)	$	11,330,910	$	11,312,037

(Dollars in thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Carrying Value
December 31, 2010
Held to maturity:
State and municipal	$	71,998	$	3,440	$	(1,129	)	$	74,309	$	71,998
Residential mortgage-backed securities	39,002		3,667		—			42,669		39,002
Corporate	4,995		185		—			5,180		4,995
Total held to maturity	115,995		7,292		(1,129		)	122,158		115,995
Available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	1,289,669		58,658		(452		)	1,347,875		1,347,875
State and municipal	5,302,513		203,221		(44,288		)	5,461,446		5,461,446
Mortgage-backed securities:
Residential(1)	1,319,289		52,165		(13,278		)	1,358,176		1,358,176
Commercial	57,057		2,207		(5,594		)	53,670		53,670
Corporate	2,055,513		93,789		(29,379		)	2,119,923		2,119,923
Foreign	713,157		39,800		(888		)	752,069		752,069
Total available for sale	10,737,198		449,840		(93,879		)	11,093,159		11,093,159
Total investment in fixed maturity securities	$	10,853,193	$	457,132	$	(95,008	)	$	11,215,317	$	11,209,154

_______________________________________

(1) Gross unrealized losses for mortgage-backed securities include $7,668,000 and $4,064,000, as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, related to the non-credit portion of OTTI recognized in other comprehensive income.

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The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturity securities at December 31, 2011, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations:

(Dollars in thousands)	Amortized Cost		Fair Value
Due in one year or less	$	731,638	$	742,334
Due after one year through five years	3,057,341		3,202,556
Due after five years through ten years	2,646,432		2,864,395
Due after ten years	2,761,176		2,895,669
Mortgage-backed securities	1,557,569		1,625,956
Total	$	10,754,156	$	11,330,910

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, there were no investments, other than investments in United States government and government agency securities, which exceeded 10% of common stockholders’ equity. At December 31, 2011, investments with a carrying value of $912 million were on deposit in custodial or trust accounts, of which $664 million was on deposit with state insurance departments, $155 million was on deposit in support of the Company’s underwriting activities at Lloyd’s, $64 million was on deposit as security for reinsurance clients and $29 million was on deposit as security for letters of credit issued in support of the Company’s reinsurance operations.

(4) Investments in Equity Securities Available for Sale

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, investments in equity securities available for sale were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Carrying Value
December 31, 2011
Common stocks	$	209,210	$	113,660	$	(2,888	)	$	319,982	$	319,982
Preferred stocks	133,183		5,139		(14,865		)	123,457		123,457
Total	$	342,393	$	118,799	$	(17,753	)	$	443,439	$	443,439
December 31, 2010
Common stocks	$	188,949	$	128,096	$	(989	)	$	316,056	$	316,056
Preferred stocks	215,286		40,386		(10,675		)	244,997		244,997
Total	$	404,235	$	168,482	$	(11,664	)	$	561,053	$	561,053

(5)  Arbitrage Trading Account

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, the fair value and carrying value of the arbitrage trading account were $397 million and $359 million, respectively. The primary focus of the trading account is merger arbitrage. Merger arbitrage is the business of investing in the securities of publicly held companies which are the targets in announced tender offers and mergers. Arbitrage investing differs from other types of investing in its focus on transactions and events believed likely to bring about a change in value over a relatively short time period (usually four months or less). The Company believes that this makes arbitrage investments less vulnerable to changes in general financial market conditions.

The Company uses put options, call options and swap contracts in order to mitigate the impact of potential changes in market conditions on the merger arbitrage trading account. These options and contracts are reported at fair value. As of December 31, 2011, the fair value of long option contracts outstanding was $8 million (notional amount of $86 million) and the fair value of short option contracts outstanding was $4 million (notional amount of $107 million). Other than with respect to the use of these trading account securities, the Company does not make use of derivatives.

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(6) Net Investment Income

Net investment income consists of the following:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Investment income earned on:
Fixed maturity securities, including cash and cash equivalents and loans receivable	$	483,905		$	501,750		$	495,140
Equity securities available for sale	12,416			11,661			20,295
Investment funds	9,452			(6,481		)	(163,862		)
Arbitrage trading account	16,576			27,155			31,023
Real estate	7,471			—			—
Gross investment income	529,820			534,085			382,596
Investment expense	(3,469		)	(3,560		)	(3,588		)
Net investment income	$	526,351		$	530,525		$	379,008

(7) Investment Funds

Investment funds consist of the following:

	Carrying Value as of December 31,				Income (Losses) from Investment Funds
(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2011			2010			2009
Real estate	$	373,413	$	226,183	$	14,527		$	(4,766	)	$	(159,569	)
Energy	98,974		96,511		(6,101		)	996			(13,227		)
Arbitrage	58,008		60,660		(1,366		)	1,692			9,691
Other	150,243		129,057		2,392			(4,403		)	(757		)
Total	$	680,638	$	512,411	$	9,452		$	(6,481	)	$	(163,862	)

(8) Real Estate

Real estate is directly owned property held for investment. At December 31, 2011, real estate consists of two office buildings in London, including one in operation and one under development, and a long-term ground lease in Washington D. C. Future minimum rental income expected on operating leases relating to real estate held for investment is $1,421,000 in 2012, $1,464,000 in 2013, $1,508,000 in 2014, $1,553,000 in 2015, $1,600,000 in 2016 and $331,476,000 thereafter.

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(9)  Loans Receivable

Loans receivable are as follows (dollars in thousands):

As of December 31,	2011		2010
Total loans receivable, at cost	$	263,187	$	353,583
Valuation allowance:
Specific	$	19,041	$	18,865
General	764		810
Total	$	19,805	$	19,675
Impaired loans:
With a specific valuation allowance, at cost	$	29,702	$	31,855
Without a valuation allowance, at cost	30,357		30,685
Unpaid principal balance	93,922		96,240
For the Year Ended December 31,	2011		2010
Increase in valuation allowance	$	130	$	6,090
Loans receivable charged off	759		140

Loans receivable in non-accrual status were $30 million and $21 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. If these loans had been current, additional interest income of $805,000 and $340,000 would have been recognized in accordance with their original terms for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

The Company monitors the performance of its loans receivable and assesses the ability of the borrower to pay principal and interest based upon loan structure, underlying property values, cash flow and related financial and operating performance of the property and market conditions. Loans receivable with a potential for default are further assessed using discounted cash flow analysis and comparable cost and sales methodologies, if appropriate.

The Company's six largest loans receivable, which have an aggregate amortized cost of $187 million and an aggregate fair value of $166 million at December 31, 2011, are secured by commercial real estate located primarily in New York City, California, Hawaii and Boston. These loans earn interest at floating LIBOR-based interest rates and have maturities (inclusive of extension options) through March 2016. As part of the evaluation process, the Company reviews certain credit quality indicators for these loans. The Company utilizes an internal risk rating system to assign a risk to each of its commercial loans. The loan rating system takes into consideration credit quality indicators including loan to value ratios, which compare the outstanding loan amount to the estimated value of the property, the borrower's financial condition and performance with respect to loan terms, the Company's position in the capital structure, and the overall leverage in the capital structure. Based on this rating system, three loans with a cost basis of $58 million were considered to be impaired at December 31, 2011 and 2010. For each of these loans, a determination was made as to the amount of loss in the event of a default and whether the loss is probable. The results of the determination were considered in connection with the valuation allowance noted above. An additional credit quality indicator is the debt service coverage ratio, which compares a property's net operating income to the borrower's principal and interest payments. At December 31, 2011, each of the six largest loans referred to above have of debt service coverage ratios greater than 3.0 except one that is lower due to a recent and temporary rate abatement.

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(10) Realized and Unrealized Investment Gains and Losses

Realized and unrealized investment gains and losses are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Realized investment gains and losses:
Fixed maturity securities:
Gains	$	37,595		$	38,204		$	50,500
Lossses	(5,499		)	(8,990		)	(3,632		)
Equity securities available for sale	90,023			34,477			52,680
Investment funds	3,762			1,871			4,905
Provision for other-than-temporary impairments (1)	(400		)	(9,205		)	(151,727		)
Less investment impairments recognized in other comprehensive income	—			—			8,866
Other gains	—			224			—
Total net investment gains (losses)	125,481			56,581			(38,408		)
Income tax (expense) benefit	(43,834		)	(19,707		)	13,534
	$	81,647		$	36,874		$	(24,874	)

Change in unrealized gains and losses of available for sales securities:
Fixed maturity securities	$	209,467		$	102,488		$	405,950
Investment impairments recognized in other comprehensive income	(3,604		)	1,362			(5,425		)
Equity securities available for sale	(55,772		)	68,178			143,684
Investment funds	(2,093		)	4,560			13,235
Total change in unrealized gains	147,998			176,588			557,444
Income tax expense	(52,381		)	(61,227		)	(195,813		)
Noncontrolling interests	55			(8		)	(21		)
	$	95,672		$	115,353		$	361,610

_______________________________________

(1) Includes change in valuation allowance for loans receivable of $0, $6,082,000 and $12,418,000 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

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(11)  Securities in an Unrealized Loss Position

The following table summarizes all securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011 and 2010 by the length of time those securities have been continuously in an unrealized loss position.

	Less Than 12 Months				12 Months or Greater				Total
(Dollars in thousands)	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses
December 31, 2011
U.S. government and government agency	$	24,668	$	169	$	4,800	$	182	$	29,468	$	351
State and municipal	131,417		827		183,205		15,723		314,622		16,550
Mortgage-backed securities	172,729		2,439		94,243		14,473		266,972		16,912
Corporate	341,764		8,327		125,654		27,760		467,418		36,087
Foreign	197,560		4,078		7,159		571		204,719		4,649
Fixed maturity securities	868,138		15,840		415,061		58,709		1,283,199		74,549
Common stocks	47,098		2,888		—		—		47,098		2,888
Preferred stocks	23,782		125		45,314		14,740		69,096		14,865
Equity securities available for sale	70,880		3,013		45,314		14,740		116,194		17,753
Total	$	939,018	$	18,853	$	460,375	$	73,449	$	1,399,393	$	92,302
December 31, 2010
U.S. government and government agency	$	60,228	$	420	$	6,973	$	32	$	67,201	$	452
State and municipal	951,119		26,577		156,617		18,840		1,107,736		45,417
Mortgage-backed securities	116,194		2,809		174,163		16,063		290,357		18,872
Corporate	342,929		6,581		155,259		22,798		498,188		29,379
Foreign	110,189		888		—		—		110,189		888
Fixed maturity securities	1,580,659		37,275		493,012		57,733		2,073,671		95,008
Common stocks	58,979		989		—		—		58,979		989
Preferred stocks	27,010		2,368		76,890		8,307		103,900		10,675
Equity securities available for sale	85,989		3,357		76,890		8,307		162,879		11,664
Total	$	1,666,648	$	40,632	$	569,902	$	66,040	$	2,236,550	$	106,672

Fixed Maturity Securities — A summary of the Company’s non-investment grade fixed maturity securities that were in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011 is presented in the table below:

(Dollars in thousands)	Number of Securities	Aggregate Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Loss
Unrealized loss less than $5 million:
Mortgage-backed securities	15	$	106,923	$	6,115
Corporate	13	48,106		3,461
State and municipal	5	42,197		4,553
Foreign	1	586		12
Unrealized loss $5 million or more:
Mortgage-backed security(1)	1	15,945		7,158
Total	35	$	213,757	$	21,299

_______________________________________

(1) This investment is a residential mortgage-backed security that was evaluated based on the performance of the underlying collateral under various economic and default scenarios. The security has met its contractual obligations and theCompany expects that it will continue to meet those contractual payment obligations as they become due. Based on this evaluation, the Company does not consider the investment to be OTTI.

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For OTTI of fixed maturity securities that management does not intend to sell or, more likely than not, would not be required to sell, the portion of the decline in value considered to be due to credit factors is recognized in earnings and the portion of the decline in value considered to be due to non-credit factors is recognized in other comprehensive income. The table below provides a roll-forward of the portion of impairments recognized in earnings for those securities that have been impaired due to both credit factors and non-credit factors.

	For the Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010
Beginning balance of amounts related to credit losses	$	4,261	$	5,661
Additions for amounts related to credit losses	—		—
Deductions for amounts related to credit loss sales	—		(1,400		)
Ending balance of amounts related to credit losses	$	4,261	$	4,261

The Company has evaluated its fixed maturity securities in an unrealized loss position and believes the unrealized losses are due primarily to temporary market and sector-related factors rather than to issuer-specific factors. None of these securities are delinquent or in default on financial covenants. Based on its assessment of these issuers, the Company expects them to continue to meet their contractual payment obligations as they become due and does not consider any of these securities to be OTTI.

Preferred Stocks – At December 31, 2011, there were six preferred stocks in an unrealized loss position, with an aggregate fair value of $69 million and a gross unrealized loss of $15 million. Four of the six securities are investment-grade. None of these securities are delinquent or in default. Management believes the unrealized losses are due primarily to market and sector related factors and does not consider these to be OTTI. Two of those preferred stocks with an aggregate fair value of $9 million and a gross unrealized loss of $5 million are rated non-investment grade. One of these two securities representing most of the gross unrealized loss has recently reflected improved fundamentals. The Company does not consider this security to be OTTI.

Common Stocks – At December 31, 2011, there were four common stocks in an unrealized loss position with an aggregate fair value of $47 million and an aggregate unrealized loss of $3 million. The Company does not consider any of these securities to be OTTI.

(12)  Fair Value Measurements

The Company’s fixed maturity and equity securities available for sale and its trading account securities are carried at fair value. Fair value is defined as “the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.” The Company utilizes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for similar assets in active markets. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs may only be used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available.

Because many fixed maturity securities do not trade on a daily basis, the Company utilizes pricing models and processes which may include benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings and matrix pricing. Market inputs used to evaluate securities include benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers and reference data. Quoted prices are often unavailable for recently issued securities, securities that are infrequently traded or securities that are only traded in private transactions. For publicly traded securities for which quoted prices are unavailable, the Company determines fair value based on independent broker quotations and other observable market data. For securities traded only in private negotiations, the Company determines fair value based primarily on the cost of such securities, which is adjusted to reflect prices of recent placements of securities of the same issuer, financial projections, credit quality and business developments of the issuer and other relevant information.

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The following tables present the assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 by level:

(Dollars in thousands)	Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
December 31, 2011
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	$	976,493	$	—	$	976,493	$	—
State and municipal	5,323,070		—		5,323,070		—
Mortgage-backed securities	1,584,587		—		1,584,587		—
Corporate	2,424,424		—		2,356,596		67,828
Foreign	888,354		—		888,354		—
Total fixed maturity securities available for sale	11,196,928		—		11,129,100		67,828
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	319,982		318,423		—		1,559
Preferred stocks	123,457		—		111,154		12,303
Total equity securities available for sale	443,439		318,423		111,154		13,862
Arbitrage trading account	397,312		208,516		187,945		851
Total	$	12,037,679	$	526,939	$	11,428,199	$	82,541
Liabilities:
Securities sold but not yet purchased	$	62,514	$	62,493	$	—	$	21
December 31, 2010
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	$	1,347,875	$	—	$	1,347,875	$	—
State and municipal	5,461,446		—		5,461,446		—
Mortgage-backed securities	1,411,846		—		1,411,846		—
Corporate	2,119,922		—		2,031,859		88,063
Foreign	752,070		—		752,070		—
Total fixed maturity securities available for sale	11,093,159		—		11,005,096		88,063
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	316,056		204,749		109,748		1,559
Preferred stocks	244,997		—		155,551		89,446
Total equity securities available for sale	561,053		204,749		265,299		91,005
Arbitrage trading account	359,192		162,292		193,713		3,187
Total	$	12,013,404	$	367,041	$	11,464,108	$	182,255
Liabilities:
Securities sold but not yet purchased	$	53,494	$	51,672	$	1,822	$	—

There were no transfers between Levels 1 and 2 for the year ended December 31, 2011.

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The following tables summarize changes in Level 3 assets and liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010:

	Gains (Losses) Included in:
(Dollars in thousands)	Beginning Balance		Earnings			Other Comprehensive Income				Purchases		Sales			Paydowns/Maturities			In		Out			Ending Balance
Year ended December 31, 2011
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
Corporate	$	88,063	$	(454	)	$	(870	)		$	15,271	$	(11,864	)	$	(22,318	)	$	—	$	—		$	67,828
Total	88,063		(454		)	(870		)		15,271		(11,864		)	(22,318		)	—		—			67,828
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	1,559		—			—				—		—			—			—		—			1,559
Preferred stocks	89,446		28,947			(30,865		)		—		(75,225		)	—			—		—			12,303
Total	91,005		28,947			(30,865		)		—		(75,225		)	—			—		—			13,862
Arbitrage trading account	3,187		572			—			—	269		(3,266		)	—			89		—			851
Total	$	182,255	$	29,065		$	(31,735	)		$	15,540	$	(90,355	)	$	(22,318	)	$	89	$	—		$	82,541
Liabilities:
Securities sold but not yet purchased	—		$	40		—				$	67	$	(86	)	—			—		—			$	21
Year ended December 31, 2010
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
Mortgage-backed securities	$	25,900	$	—		$	—			$	—	$	—		$	—		$	—	$	(25,900	)	$	—
Corporate	90,160		(850		)	1,558				19,632		(5,324		)	(17,113		)	—		—			88,063
Total	116,060		(850		)	1,558				19,632		(5,324		)	(17,113		)	—		(25,900		)	88,063
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	1,559		—			—				—		—			—			—		—			1,559
Preferred stocks	54,713		23,535			31,633				19,542		(39,977		)	—			—		—			89,446
Total	56,272		23,535			31,633				19,542		(39,977		)	—			—		—			91,005
Arbitrage trading account	353		(353		)	—				3,187		—			—			—		—			3,187
Total	$	172,685	$	22,332		$	33,191			$	42,361	$	(45,301	)	$	(17,113	)	$	—	$	(25,900	)	$	182,255

The transfers out of Level 3 for mortgage-backed securities in 2010 were based upon the availability of broker dealer quotations. In certain circumstances, the Company was able to obtain quotations from third party broker dealers.

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(13) Reserves for Losses and Loss Expenses

The table below provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending reserve balances:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Net reserves at beginning of year	$	7,999,521		$	8,147,782		$	8,122,586
Net provision for losses and loss expenses:
Claims occuring during the current year(1)	2,791,860			2,509,933			2,518,849
Decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years(2)(3)	(181,282		)	(253,248		)	(234,008		)
Loss reserve discount accretion	47,787			53,182			51,866
Total	2,658,365			2,309,867			2,336,707
Net payments for claims:
Current year	765,440			641,570			582,605
Prior year	1,721,558			1,811,507			1,751,026
Total	2,486,998			2,453,077			2,333,631
Foreign currency translation	1,224			(5,051		)	22,120
Net reserves at end of year	8,172,112			7,999,521			8,147,782
Ceded reserve at end of year	1,165,022			1,017,028			923,889
Gross reserves at end of year	$	9,337,134		$	9,016,549		$	9,071,671

_______________________________________

(1) Claims occurring during the current year are net of loss reserve discounts of $43,286,000, $67,763,000 and $80,455,000 in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

(2) The decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years is net of loss reserve discount. On an undiscounted basis, the estimates for claims occurring in prior years decreased by $182,937,000, $246,941,000 and $232,040,000 in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

(3) For certain retrospectively rated insurance polices and reinsurance agreements, reserve development is offset by additional or return premiums. Favorable reserve development, net of additional and return premiums, was $182 million, $234 million and $190 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

For the year ended December 31, 2011, estimates for claims occurring in prior years (net of additional and return premiums) decreased by $182 million. The favorable reserve development in 2011 was primarily attributable to accident years 2007 through 2009. The changes in prior year loss reserve estimates are generally the result of ongoing analysis of recent loss development trends. Original estimates are increased or decreased as additional information becomes known regarding individual claims and aggregate claim trends.

Environmental and Asbestos — To date, known environmental and asbestos claims have not had a material impact on the Company’s operations. These claims have not materially impacted the Company because its subsidiaries generally did not insure large industrial companies that are subject to significant environmental or asbestos exposures prior to 1986 when an absolute exclusion was incorporated into standard policy language.

The Company’s net reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses relating to asbestos and environmental claims were $34 million and $36 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The Company’s gross reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses relating to asbestos and environmental claims were $59 million and $51 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Increases (decreases) in net incurred losses and loss expenses for reported asbestos and environmental claims were approximately $1 million, $2 million and $(0.6) million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Net paid losses and loss expenses for asbestos and environmental claims were approximately $3 million in 2011, $3 million in 2010 and $3 million in 2009. The estimation of these liabilities is subject to significantly greater than normal variation and uncertainty because it is difficult to make an actuarial estimate of these liabilities due to the absence of a generally accepted actuarial methodology for these exposures and the potential effect of significant unresolved legal matters, including coverage issues, as well as the cost of litigating the legal issues. Additionally, the determination of ultimate damages and the final allocation of such damages to financially responsible parties are highly uncertain.

Discounting — The Company discounts its liabilities for excess and assumed workers’ compensation business because of the long period of time over which losses are paid. Discounting is intended to appropriately match losses and loss expenses to

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income earned on investment securities supporting the liabilities. The expected losses and loss expense payout pattern subject to discounting was derived from the Company’s loss payout experience. For non-proportional business, reserves for losses and loss expenses have been discounted using risk-free discount rates determined by reference to the U.S. Treasury yield curve. These discount rates range from 2.3% to 6.5% with a weighted average discount rate of 4.3%. For proportional business, reserves for losses and loss expenses have been discounted at the statutory rate permitted by the Department of Insurance of the State of Delaware of 2.3%. The aggregate net discount, after reflecting the effects of ceded reinsurance, was $892 million, $898 million and $877 million at December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

(14) Reinsurance

The following is a summary of reinsurance financial information:

	Year Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Written premiums:
Direct	$	4,370,092		$	3,788,251		$	3,599,836
Assumed	707,221			627,826			653,603
Ceded	(719,945		)	(565,151		)	(523,344		)
Total net written premiums	$	4,357,368		$	3,850,926		$	3,730,095
Earned premiums:
Direct	$	4,164,277		$	3,744,150		$	3,690,493
Assumed	669,593			652,485			617,143
Ceded	(673,003		)	(561,053		)	(501,787		)
Total net earned premiums	$	4,160,867		$	3,835,582		$	3,805,849
Ceded losses incurred	$	458,249		$	379,153		$	252,299

The Company reinsures a portion of its exposures principally to reduce its net liability on individual risks and to protect against catastrophic losses. Estimated amounts due from reinsurers are reported net of reserves for uncollectible reinsurance of $3,169,000, $3,098,000 and $4,430,000 as of December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The following table presents the amounts due from reinsurers as of December 31, 2011 (dollars in thousands):

Reinsurer	Amount
Munich Re	$	163,420
Swiss Re	72,690
Transatlantic Re	64,619
Partner Re	60,769
Berkshire Hathaway	56,042
Axis Capital	54,121
Lloyd’s of London	52,859
Ace Group	43,463
Hannover Re Group	33,262
Arch Capital Group	22,984
Other reinsurers less then $20,000	224,380
Subtotal	848,609
Residual market pools	367,070
Total	$	1,215,679

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(15) Senior Notes and Other Debt

Senior notes and other debt consist of the following (the difference between the face value and the carrying value is unamortized discount):

(Dollars in thousands)		2011		2011		2010
Maturity	Rate	Face Value		Carrying Value		Carrying Value
Senior notes:
February 15, 2013	5.875%	$	200,000	$	199,627	$	199,295
May 15, 2015	5.6%	200,000		199,373		199,187
August 15, 2019	6.15%	150,000		148,914		148,772
September 15, 2019	7.375%	300,000		298,038		297,784
September 15, 2020	5.375%	300,000		297,065		296,729
January 1, 2022	8.70%	76,503		75,924		75,890
February 15, 2037	6.25%	250,000		247,236		247,126
Subsidiary debt (1)	Various	34,326		34,326		35,636
Total debt		$	1,510,829	$	1,500,503	$	1,500,419

(1) Subsidiary debt is due as follows: $4 million in 2012, $1 million in 2013, $26 million in 2014 and $3 million thereafter.

(16) Junior Subordinated Debentures

In 2005, the Company issued $250,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 6.75% Junior Subordinated Debentures due July 26, 2045 (the “Debentures”) to W. R. Berkley Capital Trust II (the “Trust”). At December 31, 2011, the carrying value of the Debentures, net of unamortized discount, was $243,000,000. The Trust simultaneously issued an equal amount of 6.75% mandatorily redeemable preferred securities (the “Trust Preferred Securities”), which are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by the Company to the extent the Trust has funds available for payment of distributions. The Trust Preferred Securities are subject to mandatory redemption in a like amount (i) in whole but not in part upon repayment of the Debentures at maturity, (ii) in whole but not in part, at any time contemporaneously with the optional prepayment of the Debentures by the Company upon the occurrence and continuation of certain events.

(17) Income Taxes

Income tax expense consists of:

(Dollars in thousands)	Current Expense		Deferred Expense (Benefit)			Total
December 31, 2011:
Domestic	$	60,420	$	38,781		$	99,201
Foreign	22,011		2,338			24,349
Total expense	$	82,431	$	41,119		$	123,550
December 31, 2010:
Domestic	$	79,143	$	66,287		$	145,430
Foreign	10,584		(2,275		)	8,309
Total expense	$	89,727	$	64,012		$	153,739
December 31, 2009:
Domestic	$	116,777	$	(56,325	)	$	60,452
Foreign	9,140		3,558			12,698
Total expense (benefit)	$	125,917	$	(52,767	)	$	73,150

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Income before income taxes from domestic operations was $469 million, $574 million and $343 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Income before income taxes from foreign operations was $49 million, $29 million and $39 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

A reconciliation of the income tax expense and the amounts computed by applying the Federal and foreign income tax rate of 35% to pre-tax income are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Computed “expected” tax expense	$	181,399		$	211,157		$	133,781
Tax-exempt investment income	(57,246		)	(62,628		)	(64,886		)
Change in valuation allowance	(2,328		)	102			(887		)
Impact of lower foreign tax rates	(3,413		)	(253		)	(551		)
State and local taxes	2,355			2,298			1,175
Other, net	2,783			3,063			4,518
Total expense	$	123,550		$	153,739		$	73,150

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, the tax effects of differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax asset and deferred tax liability are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010
Deferred tax asset:
Loss reserve discounting	$	119,725		$	152,189
Unearned premiums	118,837			106,162
Other-than-temporary impairments	68,559			69,057
Restricted stock units	43,207			39,514
Other	82,734			26,813
Gross deferred tax asset	433,062			393,735
Less valuation allowance	—			(2,328		)
Deferred tax asset	433,062			391,407
Deferred tax liability:
Amortization of intangibles	12,186			11,780
Deferred policy acquisition costs	136,349			124,141
Unrealized investment gains	223,024			169,106
Other	93,126			20,888
Deferred tax liability	464,685			325,915
Net deferred tax asset (liability)	$	(31,623	)	$	65,492

The Company had current tax receivables of $9,670,000 and $23,605,000 at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. At December 31, 2011, the Company had foreign net operating loss carryforwards of $420,000, which expire beginning in 2014. The Company had provided a valuation allowance against the unutilized foreign tax credits which were fully utilized in the 2010 federal tax return. The reduction in the valuation relates primarily to the full utilization of the foreign tax credit carryforward. At December 31, 2011, the Company had no deferred tax assets for which a valuation allowance is required. The statute of limitations has closed for the Company’s tax returns through December 31, 2004. The 2005 calendar year statute of limitations remains open as a result of the carry back of capital losses from the 2008 tax year, and the 2006 calendar year statue of limitations remains open as a result of the carry back of capital losses from the 2008 and 2009 tax years.

The realization of the deferred tax asset is dependent upon the Company’s ability to generate sufficient taxable income in future periods. Based on historical results and the prospects for future current operations, management anticipates that it is more likely than not that future taxable income will be sufficient for the realization of this asset.

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(18) Dividends from Subsidiaries and Statutory Financial Information (Unaudited)

The Company’s insurance subsidiaries are restricted by law as to the amount of dividends they may pay without the approval of regulatory authorities. During 2012, the maximum amount of dividends which can be paid without such approval is approximately $417 million. Combined net income and policyholders’ surplus of the Company’s consolidated insurance subsidiaries, as determined in accordance with statutory accounting practices, are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Net income	$	417,441	$	574,181	$	407,449
Policyholders’ surplus	$	4,107,745	$	4,154,654	$	3,859,086

The significant variances between statutory accounting practices and GAAP are that for statutory purposes bonds are carried at amortized cost, acquisition costs are charged to income as incurred, deferred Federal income taxes are subject to limitations, excess and assumed workers’ compensation reserves are discounted at different discount rates and certain assets designated as “non-admitted assets” are charged against surplus.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) has risk-based capital (“RBC”) requirements that require insurance companies to calculate and report information under a risk-based formula which measures statutory capital and surplus needs based on a regulatory definition of risk in a company’s mix of products and its balance sheet. As of December 31, 2011, all of the Company’s insurance subsidiaries had an RBC amount above the authorized control level RBC, as defined by the NAIC. The Company has guaranteed that the RBC levels of certain subsidiaries will remain above their authorized control levels.

(19) Common Stockholders’ Equity

The weighted average number of shares used in the computation of net income per share was as follows:

(Amounts in thousands)	2011	2010	2009
Basic	139,688	148,752	160,357
Diluted	145,672	155,081	166,574

Treasury shares have been excluded from average outstanding shares from the date of acquisition. The difference in calculating basic and diluted net income per share is attributable entirely to the dilutive effect of stock-based compensation plans.

Changes in shares of common stock outstanding, net of treasury shares, are presented below. Shares of common stock issued and outstanding do not include shares related to unissued restricted stock units and unexercised stock options.

(Amounts in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Balance, beginning of year	141,010		156,552		161,467
Shares issued	2,702		2,272		1,467
Shares repurchased	(6,192	)	(17,814	)	(6,382	)
Balance, end of year	137,520		141,010		156,552

81

(20) Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments as of December 31, 2011 and 2010:

	2011				2010
(Dollars in thousands)	Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities	$	11,312,037	$	11,330,910	$	11,209,154	$	11,215,317
Equity securities available for sale	443,439		443,439		561,053		561,053
Arbitrage trading account	397,312		397,312		359,192		359,192
Loans receivable	263,187		245,169		353,583		312,515
Cash and cash equivalents	911,742		911,742		642,952		642,952
Trading accounts receivable from brokers and clearing organizations	318,240		318,240		339,235		339,235
Due from broker	10,875		10,875		—		—
Liabilities:
Trading account securities sold but not yet purchased	62,514		62,514		53,494		53,494
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997		258,400		242,784		249,900
Senior notes and other debt	1,500,503		1,587,473		1,500,419		1,570,057

The estimated fair values of the Company’s fixed maturity securities, equity securities available for sale and arbitrage trading account securities are based on various valuation techniques. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for similar assets in active markets. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs may only be used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available. The fair value of loans receivable are estimated by using current institutional purchaser yield requirements for loans with similar credit characteristics. The fair value of the senior notes and other debt and the junior subordinated debentures is determined based on spreads for similar securities.

(21) Lease Obligations

The Company and its subsidiaries use office space and equipment under leases expiring at various dates. These leases are considered operating leases for financial reporting purposes. Some of these leases have options to extend the length of the leases and contain clauses for cost of living, operating expense and real estate tax adjustments. The Company also has an investment in a commercial office building that has a long-term land lease. Future minimum lease payments, without provision for sublease income, are: $34,635,000 in 2012; $31,177,000 in 2013; $26,808,000 in 2014; $22,646,000 in 2015 and $173,015,000 thereafter. Rental expense was $33,003,000, $29,936,000 and $28,067,000 for 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

(22) Commitments, Litigation and Contingent Liabilities

The Company's subsidiaries are subject to disputes, including litigation and arbitration, arising in the ordinary course of their insurance and reinsurance businesses. The Company's estimates of the costs of settling such matters are reflected in its aggregate reserves for losses and loss expenses, and the Company does not believe that the ultimate outcome of such matters will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of operations. However, adverse outcomes are possible and could negatively impact the Company's financial condition and results of operations.

At December 31, 2011, the Company had commitments to invest up to $328 million in certain investment funds.

82

(23) Stock Incentive Plan

The Company has not issued any stock options under its stock incentive plan since 2004. All outstanding options are vested and exercisable. The following table summarizes stock option information:

	2011			2010			2009
	Shares	Price(1)		Shares	Price(1)		Shares	Price(1)
Outstanding at beginning of year	3,503,384	$	10.42	5,700,552	$	9.53	6,566,377	$	9.06
Exercised	2,185,952	10.05		2,191,260	8.11		860,074	5.93
Cancelled	3,375	10.07		5,908	10.07		5,751	10.85
Outstanding at year end	1,314,057	$	11.04	3,503,384	$	10.42	5,700,552	$	9.53

_______________________________________

(1) Weighted average exercise price.

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2011:

	Options Outstanding and Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices	Number Outstanding	Weighted Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	Weighted Average Price
$0 to $10.00	412,078	0.60	$	10.07
$10.01 to $17.62	901,979	0.32	11.48
Total	1,314,057	0.41	$	11.04

Pursuant to the stock incentive plan, the Company may also issue restricted stock units (RSUs) to officers of the Company and its subsidiaries. The RSUs generally vest five years from the award date and are subject to other vesting and forfeiture provisions contained in the award agreement. The following table summarizes RSU information for the three years ended December 31, 2011:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
RSUs granted and unvested at beginning of period:	4,945,375		3,713,025		4,971,231
Granted	107,500		2,310,650		119,500
Vested	(576,050	)	(916,750	)	(1,287,943	)
Cancelled	(105,850	)	(161,550	)	(89,763	)
RSUs granted and unvested at end of period:	4,370,975		4,945,375		3,713,025

Upon vesting, shares of the Company’s common stock equal to the number of vested RSUs are issued or deferred to a later date, depending on the terms of the specific award agreement. As of December 31, 2011, 2,641,177 shares related to vested RSUs had been deferred.

The fair value of RSUs at the date of grant are recorded as unearned compensation, a component of stockholders’ equity, and expensed over the vesting period. Following is a summary of changes in unearned compensation for the three years ended December 31, 2011:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Unearned compensation at beginning of year	$	76,139		$	46,801		$	68,503
RSUs granted, net of cancellations	2,832			58,462			2,783
RSUs expensed	(27,566		)	(27,035		)	(24,988		)
RSUs forfeiture adjustment	5,910			(2,089		)	503
Unearned compensation at end of year	$	57,315		$	76,139		$	46,801

83

(24) Compensation Plans

The Company and its subsidiaries have profit sharing plans in which substantially all employees participate. The plans provide for minimum annual contributions of 5% of eligible compensation; contributions above the minimum are discretionary and vary with each participating subsidiary’s profitability. Employees become eligible to participate in the profit sharing plans on the first day of the month following the first full three months in which they are employed. The plans provide that 40% of the contributions vest immediately and that the remaining 60% vest at varying percentages based upon years of service. The Company’s foreign subsidiaries provide pension benefits in accordance with local regulations. Profit sharing expense was $27 million, $29 million, and $25 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

The Company has a Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (“LTIP”) that provides for incentive compensation to key executives based on the growth in the Company’s book value per share over a five year period. There are 193,600 units outstanding from the 2011 grant with a maximum value of $48.4 million, of which $5.6 million was earned by December 31, 2011. There are 158,500 units outstanding from the 2008 grant with a maximum value of $39.6 million, of which $17.3 million was earned over the four years ended December 31, 2011. The 2006 grant earned $30.7 million during the five years ended December 31, 2010, and fully paid in 2011.

The following table summarizes the LTIP expense for the three years ended December 31, 2011:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
2006 grant	$	—	$	5,119	$	3,816
2008 grant	4,597		5,070		3,747
2011 grant	5,644		—		—
Total	$	10,241	$	10,189	$	7,563

(25) Retirement Benefits

The Company has an unfunded noncontributory defined benefit plan that covers its chief executive officer and chairman of the board. The plan provides that the benefits payments shall commence on the earliest of (i) January 2, 2014, (ii) the date of death or (iii) a change in control of the Company. The discount rate used to derive the projected benefit obligation and related retirement expense was 4.36% in 2011 and 5.24% in 2010. The discount rate assumption used to determine the benefit obligation is based on a yield curve approach. Under this approach, a weighted average yield is determined from a hypothetical portfolio of AA rated bonds. Following is a summary of the projected benefit obligation as of December 31, 2011 and 2010:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010
Projected benefit obligation:
Beginning of year	$	51,828	$	45,889
Interest cost	2,716		2,675
Actuarial loss	2,243		3,264
End of year	$	56,787	$	51,828

84

Following is a summary of the amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of December 31, 2011 and 2010:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010
Net actuarial loss	$	10,007	$	9,093
Prior service cost	12,035		15,059
Net pension asset	$	22,042	$	24,152

The components of net periodic pension benefit cost are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
Interest cost	$	2,716	$	2,675	$	2,631
Amortization of unrecognized:
Prior service costs	3,023		3,023		3,023
Net actuarial loss	1,330		424		—
Net periodic pension cost	$	7,069	$	6,122	$	5,654

The changes in plan assets and projected benefit obligation recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010
Changes in plan assets and projected benefit obligation:
Net actuarial loss	$	2,243		$	3,264
Amortization of:
Net actuarial loss	(1,330		)	(424		)
Prior service costs	(3,023		)	(3,023		)
Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)	$	(2,110	)	$	(183	)

The estimated prior service cost and net actuarial loss that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into periodic benefit cost during 2012 are $2,197,000 and $3,023,000, respectively.

(26) Supplemental Financial Statement Data

Other operating costs and expenses consist of the following:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010		2009
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	$	1,034,400		$	917,217	$	903,154
Other underwriting expenses	398,532			397,266		345,309
Service company expenses	75,231			72,372		78,331
Net foreign currency (gains) losses	(1,884		)	2,126		4,213
Other costs and expenses	115,050			107,381		109,831
Total	$	1,621,329		$	1,496,362	$	1,440,838

85

(27) Industry Segments

The Company’s operations are presently conducted in five segments of the insurance business: Specialty, Regional, Alternative Markets, Reinsurance and International.

Our Specialty lines companies underwrite risks within the excess and surplus lines market and on an admitted basis. The risks are highly complex, often unique exposures that typically fall outside the underwriting guidelines of the standard insurance market or are best served by specialized knowledge of a particular industry. The Specialty lines of business include premises operations, commercial automobile, property, products liability and professional liability lines. The customers in this segment are highly diverse. Business is conducted through 20operating units, each delivering their products through a variety of distribution channels, depending on the customer base and particular risks insured.

Our Regional companies provide insurance products and services that meet the specific needs of each regionally differentiated customer base by developing expertise in the niches that drive local communities. They provide commercial insurance products to customers primarily in 45 states and the District of Columbia. Key clients of this segment are small-to-mid-sized businesses and state and local governmental entities. The Regional business is sold through a network of non-exclusive independent agents who are compensated on a commission basis. Our Regional operating units are organized geographically in order to provide them with the flexibility to adapt quickly to local market conditions and customer needs.

Our Alternative Markets operating units offer insurance products, analytical tools and risk management services such as loss control and claims management that enable clients to select their risk tolerance and manage it appropriately. These units specialize in insuring, reinsuring and administering self-insurance programs and other alternative risk transfer mechanisms for clients such as commercial and governmental entity employers, employer groups, insurers, and other groups or entities seeking alternative ways to manage their exposure to risks. In addition to providing insurance products, the Alternative Markets segment also provides a wide variety of fee-based services, including claims, administrative and consulting services.

Our Reinsurance companies provide other insurance companies and self-insureds with assistance in managing their net risk through reinsurance on either a portfolio basis, through treaty reinsurance, or on an individual basis, through facultative reinsurance.

Our International operating units write business in almost 40 countries worldwide, with branches or offices in 15 locations outside the United States, including the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, South America, Australia, the Asia Pacific region, Scandinavia and Canada. In each of our international operating territories, we have built decentralized structures that allow products and services to be tailored to each regional customer base. Our international businesses are managed by teams of professionals with expertise in local markets and knowledge of regional environments.

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. Income tax expense and benefits are calculated based upon the Company’s overall effective tax rate.

86

Summary financial information about the Company’s operating segments is presented in the following table. Income (loss) before income taxes by segment consists of revenues less expenses related to the respective segment’s operations, including allocated investment income. Identifiable assets by segment are those assets used in or allocated to the operation of each segment.

	Revenues
(Dollars in thousands)	Earned Premiums		Investment Income		Other			Total			Pre-Tax Income (Loss)			Net Income (Loss)
December 31, 2011:
Specialty	$	1,442,748	$	175,289	$	2,704		$	1,620,741		$	292,759		$	211,871
Regional	1,065,975		75,404		4,112			1,145,491			32,382			30,331
Alternative markets	612,558		121,360		86,031			819,949			146,030			109,859
Reinsurance	426,008		91,871		—			517,879			83,251			65,422
International	613,578		42,882		—			656,460			40,084			26,055
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	—		19,545		250,438			269,983			(201,704		)	(130,382		)
Net investment gains	—		—		125,481			125,481			125,481			81,647
Consolidated	$	4,160,867	$	526,351	$	468,766		$	5,155,984		$	518,283		$	394,803
December 31, 2010:
Specialty	$	1,288,373	$	180,063	$	3,130		$	1,471,566		$	296,645		$	214,769
Regional	1,066,922		82,411		3,114			1,152,447			117,353			86,325
Alternative markets	608,191		123,309		79,173			810,673			178,607			131,126
Reinsurance	419,356		103,079		—			522,435			129,922			97,015
International	452,740		32,794		—			485,534			21,174			14,838
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	—		8,869		215,964			224,833			(196,977		)	(131,660		)
Net investment gains	—		—		56,581			56,581			56,581			36,874
Consolidated	$	3,835,582	$	530,525	$	357,962		$	4,724,069		$	603,305		$	449,287
December 31, 2009:
Specialty	$	1,354,355	$	125,351	$	3,560		$	1,483,266		$	220,906		$	167,732
Regional	1,116,871		57,530		2,725			1,177,126			106,078			80,031
Alternative markets	597,932		83,719		87,032			768,683			162,875			121,993
Reinsurance	411,511		75,505		—			487,016			86,358			70,675
International	325,180		26,767		—			351,947			22,719			14,676
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	—		10,136		191,412			201,548			(178,298		)	(121,176		)
Net investment losses	—		—		(38,408		)	(38,408		)	(38,408		)	(24,874		)
Consolidated	$	3,805,849	$	379,008	$	246,321		$	4,431,178		$	382,230		$	309,057

Identifiable assets by segment were as follows (dollars in thousands):

December 31,	2011		2010
Specialty	$	6,180,996	$	5,854,256
Regional	2,534,875		2,616,238
Alternative markets	4,050,949		3,801,597
Reinsurance	2,734,277		2,972,988
International	1,576,707		1,391,604
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	1,409,927		891,864
Consolidated	$	18,487,731	$	17,528,547

_______________________________________

(1) Corporate, other and eliminations represent corporate revenues and expenses, net investment gains and losses and other items that are not allocated to business segments.

87

Net premiums earned by major line of business are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Specialty
Other liability	$	454,582	$	384,799	$	449,120
Property	237,762		212,164		199,746
Professional liability	229,281		200,219		173,201
Commercial automobile	141,800		129,505		189,501
Products liability	96,794		112,072		131,713
Other	282,529		249,614		211,074
Total specialty	1,442,748		1,288,373		1,354,355
Regional
Commercial multi peril	394,168		389,997		405,552
Commercial automobile	289,098		301,290		322,445
Workers’ compensation	219,639		214,857		229,066
Other	163,070		160,778		159,808
Total regional	1,065,975		1,066,922		1,116,871
Alternative Markets
Primary workers’ compensation	271,173		260,508		242,259
Excess workers’ compensation	164,173		216,647		252,196
Accident and health	105,128		57,915		36,414
Other liability	28,960		24,726		23,412
Other	43,124		48,395		43,651
Total alternative markets	612,558		608,191		597,932
Reinsurance
Casualty	307,051		307,474		323,479
Property	118,957		111,882		88,032
Total reinsurance	426,008		419,356		411,511
International
Professional liability	90,871		88,997		84,101
Property	151,177		80,105		26,119
Reinsurance	104,851		74,047		56,454
Automobile	72,723		69,875		64,969
Workers’ compensation	73,823		57,802		46,698
Other liability	52,189		38,344		25,736
Other	67,944		43,570		21,103
Total international	613,578		452,740		325,180
Total	$	4,160,867	$	3,835,582	$	3,805,849

88

(28) Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)

The following is a summary of quarterly financial data (in thousands except per share data):

	2011
Three Months Ended	March 31		June 30		September 30		December 31
Revenues	$	1,234,351	$	1,270,949	$	1,279,731	$	1,370,953
Net income	116,487		83,082		77,308		117,926
Net income per share(1)
Basic	0.83		0.59		0.56		0.86
Diluted	0.79		0.56		0.53		0.82

	2010
Three Months Ended	March 31		June 30		September 30		December 31
Revenues	$	1,153,547	$	1,163,068	$	1,176,112	$	1,231,342
Net income	118,610		110,207		93,619		126,851
Net income per share(1)
Basic	0.77		0.73		0.64		0.88
Diluted	0.74		0.70		0.61		0.85

_______________________________________

(1) Net income per share (“EPS”) in each quarter is computed using the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during that quarter, while EPS for the full year is computed using the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the year. Thus, the sum of the four quarters EPS does not necessarily equal the full-year EPS.

89

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

The Company's management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, have conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(b) as of the end of the period covered by this annual report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company has in place effective controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports it files or submits under the Exchange Act and the rules thereunder, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Commission's rules and forms.

During the quarter ended December 31, 2011, there have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

90

Management's Report On Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of Treadway Commission. Based on our evaluation under the framework in Internal Control - Integrated Framework, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2011.

91

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

W. R. Berkley Corporation:

We have audited W. R. Berkley Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, comprehensive income (loss), and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2011, and our report dated February 28, 2012 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

KPMG LLP

New York, New York

February 28, 2012

92

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

None.

PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Reference is made to the registrant's definitive proxy statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2011, and which is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Reference is made to the registrant's definitive proxy statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2011, and which is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

(a) Security ownership of certain beneficial owners

Reference is made to the registrant's definitive proxy statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2011, and which is incorporated herein by reference.

(b) Security ownership of management

Reference is made to the registrant's definitive proxy statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2011, and which is incorporated herein by reference.

(c) Changes in control

Reference is made to the registrant's definitive proxy statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2011, and which is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

Reference is made to the registrant's definitive proxy statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2011, and which is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

Reference is made to the registrant's definitive proxy statement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after December 31, 2011, and which is incorporated herein by reference.

PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)    Index to Financial Statements

The schedules to the consolidated financial statements listed below should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Financial statement schedules not included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K have been omitted because they are not applicable or required information is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.

93

Index to Financial Statement Schedules	Page
Independent Registered Public Accountants’ Report on Schedules	101
Schedule II — Condensed Financial Information of Registrant	102
Schedule III — Supplementary Insurance Information	106
Schedule IV — Reinsurance	107
Schedule V — Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	108
Schedule VI — Supplementary Information Concerning Property — Casualty Insurance Operations	109

(b) Exhibits

The exhibits filed as part of this report are listed on pages 97 and 101 hereof.

94

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

W. R. BERKLEY CORPORATION

By	/s/  William R. Berkley
	William R. Berkley, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

February 28, 2012

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  William R. Berkley	Chairman of the Board and
William R. Berkley	Chief Executive Officer	February 28, 2012
Principal executive officer
/s/  W. Robert Berkley, Jr.	President, Chief Operating Officer
W. Robert Berkley, Jr.	and Director	February 28, 2012
/s/  Ronald E. Blaylock	Director
Ronald E. Blaylock		February 28, 2012
/s/  Mark E. Brockbank	Director
Mark E. Brockbank		February 28, 2012
/s/  George G. Daly	Director
George G. Daly		February 28, 2012
/s/  Mary C. Farrell	Director
Mary C. Farrell		February 28, 2012
/s/  Rodney A. Hawes, Jr.	Director
Rodney A. Hawes, Jr.		February 28, 2012
/s/  Jack H. Nusbaum	Director
Jack H. Nusbaum		February 28, 2012
/s/  Mark L. Shapiro	Director
Mark L. Shapiro		February 28, 2012
/s/  Eugene G. Ballard	Senior Vice President and
Eugene G. Ballard	Chief Financial Officer	February 28, 2012
	(Principal financial officer and principal accounting officer)

95

ITEM 15. (b) EXHIBITS

Number
(3.1)	The Company’s Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended through May 10, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibits 3.1 and 3.2 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on August 6, 2003).
(3.2)	Amendment, dated May 11, 2004, to the Company’s Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company’s Quarterly report on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on August 5, 2004).
(3.3)	Amendment, dated May 16, 2006, to the Company’s Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on May 17, 2006).
(3.4)	Amended and Restated By-Laws (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on August 5, 2011).
(4.1)	Indenture, dated as of February 14, 2003, between the Company and The Bank of New York, as trustee (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission of March 31, 2003).
(4.2)	First Supplemental Indenture, dated February 14, 2003, between the Company and The Bank of New York, a trustees, relating to $200,000,000 principal amount of the Company’s 5.875% Senior Notes due 2013, including form of the Notes as Exhibit A (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission of March 31, 2003).
(4.3)	Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 24, 2004, between the Company and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, relating to $150,000,000 principal amount of the Company’s 6.150% Senior Notes due 2019, including form of the Notes as Exhibit A (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on March 14, 2005).
(4.4)	Fourth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 9, 2005, between the Company and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, relating to $200,000,000 principal amount of the Company’s 5.60% Senior Notes due 2015, including form of the Notes as Exhibit A (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of the Company’s Qarterly rRport on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15200) filed with the Commission on August 2, 2005).
(4.5)	Fifth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February 9, 2007, between the Company and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, relating to $250,000,000 principal amount of the Company’s 6.25% Senior Notes due 2037, including form of the Notes as Exhibit A (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on March 1, 2007).
(4.6)	Sixth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 14, 2009, between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon, as Trustee, relating to $300,000,000 principal amount of the Company’s 7.375% Senior Notes due 2019, including form of the Notes as Exhibit A (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on February 26, 2010).
(4.7)	Seventh Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 16, 2010, between the Company and The Bank of New York Mellon, as Trustee, relating to $300,000,000 principal amount of the Company’s 5.375% Senior Notes due 2020, including form of the Notes as Exhibit A (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on September 16, 2010).
(4.8)	Amended and Restated Trust Agreement of W. R. Berkley Capital Trust dated as of July 26, 2003 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on August 2, 2005).

96

(4.9)	Subordinated Indenture between W. R. Berkley Corporation and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, dated as of July 26, 2005 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on August 2, 2005).
(4.10)	Supplemental Indenture No. 1 to the Subordinated Indenture between W. R. Berkley Corporation and The Bank of New York, as Trustee, dated as of July 26, 2005, relating to 6.750% Subordinated Debentures Due 2045 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on August 2, 2005).
(4.11)	Preferred Securities Guarantee Agreement between W. R. Berkley Corporation, as Guarantor, and The Bank of New York, as Preferred Guarantee Trustee, dated as of July 26, 2005, relating to W. R. Berkley Capital Trust II (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on August 2, 2005).
(4.12)	The instruments defining the rights of holders of the other long term debt securities of the Company are omitted pursuant to Section (b)(4)(iii)(A) of Item 601 of Regulation S-K. The Company agrees to furnish supplementally copies of these instruments to the Commission upon request.
(10.1)	W. R. Berkley Corporation 2003 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Annex A of the Company’s 2003 Proxy Statement (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on April 14, 2003).
(10.2)	Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement under the W. R. Berkley Corporation 2003 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on May 3, 2005).
(10.3)	Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement under the W. R. Berkley Corporation 2003 Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on August 6, 2010).
(10.4)	Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement for grant of April 4, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on August 6, 2003).
(10.5)	W. R. Berkley Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Officers as amended and restated effective December 3, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on December 19, 2007).
(10.6)	W. R. Berkley Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Directors as amended and restated effective December 3, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on December 19, 2007).
(10.7)	W. R. Berkley Corporation 2007 Annual Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Annex A of the Company’s 2006 Proxy Statement (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on April 18, 2006).
(10.8)	W. R. Berkley Corporation 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Annex B from the Company’s 2004 Proxy Statement (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on April 12, 2004).
(10.9)	W. R. Berkley Corporation 2009 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Annex A of the Company’s 2009 Proxy Statement (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on April 17, 2009).
(10.10)	Form of Performance Unit Award Agreement under the W. R. Berkley Corporation 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on May 3, 2005).
(10.11)	Form of 2008 Performance Unit Award Agreement under the W. R. Berkley Corporation 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on March 13, 2008).

97

(10.12)	Form of 2011 Performance Unit Award Agreement under the W. R. Berkley Corporation 2009 Long-Term Incentive Plan.
(10.13)	W. R. Berkley Corporation 2009 Directors Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Annex B of the Company’s 2009 Proxy Statement (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on April 17, 2009).
(10.14)	Supplemental Benefits Agreement between William R. Berkley and the Company as amended and restated as of December 21, 2011.
(14)	Code of Ethics for Senior Financial Officers (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 14 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 1-15202) filed with the Commission on March 14, 2005).

98

(21) Following is a list of the Company’s significant subsidiaries and other operating entities. Subsidiaries of subsidiaries are indented and the parent of each such corporation owns 100% of the outstanding voting securities of such corporation except as noted below.

	Jurisdiction of Incorporation	Percentage owned by the Company (1)
Berkley International, LLC (2)	New York	100	%
Berkley Surety Group, Inc.	Delaware	100	%
J/I Holding Corporation:	Delaware	100	%
Admiral Insurance Company	Delaware	100	%
Admiral Indemnity Company	Delaware	100	%
Berkley London Holdings, Inc. (3)	Delaware	100	%
W. R. Berkley Insurance (Europe), Limited	United Kingdom	100	%
Carolina Casualty Insurance Company	Iowa	100	%
Berkley Assurance Company	Iowa	100	%
Clermont Insurance Company	Iowa	100	%
Nautilus Insurance Company	Arizona	100	%
Great Divide Insurance Company	North Dakota	100	%
Signet Star Holdings, Inc.	Delaware	100	%
Berkley Insurance Company	Delaware	100	%
Berkley Regional Insurance Company	Delaware	100	%
Acadia Insurance Company	New Hampshire	100	%
Berkley National Insurance Company	Iowa	100	%
Berkley Regional Specialty Insurance Company	Delaware	100	%
American Mining Insurance Company, Inc.	Alabama	100	%
Continental Western Insurance Company	Iowa	100	%
Firemen’s Insurance Company of Washington, D.C.	Delaware	100	%
Tri-State Insurance Company of Minnesota	Minnesota	100	%
Union Insurance Company	Iowa	100	%
Key Risk Insurance Company	North Carolina	100	%
Midwest Employers Casualty Company	Delaware	100	%
Preferred Employers Insurance Company	California	100	%
Gemini Insurance Company	Delaware	100	%
Riverport Insurance Company	Minnesota	100	%
StarNet Insurance Company	Delaware	100	%

_______________________________________

(1) W. R. Berkley Corporation is the ultimate parent. The subsidiary of a direct parent is indicated by an indentation, and its percentage ownership is as indicated in this column.

(2) Berkley International, LLC is held by W. R. Berkley Corporation and its subsidiaries as follows: W. R. Berkley Corporation (2%), Admiral Insurance Company (35%), Berkley Regional Insurance Company (14%), Nautilus Insurance Company (14%) and Berkley Insurance Company (35%).

(3) Berkley London Holdings, Inc. is held by Admiral Insurance Company (66.7%) and Berkley Insurance Company (33.3%).

99

(23)	Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
(31.1)	Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/ 15d-14(a).
(31.2)	Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/ 15d-14(a).
(32.1)	Certification of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

100

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

W. R. Berkley Corporation:

Under date of February 28, 2012, we reported on the consolidated balance sheets of W. R. Berkley Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, comprehensive income (loss), and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2011, as contained in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011. In connection with our audits of the aforementioned consolidated financial statements, we also audited the related consolidated financial statement schedules as listed in accompanying index. These financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statement schedules based on our audits.

In our opinion, such financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

KPMG LLP

New York, New York

February 28, 2012

101

Schedule II

W. R. Berkley Corporation

Condensed Financial Information of Registrant

Balance Sheets (Parent Company)

(Amounts in thousands)

	December 31,
	2011			2010
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	270,637		$	29,476
Fixed maturity securities available for sale at fair value (cost $244,921 and $244,804 at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively)	247,537			246,275
Equity securities available for sale, at fair value (cost $0 in 2011 and 2010)	81,811			109,748
Investment in subsidiaries	5,389,531			5,261,686
Deferred Federal income taxes	—			80,861
Current Federal income taxes	15,137			19,163
Property, furniture and equipment at cost, less accumulated depreciation	6,595			6,431
Other assets	6,951			7,969
Total assets	$	6,018,199		$	5,761,609
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity
Liabilities:
Due to subsidiaries	$	141,492		$	189,499
Other liabilities	146,823			161,666
Deferred Federal income taxes	12,283			—
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997			242,784
Senior notes	1,466,178			1,464,784
Total liabilities	2,009,773			2,058,733
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock	—			—
Common stock	47,024			47,024
Additional paid-in capital	941,109			935,099
Retained earnings (including accumulated undistributed net income of subsidiaries of $3,384,149 and $3,309,411 at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively)	4,546,232			4,194,684
Accumulated other comprehensive income	354,851			276,563
Treasury stock, at cost	(1,880,790		)	(1,750,494		)
Total stockholders’ equity	4,008,426			3,702,876
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	6,018,199		$	5,761,609

________________

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm and note to condensed financial statements.

102

Schedule II, Continued

W. R. Berkley Corporation

Condensed Financial Information of Registrant, Continued

Statements of Income (Parent Company)

(Amounts in thousands)

	Years Ended December 31,
	2011			2010			2009
Management fees and investment income including dividends from subsidiaries of $502,327, $405,917 and $150,545 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively	$	514,057		$	411,623		$	159,361
Net investment gains (losses)	45,962			(1,891		)	20,961
Other income	96			158			206
Total revenues	560,115			409,890			180,528
Operating costs and expense	118,922			117,658			88,276
Interest expense	111,184			105,510			87,054
Income before federal income taxes	330,009			186,722			5,198
Federal income taxes:
Federal income taxes provided by subsidiaries on a separate return basis	79,200			28,377			117,133
Federal income tax expense on a consolidated return basis	(89,144		)	(138,389		)	(58,644		)
Net benefit (expense)	(9,944		)	(110,012		)	58,489
Income before undistributed equity in net income of subsidiaries	320,065			76,710			63,687
Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries	74,738			372,577			245,370
Net income	$	394,803		$	449,287		$	309,057

________________

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm and note to condensed financial statements.

103

Schedule II, Continued

W. R. Berkley Corporation

Condensed Financial Information of Registrant, Continued

Statements of Cash Flows (Parent Company)

(Amounts in thousands)

	Years Ended December 31,
	2011			2010			2009
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	394,803		$	449,287		$	309,057
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:
Net investment (gains) losses	(45,962		)	1,891			(20,961		)
Depreciation and amortization	4,905			3,963			2,279
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	(74,738		)	(372,577		)	(245,370		)
Tax payments received from subsidiaries	139,011			106,284			103,356
Federal income taxes provided by subsidiaries on a separate return basis	(79,200		)	(28,377		)	(117,133		)
Stock incentive plans	27,176			26,318			24,078
Change in:
Federal income taxes	56,542			29,332			62,753
Other assets	(542		)	16,430			(381		)
Other liabilities	(6,747		)	11,467			11,661
Accrued investment income	1,559			(2,776		)	(137		)
Other, net	277			—			(603		)
Net cash from operating activities	417,084			241,242			128,599
Cash from (used in) investing activities:
Proceeds from sales of fixed maturity securities	70,665			164,920			29,355
Proceeds from maturities and prepayments of fixed maturity securities	165,158			85,695			47,133
Proceeds from sales of equity securities	47,735			3			17,897
Cost of purchases of fixed maturity securities	(240,536		)	(195,646		)	(353,944		)
Investment in funds	—			—			5,204
Investments in and advances to subsidiaries, net	(3,867		)	(18,685		)	(29,179		)
Change in balance due to security broker	(5,983		)	(8,500		)	14,483
Net additions to real estate, furniture & equipment	(643		)	(1,212		)	(224		)
Other, net	—			—			1
Net cash from (used in) investing activities	32,529			26,575			(269,274		)
Cash from (used in) financing activities:
Net proceeds from issuance of senior notes	—			296,636			297,461
Net proceeds from stock options exercised	21,966			17,730			5,426
Repayment of senior notes	—			(150,000		)	—
Purchase of common treasury shares	(187,163		)	(471,007		)	(147,144		)
Cash dividends to common stockholders	(43,255		)	(49,348		)	(28,843		)
Other, net	—			—			—
Net cash from (used in) financing activities	(208,452		)	(355,989		)	126,900
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	241,161			(88,172		)	(13,775		)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	29,476			117,648			131,423
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	270,637		$	29,476		$	117,648

________________

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm and note to condensed financial statements.

104

W. R. Berkley Corporation

Condensed Financial Information of Registrant,Continued

December 31, 2011

Note to Condensed Financial Statements (Parent Company)

The accompanying condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the notes to consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein. Reclassifications have been made in the 2010 and 2009 financial statements as originally reported to conform them to the presentation of the 2011 financial statements.

The Company files a consolidated federal tax return with the results of its domestic insurance subsidiaries included on a statutory basis. Under present Company policy, federal income taxes payable by subsidiary companies on a separate-return basis are paid to W. R. Berkley Corporation, and the Company pays the tax due on a consolidated return basis.

105

Schedule III

W. R. Berkley Corporation and Subsidiaries

Supplementary Insurance Information

December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009

(Amounts in thousands)

	Deferrred Policy Acquisition Cost		Reserve for Losses and Loss Expenses		Unearned Premiums		Premiums Earned		Net Investment Income		Loss and Loss Expenses		Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost		Other Operating Cost and Expenses		Net Premiums Written
December 31, 2011
Specialty	$	147,245	$	3,306,535	$	822,186	$	1,442,748	$	175,289	$	857,223	$	312,230	$	158,529	$	1,554,516
Regional	139,519		1,370,748		530,171		1,065,975		75,404		725,195		302,149		85,764		1,064,507
Alternative markets	34,928		2,506,424		287,246		612,558		121,360		442,721		99,938		131,260		619,097
Reinsurance	58,143		1,523,210		207,956		426,008		91,871		262,286		130,354		41,989		430,329
International	68,960		630,217		342,016		613,578		42,882		370,940		189,729		55,707		688,919
Corporate and adjustments	—		—		—		—		19,545		—		—		113,680		—
Total	$	448,795	$	9,337,134	$	2,189,575	$	4,160,867	$	526,351	$	2,658,365	$	1,034,400	$	586,929	$	4,357,368
December 31, 2010
Specialty	$	122,440	$	3,186,769	$	693,358	$	1,288,373	$	180,063	$	750,831	$	263,279	$	160,811	$	1,311,831
Regional	139,289		1,378,936		530,672		1,066,922		82,411		647,986		293,690		93,418		1,044,347
Alternative markets	33,471		2,355,007		261,858		608,191		123,309		410,873		92,364		128,829		582,045
Reinsurance	56,834		1,591,397		203,430		419,356		103,079		220,230		129,508		42,775		401,239
International	53,908		504,440		264,403		452,740		32,794		279,947		138,376		46,037		511,464
Corporate and adjustments	—		—		—		—		8,869		—		—		314,841		—
Total	$	405,942	$	9,016,549	$	1,953,721	$	3,835,582	$	530,525	$	2,309,867	$	917,217	$	786,711	$	3,850,926
December 31, 2009
Specialty	$	116,234	$	3,210,479	$	662,972	$	1,354,355	$	125,351	$	838,894	$	297,388	$	126,078	$	1,260,451
Regional	142,249		1,440,158		554,426		1,116,871		57,530		686,093		289,973		94,982		1,081,100
Alternative markets	34,443		2,221,488		287,031		597,932		83,719		378,961		89,432		137,415		589,637
Reinsurance	60,219		1,787,006		225,209		411,511		75,505		238,075		127,446		35,137		423,425
International	38,215		412,540		198,790		325,180		26,767		194,684		98,915		35,629		375,482
Corporate and adjustments	—		—		—		—		10,136		—		—		291,857		—
Total	$	391,360	$	9,071,671	$	1,928,428	$	3,805,849	$	379,008	$	2,336,707	$	903,154	$	721,098	$	3,730,095

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

106

Schedule IV

W. R. Berkley Corporation and Subsidiaries

Reinsurance

Years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009

(Amounts in thousands, other than percentages)

	Premiums Written
	Direct Amount		Ceded to Other Companies		Assumed from Other Companies		Net Amount		Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net
Year ended December 31, 2011:
Specialty	$	1,774,871	$	263,828	$	43,473	$	1,554,516	2.8	%
Regional	1,143,706		84,855		5,656		1,064,507		0.5
Alternative markets	760,339		208,059		66,817		619,097		10.8
Reinsurance	5,179		22,841		447,991		430,329		104.1
International	685,997		140,362		143,284		688,919		20.8
Total	$	4,370,092	$	719,945	$	707,221	$	4,357,368	16.2	%
Year ended December 31, 2010:
Specialty	$	1,492,589	$	214,025	$	33,267	$	1,311,831	2.5	%
Regional	1,155,970		115,789		4,166		1,044,347		0.4
Alternative markets	619,832		120,672		82,885		582,045		14.2
Reinsurance	3,803		24,058		421,494		401,239		105.0
International	516,057		90,607		86,014		511,464		16.8
Total	$	3,788,251	$	565,151	$	627,826	$	3,850,926	16.3	%
Year ended December 31, 2009:
Specialty	$	1,443,728	$	203,754	$	20,477	$	1,260,451	1.6	%
Regional	1,217,365		148,686		12,421		1,081,100		1.1
Alternative markets	567,767		75,112		96,982		589,637		16.4
Reinsurance	8,638		32,544		447,331		423,425		105.6
International	362,338		63,249		76,393		375,482		20.3
Total	$	3,599,836	$	523,345	$	653,604	$	3,730,095	17.5	%

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

107

Schedule V

W. R. Berkley Corporation and Subsidiaries

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

Years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009

(Amounts in thousands)

	Opening Balance		Additions- Charged to Expense		Deduction- Amounts Written Off			Ending Balance
Year ended December 31, 2011:
Premiums and fees receivable	$	19,483	$	6,158	$	(7,975	)	$	17,666
Due from reinsurers	3,098		71		—			3,169
Deferred federal and foreign income taxes	2,328		—		(2,328		)	—
Loan loss reserves	19,675		889		(759		)	19,805
Total	$	44,584	$	7,118	$	(11,062	)	$	40,640
Year ended December 31, 2010:
Premiums and fees receivable	$	19,733	$	5,013	$	(5,263	)	$	19,483
Due from reinsurers	4,430		—		(1,332		)	3,098
Deferred federal and foreign income taxes	2,226		102		—			2,328
Loan loss reserves	13,583		6,232		(140		)	19,675
Total	$	39,972	$	11,347	$	(6,735	)	$	44,584
Year ended December 31, 2009:
Premiums and fees receivable	$	18,423	$	9,593	$	(8,283	)	$	19,733
Due from reinsurers	4,895		—		(465		)	4,430
Deferred federal and foreign income taxes	3,113		—		(887		)	2,226
Loan loss reserves	684		12,899		—			13,583
Total	$	27,115	$	22,492	$	(9,635	)	$	39,972

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

108

Schedule VI

W. R. Berkley Corporation and Subsidiaries

Supplementary Information Concerning Property-Casualty Insurance Operations

Years Ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009

(Amounts in thousands)

	2011			2010			2009
Deferred policy acquisition costs	$	448,795		$	405,942		$	391,360
Reserves for losses and loss expenses	9,337,134			9,016,549			9,071,671
Unearned premium	2,189,575			1,953,721			1,928,428
Premiums earned	4,160,867			3,835,582			3,805,849
Net investment income	526,351			530,525			379,008
Losses and loss expenses incurred:
Current year	2,791,860			2,509,933			2,518,849
Prior years	(181,282		)	(253,248		)	(234,008		)
Loss reserve discount accretion	47,787			53,182			51,866
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	1,034,400			917,217			903,154
Paid losses and loss expenses	2,486,998			2,453,077			2,333,631
Net premiums written	4,357,368			3,850,926			3,730,095

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

109

EX-10.12

Performance Unit Award Agreement

Under the W. R. Berkley Corporation 2009 Long-Term Incentive Plan

THIS AGREEMENT, effective January 1, 2011, represents an Award of Performance Units by W. R. Berkley Corporation (the “Company”), to the Participant named below, pursuant to the provisions of the W. R. Berkley Corporation 2009 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “Plan”). The value of the Performance Units will be determined based on the increase in the Company's Book Value Per Share during the Performance Cycle, as determined below.

The Plan provides a complete description of the terms and conditions governing the Performance Units. If there is any inconsistency between the terms of this Agreement and the terms of the Plan, the Plan's terms shall completely supersede and replace the conflicting terms of this Agreement. All capitalized terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Plan, unless specifically set forth otherwise herein. The parties hereto agree as follows:

1.General Grant Information. The individual named below has been selected to be a Participant in the Plan and receive a grant of Performance Units, as specified below:

(a) Participant:

(b) Number of Performance Units Granted:

(c) Initial Value of Performance Units: $0.00

(d) Date of Grant: January 1, 2011

(e) Performance Measure: Increase in Book Value Per Share.

2.Performance Period. The Performance Period commences on January 1, 2011, and ends on December 31, 2015.

3.Performance Measure. The Performance Measure, as specified above, is expressed in terms of the Company's Increase in Book Value Per Share.

4.Value of a Performance Unit. Each Performance Unit shall have a value determined by adding together the Increase in Book Value Per Share for each fiscal year of the Performance Period and multiplying the resulting sum by ten and seventeen one hundredths (10.17); provided, however, that if the Increase in Book Value Per Share for a particular fiscal year is not a positive number, there will be no Increase in Book Value Per Share for that year, and thereafter there will only be an Increase in Book Value Per Share that will be used to increase the value of a Performance Unit to the extent that any subsequent Ending Book Value Per Share after the year in which the Increase in Book Value Per Share was not positive exceeds the last Ending Book Value Per Share that resulted in an increase to the Performance Unit value. The maximum value of a Performance Unit shall be two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00).

5.Eligibility for Earned Performance Units. The Participant shall only be eligible for payment of earned Performance Units. Performance Units will be earned only if the Participant's employment with the Company:

(a)Continues through the earlier of (x) the end of the Performance Period and (y) the Participant's death; or

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(b) Is terminated, prior to the earlier of the end of the Performance Period and the Participant's death, as a result of Disability or Retirement, or by the Company or a Subsidiary or Affiliate, as applicable, for any reason other than Cause.

Notwithstanding anything herein to the to the contrary, the Performance Units shall not be earned and shall not become payable unless and until the Participant has complied with the Competitive Action restriction set forth in Section 6(d) below on or prior to the Settlement Date.

6.Payout of Performance Units. (a) Except as set forth in Section 6(b) or 9 below, the aggregate positive value, if any, of the earned Performance Units, based on the value of the earned Performance Units on the last day of the Performance Period as determined in accordance with this Agreement and subject to the maximum value set forth in Section 4 hereof, shall be paid to the Participant in cash following the last day of the Performance Period but in no event later than March 31, 2016.

(b)If the Participant dies or his employment with the Company and all Subsidiaries and Affiliates terminates prior to the end of the Performance Period either as a result of Disability or Retirement or by the Company or a Subsidiary or Affiliate, as applicable, for any reason other than Cause, the Company shall pay to the Participant the cash value of the Performance Units measured as of the end of the fiscal year immediately prior to the fiscal year in which such death or termination of employment occurred. Payment of such amount upon such death or termination of the Participant's employment shall extinguish the Company's obligation hereunder, and the Participant shall not be entitled to any further payment or appreciation in the value of the Performance Units. In the event such payment is made due to the Participant's death, such payment shall be made to the Participant's beneficiary (or the Participant's estate if no beneficiary has been chosen or if such beneficiary has predeceased the Participant). Any payment upon death or any such termination of employment shall be made within ninety (90) calendar days following such death or termination of employment; provided, however, that if such ninety (90) day period spans two separate taxable years, such payment shall be made in the later taxable year; provided further, however, that any payment hereunder upon a termination of employment shall be delayed until the earlier of (x) March 31, 2016 (calculated as of the end of the fiscal year immediately prior to the fiscal year in which such termination of employment occurred), and (y) such time as the Participant has also undergone a “separation from service” as defined in Treas. Reg. 1.409A-1(h), at which time such payment (calculated as of the end of the fiscal year immediately prior to the fiscal year in which such termination of employment occurred) shall be made to the Participant according to the schedule set forth in this Section 6(b) as if the Participant had undergone such termination of employment (under the same circumstances) on the date of such “separation from service.” Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, to the extent the Participant is a “specified employee” as defined in Treas. Reg. 1.409A-1(i), any payment to be made upon the Participant's “separation from service” shall be delayed until and made upon the earlier of (i) the six (6) month anniversary of the Participant's “separation from service” and (ii) the Participant's death. Termination of the Participant's employment with the Company and all Subsidiaries and Affiliates prior to the earlier of the end of the Performance Period and the Participant's death for any reason other than Disability or Retirement, or by the Company or a Subsidiary or Affiliate, as applicable, without Cause, shall require forfeiture of this entire Award, with no payment to the Participant.

(c)This Award shall expire and the Company shall have no further obligation to make any payment hereunder once a payment is made pursuant to Section 6(a) or (b) above or Section 9 below.

(d)If on or prior to the Settlement Date, the Participant engages in a Competitive Action or enters into, or has entered into, an agreement (written, oral or otherwise) to engage in Competitive Action or has engaged in Misconduct, all of the Performance Units shall be immediately forfeited, and the Participant shall have no further rights with respect to such Performance Units. In the event that the Participant engages in any Competitive Action or enters into, or has entered into, an agreement (written, oral or otherwise) to engage in Competitive Action or engages in Misconduct after the Settlement Date but on or prior to the second anniversary of the Settlement Date, the Participant shall pay to the Company, upon demand by the Company, an amount equal to the amount paid to the Participant in respect of the Performance Units on the Settlement Date. The determination as to whether the Participant has engaged in any Competitive Action or Misconduct shall be made by the Committee in its sole and

2

absolute discretion. The Committee's exercise or nonexercise of such discretion with respect to any particular event or occurrence by or with respect to the Participant or any other recipient of performance units under the Plan shall not in any way reduce or eliminate the authority of the Committee to (i) determine that any event or occurrence by or with respect to the Participant constitutes engaging in Competitive Action or Misconduct, or (ii) determine the related Competitive Action or Misconduct date. The Participant acknowledges that the restriction with respect to engaging in a Competitive Action, in view of the nature of the business in which the Company is engaged, is reasonable in scope (as to both the temporal and geographical limits) and necessary in order to protect the legitimate business interests of the Company. The Participant acknowledges further that engaging in a Competitive Action or Misconduct would result in irreparable injuries to the Company and would cause loss in an amount that cannot be readily quantified. The Participant acknowledges further the amounts required to be paid to the Company pursuant to this provision are reasonable and are not liquidated damages nor shall they be characterized as such.

7.Nontransferability. Performance Units may not be sold, transferred, pledged, assigned, or otherwise alienated or hypothecated, other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution.

8.Administration. This Agreement and the rights of Participant hereunder are subject to all the terms and conditions of the Plan, as the same may be amended from time to time, as well as to such rules and regulations as the Committee may adopt for administration of the Plan. It is expressly understood that the Committee is authorized to administer, construe, and make all determinations necessary or appropriate to the administration of the Plan and this Agreement, all of which shall be final and binding upon the Participant, including without limitation any determination concerning a Competitive Action. Any inconsistency between the Agreement and the Plan shall be resolved in favor of the Plan.

9.Change of Control. Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control, unless otherwise specifically prohibited under applicable laws or by the rules and regulations of any governing governmental agencies or national securities exchanges, the value of all Performance Units shall be determined and fixed as of the end of the fiscal year immediately preceding the year in which such Change in Control occurs, and such value shall be paid to the Participant in accordance with, and subject to, the provisions of Sections 5 and 6 hereof. Performance Units shall not accrue any additional value for the fiscal year in which a Change in Control occurs or for any subsequent fiscal years.

10.Miscellaneous.

(a)This Agreement shall not confer upon the Participant any right to continuation of employment by the Company, nor shall this Agreement interfere in any way with the Company's right to terminate the Participant's employment at any time.

(b)The Committee may terminate, amend, or modify the Plan; provided, however, that no such termination, amendment, or modification of the Plan may in any material way adversely affect the Participant's rights under this Agreement.

(c)The Company or a Subsidiary or Affiliate, as applicable, shall have the authority to deduct or withhold from any payment hereunder or from any other source of the Participant's compensation from the Company or a Subsidiary or Affiliate, as applicable, or may require the Participant to remit to the Company or a Subsidiary or Affiliate, as applicable, before payment hereunder, an amount sufficient to satisfy federal, state, and local taxes (including Participant's FICA obligation) required by law to be withheld with respect to any taxable event arising out of this Agreement.

(d)This Agreement shall be subject to all applicable laws, rules, and regulations, and to such approvals by any governmental agencies or national securities exchanges as may be required.

(e)To the extent not preempted by federal law, this Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Delaware.

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(f)All obligations of the Company under the Plan and this Agreement with respect to the Performance Units shall be binding on any successor to the Company, whether the existence of such successor is the result of a direct or indirect purchase, merger, consolidation, or otherwise, of all or substantially all of the business and/or assets of the Company.

(g)The provisions of this Agreement are severable and if any one or more provisions are determined to be illegal or otherwise unenforceable, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions shall nevertheless be binding and enforceable.

(h)By accepting this Award or other benefit under the Plan, the Participant and each person claiming under or through the Participant shall be conclusively deemed to have indicated their acceptance and ratification of, and consent to, any action taken under the Plan by the Company, the Board or the Committee.

(i)The Participant, every person claiming under or through the Participant, and the Company hereby waive to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law any right to a trial by jury with respect to any litigation directly or indirectly arising out of, under, or in connection with the Plan or this Award Agreement issued pursuant to the Plan.

(j)Definitions. The following terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them when used in this Agreement:

(i)“Beginning Book Value Per Share” means $24.30 for the first fiscal year of the Performance Period, and for each subsequent fiscal year shall mean the Book Value Per Share determined as of the end of the prior fiscal year.

(ii)“Book Value Per Share” as of the end of any fiscal year shall be equal to the quotient of X divided by Z, where X is equal to the sum of A, B, C, D and E minus F, and Z is equal to the sum of W plus Y: [(A+B+C+D+E-F) ÷(W+Y)]. For purposes of this calculation, (A) shall be equal to the Company's total common stockholders' equity as of the end of such fiscal year, as determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and reported in the Company's audited financial statements, (B) shall be equal to the cumulative after-tax expense of the Company from January 1, 2011 through the end of such fiscal year arising from all the Awards made under the Plan, (C) shall be equal to the cumulative cash dividends on the Company's common stock declared from January 1, 2011 through the end of such fiscal year, (D) shall be equal to the cumulative cost of the Company's common stock repurchased by the Company from January 1, 2011 through the end of such fiscal year, (E) shall be equal to the cumulative number of shares of the Company's common stock repurchased by the Company from January 1, 2011 through the end of such fiscal year times the Beginning Book Value Per Share times 3.75% (computed and compounded quarterly), (F) shall be equal to the Company's accumulated other comprehensive income as of the end of such fiscal year, (W) shall be equal to the number of shares of the Company's common stock issued and outstanding, net of treasury shares, as of the end of such fiscal year, and (Y) shall be the cumulative number of shares of the Company's common stock repurchased by the Company from January 1, 2011 through the end of such fiscal year. Book Value Per Share shall be calculated without taking into account any forward or reverse split of the Company's common stock or any stock dividend declared on the Company's common stock and there shall be no adjustment to the number of Performance Units awarded hereunder in either event.

(iii)“Cause” means Cause as defined in any active employment agreement between the Participant and the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliate, as applicable, or, in the absence of any such employment agreement, (i) fraud, personal dishonesty, embezzlement or acts of gross negligence or gross misconduct on the part of Participant in the course of his or her employment or services, (ii) the Participant's engagement in conduct that is materially injurious to the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliate, (iii) the Participant's conviction by a court of competent jurisdiction of, or pleading “guilty” or “no contest” to, (x) a felony or (y) any other criminal charge (other than minor traffic violations) which could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse impact on the Company's or a Subsidiary's or an Affiliate's reputation or business; (iv) public or

4

consistent drunkenness by the Participant or his or her illegal use of narcotics which is, or could reasonably be expected to become, materially injurious to the reputation or business of the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliate or which impairs, or could reasonably be expected to impair, the performance of the Participant's duties to the Company, a Subsidiary or an Affiliate; (v) willful failure by the Participant to follow the lawful directions of a superior officer; or (vi) the Participant's continued and material failure to fulfill his or her employment obligations to the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliate.

(iv)“Competitive Action” means, either directly or indirectly, whether as an employee, consultant, independent contractor, partner, joint venturer or otherwise, (i) in any geographical area where the Company is engaged in business, engaging in any business activities which are competitive with any type or kind of business activities conducted by the Company in such area, (ii) on behalf of any person or entity engaged in business activities competitive with the business activities of the Company, soliciting or inducing, or in any manner attempting to solicit or induce, any person employed by, or as an agent of, the Company to terminate such person's employment or agency relationship, as the case may be, with the Company, (iii) diverting, or attempting to divert, any person, concern or entity from doing business with the Company or attempts to induce any such person, concern or entity to cease being a customer of the Company or (iv) making use of, or attempting to make use of, the Company's property or proprietary information, other than in the course of the performance of services to the Company or at the direction of the Company. References to the Company in this definition shall include the Company and all Subsidiaries and Affiliates.

(iv)“Disability” means the inability of the Participant to continue to perform services for the Company or any Subsidiary or Affiliate, as applicable, on account of his or her total and permanent disability as determined by the Committee.

(v)“Ending Book Value Per Share” means for the applicable fiscal year, the Book Value Per Share determined as of the end of such fiscal year.

(vi) “Increase in Book Value Per Share” means the amount, if any, by which the Ending Book Value Per Share exceeds Beginning Book Value Per Share for the applicable fiscal year.

(vii)“Misconduct” means that the Participant has during the Participant's employment with the Company or any Subsidiary or any Affiliate engaged in an act which would, in the judgment of the Committee, constitute fraud, that could be punishable as a crime, or embezzlement against either the Company, or one of its Subsidiaries, or one of its Affiliates.

(viii)“Retirement” means the Participant's retirement from service with the Company and all Subsidiaries and Affiliates with the written consent of [the Chairman of the Board of the Company or This language shall be deleted from the agreements for William R. Berkley and W. Robert Berkley.]the Committee.

(ix)“Settlement Date” means the date that the value of the Performance Units is actually paid to the Participant.

[Signatures to appear on following page]

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be executed effective as of January 1, 2011.

W. R. Berkley Corporation

By:__________________________

Name:

Title:

5

______________________________

Participant

Please indicate the name of the Participant's beneficiary:

Name

The Participant may change his or her beneficiary hereunder only by written notice to the Company, which change will become effective only upon receipt by the Company during the Participant's lifetime.

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EX-10.14

SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS AGREEMENT

Amended and Restated Effective January 1, 2012

This AMENDED AND RESTATED SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS AGREEMENT is dated as of December 21, 2011, and is entered into by and between W. R. Berkley Corporation, a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and William R. Berkley (“Executive”).

WHEREAS, Executive currently serves as the Company's Chief Executive Officer and as the Chairman of the Board;

WHEREAS, each of Executive and the Company desired to enter into a amended agreement (this “Agreement”) providing for certain benefits upon Executive's retirement as the Company's Chief Executive Officer, subject to the terms and conditions contained herein;

WHEREAS, this Agreement was originally entered into as of August 19, 2004, at which time Executive became earned and vested in, and entitled to a legally binding right to, certain payments and benefits hereunder;

WHEREAS, pursuant to Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-6(a)(3)(i), Section 409A of the Code does not apply with respect to amounts deferred prior to January 1, 2005; to wit, in the case of the Retirement Benefit, the Gross-Up Payment, and the continued health benefits (each a payment of a non-account balance plan under Section 409A of the Code) under this Agreement, the present value of the amount to which Executive would have been entitled hereunder upon a voluntary termination for any reason on December 31, 2004, and in the case of the perquisites (part of a separate plan under Section 409A of the Code), the right to the in-kind benefits as of December 31, 2004;

WHEREAS, all payments and benefits under this Agreement, other than (i) the increase in the present value of the Retirement Benefit after December 31, 2004, and (ii) the Gross-Up Payment, are grandfathered from the application of Section 409A of the Code pursuant to the operation of Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-6(a)(3)(i);

WHEREAS, the Gross-Up Payment complies with Section 409A of the Code;

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive further amended and restated this Agreement effective as of December 17, 2007, only with respect to the Retirement Benefit, in order that the calculation, determination and payment of such Retirement Benefit be in all respects compliant with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code;

WHEREAS, the amendment to and restatement of this Agreement effective as of December 17, 2007, were made for the sole purpose of making the Retirement Benefit compliant with Section 409A of the Code (and therefore do not constitute a material modification of any part of this Agreement under Section 409A of the Code), and in no way amended or affected the calculation, determination, distribution or provision of, any payments or benefits hereunder other than the Retirement Benefit;

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive further amended and restated this Agreement effective as of December 12, 2008, to change the time and form of payment of the Retirement Benefit in a manner compliant with transition relief provided under Notice 2007-86 and other applicable guidance promulgated by the Treasury Department or Internal Revenue Service regarding compliance with Section 409A of the Code; and

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive desire to further amend and restate this Agreement effective as of January 1, 2012 to (i) freeze Executive's Retirement Benefit effective as of January 1, 2012 and prevent the future accrual of additional Retirement Benefits hereunder and (ii) to allow changes in the payment of Retirement Benefits in accordance with, and as provided by, Section 409A of the Code.

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:

Section 1.Definitions.

“Auditors” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3(a) hereof.

“Benefit Calculation Date” means January 1, 2012. For the avoidance of doubt, Executive shall not accrue additional Retirement Benefits on or after January 1, 2012.

“Benefit Commencement Date” means the earliest to occur of (i) January 2, 2014 or such date as elected in accordance with Section 2, (ii) the date of Executive's death, and (iii) the date of a Change in Control.

“Board” means the Company's Board of Directors.

“Cause” means (i) Executive is convicted of, or pleads guilty or no contest to, any felony; or (ii) Executive engages in conduct that constitutes willful gross neglect or willful gross misconduct in carrying out his duties to the Company, resulting, in either case, in material economic harm to the Company. For purposes of clause (ii) above, no act or failure to act by Executive shall be considered “willful” unless done or omitted to be done by Executive in bad faith and without reasonable belief that Executive's action or omission was in the best interests of the Company. Any act, or failure to act, based upon authority given pursuant to a resolution duly adopted by the Board or based upon the advice of counsel for the Company shall be conclusively presumed to have been done, or omitted to be done, by Executive in good faith and in the best interests of the Company.

“Change in Control” means any transaction that constitutes either (i) a change in the ownership of the Company within the default meaning under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5)(v) (i.e., the acquisition by a person or group of persons of stock of the Company constituting more than 50% of the total fair market value or total voting power of the stock of the Company), (ii) a change in the effective control of the Company within the default meaning under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5)(vi) (i.e., either (x) the acquisition by a person or group of persons of stock of the Company possessing 30% or more of the total voting power of the stock of the Company or (y) the replacement during any 12-month period of a majority of the members of the Board by members whose appointment or election is not endorsed by a majority of the members of the Board before the date of the appointment or election), or (iii) a change in the ownership of a substantial portion of the Company's assets within the default meaning of Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5)(vii) (i.e., the acquisition by a person or group of persons of assets from the Company that have a total gross fair market value equal to or greater than 40% of the total gross fair market value of all of the assets of the Company immediately before such acquisition).

“Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

“Final Average Five-Year Compensation” means the average of Executive's base salary and regular annual bonus (excluding any amounts paid under the Company's Long-Term Incentive Plan), earned in respect of each of the five fiscal years of the Company prior to the fiscal year in which the

Benefit Calculation Date occurs.

“Good Reason” means, in each case without Executive's consent, (i) any change in Executive's title (including his position as Chairman of the Board) or any diminution in Executive's authority or responsibility; (ii) the assignment of duties or responsibilities that are inconsistent in any material respect with Executive's position or status as Chief Executive Officer of the Company; (iii) a reduction, by the Company, in Executive's rate of annual base salary or a material reduction in the value of Executive's annual bonus opportunity, each as in effect on the date hereof or as the same may be increased from time to time thereafter; (iv) any requirement of the Company that Executive be based anywhere more than twenty (20) miles from the office where Executive is located as of the date hereof; or (v) the failure of the Company to obtain the assumption in writing of its obligation to perform this Agreement by any successor, as contemplated in Section 8 hereof.

“Gross-Up Payment” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3 hereof.

“Highest Average Three-Year Compensation” means the greatest three fiscal year average of Executive's base salary and regular annual bonus earned in respect of each such fiscal year (excluding any amounts paid under the Company's Long-Term Incentive Plan), determined by using any three consecutive fiscal years over the ten-fiscal-year period prior to the year in which the Benefit Calculation Date occurs.

“Make-up Account” means a notional account which, during the period commencing upon the date of a Qualifying Termination and ending on the Benefit Commencement Date, shall be credited on each monthly anniversary of the date of such Qualifying Termination with an amount equal to one twelfth (1/12th) of the Retirement Benefit plus interest on the balance in such account at the interest rate then in effect under Section 6 of the W. R. Berkley Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Officers, as amended and restated December 3, 2007. For purposes of clarity, in the event the Benefit Calculation Date and the Benefit Commencement Date occur on the same date, Executive shall not be entitled to a Make-up Account.

“Parachute Tax” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3(a) hereof.

“Payment” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 3(a) hereof.

“Qualifying Termination” means the earliest to occur of (i) Executive's resignation from employment as Chief Executive Officer of the Company for any reason; (ii) any termination of Executive's employment by the Company other than for Cause; provided, that, in each case, Executive shall not be required to resign from his position as Chairman of the Board following any termination of employment in order for a Qualifying Termination to occur; or (iii) termination of Executive's employment by reason of his death.

“Restricted Period” means the period commencing on the date of Executive's resignation from employment as Chief Executive Officer without Good Reason and ending on the second anniversary thereof.

“Retirement Benefit” means an annual benefit equal to the greater of (i) $1,000,000, or (ii) fifty percent (50%) of the Highest Average Three-Year Compensation, which in the case of clause (ii) shall in no event exceed one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the Final Average Five-Year Compensation.

Section 2.Benefits.

(a)Retirement Benefit. Within thirty (30) days following the Benefit Commencement

Date, Executive shall be paid the first annual Retirement Benefit, plus a lump sum amount equal to the accrued balance in the Make-up Account, if any. Thereafter, Executive shall be paid the annual Retirement Benefit on each anniversary of the Benefit Commencement Date for the remainder of his life. Upon Executive's death, and if Executive's spouse has not predeceased him, Executive's spouse shall thereafter be entitled to receive, in lieu of the full Retirement Benefit that would have been payable to Executive absent his death, fifty percent (50%) of the annual Retirement Benefit on each anniversary of the Benefit Commencement Date for the remainder of her life (and in the event that the Benefit Commencement Date occurred as a result of Executive's death, Executive's spouse shall also receive within thirty (30) days following Executive's death a lump sum payment equal to the sum of (i) fifty percent (50%) of the annual Retirement Benefit and (ii) the accrued balance in the Make-up Account, if any). Notwithstanding the foregoing, within ten (10) business days following the Benefit Commencement Date, Executive may elect for him and his spouse to receive, in lieu of the yearly Retirement Benefit set forth in this Section 2(a), an annual lifetime annuity benefit under a joint and survivor annuity based on the lives of Executive and his spouse that is the actuarial equivalent of one hundred percent (100%) of the yearly Retirement Benefits that would have otherwise been made to Executive and his spouse had no such election occurred. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event the Benefit Commencement Date occurs as the result of a Change in Control, Executive shall receive within thirty (30) days of such Change in Control, in lieu of the yearly Retirement Benefits provided by this Section 2(a), a lump sum amount equal to the actuarial present value of one hundred percent (100%) of the yearly Retirement Benefits that would have otherwise been made to Executive following a Benefit Commencement Date that was not a Change in Control.

Except as otherwise required by Section 409A of the Code, no later than twelve (12) months prior to the Benefit Commencement Date, Executive may elect to change the distribution form and the distribution time that the Retirement Benefits will be paid in accordance with the following requirements:

(i)Subject to clauses (ii) and (iii) below, such election may not take effect until the twelve (12) month anniversary of the date the election is made;

(ii)Except with respect to a payment to be made on account of death, the distribution time must not be less than five (5) years after the distribution time that the new election is changing (regardless of whether the new election merely changes the distribution form); and

(iii)Any election related to a payment of benefits at a specified time or pursuant to a fixed schedule must be made not less than twelve (12) months before the date the payment is scheduled to be paid (or in the case of a life annuity or installment payments treated as a single payment, twelve (12) months before the date the first amount was scheduled to be paid).

The following actuarial assumptions shall be applied for purposes of determining any form of benefit:

Mortality:	Based on the mortality rates under the 1994 Uninsured Pensioner Mortality Table (UP-94)
Interest Rate:	6%

(b)Continued Health Benefits. Following a Qualifying Termination, (i) for the remainder of Executive's life, in the case of Executive, and for the remainder of his spouse's life, in the case of Executive's spouse, the Company shall provide Executive and Executive's spouse with

health insurance coverage, with substantially the same level of benefits as provided to Executive and his spouse immediately prior to such Qualifying Termination; provided, that, if Executive and/or his spouse become eligible to participate in any government-provided health care coverage, Executive and/or his spouse shall participate in such coverage to the extent reasonably practicable, and, in such case, the level of benefits provided under this subsection (b) shall be reduced to avoid duplication of benefits. Notwithstanding the foregoing, following the date Executive and/or his spouse participate in such government-provided coverage, Executive and/or his spouse shall have the right to elect not to use such government-provided coverage with respect to any procedure if Executive and/or his spouse reasonably believe, in Executive's and/or his spouse's discretion, that the same quality of care can not be provided through use of such coverage as the quality of care available through the Company provided coverage. Benefits provided to Executive and his spouse under this subsection (b) shall be paid by the Company; provided, however, that with respect to Executive's spouse, until such time that Executive's spouse participates in the government health care coverage described above, Executive and/or his spouse shall be responsible for payment to the Company of an amount equal to any “co-pay” applicable to spouses of other employees of the Company receiving the same level of benefits.

(c)Perquisites.

(i)For the period commencing on a Qualifying Termination and ending on the latest to occur of (A) two (2) years following the date of such Qualifying Termination, (B) the date on which Executive ceases to serve as Chairman of the Board, or (C) the date upon which Executive ceases to provide consulting services to the Company, the Company shall provide Executive with:

(1)continued use of the Company airplane, in a manner consistent with Executive's historical use of such airplane prior to such Qualifying Termination; and

(2)a car and driver at a level consistent with that provided to Executive prior to such Qualifying Termination.

(ii)Following a Qualifying Termination, for so long as Executive requests, the Company shall provide Executive with office accommodations and support, which shall include computer and telecommunication office equipment (e.g., fax machine, copy machine, telephones, etc.), reasonable office supplies and full-time secretarial support in a manner consistent with the office accommodations and support provided to him prior to such Qualifying Termination.

Section 3.Additional Payments.

(a)If it is determined by a nationally recognized United States public accounting firm selected by the Company and approved in writing by Executive (the “Auditors”) that any payment or benefit made or provided to Executive in connection with this Agreement or otherwise (collectively, a “Payment”) would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Parachute Tax”), then the Company shall pay to Executive, prior to the time the Parachute Tax is payable with respect to such Payment, an additional payment (a “Gross-Up Payment”) in an amount such that, after payment by Executive of all taxes (including any Parachute Tax) imposed upon the Gross-Up Payment, Executive retains an amount of the Gross-Up Payment equal to the Parachute Tax imposed upon the Payment. The amount of any Gross-Up Payment shall be determined by the Auditors, subject to adjustment, as necessary, as a result of any Internal Revenue Service position. For purposes of making the calculations required by this Agreement, the Auditors may make reasonable assumptions and approximations concerning applicable taxes and may rely on reasonable, good-faith interpretations concerning the application of Sections 280G and 4999 of the Code, provided that the Auditors' determinations must be made with substantial authority (within the meaning of Section 6662 of the Code).

(b)The federal tax returns filed by Executive (and any filing made by a consolidated tax group which includes the Company) shall be prepared and filed on a basis consistent with the determination of the Auditors with respect to the Parachute Tax payable by Executive. Executive shall

make proper payment of the amount of any Parachute Tax and, at the request of the Company, provide to the Company true and correct copies (with any amendments) of his federal income tax return as filed with the Internal Revenue Service and such other documents reasonably requested by the Company evidencing such payment. If, after the Company's payment to Executive of the Gross-Up Payment, the Auditors determine in good faith that the amount of the Gross-Up Payment should be reduced or increased, or such determination is made by the Internal Revenue Service, then within ten business days of such determination, Executive shall pay to the Company the amount of any such reduction, or the Company shall pay to Executive the amount of any such increase; provided, however, that in no event shall Executive have any such refund obligation if it is determined by the Company (with its counsel) that to do so would violate the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as it may be amended from time to time; and provided, further, that if Executive has prior thereto paid such amounts to the Internal Revenue Service, such refund shall be due only to the extent that a refund of such amount is received by Executive.

(c)The fees and expenses of the Auditors (and any other legal and accounting fees) incurred for services rendered in connection with the Auditors' determination of the Parachute Tax or any challenge by the Internal Revenue Service or other taxing authority relating to such determination shall be paid by the Company.

Section 4.Non-Competition; Consulting during the Restricted Period.

(a)Non-Competition. In the event that Executive resigns from employment without Good Reason, Executive covenants and agrees that during the Restricted Period, with respect to any State of the United States of America or any other jurisdiction in which the Company engages in business at the time of such termination, Executive shall not, directly or indirectly, individually or jointly, own any interest in, operate, join, control or participate as a partner, director, principal, officer or agent of, enter into the employment of, act as a consultant to, or perform any services for any entity that engages in activities that are materially competitive with the Company or its subsidiaries.

(b)Blue Pencil. If any court of competent jurisdiction shall at any time deem the duration or the geographic scope of the provisions of subsection (a) above unenforceable, the other provisions of this Agreement shall nevertheless stand, and the duration and/or geographic scope set forth herein shall be deemed to be the longest period and/or greatest size permissible by law under the circumstances, and the parties hereto agree that such court shall reduce the time period and/or geographic scope to permissible duration or size.

(c)Injunctive Relief. Without intending to limit the remedies available to the Company, but subject to subsection (e) below, Executive acknowledges that a breach of any of the covenants contained in subsection (a) above may result in material irreparable injury to the Company or its subsidiaries for which there is no adequate remedy at law; that it will not be possible to measure damages for such injuries precisely; and that, in the event of such a breach or threat thereof, the Company shall be entitled to obtain a temporary restraining order and/or a preliminary or permanent injunction, without the necessity of proving irreparable harm or injury as a result of such actual or threatened breach of subsection (a) above, restraining Executive from engaging in activities prohibited by subsection (a) above or obtaining such other relief as may be required specifically to enforce any of the covenants hereof.

(d)Consulting Arrangement. During the Restricted Period, Executive agrees to be reasonably available to provide consulting services, at the request of the Board, for not more than twenty (20) hours per month. In connection with any request for Executive's services hereunder, the Board shall give reasonable notice to Executive prior to time such services are to be performed and shall accommodate the Employee's other professional or personal commitments to the extent reasonably possible. Executive shall not be entitled to additional compensation or fees as a result of providing such services.

(e)No Set-Off. A breach by Executive of subsections (a) or (d) above shall not affect the right of Executive or his spouse to receive and continue to receive the Retirement Benefit and the

other benefits and perquisites described in Section 2 hereof, and the Company shall have no right of set-off against any such amounts.

Section 5.Taxes.

The Company may withhold from any payments made under this Agreement all applicable taxes, including but not limited to income, employment and social insurance taxes, as shall be required by law.

Section 6.Legal Fees.

If any legal action or proceeding is commenced to enforce or interpret the provisions of this Agreement, or any plan, agreement or arrangement referenced in this Agreement, or to recover damages for breach thereof, all reasonable legal fees, disbursements, costs and expenses paid or incurred by Executive in connection with any such action or proceeding shall be paid or reimbursed by the Company, irrespective of the outcome thereof, providedthat if such action or proceeding is initiated by Executive or in his name, Executive shall not be entitled to such payment or reimbursement if it is finally determined by a court of competent jurisdiction that such action or proceeding was frivolous and brought by Executive (or in his name) in bad faith.

Section 7.No Mitigation.

Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for pursuant to this Agreement by seeking other employment or otherwise and the amount of any payment provided for pursuant to this Agreement shall not be reduced by any compensation earned as a result of Executive's other employment or otherwise.

Section 8.Successors and Assigns.

This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be enforceable by, and may be assigned by the Company to, any purchaser of all or substantially all of the Company's business or assets, any successor to the Company or any assignee thereof (whether direct or indirect, by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise). The Company will require any such purchaser, successor or assignee to expressly assume and agree to perform this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform it if no such purchase, succession or assignment had taken place.

Section 9.Waiver and Amendments.

Except as provided herein, any waiver, alteration, amendment or modification of any of the terms of this Agreement shall be valid only if made in writing and signed by the parties hereto; provided, however, that any such waiver, alteration, amendment or modification is consented to on the Company's behalf by the Board. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company shall have the right to take any action described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i) and Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(j) without the consent of Executive to the extent such action does not reduce or forfeit the then benefits of Executive No waiver by either of the parties hereto of their rights hereunder shall be deemed to constitute a waiver with respect to any subsequent occurrences or transactions hereunder unless such waiver specifically states that it is to be construed as a continuing waiver.

Section 10.Severability.

In the event that any provision or portion of this Agreement shall be determined to be invalid or unenforceable for any reason, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall be unaffected thereby and shall remain in full force and effect to the fullest extent permitted by law.

Section 11.Governing Law.

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware (without giving effect to the choice of law principles thereof) applicable to contracts

made and to be performed entirely within such state. The Agreement is intended to comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code or an exemption or exclusion therefrom and, with respect to amounts that are subject to Section 409A of the Code, shall in all respects be administered in accordance with Section 409A of the Code. Each payment under this Agreement shall be treated as a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A of the Code. Except as permitted under Section 409A of the Code and provided in Section 2 herein with respect to Executive's Retirement Benefit, in no event may Executive, directly or indirectly, designate the calendar year of any payment to be made under this Agreement. Any payment or benefit subject to Section 409A of the Code that is payable upon Executive's termination of employment shall not occur until Executive incurs a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code. All reimbursements and in-kind benefits provided under this Agreement that constitute deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code shall be made or provided in accordance with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code, including, without limitation, that (i) in no event shall reimbursements by the Company under this Agreement be made later than the end of the calendar year next following the calendar year in which the applicable fees and expenses were incurred, provided, that Executive shall have submitted an invoice for such fees and expenses at least 10 days before the end of the calendar year next following the calendar year in which such fees and expenses were incurred; (ii) the amount of in-kind benefits that the Company is obligated to pay or provide in any given calendar year (other than medical reimbursements described in Treas. Reg. § 1.409A-3(i)(1)(iv)(B)) shall not affect the in-kind benefits that the Company is obligated to pay or provide in any other calendar year; (iii) Executive's right to have the Company pay or provide such reimbursements and in-kind benefits may not be liquidated or exchanged for any other benefit; and (iv) in no event shall the Company's obligations to make such reimbursements or to provide such in-kind benefits apply later than the remaining lifetimes of Executive and Executive's spouse. In no event shall any payment to be made pursuant to Section 3 be made later than the year following the year in which Executive remits the underlying taxes.

Section 12.Section Headings.

The headings of the sections and subsections of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall not be deemed to constitute a part thereof, or affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement or of any term or provision hereof.

Section 13.Entire Agreement.

This Agreement constitutes the entire understanding and agreement of the parties hereto regarding the subject matter of this Agreement and supersedes all prior negotiations, discussions, correspondence, communications, understandings and agreements between the parties relating thereto.

Section 14.Counterparts.

This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. The execution of this Agreement may be by actual or facsimile signature.

[Signatures to appear on the following page]

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.

W. R. BERKLEY CORPORATION

By: /s/Rodney A. Hawes, Jr.

Name: Rodney A. Hawes, Jr.

Title: Chairman, Compensation Committee

William R. Berkley

/s/William R. Berkley

EX-23

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors

W. R. Berkley Corporation:

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the registration statements (No. 333-178121) on Form S-3 and (No. 333-33935), (No. 33-88640), (No. 33-55726) and (No. 333-127598) on Form S-8 of W. R. Berkley Corporation of our reports dated February 28, 2012 with respect to the consolidated balance sheets of W. R. Berkley Corporation as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders’ equity, comprehensive income (loss) and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2011, and all related financial statement schedules and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, which reports appear in the December 31, 2011 Annual Report on Form 10-K of W. R. Berkley Corporation.

KPMG LLP

New York, New York

February 28, 2012

EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATIONS

I, William R. Berkley, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of W. R. Berkley Corporation (the “registrant”), certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of the registrant;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: February 28, 2012

/s/ William R. Berkley  

William R. Berkley 

Chairman of the Board and

Chief Executive Officer 

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATIONS

I, Eugene G. Ballard, Senior Vice President-Chief Financial Officer of W. R. Berkley Corporation (the “registrant”), certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of the registrant;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: February 28, 2012

/s/ Eugene G. Ballard

Eugene G. Ballard

Senior Vice President -

Chief Financial Officer

EX-32.1

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Annual Report of W. R. Berkley Corporation (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), we, William R. Berkley, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and Eugene G. Ballard, Senior Vice President-Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

/s/ William R. Berkley

William R. Berkley

Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

/s/ Eugene G. Ballard

Eugene G. Ballard

Senior Vice President — Chief Financial Officer

February 28, 2012

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to W. R. Berkley Corporation (the “Company”) and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

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Schedule V - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]

Schedule V - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

Schedule V

W. R. Berkley Corporation and Subsidiaries

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

Years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009

(Amounts in thousands)

	Opening Balance		Additions- Charged to Expense		Deduction- Amounts Written Off			Ending Balance
Year ended December 31, 2011:
Premiums and fees receivable	$	19,483	$	6,158	$	(7,975	)	$	17,666
Due from reinsurers	3,098		71		—			3,169
Deferred federal and foreign income taxes	2,328		—		(2,328		)	—
Loan loss reserves	19,675		889		(759		)	19,805
Total	$	44,584	$	7,118	$	(11,062	)	$	40,640
Year ended December 31, 2010:
Premiums and fees receivable	$	19,733	$	5,013	$	(5,263	)	$	19,483
Due from reinsurers	4,430		—		(1,332		)	3,098
Deferred federal and foreign income taxes	2,226		102		—			2,328
Loan loss reserves	13,583		6,232		(140		)	19,675
Total	$	39,972	$	11,347	$	(6,735	)	$	44,584
Year ended December 31, 2009:
Premiums and fees receivable	$	18,423	$	9,593	$	(8,283	)	$	19,733
Due from reinsurers	4,895		—		(465		)	4,430
Deferred federal and foreign income taxes	3,113		—		(887		)	2,226
Loan loss reserves	684		12,899		—			13,583
Total	$	27,115	$	22,492	$	(9,635	)	$	39,972

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

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Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011		Sep. 30, 2011		Jun. 30, 2011		Mar. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010		Sep. 30, 2010		Jun. 30, 2010		Mar. 31, 2010		Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Revenues	$ 1,370,953		$ 1,279,731		$ 1,270,949		$ 1,234,351		$ 1,231,342		$ 1,176,112		$ 1,163,068		$ 1,153,547		$ 5,155,984	$ 4,724,069	$ 4,431,178
Net income	$ 117,926		$ 77,308		$ 83,082		$ 116,487		$ 126,851		$ 93,619		$ 110,207		$ 118,610		$ 394,803	$ 449,287	$ 309,057
Net income per share
Basic	$ 0.86	[1]	$ 0.56	[1]	$ 0.59	[1]	$ 0.83	[1]	$ 0.88	[1]	$ 0.64	[1]	$ 0.73	[1]	$ 0.77	[1]	$ 2.83	$ 3.02	$ 1.93
Diluted	$ 0.82	[1]	$ 0.53	[1]	$ 0.56	[1]	$ 0.79	[1]	$ 0.85	[1]	$ 0.61	[1]	$ 0.70	[1]	$ 0.74	[1]	$ 2.71	$ 2.90	$ 1.86

[1] Net income per share (“EPS”) in each quarter is computed using the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during that quarter, while EPS for the full year is computed using the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the year. Thus, the sum of the four quarters EPS does not necessarily equal the full-year EPS.

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Income Taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

Income tax expense consists of:

(Dollars in thousands)	Current Expense		Deferred Expense (Benefit)			Total
December 31, 2011:
Domestic	$	60,420	$	38,781		$	99,201
Foreign	22,011		2,338			24,349
Total expense	$	82,431	$	41,119		$	123,550
December 31, 2010:
Domestic	$	79,143	$	66,287		$	145,430
Foreign	10,584		(2,275		)	8,309
Total expense	$	89,727	$	64,012		$	153,739
December 31, 2009:
Domestic	$	116,777	$	(56,325	)	$	60,452
Foreign	9,140		3,558			12,698
Total expense (benefit)	$	125,917	$	(52,767	)	$	73,150

Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation

A reconciliation of the income tax expense and the amounts computed by applying the Federal and foreign income tax rate of 35% to pre-tax income are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Computed “expected” tax expense	$	181,399		$	211,157		$	133,781
Tax-exempt investment income	(57,246		)	(62,628		)	(64,886		)
Change in valuation allowance	(2,328		)	102			(887		)
Impact of lower foreign tax rates	(3,413		)	(253		)	(551		)
State and local taxes	2,355			2,298			1,175
Other, net	2,783			3,063			4,518
Total expense	$	123,550		$	153,739		$	73,150

Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Computed “expected” tax expense	$	181,399		$	211,157		$	133,781
Tax-exempt investment income	(57,246		)	(62,628		)	(64,886		)
Change in valuation allowance	(2,328		)	102			(887		)
Impact of lower foreign tax rates	(3,413		)	(253		)	(551		)
State and local taxes	2,355			2,298			1,175
Other, net	2,783			3,063			4,518
Total expense	$	123,550		$	153,739		$	73,150

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, the tax effects of differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax asset and deferred tax liability are as follows:

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Realized And Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Realized and Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) [Abstract]

Realized and Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)

Realized and unrealized investment gains and losses are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Realized investment gains and losses:
Fixed maturity securities:
Gains	$	37,595		$	38,204		$	50,500
Lossses	(5,499		)	(8,990		)	(3,632		)
Equity securities available for sale	90,023			34,477			52,680
Investment funds	3,762			1,871			4,905
Provision for other-than-temporary impairments (1)	(400		)	(9,205		)	(151,727		)
Less investment impairments recognized in other comprehensive income	—			—			8,866
Other gains	—			224			—
Total net investment gains (losses)	125,481			56,581			(38,408		)
Income tax (expense) benefit	(43,834		)	(19,707		)	13,534
	$	81,647		$	36,874		$	(24,874	)

(1) Includes change in valuation allowance for loans receivable of $0, $6,082,000 and $12,418,000 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Change In Unrealized Gains (Losses) Of Available For Sales Securities

Change in unrealized gains and losses of available for sales securities:
Fixed maturity securities	$	209,467		$	102,488		$	405,950
Investment impairments recognized in other comprehensive income	(3,604		)	1,362			(5,425		)
Equity securities available for sale	(55,772		)	68,178			143,684
Investment funds	(2,093		)	4,560			13,235
Total change in unrealized gains	147,998			176,588			557,444
Income tax expense	(52,381		)	(61,227		)	(195,813		)
Noncontrolling interests	55			(8		)	(21		)
	$	95,672		$	115,353		$	361,610

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Arbitrage Trading Account (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Arbitrage trading account	$ 397,312,000	$ 359,192,000
Trading account receivables from brokers and clearing organizations	318,240,000	339,235,000
Securities sold but not yet purchased	(62,514,000)	(53,494,000)
Long Option Contracts Outstanding [Member]
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Other derivatives not designated as hedging instruments at fair value, net	8,000,000
Derivative, notional amount	86,000,000
Short Option Contracts Outstanding [Member]
Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Other derivatives not designated as hedging instruments at fair value, net	4,000,000
Derivative, notional amount	$ 107,000,000

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Dividends From Subsidiaries And Statutory Financial Information (Unaudited) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Insurance [Abstract]

Schedule of Combined Net Income and Policyholders' Surplus in Accordance with Statutory Accounting Practices

Combined net income and policyholders’ surplus of the Company’s consolidated insurance subsidiaries, as determined in accordance with statutory accounting practices, are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Net income	$	417,441	$	574,181	$	407,449
Policyholders’ surplus	$	4,107,745	$	4,154,654	$	3,859,086

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Securities in an Unrealized Loss Position (Securities in an Unrealized Loss Position) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Fair Value, Less than 12 Months	$ 939,018	$ 1,666,648
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	18,853	40,632
Fair Value, 12 Months or Greater	460,375	569,902
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 Months or Greater	73,449	66,040
Fair Value, Total	1,399,393	2,236,550
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	92,302	106,672
U.S. Government And Government Agency [Member]
Fair Value, Less than 12 Months	24,668	60,228
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	169	420
Fair Value, 12 Months or Greater	4,800	6,973
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 Months or Greater	182	32
Fair Value, Total	29,468	67,201
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	351	452
State and Municipal [Member]
Fair Value, Less than 12 Months	131,417	951,119
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	827	26,577
Fair Value, 12 Months or Greater	183,205	156,617
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 Months or Greater	15,723	18,840
Fair Value, Total	314,622	1,107,736
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	16,550	45,417
Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Less than 12 Months	172,729	116,194
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	2,439	2,809
Fair Value, 12 Months or Greater	94,243	174,163
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 Months or Greater	14,473	16,063
Fair Value, Total	266,972	290,357
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	16,912	18,872
Corporate [Member]
Fair Value, Less than 12 Months	341,764	342,929
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	8,327	6,581
Fair Value, 12 Months or Greater	125,654	155,259
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 Months or Greater	27,760	22,798
Fair Value, Total	467,418	498,188
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	36,087	29,379
Foreign [Member]
Fair Value, Less than 12 Months	197,560	110,189
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	4,078	888
Fair Value, 12 Months or Greater	7,159	0
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 Months or Greater	571	0
Fair Value, Total	204,719	110,189
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	4,649	888
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Less than 12 Months	868,138	1,580,659
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	15,840	37,275
Fair Value, 12 Months or Greater	415,061	493,012
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 Months or Greater	58,709	57,733
Fair Value, Total	1,283,199	2,073,671
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	74,549	95,008
Common Stocks [Member]
Fair Value, Less than 12 Months	47,098	58,979
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	2,888	989
Fair Value, 12 Months or Greater	0	0
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 Months or Greater	0	0
Fair Value, Total	47,098	58,979
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	2,888	989
Preferred Stocks [Member]
Fair Value, Less than 12 Months	23,782	27,010
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	125	2,368
Fair Value, 12 Months or Greater	45,314	76,890
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 Months or Greater	14,740	8,307
Fair Value, Total	69,096	103,900
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	14,865	10,675
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member]
Fair Value, Less than 12 Months	70,880	85,989
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	3,013	3,357
Fair Value, 12 Months or Greater	45,314	76,890
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 Months or Greater	14,740	8,307
Fair Value, Total	116,194	162,879
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	$ 17,753	$ 11,664

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Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Net actuarial loss	$ 10,007	$ 9,093
Prior service cost	12,035	15,059
Net pension asset	$ 22,042	$ 24,152

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Investment Funds Investment Funds (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Investment Funds [Abstract]

Schedule of Investment Funds

Investment funds consist of the following:

	Carrying Value as of December 31,				Income (Losses) from Investment Funds
(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2011			2010			2009
Real estate	$	373,413	$	226,183	$	14,527		$	(4,766	)	$	(159,569	)
Energy	98,974		96,511		(6,101		)	996			(13,227		)
Arbitrage	58,008		60,660		(1,366		)	1,692			9,691
Other	150,243		129,057		2,392			(4,403		)	(757		)
Total	$	680,638	$	512,411	$	9,452		$	(6,481	)	$	(163,862	)

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Supplemental Financial Statement Information

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Supplemental Financial Statement Data [Abstract]

Supplemental Financial Statement Data

Supplemental Financial Statement Data

Other operating costs and expenses consist of the following:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010		2009
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	$	1,034,400		$	917,217	$	903,154
Other underwriting expenses	398,532			397,266		345,309
Service company expenses	75,231			72,372		78,331
Net foreign currency (gains) losses	(1,884		)	2,126		4,213
Other costs and expenses	115,050			107,381		109,831
Total	$	1,621,329		$	1,496,362	$	1,440,838

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Securities in an Unrealized Loss Position (Non-Investment Grade Fixed Maturity Securities) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011
Number Of Securities	35
Aggregate Fair Value	$ 213,757
Gross Unrealized Loss	21,299
Unrealized Loss 5 Million or Greater [Member] | Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Number Of Securities	1	[1]
Aggregate Fair Value	15,945	[1]
Gross Unrealized Loss	7,158	[1]
Unrealized Loss Less than 5 Million [Member] | Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Number Of Securities	15
Aggregate Fair Value	106,923
Gross Unrealized Loss	6,115
Unrealized Loss Less than 5 Million [Member] | Corporate [Member]
Number Of Securities	13
Aggregate Fair Value	48,106
Gross Unrealized Loss	3,461
Unrealized Loss Less than 5 Million [Member] | State and Municipal [Member]
Number Of Securities	5
Aggregate Fair Value	42,197
Gross Unrealized Loss	4,553
Unrealized Loss Less than 5 Million [Member] | Foreign [Member]
Number Of Securities	1
Aggregate Fair Value	586
Gross Unrealized Loss	$ 12

[1] This investment is a residential mortgage-backed security that was evaluated based on the performance of the underlying collateral under various economic and default scenarios. The security has met its contractual obligations and the Company expects that it will continue to meet those contractual payment obligations as they become due. Based on this evaluation, the Company does not consider the investment to be OTTI.

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Schedule V - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	$ 44,584	$ 39,972	$ 27,115
Additions - Charged to Expense	7,118	11,347	22,492
Deductions - Amounts Written Off	(11,062)	(6,735)	(9,635)
Ending Balance	40,640	44,584	39,972
Premiums and fees receivable [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	19,483	19,733	18,423
Additions - Charged to Expense	6,158	5,013	9,593
Deductions - Amounts Written Off	(7,975)	(5,263)	(8,283)
Ending Balance	17,666	19,483	19,733
Due from reinsurers [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	3,098	4,430	4,895
Additions - Charged to Expense	71	0	0
Deductions - Amounts Written Off	0	(1,332)	(465)
Ending Balance	3,169	3,098	4,430
Deferred federal and foreign income taxes [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	2,328	2,226	3,113
Additions - Charged to Expense	0	102	0
Deductions - Amounts Written Off	(2,328)	0	(887)
Ending Balance	0	2,328	2,226
Loan loss reserves [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Opening Balance	19,675	13,583	684
Additions - Charged to Expense	889	6,232	12,899
Deductions - Amounts Written Off	(759)	(140)	0
Ending Balance	$ 19,805	$ 19,675	$ 13,583

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Real Estate (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2011
Real Estate [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Current	$ 1,421,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Two Years	1,464,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Three Years	1,508,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Four Years	1,553,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Five Years	1,600,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter	$ 331,476,000

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Income Taxes (Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Current Expense, Domestic	$ 60,420,000	$ 79,143,000	$ 116,777,000
Deferred Expense (Benefit), Domestic	38,781,000	66,287,000	(56,325,000)
Domestic, Total	99,201,000	145,430,000	60,452,000
Current Expense, Foreign	22,011,000	10,584,000	9,140,000
Deferred Expense (Benefit), Foreign	2,338,000	(2,275,000)	3,558,000
Foreign, Total	24,349,000	8,309,000	12,698,000
Current Expense, Total	82,431,000	89,727,000	125,917,000
Deferred Expense (Benefit), Total	41,119,000	64,012,000	(52,767,000)
Total expense (benefit)	123,550,000	153,739,000	73,150,000
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic	469,000,000	574,000,000	343,000,000
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign	$ 49,000,000	$ 29,000,000	$ 39,000,000

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Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Abstract]

Carrying Amounts And Estimated Fair Values Of Financial Instruments

The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments as of December 31, 2011 and 2010:

	2011				2010
(Dollars in thousands)	Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities	$	11,312,037	$	11,330,910	$	11,209,154	$	11,215,317
Equity securities available for sale	443,439		443,439		561,053		561,053
Arbitrage trading account	397,312		397,312		359,192		359,192
Loans receivable	263,187		245,169		353,583		312,515
Cash and cash equivalents	911,742		911,742		642,952		642,952
Trading accounts receivable from brokers and clearing organizations	318,240		318,240		339,235		339,235
Due from broker	10,875		10,875		—		—
Liabilities:
Trading account securities sold but not yet purchased	62,514		62,514		53,494		53,494
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997		258,400		242,784		249,900
Senior notes and other debt	1,500,503		1,587,473		1,500,419		1,570,057

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Industry Segments (Financial Information of Company Operating Segments) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Sep. 30, 2010	Jun. 30, 2010	Mar. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010		Dec. 31, 2009
Earned Premiums									$ 4,160,867		$ 3,835,582		$ 3,805,849
Investment Income									526,351		530,525		379,008
Other Revenues									468,766		357,962		246,321
Total revenues	1,370,953	1,279,731	1,270,949	1,234,351	1,231,342	1,176,112	1,163,068	1,153,547	5,155,984		4,724,069		4,431,178
Pre-Tax Income (Loss)									518,283		603,305		382,230
Net Income (Loss)	117,926	77,308	83,082	116,487	126,851	93,619	110,207	118,610	394,803		449,287		309,057
Specialty Segment [Member]
Earned Premiums									1,442,748		1,288,373		1,354,355
Investment Income									175,289		180,063		125,351
Other Revenues									2,704		3,130		3,560
Total revenues									1,620,741		1,471,566		1,483,266
Pre-Tax Income (Loss)									292,759		296,645		220,906
Net Income (Loss)									211,871		214,769		167,732
Regional Segment [Member]
Earned Premiums									1,065,975		1,066,922		1,116,871
Investment Income									75,404		82,411		57,530
Other Revenues									4,112		3,114		2,725
Total revenues									1,145,491		1,152,447		1,177,126
Pre-Tax Income (Loss)									32,382		117,353		106,078
Net Income (Loss)									30,331		86,325		80,031
Alternative Markets Segment [Member]
Earned Premiums									612,558		608,191		597,932
Investment Income									121,360		123,309		83,719
Other Revenues									86,031		79,173		87,032
Total revenues									819,949		810,673		768,683
Pre-Tax Income (Loss)									146,030		178,607		162,875
Net Income (Loss)									109,859		131,126		121,993
Reinsurance Segment [Member]
Earned Premiums									426,008		419,356		411,511
Investment Income									91,871		103,079		75,505
Other Revenues									0		0		0
Total revenues									517,879		522,435		487,016
Pre-Tax Income (Loss)									83,251		129,922		86,358
Net Income (Loss)									65,422		97,015		70,675
International Segment [Member]
Earned Premiums									613,578		452,740		325,180
Investment Income									42,882		32,794		26,767
Other Revenues									0		0		0
Total revenues									656,460		485,534		351,947
Pre-Tax Income (Loss)									40,084		21,174		22,719
Net Income (Loss)									26,055		14,838		14,676
Corporate, Other and Eliminations Segment [Member]
Earned Premiums									0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Investment Income									19,545	[1]	8,869	[1]	10,136	[1]
Other Revenues									250,438	[1]	215,964	[1]	191,412	[1]
Total revenues									269,983	[1]	224,833	[1]	201,548	[1]
Pre-Tax Income (Loss)									(201,704)	[1]	(196,977)	[1]	(178,298)	[1]
Net Income (Loss)									(130,382)	[1]	(131,660)	[1]	(121,176)	[1]
Net Investment Gains Segment [Member]
Earned Premiums									0		0		0
Investment Income									0		0		0
Other Revenues									125,481		56,581		(38,408)
Total revenues									125,481		56,581		(38,408)
Pre-Tax Income (Loss)									125,481		56,581		(38,408)
Net Income (Loss)									$ 81,647		$ 36,874		$ (24,874)

[1] Corporate, other and eliminations represent corporate revenues and expenses, net investment gains and losses and other items that are not allocated to business segments.

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Realized and Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) (Change in Unrealized Gains (Losses) of Available For Sales Securities) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Total change in unrealized gains (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	$ 147,998,000	$ 176,588,000	$ 557,444,000
Income tax expense	(52,381,000)	(61,227,000)	(195,813,000)
Noncontrolling interests	55,000	(8,000)	(21,000)
Total change in unrealized gains and losses	95,672,000	115,353,000	361,610,000
Change in valuation allowance for loans receivable	0	6,082,000	12,418,000
Fixed Maturities Securites [Member]
Total change in unrealized gains (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	209,467,000	102,488,000	405,950,000
Less Non-Credit Portion of OTTI Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Total change in unrealized gains (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	(3,604,000)	1,362,000	(5,425,000)
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member]
Total change in unrealized gains (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	(55,772,000)	68,178,000	143,684,000
Investment funds [Member]
Total change in unrealized gains (losses) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests	$ (2,093,000)	$ 4,560,000	$ 13,235,000

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Reinsurance Reinsurance (Schedule Of Ceded Credit Risk by Reinsurer) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	$ 848,609
Residual market pools	367,070
Ceded credit risk, total amount	1,215,679
Munich Re [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	163,420
Swiss Re [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	72,690
Transatlantic Re [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	64,619
Partner Re [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	60,769
Berkshire Hathaway [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	56,042
Axis Capital [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	54,121
Lloyds of London [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	52,859
Ace Group [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	43,463
Hannover Re Group [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	33,262
Arch Capital Group [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	22,984
Other Reinsurers Less Than $20,000 [Member]
Ceded Credit Risk [Line Items]
Ceded credit risk, claims receivable	$ 224,380

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Fair Value Measurements (Assets and Liabilities Measured At Fair Value, On a Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Arbitrage trading account	$ 318,240	$ 339,235
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	12,037,679	12,013,404
Securities sold but not yet purchased	62,514	53,494
Level 1 [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	526,939	367,041
Securities sold but not yet purchased	62,493	51,672
Level 2 [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	11,428,199	11,464,108
Securities sold but not yet purchased	0	1,822
Level 3 [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	82,541	182,255
Securities sold but not yet purchased	21	0
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	11,196,928	11,093,159
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | U.S. Government And Government Agency [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	976,493	1,347,875
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | State and Municipal [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	5,323,070	5,461,446
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	1,584,587	1,411,846
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Corporate [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	2,424,424	2,119,922
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Foreign [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	888,354	752,070
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	0	0
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | U.S. Government And Government Agency [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	0	0
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | State and Municipal [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	0	0
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	0	0
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Corporate [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	0	0
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Foreign [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	0	0
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	11,129,100	11,005,096
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | U.S. Government And Government Agency [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	976,493	1,347,875
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | State and Municipal [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	5,323,070	5,461,446
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	1,584,587	1,411,846
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Corporate [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	2,356,596	2,031,859
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Foreign [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	888,354	752,070
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	67,828	88,063
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | U.S. Government And Government Agency [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	0	0
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | State and Municipal [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	0	0
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	0	0
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Corporate [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	67,828	88,063
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Foreign [Member]
Fixed maturites securities available for sale	0	0
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	443,439	561,053
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member] | Common Stocks [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	319,982	316,056
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member] | Preferred Stocks [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	123,457	244,997
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	318,423	204,749
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Common Stocks [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	318,423	204,749
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member] | Level 1 [Member] | Preferred Stocks [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	0	0
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	111,154	265,299
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Common Stocks [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	0	109,748
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member] | Level 2 [Member] | Preferred Stocks [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	111,154	155,551
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	13,862	91,005
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Common Stocks [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	1,559	1,559
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member] | Level 3 [Member] | Preferred Stocks [Member]
Total equity securities available for sale	12,303	89,446
Arbitrage Trading Account [Member]
Arbitrage trading account	397,312	359,192
Arbitrage Trading Account [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Arbitrage trading account	208,516	162,292
Arbitrage Trading Account [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Arbitrage trading account	187,945	193,713
Arbitrage Trading Account [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Arbitrage trading account	$ 851	$ 3,187

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Senior Notes And Other Debt (Schedule of Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Value	$ 1,510,829,000
Total debt, carrying value	1,500,503,000		1,500,419,000
Senior Notes due February 15, 2013 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Value	200,000,000
Carrying Value	199,627,000		199,295,000
Rate	5.875%
Senior Notes due May 15, 2015 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Value	200,000,000
Carrying Value	199,373,000		199,187,000
Rate	5.60%
Senior Notes due August 15, 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Value	150,000,000
Carrying Value	148,914,000		148,772,000
Rate	6.15%
Senior Notes due September 15, 2019 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Value	300,000,000
Carrying Value	298,038,000		297,784,000
Rate	7.375%
Senior Notes due September 15, 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Value	300,000,000
Carrying Value	297,065,000		296,729,000
Rate	5.375%
Senior Notes due January 1, 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Value	76,503,000
Carrying Value	75,924,000		75,890,000
Rate	8.70%
Senior Notes due February 15, 2037 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Value	250,000,000
Carrying Value	247,236,000		247,126,000
Rate	6.25%
Subsidiary Debt, Various due dates, 2012 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying Value	4,000,000	[1]
Subsidiary Debt, Various due dates, 2013 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying Value	1,000,000	[1]
Subsidiary Debt, Various due dates, 2014 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying Value	26,000,000	[1]
Subsidiary Debt, Various due dates, Thereafter [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Carrying Value	3,000,000	[1]
Subsidiary Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face Value	34,326,000	[1]
Carrying Value	$ 34,326,000	[1]	$ 35,636,000	[1]

[1] Subsidiary debt is due as follows: $4 million in 2012, $1 million in 2013, $26 million in 2014 and $3 million thereafter.

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Securities in an Unrealized Loss Position (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011
Preferred Stocks [Member]
Number of Securites	6
Aggregate fair value	$ 69
Gross unrealized loss	15
Number of investment-grade, available for sale equity securities, continuous unrealized loss position	4
Number of available for sale equity securities non investment grade continuous unrealized loss position aggregate loss	2
Non-investment grade aggregate fair value	9
Non-investment grade gross unrealized loss	5
Number of available for sale equity securities, non investment grade, continuous unrealized loss position aggregate loss, demonstrating improved fundamentals	1
Common Stocks [Member]
Number of Securites	4
Aggregate fair value	47
Gross unrealized loss	$ 3

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Net Investment Income (Net Investment Income) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Gross investment income	$ 529,820	$ 534,085	$ 382,596
Investment expense	(3,469)	(3,560)	(3,588)
Net investment income	526,351	530,525	379,008
Fixed maturity securities, including cash and cash equivalents and loans receivable [Member]
Gross investment income	483,905	501,750	495,140
Equity Securities available for sale [Member]
Gross investment income	12,416	11,661	20,295
Investment funds [Member]
Gross investment income	9,452	(6,481)	(163,862)
Arbitrage trading account [Member]
Gross investment income	16,576	27,155	31,023
Real Estate [Domain]
Gross investment income	$ 7,471	$ 0	$ 0

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Dividends From Subsidiaries And Statutory Financial Information (Unaudited)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Insurance [Abstract]

Dividends From Subsidiaries And Statutory Financial Information (Unaudited)

Dividends from Subsidiaries and Statutory Financial Information (Unaudited)

The Company’s insurance subsidiaries are restricted by law as to the amount of dividends they may pay without the approval of regulatory authorities. During 2012, the maximum amount of dividends which can be paid without such approval is approximately $417 million. Combined net income and policyholders’ surplus of the Company’s consolidated insurance subsidiaries, as determined in accordance with statutory accounting practices, are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Net income	$	417,441	$	574,181	$	407,449
Policyholders’ surplus	$	4,107,745	$	4,154,654	$	3,859,086

The significant variances between statutory accounting practices and GAAP are that for statutory purposes bonds are carried at amortized cost, acquisition costs are charged to income as incurred, deferred Federal income taxes are subject to limitations, excess and assumed workers’ compensation reserves are discounted at different discount rates and certain assets designated as “non-admitted assets” are charged against surplus.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) has risk-based capital (“RBC”) requirements that require insurance companies to calculate and report information under a risk-based formula which measures statutory capital and surplus needs based on a regulatory definition of risk in a company’s mix of products and its balance sheet. As of December 31, 2011, all of the Company’s insurance subsidiaries had an RBC amount above the authorized control level RBC, as defined by the NAIC. The Company has guaranteed that the RBC levels of certain subsidiaries will remain above their authorized control levels.

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Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Abstract]

Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair value, On A Recurring Basis

The following tables present the assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 by level:

(Dollars in thousands)	Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
December 31, 2011
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	$	976,493	$	—	$	976,493	$	—
State and municipal	5,323,070		—		5,323,070		—
Mortgage-backed securities	1,584,587		—		1,584,587		—
Corporate	2,424,424		—		2,356,596		67,828
Foreign	888,354		—		888,354		—
Total fixed maturity securities available for sale	11,196,928		—		11,129,100		67,828
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	319,982		318,423		—		1,559
Preferred stocks	123,457		—		111,154		12,303
Total equity securities available for sale	443,439		318,423		111,154		13,862
Arbitrage trading account	397,312		208,516		187,945		851
Total	$	12,037,679	$	526,939	$	11,428,199	$	82,541
Liabilities:
Securities sold but not yet purchased	$	62,514	$	62,493	$	—	$	21
December 31, 2010
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	$	1,347,875	$	—	$	1,347,875	$	—
State and municipal	5,461,446		—		5,461,446		—
Mortgage-backed securities	1,411,846		—		1,411,846		—
Corporate	2,119,922		—		2,031,859		88,063
Foreign	752,070		—		752,070		—
Total fixed maturity securities available for sale	11,093,159		—		11,005,096		88,063
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	316,056		204,749		109,748		1,559
Preferred stocks	244,997		—		155,551		89,446
Total equity securities available for sale	561,053		204,749		265,299		91,005
Arbitrage trading account	359,192		162,292		193,713		3,187
Total	$	12,013,404	$	367,041	$	11,464,108	$	182,255
Liabilities:
Securities sold but not yet purchased	$	53,494	$	51,672	$	1,822	$	—

Summarize Changes In Level 3 Assets

The following tables summarize changes in Level 3 assets and liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010:

	Gains (Losses) Included in:
(Dollars in thousands)	Beginning Balance		Earnings			Other Comprehensive Income				Purchases		Sales			Paydowns/Maturities			In		Out			Ending Balance
Year ended December 31, 2011
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
Corporate	$	88,063	$	(454	)	$	(870	)		$	15,271	$	(11,864	)	$	(22,318	)	$	—	$	—		$	67,828
Total	88,063		(454		)	(870		)		15,271		(11,864		)	(22,318		)	—		—			67,828
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	1,559		—			—				—		—			—			—		—			1,559
Preferred stocks	89,446		28,947			(30,865		)		—		(75,225		)	—			—		—			12,303
Total	91,005		28,947			(30,865		)		—		(75,225		)	—			—		—			13,862
Arbitrage trading account	3,187		572			—			—	269		(3,266		)	—			89		—			851
Total	$	182,255	$	29,065		$	(31,735	)		$	15,540	$	(90,355	)	$	(22,318	)	$	89	$	—		$	82,541
Liabilities:
Securities sold but not yet purchased	—		$	40		—				$	67	$	(86	)	—			—		—			$	21
Year ended December 31, 2010
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
Mortgage-backed securities	$	25,900	$	—		$	—			$	—	$	—		$	—		$	—	$	(25,900	)	$	—
Corporate	90,160		(850		)	1,558				19,632		(5,324		)	(17,113		)	—		—			88,063
Total	116,060		(850		)	1,558				19,632		(5,324		)	(17,113		)	—		(25,900		)	88,063
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	1,559		—			—				—		—			—			—		—			1,559
Preferred stocks	54,713		23,535			31,633				19,542		(39,977		)	—			—		—			89,446
Total	56,272		23,535			31,633				19,542		(39,977		)	—			—		—			91,005
Arbitrage trading account	353		(353		)	—				3,187		—			—			—		—			3,187
Total	$	172,685	$	22,332		$	33,191			$	42,361	$	(45,301	)	$	(17,113	)	$	—	$	(25,900	)	$	182,255

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Acquisitions (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Acquisitions [Abstract]

Summary of Estimated Fair Value of Net Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Business Acquisitions

The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of net assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011
Fixed maturity securities	$	3,213
Real Estate	256,209
Cash and cash equivalents	12,172
Goodwill	251
Other assets	6,566
Total assets acquired	278,411
Other liabilities assumed	4,247
Net assets acquired	$	274,164

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Realized and Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) (Realized and Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010		Dec. 31, 2009
Realized And Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)
Fixed maturity securities: Gains	$ 37,595		$ 38,204		$ 50,500
Fixed maturity securities: Losses	(5,499)		(8,990)		(3,632)
Equity securities available for sale	90,023		34,477		52,680
Investment funds	3,762		1,871		4,905
Provision for other-than-temporary impairments	(400)	[1]	(9,205)	[1]	(151,727)	[1]
Portion of impairments reclassified to other comprehensive income	0		0		8,866
Other gains (losses)	0		224		0
Net investment gains (losses)	125,481		56,581		(38,408)
Income tax (expense) benefit	(43,834)		(19,707)		13,534
Realized investment gains (losses), net of tax	$ 81,647		$ 36,874		$ (24,874)

[1] Includes change in valuation allowance for loans receivable of $0, $6,082,000 and $12,418,000 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

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Commitments, Litigation And Contingent Liabilities (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Significant Purchase Commitment Remaining Maximum Amount Committed	$ 328

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Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract]

Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information

Schedule III

W. R. Berkley Corporation and Subsidiaries

Supplementary Insurance Information

December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009

(Amounts in thousands)

	Deferrred Policy Acquisition Cost		Reserve for Losses and Loss Expenses		Unearned Premiums		Premiums Earned		Net Investment Income		Loss and Loss Expenses		Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost		Other Operating Cost and Expenses		Net Premiums Written
December 31, 2011
Specialty	$	147,245	$	3,306,535	$	822,186	$	1,442,748	$	175,289	$	857,223	$	312,230	$	158,529	$	1,554,516
Regional	139,519		1,370,748		530,171		1,065,975		75,404		725,195		302,149		85,764		1,064,507
Alternative markets	34,928		2,506,424		287,246		612,558		121,360		442,721		99,938		131,260		619,097
Reinsurance	58,143		1,523,210		207,956		426,008		91,871		262,286		130,354		41,989		430,329
International	68,960		630,217		342,016		613,578		42,882		370,940		189,729		55,707		688,919
Corporate and adjustments	—		—		—		—		19,545		—		—		113,680		—
Total	$	448,795	$	9,337,134	$	2,189,575	$	4,160,867	$	526,351	$	2,658,365	$	1,034,400	$	586,929	$	4,357,368
December 31, 2010
Specialty	$	122,440	$	3,186,769	$	693,358	$	1,288,373	$	180,063	$	750,831	$	263,279	$	160,811	$	1,311,831
Regional	139,289		1,378,936		530,672		1,066,922		82,411		647,986		293,690		93,418		1,044,347
Alternative markets	33,471		2,355,007		261,858		608,191		123,309		410,873		92,364		128,829		582,045
Reinsurance	56,834		1,591,397		203,430		419,356		103,079		220,230		129,508		42,775		401,239
International	53,908		504,440		264,403		452,740		32,794		279,947		138,376		46,037		511,464
Corporate and adjustments	—		—		—		—		8,869		—		—		314,841		—
Total	$	405,942	$	9,016,549	$	1,953,721	$	3,835,582	$	530,525	$	2,309,867	$	917,217	$	786,711	$	3,850,926
December 31, 2009
Specialty	$	116,234	$	3,210,479	$	662,972	$	1,354,355	$	125,351	$	838,894	$	297,388	$	126,078	$	1,260,451
Regional	142,249		1,440,158		554,426		1,116,871		57,530		686,093		289,973		94,982		1,081,100
Alternative markets	34,443		2,221,488		287,031		597,932		83,719		378,961		89,432		137,415		589,637
Reinsurance	60,219		1,787,006		225,209		411,511		75,505		238,075		127,446		35,137		423,425
International	38,215		412,540		198,790		325,180		26,767		194,684		98,915		35,629		375,482
Corporate and adjustments	—		—		—		—		10,136		—		—		291,857		—
Total	$	391,360	$	9,071,671	$	1,928,428	$	3,805,849	$	379,008	$	2,336,707	$	903,154	$	721,098	$	3,730,095

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

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Reinsurance (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]

Reinsurance Financial Information

The following is a summary of reinsurance financial information:

	Year Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Written premiums:
Direct	$	4,370,092		$	3,788,251		$	3,599,836
Assumed	707,221			627,826			653,603
Ceded	(719,945		)	(565,151		)	(523,344		)
Total net written premiums	$	4,357,368		$	3,850,926		$	3,730,095
Earned premiums:
Direct	$	4,164,277		$	3,744,150		$	3,690,493
Assumed	669,593			652,485			617,143
Ceded	(673,003		)	(561,053		)	(501,787		)
Total net earned premiums	$	4,160,867		$	3,835,582		$	3,805,849
Ceded losses incurred	$	458,249		$	379,153		$	252,299

Schedule of Ceded Credit Risk by Reinsurer

The following table presents the amounts due from reinsurers as of December 31, 2011 (dollars in thousands):

Reinsurer	Amount
Munich Re	$	163,420
Swiss Re	72,690
Transatlantic Re	64,619
Partner Re	60,769
Berkshire Hathaway	56,042
Axis Capital	54,121
Lloyd’s of London	52,859
Ace Group	43,463
Hannover Re Group	33,262
Arch Capital Group	22,984
Other reinsurers less then $20,000	224,380
Subtotal	848,609
Residual market pools	367,070
Total	$	1,215,679

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Investments in Fixed Maturity Securities (The Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Fixed Maturity Securities) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Investments in Fixed Maturity Securities [Abstract]
Amortized Cost, Due in one year or less	$ 731,638
Amortized Cost, Due after one year through five years	3,057,341
Amortized Cost, Due after five years through ten years	2,646,432
Amortized Cost, Due after ten years	2,761,176
Amortized Cost, Mortgage-backed securities	1,557,569
Total investment in fixed maturity securities, Amortized Cost	10,754,156	10,853,193
Fair Value, Due in one year or less	742,334
Fair Value, Due after one year through five years	3,202,556
Fair Value, Due after five years through ten years	2,864,395
Fair Value, Due after ten years	2,895,669
Fair Value, Mortgage-backed securities	1,625,956
Total investments in fixed maturity securities, Fair Value	$ 11,330,910	$ 11,215,317

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Industry Segments (Net Premiums Earned By Major Line of Business) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Net premiums earned	$ 4,160,867	$ 3,835,582	$ 3,805,849
Specialty Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	1,442,748	1,288,373	1,354,355
Regional Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	1,065,975	1,066,922	1,116,871
Alternative Markets Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	612,558	608,191	597,932
Reinsurance Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	426,008	419,356	411,511
International Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	613,578	452,740	325,180
Casualty [Member] | Reinsurance Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	307,051	307,474	323,479
Property [Member] | Specialty Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	237,762	212,164	199,746
Property [Member] | Reinsurance Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	118,957	111,882	88,032
Property [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	151,177	80,105	26,119
Professional Liability [Member] | Specialty Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	229,281	200,219	173,201
Professional Liability [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	90,871	88,997	84,101
Commercial Multiple Peril [Member] | Regional Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	394,168	389,997	405,552
Commercial Automobile [Member] | Specialty Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	141,800	129,505	189,501
Commercial Automobile [Member] | Regional Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	289,098	301,290	322,445
Products Liability [Member] | Specialty Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	96,794	112,072	131,713
Workers' Compensation [Member] | Regional Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	219,639	214,857	229,066
Workers' Compensation [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	73,823	57,802	46,698
Primary Workers Compensation [Member] | Alternative Markets Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	271,173	260,508	242,259
Excess Workers Compensation [Member] | Alternative Markets Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	164,173	216,647	252,196
Reinsurance [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	104,851	74,047	56,454
Accident and Health [Member] | Alternative Markets Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	105,128	57,915	36,414
Accident and Health [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	72,723	69,875	64,969
Other Liability [Member] | Specialty Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	454,582	384,799	449,120
Other Liability [Member] | Alternative Markets Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	28,960	24,726	23,412
Other Liability [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	52,189	38,344	25,736
Other [Member] | Specialty Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	282,529	249,614	211,074
Other [Member] | Regional Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	163,070	160,778	159,808
Other [Member] | Alternative Markets Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	43,124	48,395	43,651
Other [Member] | International Segment [Member]
Net premiums earned	$ 67,944	$ 43,570	$ 21,103

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Supplemental Financial Statement Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Supplemental Financial Statement Data [Abstract]

Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component

Other operating costs and expenses consist of the following:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010		2009
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	$	1,034,400		$	917,217	$	903,154
Other underwriting expenses	398,532			397,266		345,309
Service company expenses	75,231			72,372		78,331
Net foreign currency (gains) losses	(1,884		)	2,126		4,213
Other costs and expenses	115,050			107,381		109,831
Total	$	1,621,329		$	1,496,362	$	1,440,838

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Loans Receivable (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Loans Receivable, Net [Abstract]

Schedule of Loans Receivable

Loans receivable are as follows (dollars in thousands):

As of December 31,	2011		2010
Total loans receivable, at cost	$	263,187	$	353,583
Valuation allowance:
Specific	$	19,041	$	18,865
General	764		810
Total	$	19,805	$	19,675
Impaired loans:
With a specific valuation allowance, at cost	$	29,702	$	31,855
Without a valuation allowance, at cost	30,357		30,685
Unpaid principal balance	93,922		96,240
For the Year Ended December 31,	2011		2010
Increase in valuation allowance	$	130	$	6,090
Loans receivable charged off	759		140

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Acquisitions

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Acquisitions [Abstract]

Acquisitions

Acquisitions

In 2011, the Company acquired a business that owned an office building in London for $251 million in cash and an inactive insurance company for $23 million in cash. Approximately $2 million of the aggregate purchase price for these acquisitions was allocated to intangible assets.

The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of net assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011
Fixed maturity securities	$	3,213
Real Estate	256,209
Cash and cash equivalents	12,172
Goodwill	251
Other assets	6,566
Total assets acquired	278,411
Other liabilities assumed	4,247
Net assets acquired	$	274,164

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Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	$ 448,795	$ 405,942	$ 391,360
Reserve for Losses and Loss Expenses	9,337,134	9,016,549	9,071,671
Unearned Premiums	2,189,575	1,953,721	1,928,428
Premiums Earned	4,160,867	3,835,582	3,805,849
Net Investment Income	526,351	530,525	379,008
Loss and Loss Expenses	2,658,365	2,309,867	2,336,707
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	1,034,400	917,217	903,154
Other Operating Cost and Expenses	586,929	786,711	721,098
Net Premiums Written	4,357,368	3,850,926	3,730,095
Specialty Segment [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	147,245	122,440	116,234
Reserve for Losses and Loss Expenses	3,306,535	3,186,769	3,210,479
Unearned Premiums	822,186	693,358	662,972
Premiums Earned	1,442,748	1,288,373	1,354,355
Net Investment Income	175,289	180,063	125,351
Loss and Loss Expenses	857,223	750,831	838,894
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	312,230	263,279	297,388
Other Operating Cost and Expenses	158,529	160,811	126,078
Net Premiums Written	1,554,516	1,311,831	1,260,451
Regional Segment [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	139,519	139,289	142,249
Reserve for Losses and Loss Expenses	1,370,748	1,378,936	1,440,158
Unearned Premiums	530,171	530,672	554,426
Premiums Earned	1,065,975	1,066,922	1,116,871
Net Investment Income	75,404	82,411	57,530
Loss and Loss Expenses	725,195	647,986	686,093
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	302,149	293,690	289,973
Other Operating Cost and Expenses	85,764	93,418	94,982
Net Premiums Written	1,064,507	1,044,347	1,081,100
Alternative Markets Segment [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	34,928	33,471	34,443
Reserve for Losses and Loss Expenses	2,506,424	2,355,007	2,221,488
Unearned Premiums	287,246	261,858	287,031
Premiums Earned	612,558	608,191	597,932
Net Investment Income	121,360	123,309	83,719
Loss and Loss Expenses	442,721	410,873	378,961
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	99,938	92,364	89,432
Other Operating Cost and Expenses	131,260	128,829	137,415
Net Premiums Written	619,097	582,045	589,637
Reinsurance Segment [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	58,143	56,834	60,219
Reserve for Losses and Loss Expenses	1,523,210	1,591,397	1,787,006
Unearned Premiums	207,956	203,430	225,209
Premiums Earned	426,008	419,356	411,511
Net Investment Income	91,871	103,079	75,505
Loss and Loss Expenses	262,286	220,230	238,075
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	130,354	129,508	127,446
Other Operating Cost and Expenses	41,989	42,775	35,137
Net Premiums Written	430,329	401,239	423,425
International Segment [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	68,960	53,908	38,215
Reserve for Losses and Loss Expenses	630,217	504,440	412,540
Unearned Premiums	342,016	264,403	198,790
Premiums Earned	613,578	452,740	325,180
Net Investment Income	42,882	32,794	26,767
Loss and Loss Expenses	370,940	279,947	194,684
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	189,729	138,376	98,915
Other Operating Cost and Expenses	55,707	46,037	35,629
Net Premiums Written	688,919	511,464	375,482
Corporate, Other and Eliminations Segment [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	0	0	0
Reserve for Losses and Loss Expenses	0	0	0
Unearned Premiums	0	0	0
Premiums Earned	0	0	0
Net Investment Income	19,545	8,869	10,136
Loss and Loss Expenses	0	0	0
Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Cost	0	0	0
Other Operating Cost and Expenses	113,680	314,841	291,857
Net Premiums Written	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

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Industry Segments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Industry Segments Disclosure [Abstract]

Financial Information Of Company Operating Segments

Summary financial information about the Company’s operating segments is presented in the following table. Income (loss) before income taxes by segment consists of revenues less expenses related to the respective segment’s operations, including allocated investment income. Identifiable assets by segment are those assets used in or allocated to the operation of each segment.

	Revenues
(Dollars in thousands)	Earned Premiums		Investment Income		Other			Total			Pre-Tax Income (Loss)			Net Income (Loss)
December 31, 2011:
Specialty	$	1,442,748	$	175,289	$	2,704		$	1,620,741		$	292,759		$	211,871
Regional	1,065,975		75,404		4,112			1,145,491			32,382			30,331
Alternative markets	612,558		121,360		86,031			819,949			146,030			109,859
Reinsurance	426,008		91,871		—			517,879			83,251			65,422
International	613,578		42,882		—			656,460			40,084			26,055
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	—		19,545		250,438			269,983			(201,704		)	(130,382		)
Net investment gains	—		—		125,481			125,481			125,481			81,647
Consolidated	$	4,160,867	$	526,351	$	468,766		$	5,155,984		$	518,283		$	394,803
December 31, 2010:
Specialty	$	1,288,373	$	180,063	$	3,130		$	1,471,566		$	296,645		$	214,769
Regional	1,066,922		82,411		3,114			1,152,447			117,353			86,325
Alternative markets	608,191		123,309		79,173			810,673			178,607			131,126
Reinsurance	419,356		103,079		—			522,435			129,922			97,015
International	452,740		32,794		—			485,534			21,174			14,838
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	—		8,869		215,964			224,833			(196,977		)	(131,660		)
Net investment gains	—		—		56,581			56,581			56,581			36,874
Consolidated	$	3,835,582	$	530,525	$	357,962		$	4,724,069		$	603,305		$	449,287
December 31, 2009:
Specialty	$	1,354,355	$	125,351	$	3,560		$	1,483,266		$	220,906		$	167,732
Regional	1,116,871		57,530		2,725			1,177,126			106,078			80,031
Alternative markets	597,932		83,719		87,032			768,683			162,875			121,993
Reinsurance	411,511		75,505		—			487,016			86,358			70,675
International	325,180		26,767		—			351,947			22,719			14,676
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	—		10,136		191,412			201,548			(178,298		)	(121,176		)
Net investment losses	—		—		(38,408		)	(38,408		)	(38,408		)	(24,874		)
Consolidated	$	3,805,849	$	379,008	$	246,321		$	4,431,178		$	382,230		$	309,057

Identifiable Assets By Segment

Identifiable assets by segment were as follows (dollars in thousands):

December 31,	2011		2010
Specialty	$	6,180,996	$	5,854,256
Regional	2,534,875		2,616,238
Alternative markets	4,050,949		3,801,597
Reinsurance	2,734,277		2,972,988
International	1,576,707		1,391,604
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	1,409,927		891,864
Consolidated	$	18,487,731	$	17,528,547

_______________________________________

(1) Corporate, other and eliminations represent corporate revenues and expenses, net investment gains and losses and other items that are not allocated to business segments.

Net Premiums Earned By Major Line Of Business

Net premiums earned by major line of business are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Specialty
Other liability	$	454,582	$	384,799	$	449,120
Property	237,762		212,164		199,746
Professional liability	229,281		200,219		173,201
Commercial automobile	141,800		129,505		189,501
Products liability	96,794		112,072		131,713
Other	282,529		249,614		211,074
Total specialty	1,442,748		1,288,373		1,354,355
Regional
Commercial multi peril	394,168		389,997		405,552
Commercial automobile	289,098		301,290		322,445
Workers’ compensation	219,639		214,857		229,066
Other	163,070		160,778		159,808
Total regional	1,065,975		1,066,922		1,116,871
Alternative Markets
Primary workers’ compensation	271,173		260,508		242,259
Excess workers’ compensation	164,173		216,647		252,196
Accident and health	105,128		57,915		36,414
Other liability	28,960		24,726		23,412
Other	43,124		48,395		43,651
Total alternative markets	612,558		608,191		597,932
Reinsurance
Casualty	307,051		307,474		323,479
Property	118,957		111,882		88,032
Total reinsurance	426,008		419,356		411,511
International
Professional liability	90,871		88,997		84,101
Property	151,177		80,105		26,119
Reinsurance	104,851		74,047		56,454
Automobile	72,723		69,875		64,969
Workers’ compensation	73,823		57,802		46,698
Other liability	52,189		38,344		25,736
Other	67,944		43,570		21,103
Total international	613,578		452,740		325,180
Total	$	4,160,867	$	3,835,582	$	3,805,849

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Investments In Fixed Maturity Securities (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Investments in Fixed Maturity Securities [Abstract]

Investments In Fixed Maturity Securities

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, investments in fixed maturity securities were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Carrying Value
December 31, 2011
Held to maturity:
State and municipal	$	74,354	$	12,546	$	—		$	86,900	$	74,354
Residential mortgage-backed securities	35,759		5,610		—			41,369		35,759
Corporate	4,996		717		—			5,713		4,996
Total held to maturity	115,109		18,873		—			133,982		115,109
Available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	906,924		69,920		(351		)	976,493		976,493
State and municipal	5,031,275		308,345		(16,550		)	5,323,070		5,323,070
Mortgage-backed securities:
Residential(1)	1,416,427		75,635		(15,894		)	1,476,168		1,476,168
Commercial	105,383		4,054		(1,018		)	108,419		108,419
Corporate	2,328,200		132,311		(36,087		)	2,424,424		2,424,424
Foreign	850,838		42,165		(4,649		)	888,354		888,354
Total available for sale	10,639,047		632,430		(74,549		)	11,196,928		11,196,928
Total investment in fixed maturity securities	$	10,754,156	$	651,303	$	(74,549	)	$	11,330,910	$	11,312,037

(Dollars in thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Carrying Value
December 31, 2010
Held to maturity:
State and municipal	$	71,998	$	3,440	$	(1,129	)	$	74,309	$	71,998
Residential mortgage-backed securities	39,002		3,667		—			42,669		39,002
Corporate	4,995		185		—			5,180		4,995
Total held to maturity	115,995		7,292		(1,129		)	122,158		115,995
Available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	1,289,669		58,658		(452		)	1,347,875		1,347,875
State and municipal	5,302,513		203,221		(44,288		)	5,461,446		5,461,446
Mortgage-backed securities:
Residential(1)	1,319,289		52,165		(13,278		)	1,358,176		1,358,176
Commercial	57,057		2,207		(5,594		)	53,670		53,670
Corporate	2,055,513		93,789		(29,379		)	2,119,923		2,119,923
Foreign	713,157		39,800		(888		)	752,069		752,069
Total available for sale	10,737,198		449,840		(93,879		)	11,093,159		11,093,159
Total investment in fixed maturity securities	$	10,853,193	$	457,132	$	(95,008	)	$	11,215,317	$	11,209,154

_______________________________________

(1) Gross unrealized losses for mortgage-backed securities include $7,668,000 and $4,064,000, as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, related to the non-credit portion of OTTI recognized in other comprehensive income.

The Amortized Cost And Fair Value of Fixed Maturity Securities

The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturity securities at December 31, 2011, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations:

(Dollars in thousands)	Amortized Cost		Fair Value
Due in one year or less	$	731,638	$	742,334
Due after one year through five years	3,057,341		3,202,556
Due after five years through ten years	2,646,432		2,864,395
Due after ten years	2,761,176		2,895,669
Mortgage-backed securities	1,557,569		1,625,956
Total	$	10,754,156	$	11,330,910

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Commitments, Litigation And Contingent Liabilities

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments, Litigation And Contingent Liabilities

Commitments, Litigation and Contingent Liabilities

The Company's subsidiaries are subject to disputes, including litigation and arbitration, arising in the ordinary course of their insurance and reinsurance businesses. The Company's estimates of the costs of settling such matters are reflected in its aggregate reserves for losses and loss expenses, and the Company does not believe that the ultimate outcome of such matters will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of operations. However, adverse outcomes are possible and could negatively impact the Company's financial condition and results of operations.

At December 31, 2011, the Company had commitments to invest up to $328 million in certain investment funds.

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Lease Obligations

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Leases [Abstract]

Lease Obligations

Lease Obligations

The Company and its subsidiaries use office space and equipment under leases expiring at various dates. These leases are considered operating leases for financial reporting purposes. Some of these leases have options to extend the length of the leases and contain clauses for cost of living, operating expense and real estate tax adjustments. The Company also has an investment in a commercial office building that has a long-term land lease. Future minimum lease payments, without provision for sublease income, are: $34,635,000 in 2012; $31,177,000 in 2013; $26,808,000 in 2014; $22,646,000 in 2015 and $173,015,000 thereafter. Rental expense was $33,003,000, $29,936,000 and $28,067,000 for 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

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Stock Incentive Plan (Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity) (Details) (Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member])	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward]
RSU's granted and unvested at beginning of period	4,945,375	3,713,025	4,971,231
Granted	107,500	2,310,650	119,500
Vested	(576,050)	(916,750)	(1,287,943)
Cancelled	(105,850)	(161,550)	(89,763)
RSU's granted and unvested at end of period	4,370,975	4,945,375	3,713,025
Vesting period	5 years
Deferred	2,641,177

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Common Stockholders' Equity (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Equity [Abstract]

Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Used In the Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share

The weighted average number of shares used in the computation of net income per share was as follows:

(Amounts in thousands)	2011	2010	2009
Basic	139,688	148,752	160,357
Diluted	145,672	155,081	166,574

Schedule of Changes in Shares of Common Stock Outstanding

Changes in shares of common stock outstanding, net of treasury shares, are presented below. Shares of common stock issued and outstanding do not include shares related to unissued restricted stock units and unexercised stock options.

(Amounts in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Balance, beginning of year	141,010		156,552		161,467
Shares issued	2,702		2,272		1,467
Shares repurchased	(6,192	)	(17,814	)	(6,382	)
Balance, end of year	137,520		141,010		156,552

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Investments In Equity Securities Available For Sale (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]

Investments In Equity Securities Available For Sale

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, investments in equity securities available for sale were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Carrying Value
December 31, 2011
Common stocks	$	209,210	$	113,660	$	(2,888	)	$	319,982	$	319,982
Preferred stocks	133,183		5,139		(14,865		)	123,457		123,457
Total	$	342,393	$	118,799	$	(17,753	)	$	443,439	$	443,439
December 31, 2010
Common stocks	$	188,949	$	128,096	$	(989	)	$	316,056	$	316,056
Preferred stocks	215,286		40,386		(10,675		)	244,997		244,997
Total	$	404,235	$	168,482	$	(11,664	)	$	561,053	$	561,053

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Stock Incentive Plan

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Stock Incentive Plan [Abstract]

Stock Incentive Plan

Stock Incentive Plan

The Company has not issued any stock options under its stock incentive plan since 2004. All outstanding options are vested and exercisable. The following table summarizes stock option information:

	2011			2010			2009
	Shares	Price(1)		Shares	Price(1)		Shares	Price(1)
Outstanding at beginning of year	3,503,384	$	10.42	5,700,552	$	9.53	6,566,377	$	9.06
Exercised	2,185,952	10.05		2,191,260	8.11		860,074	5.93
Cancelled	3,375	10.07		5,908	10.07		5,751	10.85
Outstanding at year end	1,314,057	$	11.04	3,503,384	$	10.42	5,700,552	$	9.53

_______________________________________

(1) Weighted average exercise price.

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2011:

	Options Outstanding and Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices	Number Outstanding	Weighted Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	Weighted Average Price
$0 to $10.00	412,078	0.60	$	10.07
$10.01 to $17.62	901,979	0.32	11.48
Total	1,314,057	0.41	$	11.04

Pursuant to the stock incentive plan, the Company may also issue restricted stock units (RSUs) to officers of the Company and its subsidiaries. The RSUs generally vest five years from the award date and are subject to other vesting and forfeiture provisions contained in the award agreement. The following table summarizes RSU information for the three years ended December 31, 2011:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
RSUs granted and unvested at beginning of period:	4,945,375		3,713,025		4,971,231
Granted	107,500		2,310,650		119,500
Vested	(576,050	)	(916,750	)	(1,287,943	)
Cancelled	(105,850	)	(161,550	)	(89,763	)
RSUs granted and unvested at end of period:	4,370,975		4,945,375		3,713,025

Upon vesting, shares of the Company’s common stock equal to the number of vested RSUs are issued or deferred to a later date, depending on the terms of the specific award agreement. As of December 31, 2011, 2,641,177 shares related to vested RSUs had been deferred.

The fair value of RSUs at the date of grant are recorded as unearned compensation, a component of stockholders’ equity, and expensed over the vesting period. Following is a summary of changes in unearned compensation for the three years ended December 31, 2011:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Unearned compensation at beginning of year	$	76,139		$	46,801		$	68,503
RSUs granted, net of cancellations	2,832			58,462			2,783
RSUs expensed	(27,566		)	(27,035		)	(24,988		)
RSUs forfeiture adjustment	5,910			(2,089		)	503
Unearned compensation at end of year	$	57,315		$	76,139		$	46,801

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Compensation Plans

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Compensation Plans [Abstract]

Compensation Plans

Compensation Plans

The Company and its subsidiaries have profit sharing plans in which substantially all employees participate. The plans provide for minimum annual contributions of 5% of eligible compensation; contributions above the minimum are discretionary and vary with each participating subsidiary’s profitability. Employees become eligible to participate in the profit sharing plans on the first day of the month following the first full three months in which they are employed. The plans provide that 40% of the contributions vest immediately and that the remaining 60% vest at varying percentages based upon years of service. The Company’s foreign subsidiaries provide pension benefits in accordance with local regulations. Profit sharing expense was $27 million, $29 million, and $25 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

The Company has a Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan (“LTIP”) that provides for incentive compensation to key executives based on the growth in the Company’s book value per share over a five year period. There are 193,600 units outstanding from the 2011 grant with a maximum value of $48.4 million, of which $5.6 million was earned by December 31, 2011. There are 158,500 units outstanding from the 2008 grant with a maximum value of $39.6 million, of which $17.3 million was earned over the four years ended December 31, 2011. The 2006 grant earned $30.7 million during the five years ended December 31, 2010, and fully paid in 2011.

The following table summarizes the LTIP expense for the three years ended December 31, 2011:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
2006 grant	$	—	$	5,119	$	3,816
2008 grant	4,597		5,070		3,747
2011 grant	5,644		—		—
Total	$	10,241	$	10,189	$	7,563

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

(A) Principles of consolidation and basis of presentation

The consolidated financial statements, which include the accounts of W. R. Berkley Corporation and its subsidiaries (the "Company"), have been prepared on the basis of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. Reclassifications have been made in the 2010 and 2009 financial statements to conform to the presentation of the 2011 financial statements. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the revenues and expenses reflected during the reporting period. The most significant items on our balance sheet that involve a greater degree of accounting estimates that are subject to change in the future are the valuation of investments, other than temporary impairments, loss and loss adjustment expense reserves and premium estimates. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

(B) Revenue recognition

Insurance premiums are recognized as written at the inception of the policy. Reinsurance premiums are estimated based upon information received from ceding companies, and subsequent differences from such estimates are recorded in the period they are determined. Insurance and reinsurance premiums are primarily earned on a pro rata basis over the policy term. Fees for services are earned over the period that the services are provided.

Audit premiums are recognized when they are reliably determinable. The change in accruals for earned but unbilled audit premiums increased net premiums written and premiums earned by $1 million in 2011, and decreased net premiums written and premiums earned by $7 million and $23 million in 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Revenues from wholly-owned investees are derived from services provided to the general aviation market, including fuel and line service, aircraft sales and maintenance, avionics and engineering services and parts fabrication. Revenue is recognized upon delivery of aircraft, delivery of fuel, shipment of parts and upon completion of services.

(C) Cash and cash equivalents

Cash equivalents consist of funds invested in money market accounts and investments with an effective maturity of three months or less when purchased.

(D) Investments

Fixed maturity securities classified as available for sale are carried at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of applicable income taxes, excluded from earnings and reported as a component of comprehensive income and a separate component of stockholders' equity. Fixed maturity securities that the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and reported at amortized cost. Investment income from fixed maturity securities is recognized based on the constant effective yield method. Premiums and discounts on mortgage-backed securities are adjusted for the effects of actual and anticipated prepayments on a retrospective basis.

Equity securities classified as available for sale are carried at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of applicable income taxes, excluded from earnings and reported as a component of comprehensive income and a separate component of stockholders' equity.

Equity securities that the Company purchased with the intent to sell in the near-term are classified as trading account securities and are reported at estimated fair value. Realized and unrealized gains and losses from trading activity are reported as net investment income and are recorded at the trade date. Short sales and short call options are presented as trading securities sold but not yet purchased. Unsettled trades and the net margin balances held by the clearing broker are presented as a trading account receivable from brokers and clearing organizations.

Investment funds are carried under the equity method of accounting. For certain investment funds, the Company's share of the earnings or losses is reported on a one-quarter lag in order to facilitate the timely completion of the Company's consolidated financial statements.

Loans receivable represent commercial real estate mortgage loans and bank loans and are carried at amortized cost. The Company monitors the performance of its loans receivable and establishes an allowance for loan losses for loans where the Company determines it is probable that the contractual terms will not be met, with a corresponding charge to earnings. For loans that are evaluated individually and deemed to be impaired, the Company establishes a specific allowance based on a discounted cash flow analysis and comparable cost and sales methodologies, if appropriate. Individual loans that are not considered impaired and smaller-balance homogeneous loans are evaluated collectively and a general allowance is established if it is considered probable that a loss has been incurred.

The accrual of interest on loans receivable is discontinued if the loan is 90 days past due based on the contractual terms of the loan unless the loan is adequately secured and in process of collection. In general, loans are placed on non-accrual status or charged off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful. Interest on these loans is accounted for on a cash basis until qualifying for return to accrual status. Loans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

Fair value is generally determined based on quoted market prices. For publicly traded securities for which quoted prices are unavailable, the Company determines fair value based on independent broker quotations and other observable market data. For securities traded only in private negotiations, the Company determines fair value based primarily on the cost of such securities, which is adjusted to reflect prices of recent placements of securities of the same issuer, financial data, projections and business developments of the issuer and other relevant information.

Realized gains or losses represent the difference between the cost of securities sold and the proceeds realized upon sale and are recorded at the trade date. The Company uses primarily the first-in, first-out method to determine the cost of securities sold.

The cost of securities is adjusted where appropriate to include a provision for a decline in value which is considered to be other than temporary. An other-than-temporary decline is considered to occur in investments where there has been a sustained reduction in fair value and where the Company does not expect to recover the cost basis of the investment prior to the time of sale or maturity. Since equity securities do not have a contractual cash flow or a maturity, the Company considers whether the price of an equity security is expected to recover within a reasonable period of time.

For fixed maturity securities that the Company intends to sell or, more likely than not, would be required to sell, a decline in value below amortized cost is considered to be an other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”). The amount of OTTI is equal to the difference between amortized cost and fair value at the balance sheet date. For fixed maturity securities that the Company does not intend to sell or believes that it is more likely than not it would not be required to sell, a decline in value below amortized cost is considered to be an OTTI if the Company does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of a security(i.e.,thepresent value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis of the security). The portion of the decline in value considered to be a credit loss (i.e., the difference between the present value of cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis of the security) is recognized in earnings. The portion of the decline in value not considered to be a credit loss (i.e., the difference in the present value of cash flows expected to be collected and the fair value of the security) is recognized in other comprehensive income.

Impairment assessments for structured securities, including mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities, collateralized debt obligations and corporate debt, are generally evaluated based on the performance of the underlying collateral under various economic and default scenarios that may involve subjective judgments and estimates by management. Modeling these securities involves various factors, such as projected default rates, the nature and realizable value of the collateral, if any, the ability of the issuer to make scheduled payments, historical performance and other relevant economic and performance factors. If an OTTI determination is made, a discounted cash flow analysis is used to ascertain the amount of the credit impairment.

Real estate held for investment purposes is initially recorded at the purchase price, which is generally fair value, and is subsequently reported at cost less accumulated depreciation. Real estate taxes, interest and other costs incurred during development and construction are capitalized. Buildings are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the building. Minimum rental income is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Income and expenses from real estate are reported as net investment income. The carrying value of real estate is reviewed for impairment and an impairment loss is recognized if the estimated undiscounted cash flows from the use and disposition of the property are less than the carrying value of the property.

(E) Per share data

The Company presents both basic and diluted net income per share (“EPS”) amounts. Basic EPS is calculated by dividing net income by weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS is based upon the weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the year and is calculated using the treasury stock method for stock incentive plans. Common equivalent shares are excluded from the computation in periods in which they have an anti-dilutive effect. Stock options for which the exercise price exceeds the average market price over the period have an anti-dilutive effect on EPS and, accordingly, are excluded from the calculation.

(F) Deferred policy acquisition costs

Acquisition costs incurred in writing insurance and reinsurance business (primarily commissions and premium taxes) are deferred and amortized ratably over the terms of the related contracts. Ceding commissions received on reinsurance contracts are netted against acquisition costs and are recognized ratably over the life of the contract. Deferred policy acquisition costs are presented net of unearned ceding commissions. Deferred policy acquisition costs are reviewed to determine if they are recoverable from future income and, if not, are charged to expense. The recoverability of deferred policy acquisition costs is evaluated separately by each of our operating companies for each of their major lines of business. Future investment income is taken into account in measuring the recoverability of deferred policy acquisition costs.

(G) Reserves for losses and loss expenses

Reserves for losses and loss expenses are an accumulation of amounts determined on the basis of (1) evaluation of claims for business written directly by the Company; (2) estimates received from other companies for reinsurance assumed by the Company; and (3) estimates for losses incurred but not reported (based on Company and industry experience). These estimates are periodically reviewed and, as experience develops and new information becomes known, the reserves are adjusted as necessary. Such adjustments are reflected in the statements of income in the period in which they are determined. The Company discounts its reserves for excess and assumed workers' compensation claims using a risk-free or statutory rate. (See Note 13 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

(H) Reinsurance ceded

The unearned portion of premiums ceded to reinsurers is reported as prepaid reinsurance premiums and earned ratably over the policy term. The estimated amounts of reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses are reported as due from reinsurers. To the extent any reinsurer does not meet its obligations under reinsurance agreements, the Company must discharge its liability. Amounts due from reinsurers are reflected net of funds held where the right of offset is present. The Company has provided reserves for estimated uncollectible reinsurance.

(I) Deposit accounting

Contracts that do not meet the risk transfer requirements of GAAP are accounted for using the deposit accounting method. Under this method, an asset or liability is recognized at the inception of the contract based on consideration paid or received. The amount of the deposit asset or liability is adjusted at subsequent reporting dates using the interest method with a corresponding credit or charge to interest income or expense. Deposit liabilities for assumed reinsurance contracts were $80 million and $95 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

(J) Federal and foreign income taxes

The Company files a consolidated income tax return in the U.S. and foreign tax returns in countries where it has overseas operations. The Company's method of accounting for income taxes is the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using tax rates currently in effect or expected to apply in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to reverse. Interest and penalties, if any, are reported as income tax expense. The Company believes there are no tax positions that would require disclosure under GAAP. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that all or a portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

(K) Foreign currency

Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions (transactions denominated in a currency other than the entity's functional currency) are reported on the statements of income as other operating costs and expenses. Unrealized gains or losses resulting from translating the results of non-U.S. dollar denominated operations are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income. Revenues and expenses denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars are translated at the weighted average exchange rate during the year. Assets and liabilities are translated at the rate of exchange in effect at the balance sheet date.

(L) Property, furniture and equipment

Property, furniture and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated using the estimated useful lives of the respective assets. Depreciation expense was $40 million, $41 million and $46 million for 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

(M) Comprehensive income

Comprehensive income encompasses all changes in stockholders' equity (except those arising from transactions with stockholders) and includes net income, net unrealized holding gains or losses on available for sale securities, unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments and changes in unrecognized pension obligations.

(N) Goodwill and other intangible assets

Goodwill and other intangibles assets are tested for impairment on an annual basis and at interim periods where circumstances require. The Company's impairment test as of December 31, 2011 indicated that there were minimal impairment losses related to goodwill and other intangible assets. Intangible assets of $29 million are included in other assets as of December 31, 2011 and 2010.

(O) Stock options

The costs resulting from all share-based payment transactions with employees are recognized in the consolidated financial statements using a fair-value-based measurement method.

(P) Statements of cash flows

Interest payments were $111 million, $103 million and $80 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Income taxes paid were $48 million, $123 million and $16 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Other non-cash items include acquisitions and dispositions, unrealized investment gains and losses and pension expense. (See Note 2, Note 10 and Note 25 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

(Q) Recent accounting pronouncements

In October 2010, the FASB (Financial Accounting Standards Board) issued guidance regarding the treatment of costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. This guidance modifies the definition of the types of costs that can be capitalized and specifies that the costs must be directly related to the successful acquisition of a new or renewed insurance contract. This guidance is effective for the quarter ending March 31, 2012. The Company plans to apply this guidance retrospectively and estimates that the effect of adopting this guidance will be a reduction in common stockholders' equity of between $50 million and $60 million as of January 1, 2012.

All other recently issued but not yet effective accounting and reporting guidance is either not applicable to the Company, or is not expected to have a material impact on the Company.

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Retirement Benefits

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Retirement Benefits [Abstract]

Retirement Benefits

Retirement Benefits

The Company has an unfunded noncontributory defined benefit plan that covers its chief executive officer and chairman of the board. The plan provides that the benefits payments shall commence on the earliest of (i) January 2, 2014, (ii) the date of death or (iii) a change in control of the Company. The discount rate used to derive the projected benefit obligation and related retirement expense was 4.36% in 2011 and 5.24% in 2010. The discount rate assumption used to determine the benefit obligation is based on a yield curve approach. Under this approach, a weighted average yield is determined from a hypothetical portfolio of AA rated bonds. Following is a summary of the projected benefit obligation as of December 31, 2011 and 2010:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010
Projected benefit obligation:
Beginning of year	$	51,828	$	45,889
Interest cost	2,716		2,675
Actuarial loss	2,243		3,264
End of year	$	56,787	$	51,828

Following is a summary of the amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of December 31, 2011 and 2010:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010
Net actuarial loss	$	10,007	$	9,093
Prior service cost	12,035		15,059
Net pension asset	$	22,042	$	24,152

The components of net periodic pension benefit cost are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
Interest cost	$	2,716	$	2,675	$	2,631
Amortization of unrecognized:
Prior service costs	3,023		3,023		3,023
Net actuarial loss	1,330		424		—
Net periodic pension cost	$	7,069	$	6,122	$	5,654

The changes in plan assets and projected benefit obligation recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010
Changes in plan assets and projected benefit obligation:
Net actuarial loss	$	2,243		$	3,264
Amortization of:
Net actuarial loss	(1,330		)	(424		)
Prior service costs	(3,023		)	(3,023		)
Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)	$	(2,110	)	$	(183	)

The estimated prior service cost and net actuarial loss that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into periodic benefit cost during 2012 are $2,197,000 and $3,023,000, respectively.

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Reserves For Losses And Loss Expenses Reserves For Losses And Loss Expenses (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Reserves For Losses And Loss Expenses [Line Items]
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses relating to asbestos and environmental claims, net	$ 34	$ 36
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses relating to asbestos and environmental claims, gross	59	51
Increase (decrease) in net incurred losses and loss expenses relating to asbestos and environmental claims	1.0	2.0	(0.6)
Net paid losses and loss expenses for asbestos and environmental claims	3	3	3
Workers' compensation weighted average discount rate, percent	4.30%
Proportional business, Statutory discount rate permitted, percent	2.30%
Workers' compensation discount after effects of ceded reinsurance, amount	$ 892	$ 898	$ 877
Minimum [Member]
Reserves For Losses And Loss Expenses [Line Items]
Workers' compensation discount, percent	2.30%
Maximum [Member]
Reserves For Losses And Loss Expenses [Line Items]
Workers' compensation discount, percent	6.50%

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Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Statements of Income (Parent Company)) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Sep. 30, 2010	Jun. 30, 2010	Mar. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Consolidated Financial Information of Registrant
Net investment gains (losses)									$ 125,481	$ 56,581	$ (38,408)
Other income									1,764	1,522	2,137
Total revenues	1,370,953	1,279,731	1,270,949	1,234,351	1,231,342	1,176,112	1,163,068	1,153,547	5,155,984	4,724,069	4,431,178
Operating costs and expense									4,637,701	4,120,764	4,048,948
Interest expense									112,512	106,969	87,989
Income before income taxes									518,283	603,305	382,230
Federal income taxes:
Income tax expense									(123,550)	(153,739)	(73,150)
Net income	117,926	77,308	83,082	116,487	126,851	93,619	110,207	118,610	394,803	449,287	309,057
Parent Company [Member]
Consolidated Financial Information of Registrant
Management fees and investment income including dividends from subsidiaries of $502,327, $405,917 and $150,545 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively									514,057	411,623	159,361
Net investment gains (losses)									45,962	(1,891)	20,961
Other income									96	158	206
Total revenues									560,115	409,890	180,528
Operating costs and expense									118,922	117,658	88,276
Interest expense									111,184	105,510	87,054
Income before income taxes									330,009	186,722	5,198
Federal income taxes:
Federal income taxes provided by subsidiaries on a separate return basis									79,200	28,377	117,133
Federal income tax expense on a consolidated return basis									(89,144)	(138,389)	(58,644)
Income tax expense									(9,944)	(110,012)	58,489
Income before undistributed equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries									320,065	76,710	63,687
Equity in undistributed net income (loss) of subsidiaries									74,738	372,577	245,370
Net income									$ 394,803	$ 449,287	$ 309,057

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Schedule VI - Supplementary Information Concerning Property-Casualty Insurance Operations

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Supplemental Information for Property, Casualty Insurance Underwriters [Abstract]

Schedule VI - Supplementary Information Concerning Property-Casualty Insurance Operations

Schedule VI

W. R. Berkley Corporation and Subsidiaries

Supplementary Information Concerning Property-Casualty Insurance Operations

Years Ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009

(Amounts in thousands)

	2011			2010			2009
Deferred policy acquisition costs	$	448,795		$	405,942		$	391,360
Reserves for losses and loss expenses	9,337,134			9,016,549			9,071,671
Unearned premium	2,189,575			1,953,721			1,928,428
Premiums earned	4,160,867			3,835,582			3,805,849
Net investment income	526,351			530,525			379,008
Losses and loss expenses incurred:
Current year	2,791,860			2,509,933			2,518,849
Prior years	(181,282		)	(253,248		)	(234,008		)
Loss reserve discount accretion	47,787			53,182			51,866
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	1,034,400			917,217			903,154
Paid losses and loss expenses	2,486,998			2,453,077			2,333,631
Net premiums written	4,357,368			3,850,926			3,730,095

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

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Senior Notes And Other Debt (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Senior Notes and Other Debt [Abstract]

Schedule of Debt

Senior notes and other debt consist of the following (the difference between the face value and the carrying value is unamortized discount):

(Dollars in thousands)		2011		2011		2010
Maturity	Rate	Face Value		Carrying Value		Carrying Value
Senior notes:
February 15, 2013	5.875%	$	200,000	$	199,627	$	199,295
May 15, 2015	5.6%	200,000		199,373		199,187
August 15, 2019	6.15%	150,000		148,914		148,772
September 15, 2019	7.375%	300,000		298,038		297,784
September 15, 2020	5.375%	300,000		297,065		296,729
January 1, 2022	8.70%	76,503		75,924		75,890
February 15, 2037	6.25%	250,000		247,236		247,126
Subsidiary debt (1)	Various	34,326		34,326		35,636
Total debt		$	1,510,829	$	1,500,503	$	1,500,419

(1) Subsidiary debt is due as follows: $4 million in 2012, $1 million in 2013, $26 million in 2014 and $3 million thereafter.

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Investment Funds Investment Funds (Schedule of Investment Funds) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Investment funds	$ 680,638	$ 512,411
Gross investment income	529,820	534,085	382,596
Real estate [Member]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Investment funds	373,413	226,183
Energy [Member]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Investment funds	98,974	96,511
Arbitrage [Member]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Investment funds	58,008	60,660
Other [Member]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Investment funds	150,243	129,057
Investment funds [Member]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Gross investment income	9,452	(6,481)	(163,862)
Investment funds [Member] | Real estate [Member]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Gross investment income	14,527	(4,766)	(159,569)
Investment funds [Member] | Energy [Member]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Gross investment income	(6,101)	996	(13,227)
Investment funds [Member] | Arbitrage [Member]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Gross investment income	(1,366)	1,692	9,691
Investment funds [Member] | Other [Member]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Gross investment income	$ 2,392	$ (4,403)	$ (757)

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Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010		Dec. 31, 2009
REVENUES:
Net premiums written	$ 4,357,368		$ 3,850,926		$ 3,730,095
Change in net unearned premiums	(196,501)		(15,344)		75,754
Net premiums earned	4,160,867		3,835,582		3,805,849
Net investment income	526,351		530,525		379,008
Insurance service fees	92,843		85,405		93,245
Net investment gains (losses):
Net realized gains on investment sales	125,881		65,786		104,453
Other-than-temporary impairments	(400)	[1]	(9,205)	[1]	(151,727)	[1]
Portion of impairments reclassified to other comprehensive income	0		0		8,866
Net investment gains (losses)	125,481		56,581		(38,408)
Revenues from wholly-owned investees	248,678		214,454		189,347
Other income	1,764		1,522		2,137
Total revenues	5,155,984		4,724,069		4,431,178
OPERATING COSTS AND EXPENSES:
Losses and loss expenses	2,658,365		2,309,867		2,336,707
Other operating costs and expenses	1,621,329		1,496,362		1,440,838
Expenses from wholly-owned investees	245,495		207,566		183,414
Interest expense	112,512		106,969		87,989
Total operating costs and expenses	4,637,701		4,120,764		4,048,948
Income before income taxes	518,283		603,305		382,230
Income tax expense	(123,550)		(153,739)		(73,150)
Net income before noncontrolling interests	394,733		449,566		309,080
Noncontrolling interests	70		(279)		(23)
Net income to common stockholders	$ 394,803		$ 449,287		$ 309,057
NET INCOME PER SHARE:
Basic	$ 2.83		$ 3.02		$ 1.93
Diluted	$ 2.71		$ 2.90		$ 1.86

[1] Includes change in valuation allowance for loans receivable of $0, $6,082,000 and $12,418,000 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

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Net Investment Income (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Net Investment Income [Abstract]

Net Investment Income

Net investment income consists of the following:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Investment income earned on:
Fixed maturity securities, including cash and cash equivalents and loans receivable	$	483,905		$	501,750		$	495,140
Equity securities available for sale	12,416			11,661			20,295
Investment funds	9,452			(6,481		)	(163,862		)
Arbitrage trading account	16,576			27,155			31,023
Real estate	7,471			—			—
Gross investment income	529,820			534,085			382,596
Investment expense	(3,469		)	(3,560		)	(3,588		)
Net investment income	$	526,351		$	530,525		$	379,008

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Lease Obligations (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Leases [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current	$ 34,635,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years	31,177,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years	26,808,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years	22,646,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter	173,015,000
Operating Leases, Rent Expense	$ 33,003,000	$ 29,936,000	$ 28,067,000

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Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Balance Sheets (Parent Company)) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009	Dec. 31, 2008
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 911,742,000	$ 642,952,000	$ 515,430,000	$ 1,134,835,000
Fixed maturity securities available for sale at fair value (cost $244,921 and $244,804 at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively)	11,312,037,000	11,209,154,000
Equity securities available for sale	443,439,000	561,053,000
Deferred Federal income taxes	433,062,000	391,407,000
Current Federal income taxes	9,670,000	23,605,000
Property, furniture and equipment at cost, less accumulated depreciation	262,275,000	254,720,000
Other assets	192,729,000	198,963,000
Total assets	18,487,731,000	17,528,547,000
Liabilities:
Other liabilities	866,229,000	836,001,000
Deferred Federal income taxes	464,685,000	325,915,000
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997,000	242,784,000
Senior notes	1,500,503,000	1,500,419,000
Total liabilities	14,471,779,000	13,818,691,000
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock	0	0
Common stock	47,024,000	47,024,000
Additional paid-in capital	941,109,000	935,099,000
Retained earnings (including accumulated undistributed net income of subsidiaries of $3,384,149 and $3,309,411 at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively)	4,546,232,000	4,194,684,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income	354,851,000	276,563,000
Treasury stock, at cost	(1,880,790,000)	(1,750,494,000)
Total stockholders' equity	4,015,952,000	3,709,856,000
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	18,487,731,000	17,528,547,000
Equity securities available for sale at cost $0 in 2011 and 2010	342,393,000	404,235,000
Parent Company [Member]
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	270,637,000	29,476,000	117,648,000	131,423,000
Fixed maturity securities available for sale at fair value (cost $244,921 and $244,804 at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively)	247,537,000	246,275,000
Equity securities available for sale	81,811,000	109,748,000
Investment in subsidiaries	5,389,531,000	5,261,686,000
Deferred Federal income taxes	0	80,861,000
Current Federal income taxes	15,137,000	19,163,000
Property, furniture and equipment at cost, less accumulated depreciation	6,595,000	6,431,000
Other assets	6,951,000	7,969,000
Total assets	6,018,199,000	5,761,609,000
Liabilities:
Due to subsidiaries	141,492,000	189,499,000
Other liabilities	146,823,000	161,666,000
Deferred Federal income taxes	12,283,000	0
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997,000	242,784,000
Senior notes	1,466,178,000	1,464,784,000
Total liabilities	2,009,773,000	2,058,733,000
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock	0	0
Common stock	47,024,000	47,024,000
Additional paid-in capital	941,109,000	935,099,000
Retained earnings (including accumulated undistributed net income of subsidiaries of $3,384,149 and $3,309,411 at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively)	4,546,232,000	4,194,684,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income	354,851,000	276,563,000
Treasury stock, at cost	(1,880,790,000)	(1,750,494,000)
Total stockholders' equity	4,008,426,000	3,702,876,000
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	6,018,199,000	5,761,609,000
Fixed maturity securities available for sale at cost: $244,921 and $244,804 in 2011 and 2010, respectively	244,921	244,804
Equity securities available for sale at cost $0 in 2011 and 2010	0	0
Accumulated undistributed net income of subsidiaries of $3,384,149 and $3,309,411 in 2011 and 2010, respectively	$ 3,384,149	$ 3,309,411

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Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income before noncontrolling interests	$ 394,733	$ 449,566	$ 309,080
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in unrealized foreign exchange gains (losses)	(18,751)	(2,117)	32,104
Unrealized holding gains on investment securities arising during the period, net of taxes	177,264	152,235	336,757
Reclassification adjustment for net investment gains (losses) included in net income, net of taxes	(81,647)	(36,874)	24,874
Change in unrecognized pension obligation, net of taxes	1,367	120	(1,548)
Other comprehensive income	78,233	113,364	392,187
Comprehensive income	472,966	562,930	701,267
Comprehensive income (loss) to the noncontrolling interest	125	(287)	(44)
Comprehensive income to common shareholders	$ 473,091	$ 562,643	$ 701,223

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Common Stockholders' Equity (Schedule of Changes in Shares of Common Stock Outstanding) (Details) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Common Stock Shares Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of year	141,010	156,552	161,467
Shares issued	2,702	2,272	1,467
Shares repurchased	(6,192)	(17,814)	(6,382)
Balance, end of year	137,520	141,010	156,552

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Compensation Plans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Compensation Plans [Abstract]

Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan Expense

The following table summarizes the LTIP expense for the three years ended December 31, 2011:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
2006 grant	$	—	$	5,119	$	3,816
2008 grant	4,597		5,070		3,747
2011 grant	5,644		—		—
Total	$	10,241	$	10,189	$	7,563

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Stock Incentive Plan (Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range) (Details) (Stock Options [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number Outstanding	1,314,057
Weighted Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	0.41
Weighted Average Price	$ 11.04
$0 to $10.00 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number Outstanding	412,078
Weighted Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	0.60
Weighted Average Price	$ 10.07
Lower Range Limit	$ 0.00
Upper Range Limit	$ 10.00
$10.01 to $17.62 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number Outstanding	901,979
Weighted Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	0.32
Weighted Average Price	$ 11.48
Lower Range Limit	$ 10.01
Upper Range Limit	$ 17.62

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Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)

The following is a summary of quarterly financial data (in thousands except per share data):

	2011
Three Months Ended	March 31		June 30		September 30		December 31
Revenues	$	1,234,351	$	1,270,949	$	1,279,731	$	1,370,953
Net income	116,487		83,082		77,308		117,926
Net income per share(1)
Basic	0.83		0.59		0.56		0.86
Diluted	0.79		0.56		0.53		0.82

	2010
Three Months Ended	March 31		June 30		September 30		December 31
Revenues	$	1,153,547	$	1,163,068	$	1,176,112	$	1,231,342
Net income	118,610		110,207		93,619		126,851
Net income per share(1)
Basic	0.77		0.73		0.64		0.88
Diluted	0.74		0.70		0.61		0.85

_______________________________________

(1) Net income per share (“EPS”) in each quarter is computed using the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during that quarter, while EPS for the full year is computed using the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the year. Thus, the sum of the four quarters EPS does not necessarily equal the full-year EPS.

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Acquisitions (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2011
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract]
Fixed maturity securities	$ 3,213,000
Real Estate	256,209,000
Cash and cash equivalents	12,172,000
Goodwill	251,000
Other assets	6,566,000
Total assets acquired	278,411,000
Other liabilities assumed	4,247,000
Net assets acquired	274,164,000
London Acquisition [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition, cost of acquired entity, cash paid	251,000,000
Inactive Insurance Company [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business acquisition, cost of acquired entity, cash paid	23,000,000
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract]
Total assets acquired	$ 2,000,000

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Senior Notes And Other Debt

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Senior Notes and Other Debt [Abstract]

Senior Notes And Other Debt

Senior Notes and Other Debt

Senior notes and other debt consist of the following (the difference between the face value and the carrying value is unamortized discount):

(Dollars in thousands)		2011		2011		2010
Maturity	Rate	Face Value		Carrying Value		Carrying Value
Senior notes:
February 15, 2013	5.875%	$	200,000	$	199,627	$	199,295
May 15, 2015	5.6%	200,000		199,373		199,187
August 15, 2019	6.15%	150,000		148,914		148,772
September 15, 2019	7.375%	300,000		298,038		297,784
September 15, 2020	5.375%	300,000		297,065		296,729
January 1, 2022	8.70%	76,503		75,924		75,890
February 15, 2037	6.25%	250,000		247,236		247,126
Subsidiary debt (1)	Various	34,326		34,326		35,636
Total debt		$	1,510,829	$	1,500,503	$	1,500,419

(1) Subsidiary debt is due as follows: $4 million in 2012, $1 million in 2013, $26 million in 2014 and $3 million thereafter.

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Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant

Schedule II

W. R. Berkley Corporation

Condensed Financial Information of Registrant

Balance Sheets (Parent Company)

(Amounts in thousands)

	December 31,
	2011			2010
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	270,637		$	29,476
Fixed maturity securities available for sale at fair value (cost $244,921 and $244,804 at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively)	247,537			246,275
Equity securities available for sale, at fair value (cost $0 in 2011 and 2010)	81,811			109,748
Investment in subsidiaries	5,389,531			5,261,686
Deferred Federal income taxes	—			80,861
Current Federal income taxes	15,137			19,163
Property, furniture and equipment at cost, less accumulated depreciation	6,595			6,431
Other assets	6,951			7,969
Total assets	$	6,018,199		$	5,761,609
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity
Liabilities:
Due to subsidiaries	$	141,492		$	189,499
Other liabilities	146,823			161,666
Deferred Federal income taxes	12,283			—
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997			242,784
Senior notes	1,466,178			1,464,784
Total liabilities	2,009,773			2,058,733
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock	—			—
Common stock	47,024			47,024
Additional paid-in capital	941,109			935,099
Retained earnings (including accumulated undistributed net income of subsidiaries of $3,384,149 and $3,309,411 at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively)	4,546,232			4,194,684
Accumulated other comprehensive income	354,851			276,563
Treasury stock, at cost	(1,880,790		)	(1,750,494		)
Total stockholders’ equity	4,008,426			3,702,876
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	6,018,199		$	5,761,609

________________

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm and note to condensed financial statements.

Schedule II, Continued

W. R. Berkley Corporation

Condensed Financial Information of Registrant, Continued

Statements of Income (Parent Company)

(Amounts in thousands)

	Years Ended December 31,
	2011			2010			2009
Management fees and investment income including dividends from subsidiaries of $502,327, $405,917 and $150,545 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively	$	514,057		$	411,623		$	159,361
Net investment gains (losses)	45,962			(1,891		)	20,961
Other income	96			158			206
Total revenues	560,115			409,890			180,528
Operating costs and expense	118,922			117,658			88,276
Interest expense	111,184			105,510			87,054
Income before federal income taxes	330,009			186,722			5,198
Federal income taxes:
Federal income taxes provided by subsidiaries on a separate return basis	79,200			28,377			117,133
Federal income tax expense on a consolidated return basis	(89,144		)	(138,389		)	(58,644		)
Net benefit (expense)	(9,944		)	(110,012		)	58,489
Income before undistributed equity in net income of subsidiaries	320,065			76,710			63,687
Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries	74,738			372,577			245,370
Net income	$	394,803		$	449,287		$	309,057

________________

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm and note to condensed financial statements.

Schedule II, Continued

W. R. Berkley Corporation

Condensed Financial Information of Registrant, Continued

Statements of Cash Flows (Parent Company)

(Amounts in thousands)

	Years Ended December 31,
	2011			2010			2009
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	394,803		$	449,287		$	309,057
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:
Net investment (gains) losses	(45,962		)	1,891			(20,961		)
Depreciation and amortization	4,905			3,963			2,279
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	(74,738		)	(372,577		)	(245,370		)
Tax payments received from subsidiaries	139,011			106,284			103,356
Federal income taxes provided by subsidiaries on a separate return basis	(79,200		)	(28,377		)	(117,133		)
Stock incentive plans	27,176			26,318			24,078
Change in:
Federal income taxes	56,542			29,332			62,753
Other assets	(542		)	16,430			(381		)
Other liabilities	(6,747		)	11,467			11,661
Accrued investment income	1,559			(2,776		)	(137		)
Other, net	277			—			(603		)
Net cash from operating activities	417,084			241,242			128,599
Cash from (used in) investing activities:
Proceeds from sales of fixed maturity securities	70,665			164,920			29,355
Proceeds from maturities and prepayments of fixed maturity securities	165,158			85,695			47,133
Proceeds from sales of equity securities	47,735			3			17,897
Cost of purchases of fixed maturity securities	(240,536		)	(195,646		)	(353,944		)
Investment in funds	—			—			5,204
Investments in and advances to subsidiaries, net	(3,867		)	(18,685		)	(29,179		)
Change in balance due to security broker	(5,983		)	(8,500		)	14,483
Net additions to real estate, furniture & equipment	(643		)	(1,212		)	(224		)
Other, net	—			—			1
Net cash from (used in) investing activities	32,529			26,575			(269,274		)
Cash from (used in) financing activities:
Net proceeds from issuance of senior notes	—			296,636			297,461
Net proceeds from stock options exercised	21,966			17,730			5,426
Repayment of senior notes	—			(150,000		)	—
Purchase of common treasury shares	(187,163		)	(471,007		)	(147,144		)
Cash dividends to common stockholders	(43,255		)	(49,348		)	(28,843		)
Other, net	—			—			—
Net cash from (used in) financing activities	(208,452		)	(355,989		)	126,900
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	241,161			(88,172		)	(13,775		)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	29,476			117,648			131,423
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	270,637		$	29,476		$	117,648

________________

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm and note to condensed financial statements.

W. R. Berkley Corporation

Condensed Financial Information of Registrant,Continued

December 31, 2011

Note to Condensed Financial Statements (Parent Company)

The accompanying condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the notes to consolidated financial statements included elsewhere herein. Reclassifications have been made in the 2010 and 2009 financial statements as originally reported to conform them to the presentation of the 2011 financial statements.

The Company files a consolidated federal tax return with the results of its domestic insurance subsidiaries included on a statutory basis. Under present Company policy, federal income taxes payable by subsidiary companies on a separate-return basis are paid to W. R. Berkley Corporation, and the Company pays the tax due on a consolidated return basis.

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Stock Incentive Plan (Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity) (Details) (Stock Options [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010		Dec. 31, 2009
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Outstanding at beginning of year	3,503,384		5,700,552		6,566,377
Oustanding at beginning of year (Price)	$ 10.42	[1]	$ 9.53	[1]	$ 9.06	[1]
Exercised	2,185,952		2,191,260		860,074
Exercised (Price)	$ 10.05	[1]	$ 8.11	[1]	$ 5.93	[1]
Cancelled	3,375		5,908		5,751
Cancelled (Price)	$ 10.07	[1]	$ 10.07	[1]	$ 10.85	[1]
Outstanding at year end	1,314,057		3,503,384		5,700,552
Outstanding at end of year (Price)	$ 11.04	[1]	$ 10.42	[1]	$ 9.53	[1]

[1] Weighted average exercise price.

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Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

Income tax expense consists of:

(Dollars in thousands)	Current Expense		Deferred Expense (Benefit)			Total
December 31, 2011:
Domestic	$	60,420	$	38,781		$	99,201
Foreign	22,011		2,338			24,349
Total expense	$	82,431	$	41,119		$	123,550
December 31, 2010:
Domestic	$	79,143	$	66,287		$	145,430
Foreign	10,584		(2,275		)	8,309
Total expense	$	89,727	$	64,012		$	153,739
December 31, 2009:
Domestic	$	116,777	$	(56,325	)	$	60,452
Foreign	9,140		3,558			12,698
Total expense (benefit)	$	125,917	$	(52,767	)	$	73,150

Income before income taxes from domestic operations was $469 million, $574 million and $343 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Income before income taxes from foreign operations was $49 million, $29 million and $39 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

A reconciliation of the income tax expense and the amounts computed by applying the Federal and foreign income tax rate of 35% to pre-tax income are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Computed “expected” tax expense	$	181,399		$	211,157		$	133,781
Tax-exempt investment income	(57,246		)	(62,628		)	(64,886		)
Change in valuation allowance	(2,328		)	102			(887		)
Impact of lower foreign tax rates	(3,413		)	(253		)	(551		)
State and local taxes	2,355			2,298			1,175
Other, net	2,783			3,063			4,518
Total expense	$	123,550		$	153,739		$	73,150

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, the tax effects of differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax asset and deferred tax liability are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010
Deferred tax asset:
Loss reserve discounting	$	119,725		$	152,189
Unearned premiums	118,837			106,162
Other-than-temporary impairments	68,559			69,057
Restricted stock units	43,207			39,514
Other	82,734			26,813
Gross deferred tax asset	433,062			393,735
Less valuation allowance	—			(2,328		)
Deferred tax asset	433,062			391,407
Deferred tax liability:
Amortization of intangibles	12,186			11,780
Deferred policy acquisition costs	136,349			124,141
Unrealized investment gains	223,024			169,106
Other	93,126			20,888
Deferred tax liability	464,685			325,915
Net deferred tax asset (liability)	$	(31,623	)	$	65,492

The Company had current tax receivables of $9,670,000 and $23,605,000 at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. At December 31, 2011, the Company had foreign net operating loss carryforwards of $420,000, which expire beginning in 2014. The Company had provided a valuation allowance against the unutilized foreign tax credits which were fully utilized in the 2010 federal tax return. The reduction in the valuation relates primarily to the full utilization of the foreign tax credit carryforward. At December 31, 2011, the Company had no deferred tax assets for which a valuation allowance is required. The statute of limitations has closed for the Company’s tax returns through December 31, 2004. The 2005 calendar year statute of limitations remains open as a result of the carry back of capital losses from the 2008 tax year, and the 2006 calendar year statue of limitations remains open as a result of the carry back of capital losses from the 2008 and 2009 tax years.

The realization of the deferred tax asset is dependent upon the Company’s ability to generate sufficient taxable income in future periods. Based on historical results and the prospects for future current operations, management anticipates that it is more likely than not that future taxable income will be sufficient for the realization of this asset.

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Investments in Fixed Maturity Securities (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011
Investments in Fixed Maturity Securities [Abstract]
Minimum ownership of Common stockholders equity	10.00%
Investments on deposit in custodial or trust accounts, carrying value	$ 912
Assets on deposit with state insurance departments	664
Assets on deposit in support of underwriting activities	155
Funds on deposit as security for reinsurance clients	64
Funds on deposit as security for letters of credit issued in support of reinsurance operations	$ 29

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Industry Segments (Narrative) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011 state
Number of operating segments	5
Specialty Segment [Member]
Number of operating units	20
Regional Segment [Member]
Number of states providing commercial insurance to customer	45
International Segment [Member]
Number of branch or office locations outside United States	15

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
CASH FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income to common stockholders	$ 394,803	$ 449,287	$ 309,057
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:
Net investment (gains) losses	(125,481)	(56,581)	38,408
Depreciation and amortization	88,012	82,867	78,875
Noncontrolling interests	(70)	279	23
Investment funds	1,751	49,400	166,685
Stock incentive plans	27,175	27,407	24,465
Change in:
Arbitrage trading account	(8,106)	(12,993)	(406,622)
Premiums and fees receivable	(122,468)	(41,167)	17,159
Reinsurance accounts	(161,070)	(14,960)	26,010
Deferred policy acquisition costs	(43,738)	(15,272)	6,181
Deferred income taxes	44,945	63,866	(52,536)
Reserves for losses and loss expenses	325,758	(103,745)	41,923
Unearned premiums	238,499	3,414	(57,261)
Other	10,269	19,514	123,687
Net cash from operating activities	670,279	451,316	316,054
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from sale of fixed maturity securities	1,293,876	1,554,906	2,436,258
Proceeds from sale of equity securities	159,827	137,990	188,646
Distributions from (contributions to) investment funds	(113,913)	(53,979)	(87,011)
Proceeds from maturities and prepayments of fixed maturity securities	1,697,144	1,374,378	1,214,157
Purchase of fixed maturity securities	(2,815,340)	(2,755,449)	(4,869,368)
Purchase of equity securities	(97,986)	(193,914)	(67,309)
Real Estate purchased	(96,552)	0	0
Change in loans receivable	92,176	23,317	(11,363)
Net additions to property, furniture and equipment	(45,320)	(49,605)	(30,455)
Change in balances due to (from) security brokers	(16,194)	(297)	144,023
Payment for business purchased, net of cash acquired	(261,992)	0	(33,812)
Net cash from (used in) investing activities	(204,274)	37,347	(1,116,234)
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net proceeds from issuance of debt	0	309,030	333,589
Net proceeds from stock options exercised	21,963	17,730	5,426
Repayment of senior notes and other debt	(1,310)	(162,685)	(11,165)
Cash dividends to common stockholders	(43,253)	(49,348)	(28,843)
Purchase of common treasury shares	(187,163)	(471,007)	(147,144)
Other	14,550	(2,795)	21,522
Net cash from (used in) financing activities	(195,213)	(359,075)	173,385
Net impact on cash due to change in foreign exchange rates	(2,002)	(2,066)	7,390
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	268,790	127,522	(619,405)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	642,952	515,430	1,134,835
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$ 911,742	$ 642,952	$ 515,430

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Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Investments:
Fixed maturity securities	$ 11,312,037	$ 11,209,154
Equity securities available for sale	443,439	561,053
Arbitrage trading account	397,312	359,192
Investment funds	680,638	512,411
Loans receivable	263,187	353,583
Real estate	342,905	0
Total investments	13,439,518	12,995,393
Cash and cash equivalents	911,742	642,952
Premiums and fees receivable	1,206,204	1,087,208
Due from reinsurers	1,215,679	1,070,256
Accrued investment income	133,776	138,384
Prepaid reinsurance premiums	258,271	215,816
Deferred policy acquisition costs	448,795	405,942
Property, furniture and equipment	262,275	254,720
Deferred federal and foreign income taxes	0	65,492
Goodwill	90,832	90,581
Trading account receivable from brokers and clearing organizations	318,240	339,235
Current federal and foreign income taxes	9,670	23,605
Other assets	192,729	198,963
Total assets	18,487,731	17,528,547
Liabilities:
Reserves for losses and loss expenses	9,337,134	9,016,549
Unearned premiums	2,189,575	1,953,721
Due to reinsurers	241,204	215,723
Trading account securities sold but not yet purchased	62,514	53,494
Deferred federal and foreign income taxes	31,623	0
Other liabilities	866,229	836,001
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997	242,784
Senior notes and other debt	1,500,503	1,500,419
Total liabilities	14,471,779	13,818,691
Equity:
Preferred stock, par value $.10 per share: Authorized 5,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding - none	0	0
Common stock, par value $.20 per share: Authorized 500,000,000 shares, issued and outstanding, net of treasury shares, 137,520,019 and 141,009,834 shares	47,024	47,024
Additional paid-in capital	941,109	935,099
Retained earnings	4,546,232	4,194,684
Accumulated other comprehensive income	354,851	276,563
Treasury stock, at cost, 97,597,899 and 94,108,084 shares	(1,880,790)	(1,750,494)
Total common stockholders' equity	4,008,426	3,702,876
Noncontrolling interests	7,526	6,980
Total equity	4,015,952	3,709,856
Total liabilities and equity	$ 18,487,731	$ 17,528,547

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Realized And Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Realized and Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) [Abstract]

Realized and Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses)

Realized and Unrealized Investment Gains and Losses

Realized and unrealized investment gains and losses are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Realized investment gains and losses:
Fixed maturity securities:
Gains	$	37,595		$	38,204		$	50,500
Lossses	(5,499		)	(8,990		)	(3,632		)
Equity securities available for sale	90,023			34,477			52,680
Investment funds	3,762			1,871			4,905
Provision for other-than-temporary impairments (1)	(400		)	(9,205		)	(151,727		)
Less investment impairments recognized in other comprehensive income	—			—			8,866
Other gains	—			224			—
Total net investment gains (losses)	125,481			56,581			(38,408		)
Income tax (expense) benefit	(43,834		)	(19,707		)	13,534
	$	81,647		$	36,874		$	(24,874	)

Change in unrealized gains and losses of available for sales securities:
Fixed maturity securities	$	209,467		$	102,488		$	405,950
Investment impairments recognized in other comprehensive income	(3,604		)	1,362			(5,425		)
Equity securities available for sale	(55,772		)	68,178			143,684
Investment funds	(2,093		)	4,560			13,235
Total change in unrealized gains	147,998			176,588			557,444
Income tax expense	(52,381		)	(61,227		)	(195,813		)
Noncontrolling interests	55			(8		)	(21		)
	$	95,672		$	115,353		$	361,610

_______________________________________

(1) Includes change in valuation allowance for loans receivable of $0, $6,082,000 and $12,418,000 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

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Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Benefit obligation, discount rate	4.36%	5.24%
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Beginning of year	$ 51,828	$ 45,889
Interest cost	2,716	2,675	2,631
Actuarial loss	2,243	3,264
End of year	$ 56,787	$ 51,828	$ 45,889

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Common Stockholders' Equity (Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Used In the Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share) (Details) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Equity [Abstract]
Basic	139,688	148,752	160,357
Diluted	145,672	155,081	166,574

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Income Taxes (Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Deferred tax asset:
Loss reserve discounting	$ 119,725,000	$ 152,189,000
Unearned premiums	118,837,000	106,162,000
Other-than-temporary impairments	68,559,000	69,057,000
Restricted stock units	43,207,000	39,514,000
Other	82,734,000	26,813,000
Gross deferred tax asset	433,062,000	393,735,000
Less valuation allowance	0	(2,328,000)
Deferred tax asset	433,062,000	391,407,000
Deferred tax liability:
Amortization of intangibles	12,186,000	11,780,000
Deferred policy acquisition costs	136,349,000	124,141,000
Unrealized investment gains	223,024,000	169,106,000
Other	93,126,000	20,888,000
Deferred tax liabilities	464,685,000	325,915,000
Net deferred tax asset	(31,623,000)	65,492,000
Income Taxes Receivable	9,670,000	23,605,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign	$ 420,000

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Schedule VI - Supplementary Information Concerning Property-Casualty Insurance Operations (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Supplemental Information for Property, Casualty Insurance Underwriters [Abstract]
Deferred policy acquisition costs	$ 448,795	$ 405,942	$ 391,360
Reserves for losses and loss expense	9,337,134	9,016,549	9,071,671
Unearned premium	2,189,575	1,953,721	1,928,428
Premiums earned	4,160,867	3,835,582	3,805,849
Net investment income	526,351	530,525	379,008
Losses and loss expenses incurred:
Current year	2,791,860	2,509,933	2,518,849
Prior years	(181,282)	(253,248)	(234,008)
Loss reserve discount accretion	47,787	53,182	51,866
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	1,034,400	917,217	903,154
Paid losses and loss expenses	2,486,998	2,453,077	2,333,631
Net premiums written	$ 4,357,368	$ 3,850,926	$ 3,730,095

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Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Feb. 16, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	BERKLEY W R CORP
Entity Central Index Key	0000011544
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2011
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		137,880,895
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2011
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 3,736,987,598

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Securities In An Unrealized Loss Position

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Securities In An Unrealized Loss Position [Abstract]

Securities In An Unrealized Loss Position

Securities in an Unrealized Loss Position

The following table summarizes all securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011 and 2010 by the length of time those securities have been continuously in an unrealized loss position.

	Less Than 12 Months				12 Months or Greater				Total
(Dollars in thousands)	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses
December 31, 2011
U.S. government and government agency	$	24,668	$	169	$	4,800	$	182	$	29,468	$	351
State and municipal	131,417		827		183,205		15,723		314,622		16,550
Mortgage-backed securities	172,729		2,439		94,243		14,473		266,972		16,912
Corporate	341,764		8,327		125,654		27,760		467,418		36,087
Foreign	197,560		4,078		7,159		571		204,719		4,649
Fixed maturity securities	868,138		15,840		415,061		58,709		1,283,199		74,549
Common stocks	47,098		2,888		—		—		47,098		2,888
Preferred stocks	23,782		125		45,314		14,740		69,096		14,865
Equity securities available for sale	70,880		3,013		45,314		14,740		116,194		17,753
Total	$	939,018	$	18,853	$	460,375	$	73,449	$	1,399,393	$	92,302
December 31, 2010
U.S. government and government agency	$	60,228	$	420	$	6,973	$	32	$	67,201	$	452
State and municipal	951,119		26,577		156,617		18,840		1,107,736		45,417
Mortgage-backed securities	116,194		2,809		174,163		16,063		290,357		18,872
Corporate	342,929		6,581		155,259		22,798		498,188		29,379
Foreign	110,189		888		—		—		110,189		888
Fixed maturity securities	1,580,659		37,275		493,012		57,733		2,073,671		95,008
Common stocks	58,979		989		—		—		58,979		989
Preferred stocks	27,010		2,368		76,890		8,307		103,900		10,675
Equity securities available for sale	85,989		3,357		76,890		8,307		162,879		11,664
Total	$	1,666,648	$	40,632	$	569,902	$	66,040	$	2,236,550	$	106,672

Fixed Maturity Securities — A summary of the Company’s non-investment grade fixed maturity securities that were in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011 is presented in the table below:

(Dollars in thousands)	Number of Securities	Aggregate Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Loss
Unrealized loss less than $5 million:
Mortgage-backed securities	15	$	106,923	$	6,115
Corporate	13	48,106		3,461
State and municipal	5	42,197		4,553
Foreign	1	586		12
Unrealized loss $5 million or more:
Mortgage-backed security(1)	1	15,945		7,158
Total	35	$	213,757	$	21,299

_______________________________________

(1) This investment is a residential mortgage-backed security that was evaluated based on the performance of the underlying collateral under various economic and default scenarios. The security has met its contractual obligations and theCompany expects that it will continue to meet those contractual payment obligations as they become due. Based on this evaluation, the Company does not consider the investment to be OTTI.

For OTTI of fixed maturity securities that management does not intend to sell or, more likely than not, would not be required to sell, the portion of the decline in value considered to be due to credit factors is recognized in earnings and the portion of the decline in value considered to be due to non-credit factors is recognized in other comprehensive income. The table below provides a roll-forward of the portion of impairments recognized in earnings for those securities that have been impaired due to both credit factors and non-credit factors.

	For the Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010
Beginning balance of amounts related to credit losses	$	4,261	$	5,661
Additions for amounts related to credit losses	—		—
Deductions for amounts related to credit loss sales	—		(1,400		)
Ending balance of amounts related to credit losses	$	4,261	$	4,261

The Company has evaluated its fixed maturity securities in an unrealized loss position and believes the unrealized losses are due primarily to temporary market and sector-related factors rather than to issuer-specific factors. None of these securities are delinquent or in default on financial covenants. Based on its assessment of these issuers, the Company expects them to continue to meet their contractual payment obligations as they become due and does not consider any of these securities to be OTTI.

Preferred Stocks – At December 31, 2011, there were six preferred stocks in an unrealized loss position, with an aggregate fair value of $69 million and a gross unrealized loss of $15 million. Four of the six securities are investment-grade. None of these securities are delinquent or in default. Management believes the unrealized losses are due primarily to market and sector related factors and does not consider these to be OTTI. Two of those preferred stocks with an aggregate fair value of $9 million and a gross unrealized loss of $5 million are rated non-investment grade. One of these two securities representing most of the gross unrealized loss has recently reflected improved fundamentals. The Company does not consider this security to be OTTI.

Common Stocks – At December 31, 2011, there were four common stocks in an unrealized loss position with an aggregate fair value of $47 million and an aggregate unrealized loss of $3 million. The Company does not consider any of these securities to be OTTI.

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Securities in an Unrealized Loss Position (Roll-Forward of Portion of Impairments) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Securities In An Unrealized Loss Position [Abstract]
Beginning balance of amounts related to credit losses	$ 4,261	$ 5,661
Additions for amounts related to credit losses	0	0
Deductions for amounts related to credit loss sales	0	(1,400)
Ending balance of amounts related to credit losses	$ 4,261	$ 4,261

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Income Taxes (Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Statutory federal income tax rate	35.00%
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Income Tax Reconciliation [Abstract]
Computed (expected) tax expense	$ 181,399	$ 211,157	$ 133,781
Tax-exempt investment income	(57,246)	(62,628)	(64,886)
Change in valuation allowance	(2,328)	102	(887)
Impact of lower foreign tax rates	(3,413)	(253)	(551)
State and local taxes	2,355	2,298	1,175
Other, net	2,783	3,063	4,518
Total expense (benefit)	$ 123,550	$ 153,739	$ 73,150

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Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Equity:
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.10	$ 0.10
Preferred stock, authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred stock, issued	0	0
Preferred stock, outstanding	0	0
Common stock, par value	$ 0.20	$ 0.20
Common stock, authorized	500,000,000	500,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	137,520,019	141,009,834
Common stock, shares outstanding	137,520,000	141,010,000
Treasury stock, at cost	97,597,899	94,108,084

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Arbitrage Trading Account

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Arbitrage Trading Account [Abstract]

Arbitrage Trading Account

Arbitrage Trading Account

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, the fair value and carrying value of the arbitrage trading account were $397 million and $359 million, respectively. The primary focus of the trading account is merger arbitrage. Merger arbitrage is the business of investing in the securities of publicly held companies which are the targets in announced tender offers and mergers. Arbitrage investing differs from other types of investing in its focus on transactions and events believed likely to bring about a change in value over a relatively short time period (usually four months or less). The Company believes that this makes arbitrage investments less vulnerable to changes in general financial market conditions.

The Company uses put options, call options and swap contracts in order to mitigate the impact of potential changes in market conditions on the merger arbitrage trading account. These options and contracts are reported at fair value. As of December 31, 2011, the fair value of long option contracts outstanding was $8 million (notional amount of $86 million) and the fair value of short option contracts outstanding was $4 million (notional amount of $107 million). Other than with respect to the use of these trading account securities, the Company does not make use of derivatives.

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Investments In Equity Securities Available for Sale

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]

Investments In Equity Securities Available for Sale

Investments in Equity Securities Available for Sale

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, investments in equity securities available for sale were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Carrying Value
December 31, 2011
Common stocks	$	209,210	$	113,660	$	(2,888	)	$	319,982	$	319,982
Preferred stocks	133,183		5,139		(14,865		)	123,457		123,457
Total	$	342,393	$	118,799	$	(17,753	)	$	443,439	$	443,439
December 31, 2010
Common stocks	$	188,949	$	128,096	$	(989	)	$	316,056	$	316,056
Preferred stocks	215,286		40,386		(10,675		)	244,997		244,997
Total	$	404,235	$	168,482	$	(11,664	)	$	561,053	$	561,053

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Junior Subordinated Debentures

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Junior Subordinated Debentures [Abstract]

Junior Subordinated Debentures

Junior Subordinated Debentures

In 2005, the Company issued $250,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 6.75% Junior Subordinated Debentures due July 26, 2045 (the “Debentures”) to W. R. Berkley Capital Trust II (the “Trust”). At December 31, 2011, the carrying value of the Debentures, net of unamortized discount, was $243,000,000. The Trust simultaneously issued an equal amount of 6.75% mandatorily redeemable preferred securities (the “Trust Preferred Securities”), which are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by the Company to the extent the Trust has funds available for payment of distributions. The Trust Preferred Securities are subject to mandatory redemption in a like amount (i) in whole but not in part upon repayment of the Debentures at maturity, (ii) in whole but not in part, at any time contemporaneously with the optional prepayment of the Debentures by the Company upon the occurrence and continuation of certain events.

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Fair Value Measurements

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements

The Company’s fixed maturity and equity securities available for sale and its trading account securities are carried at fair value. Fair value is defined as “the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.” The Company utilizes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for similar assets in active markets. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs may only be used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available.

Because many fixed maturity securities do not trade on a daily basis, the Company utilizes pricing models and processes which may include benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings and matrix pricing. Market inputs used to evaluate securities include benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers and reference data. Quoted prices are often unavailable for recently issued securities, securities that are infrequently traded or securities that are only traded in private transactions. For publicly traded securities for which quoted prices are unavailable, the Company determines fair value based on independent broker quotations and other observable market data. For securities traded only in private negotiations, the Company determines fair value based primarily on the cost of such securities, which is adjusted to reflect prices of recent placements of securities of the same issuer, financial projections, credit quality and business developments of the issuer and other relevant information.

The following tables present the assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 by level:

(Dollars in thousands)	Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
December 31, 2011
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	$	976,493	$	—	$	976,493	$	—
State and municipal	5,323,070		—		5,323,070		—
Mortgage-backed securities	1,584,587		—		1,584,587		—
Corporate	2,424,424		—		2,356,596		67,828
Foreign	888,354		—		888,354		—
Total fixed maturity securities available for sale	11,196,928		—		11,129,100		67,828
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	319,982		318,423		—		1,559
Preferred stocks	123,457		—		111,154		12,303
Total equity securities available for sale	443,439		318,423		111,154		13,862
Arbitrage trading account	397,312		208,516		187,945		851
Total	$	12,037,679	$	526,939	$	11,428,199	$	82,541
Liabilities:
Securities sold but not yet purchased	$	62,514	$	62,493	$	—	$	21
December 31, 2010
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	$	1,347,875	$	—	$	1,347,875	$	—
State and municipal	5,461,446		—		5,461,446		—
Mortgage-backed securities	1,411,846		—		1,411,846		—
Corporate	2,119,922		—		2,031,859		88,063
Foreign	752,070		—		752,070		—
Total fixed maturity securities available for sale	11,093,159		—		11,005,096		88,063
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	316,056		204,749		109,748		1,559
Preferred stocks	244,997		—		155,551		89,446
Total equity securities available for sale	561,053		204,749		265,299		91,005
Arbitrage trading account	359,192		162,292		193,713		3,187
Total	$	12,013,404	$	367,041	$	11,464,108	$	182,255
Liabilities:
Securities sold but not yet purchased	$	53,494	$	51,672	$	1,822	$	—

There were no transfers between Levels 1 and 2 for the year ended December 31, 2011.

The following tables summarize changes in Level 3 assets and liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010:

	Gains (Losses) Included in:
(Dollars in thousands)	Beginning Balance		Earnings			Other Comprehensive Income				Purchases		Sales			Paydowns/Maturities			In		Out			Ending Balance
Year ended December 31, 2011
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
Corporate	$	88,063	$	(454	)	$	(870	)		$	15,271	$	(11,864	)	$	(22,318	)	$	—	$	—		$	67,828
Total	88,063		(454		)	(870		)		15,271		(11,864		)	(22,318		)	—		—			67,828
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	1,559		—			—				—		—			—			—		—			1,559
Preferred stocks	89,446		28,947			(30,865		)		—		(75,225		)	—			—		—			12,303
Total	91,005		28,947			(30,865		)		—		(75,225		)	—			—		—			13,862
Arbitrage trading account	3,187		572			—			—	269		(3,266		)	—			89		—			851
Total	$	182,255	$	29,065		$	(31,735	)		$	15,540	$	(90,355	)	$	(22,318	)	$	89	$	—		$	82,541
Liabilities:
Securities sold but not yet purchased	—		$	40		—				$	67	$	(86	)	—			—		—			$	21
Year ended December 31, 2010
Fixed maturity securities available for sale:
Mortgage-backed securities	$	25,900	$	—		$	—			$	—	$	—		$	—		$	—	$	(25,900	)	$	—
Corporate	90,160		(850		)	1,558				19,632		(5,324		)	(17,113		)	—		—			88,063
Total	116,060		(850		)	1,558				19,632		(5,324		)	(17,113		)	—		(25,900		)	88,063
Equity securities available for sale:
Common stocks	1,559		—			—				—		—			—			—		—			1,559
Preferred stocks	54,713		23,535			31,633				19,542		(39,977		)	—			—		—			89,446
Total	56,272		23,535			31,633				19,542		(39,977		)	—			—		—			91,005
Arbitrage trading account	353		(353		)	—				3,187		—			—			—		—			3,187
Total	$	172,685	$	22,332		$	33,191			$	42,361	$	(45,301	)	$	(17,113	)	$	—	$	(25,900	)	$	182,255

The transfers out of Level 3 for mortgage-backed securities in 2010 were based upon the availability of broker dealer quotations. In certain circumstances, the Company was able to obtain quotations from third party broker dealers.

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Reserves For Losses And Loss Expenses (Schedule of Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010		Dec. 31, 2009
Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Roll Forward]
Net reserves	$ 7,999,521,000		$ 8,147,782,000		$ 8,122,586,000
Net provision for losses and loss expenses:
Claim occurring during the current year	2,791,860,000	[1]	2,509,933,000	[1]	2,518,849,000	[1]
Decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years	(181,282,000)	[2],[3]	(253,248,000)	[2],[3]	(234,008,000)	[2],[3]
Loss reserve discount accretion	47,787,000		53,182,000		51,866,000
Total net incurred	2,658,365,000		2,309,867,000		2,336,707,000
Net payments for claims:
Current year	765,440,000		641,570,000		582,605,000
Prior year	1,721,558,000		1,811,507,000		1,751,026,000
Total net paid	2,486,998,000		2,453,077,000		2,333,631,000
Foreign currency translation	1,224,000		(5,051,000)		22,120,000
Net reserves	8,172,112,000		7,999,521,000		8,147,782,000
Ceded reserve at end of year	(1,165,022,000)		(1,017,028,000)		(923,889,000)
Gross reserves at end of year	9,337,134,000		9,016,549,000		9,071,671,000
Workers' compensation discount, amount	43,286,000		67,763,000		80,455,000
Decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years, undiscounted basis	182,937,000		246,941,000		232,040,000
Decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years (net of additional and return premiums)	$ 182,000,000		$ 234,000,000		$ 190,000,000

[1] Claims occurring during the current year are net of loss reserve discounts of $43,286,000, $67,763,000 and $80,455,000 in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

[2] The decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years is net of loss reserve discount. On an undiscounted basis, the estimates for claims occurring in prior years decreased by $182,937,000, $246,941,000 and $232,040,000 in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

[3] For certain retrospectively rated insurance polices and reinsurance agreements, reserve development is offset by additional or return premiums. Favorable reserve development, net of additional and return premiums, was $182 million, $234 million and $190 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

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Real Estate

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Real Estate [Abstract]

Real Estate Disclosure [Text Block]

Real Estate

Real estate is directly owned property held for investment. At December 31, 2011, real estate consists of two office buildings in London, including one in operation and one under development, and a long-term ground lease in Washington D. C. Future minimum rental income expected on operating leases relating to real estate held for investment is $1,421,000 in 2012, $1,464,000 in 2013, $1,508,000 in 2014, $1,553,000 in 2015, $1,600,000 in 2016 and $331,476,000 thereafter.

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Retirement Benefits (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Retirement Benefits [Abstract]

Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations

Following is a summary of the projected benefit obligation as of December 31, 2011 and 2010:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010
Projected benefit obligation:
Beginning of year	$	51,828	$	45,889
Interest cost	2,716		2,675
Actuarial loss	2,243		3,264
End of year	$	56,787	$	51,828

Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Following is a summary of the amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of December 31, 2011 and 2010:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010
Net actuarial loss	$	10,007	$	9,093
Prior service cost	12,035		15,059
Net pension asset	$	22,042	$	24,152

Schedule of Net Benefit Costs

The components of net periodic pension benefit cost are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Components of net periodic benefit cost:
Interest cost	$	2,716	$	2,675	$	2,631
Amortization of unrecognized:
Prior service costs	3,023		3,023		3,023
Net actuarial loss	1,330		424		—
Net periodic pension cost	$	7,069	$	6,122	$	5,654

Schedule of Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The changes in plan assets and projected benefit obligation recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010
Changes in plan assets and projected benefit obligation:
Net actuarial loss	$	2,243		$	3,264
Amortization of:
Net actuarial loss	(1,330		)	(424		)
Prior service costs	(3,023		)	(3,023		)
Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)	$	(2,110	)	$	(183	)

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Industry Segments (Identifiable Assets by Segment) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010
Consolidated Assets	$ 18,487,731		$ 17,528,547
Specialty Segment [Member]
Consolidated Assets	6,180,996		5,854,256
Regional Segment [Member]
Consolidated Assets	2,534,875		2,616,238
Alternative Markets Segment [Member]
Consolidated Assets	4,050,949		3,801,597
Reinsurance Segment [Member]
Consolidated Assets	2,734,277		2,972,988
International Segment [Member]
Consolidated Assets	1,576,707		1,391,604
Corporate, Other and Eliminations Segment [Member]
Consolidated Assets	$ 1,409,927	[1]	$ 891,864	[1]

[1] Corporate, other and eliminations represent corporate revenues and expenses, net investment gains and losses and other items that are not allocated to business segments.

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Net Investment Income

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Net Investment Income [Abstract]

Net Investment Income

Net Investment Income

Net investment income consists of the following:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Investment income earned on:
Fixed maturity securities, including cash and cash equivalents and loans receivable	$	483,905		$	501,750		$	495,140
Equity securities available for sale	12,416			11,661			20,295
Investment funds	9,452			(6,481		)	(163,862		)
Arbitrage trading account	16,576			27,155			31,023
Real estate	7,471			—			—
Gross investment income	529,820			534,085			382,596
Investment expense	(3,469		)	(3,560		)	(3,588		)
Net investment income	$	526,351		$	530,525		$	379,008

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Investment Funds

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Investment Funds [Abstract]

Investment Funds

Investment Funds

Investment funds consist of the following:

	Carrying Value as of December 31,				Income (Losses) from Investment Funds
(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2011			2010			2009
Real estate	$	373,413	$	226,183	$	14,527		$	(4,766	)	$	(159,569	)
Energy	98,974		96,511		(6,101		)	996			(13,227		)
Arbitrage	58,008		60,660		(1,366		)	1,692			9,691
Other	150,243		129,057		2,392			(4,403		)	(757		)
Total	$	680,638	$	512,411	$	9,452		$	(6,481	)	$	(163,862	)

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Loans Receivable

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Loans Receivable, Net [Abstract]

Loans Receivable

 Loans Receivable

Loans receivable are as follows (dollars in thousands):

As of December 31,	2011		2010
Total loans receivable, at cost	$	263,187	$	353,583
Valuation allowance:
Specific	$	19,041	$	18,865
General	764		810
Total	$	19,805	$	19,675
Impaired loans:
With a specific valuation allowance, at cost	$	29,702	$	31,855
Without a valuation allowance, at cost	30,357		30,685
Unpaid principal balance	93,922		96,240
For the Year Ended December 31,	2011		2010
Increase in valuation allowance	$	130	$	6,090
Loans receivable charged off	759		140

Loans receivable in non-accrual status were $30 million and $21 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. If these loans had been current, additional interest income of $805,000 and $340,000 would have been recognized in accordance with their original terms for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

The Company monitors the performance of its loans receivable and assesses the ability of the borrower to pay principal and interest based upon loan structure, underlying property values, cash flow and related financial and operating performance of the property and market conditions. Loans receivable with a potential for default are further assessed using discounted cash flow analysis and comparable cost and sales methodologies, if appropriate.

The Company's six largest loans receivable, which have an aggregate amortized cost of $187 million and an aggregate fair value of $166 million at December 31, 2011, are secured by commercial real estate located primarily in New York City, California, Hawaii and Boston. These loans earn interest at floating LIBOR-based interest rates and have maturities (inclusive of extension options) through March 2016. As part of the evaluation process, the Company reviews certain credit quality indicators for these loans. The Company utilizes an internal risk rating system to assign a risk to each of its commercial loans. The loan rating system takes into consideration credit quality indicators including loan to value ratios, which compare the outstanding loan amount to the estimated value of the property, the borrower's financial condition and performance with respect to loan terms, the Company's position in the capital structure, and the overall leverage in the capital structure. Based on this rating system, three loans with a cost basis of $58 million were considered to be impaired at December 31, 2011 and 2010. For each of these loans, a determination was made as to the amount of loss in the event of a default and whether the loss is probable. The results of the determination were considered in connection with the valuation allowance noted above. An additional credit quality indicator is the debt service coverage ratio, which compares a property's net operating income to the borrower's principal and interest payments. At December 31, 2011, each of the six largest loans referred to above have of debt service coverage ratios greater than 3.0 except one that is lower due to a recent and temporary rate abatement.

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009	Jan. 02, 2012 Minimum [Member]	Jan. 02, 2012 Maximum [Member]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Unbilled Audit Premiums	$ 1	$ 7	$ 23
Deposit contracts, liabilities	80	95
Depreciation	40	41	46
Intangible assets, net (excluding goodwill)	29	0
Interest payments	111	103	80
Income taxes paid	48	123	16
New Accounting Pronouncements Or Change In Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New accounting pronouncement or change in accounting principle, cumulative effect of change on equity				$ 50	$ 60

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Reinsurance (Reinsurance Financial Information) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Written premiums, Direct	$ 4,370,092,000	$ 3,788,251,000	$ 3,599,836,000
Written premiums, Assumed	707,221,000	627,826,000	653,603,000
Written premiums, Ceded	(719,945,000)	(565,151,000)	(523,344,000)
Total net premiums written	4,357,368,000	3,850,926,000	3,730,095,000
Earned premiums, Direct	4,164,277,000	3,744,150,000	3,690,493,000
Earned premiums, Assumed	669,593,000	652,485,000	617,143,000
Earned premiums, Ceded	(673,003,000)	(561,053,000)	(501,787,000)
Net premiums earned	4,160,867,000	3,835,582,000	3,805,849,000
Ceded losses incurred	458,249,000	379,153,000	252,299,000
Uncollectible reinsurance	$ 3,169,000	$ 3,098,000	$ 4,430,000

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Investments in Fixed Maturity Securities (Investments in Fixed Maturity Securities) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010
Total held to maturity, Amortized Cost	$ 115,109,000		$ 115,995,000
Total held to maturity, Gross Unrealized Gains	18,873,000		7,292,000
Total held to maturity, Gross Unrealized Losses	0		(1,129,000)
Total held to maturity, Fair Value	133,982,000		122,158,000
Total held to maturity, Carrying Value	115,109,000		115,995,000
Total available for sale, Amortized Cost	10,639,047,000		10,737,198,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Gains	632,430,000		449,840,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Losses	(74,549,000)		(93,879,000)
Total available for sale, Fair Value	11,196,928,000		11,093,159,000
Total available for sale, Carrying Value	11,196,928,000		11,093,159,000
Total investment in fixed maturity securities, Amortized Cost	10,754,156,000		10,853,193,000
Total investments in fixed maturity securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	651,303,000		457,132,000
Total investments in fixed maturity securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(74,549,000)		(95,008,000)
Total investments in fixed maturity securities, Fair Value	11,330,910,000		11,215,317,000
Total investments in fixed maturity securities, carrying value	11,312,037,000		11,209,154,000
Minimum ownership of Common stockholders equity	10.00%
U.S. Government And Government Agency [Member]
Total available for sale, Amortized Cost	906,924,000		1,289,669,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Gains	69,920,000		58,658,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Losses	(351,000)		(452,000)
Total available for sale, Fair Value	976,493,000		1,347,875,000
Total available for sale, Carrying Value	976,493,000		1,347,875,000
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Total available for sale, Amortized Cost	5,031,275,000		5,302,513,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Gains	308,345,000		203,221,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Losses	(16,550,000)		(44,288,000)
Total available for sale, Fair Value	5,323,070,000		5,461,446,000
Total available for sale, Carrying Value	5,323,070,000		5,461,446,000
Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Total available for sale, Amortized Cost	1,416,427,000	[1]	1,319,289,000	[1]
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Gains	75,635,000	[1]	52,165,000	[1]
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Losses	(15,894,000)	[1]	(13,278,000)	[1]
Total available for sale, Fair Value	1,476,168,000	[1]	1,358,176,000	[1]
Total available for sale, Carrying Value	1,476,168,000	[1]	1,358,176,000	[1]
Non-credit portion of other-than-temporary impairments ("OTTI")	7,668,000		4,064,000
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Total available for sale, Amortized Cost	105,383,000		57,057,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Gains	4,054,000		2,207,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Losses	(1,018,000)		(5,594,000)
Total available for sale, Fair Value	108,419,000		53,670,000
Total available for sale, Carrying Value	108,419,000		53,670,000
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Total available for sale, Amortized Cost	2,328,200,000		2,055,513,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Gains	132,311,000		93,789,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Losses	(36,087,000)		(29,379,000)
Total available for sale, Fair Value	2,424,424,000		2,119,923,000
Total available for sale, Carrying Value	2,424,424,000		2,119,923,000
Foreign [Member]
Total available for sale, Amortized Cost	850,838,000		713,157,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Gains	42,165,000		39,800,000
Total available for sale, Gross Unrealized Losses	(4,649,000)		(888,000)
Total available for sale, Fair Value	888,354,000		752,069,000
Total available for sale, Carrying Value	888,354,000		752,069,000
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Total held to maturity, Amortized Cost	74,354,000		71,998,000
Total held to maturity, Gross Unrealized Gains	12,546,000		3,440,000
Total held to maturity, Gross Unrealized Losses	0		(1,129,000)
Total held to maturity, Fair Value	86,900,000		74,309,000
Total held to maturity, Carrying Value	74,354,000		71,998,000
Residential Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Total held to maturity, Amortized Cost	35,759,000		39,002,000
Total held to maturity, Gross Unrealized Gains	5,610,000		3,667,000
Total held to maturity, Gross Unrealized Losses	0		0
Total held to maturity, Fair Value	41,369,000		42,669,000
Total held to maturity, Carrying Value	35,759,000		39,002,000
Corporate Debt Securities [Member]
Total held to maturity, Amortized Cost	4,996,000		4,995,000
Total held to maturity, Gross Unrealized Gains	717,000		185,000
Total held to maturity, Gross Unrealized Losses	0		0
Total held to maturity, Fair Value	5,713,000		5,180,000
Total held to maturity, Carrying Value	$ 4,996,000		$ 4,995,000

[1] Gross unrealized losses for mortgage-backed securities include $7,668,000 and $4,064,000, as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, related to the non-credit portion of OTTI recognized in other comprehensive income.

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Compensation Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Compensation Plans [Abstract]
Profit Sharing Plan Minimum Contribution, Percent	5.00%
Profit Sharing Plan, Contributions Vesting Immediately, Percent	40.00%
Profit Sharing Plan, Contributions Vesting Based on Years of Service, Percent	60.00%
Profit Sharing Expense	$ 27,000,000	$ 29,000,000	$ 25,000,000
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Period of Measurement for Book Value Per Share	5 years
LTIP Expense	10,241,000	10,189,000	7,563,000
2006 grant [Member]
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan, Earned	30,700,000
Number of years long-term compensation was earned		5 years
LTIP Expense	0	5,119,000	3,816,000
2008 grant [Member]
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan, Number of Units Oustanding	158,500
Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan, Maximum Value	39,600,000
Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan, Earned	17,300,000
Number of years long-term compensation was earned	4 years
LTIP Expense	4,597,000	5,070,000	3,747,000
2011 grant [Member]
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]
Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan, Number of Units Oustanding	193,600
Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan, Maximum Value	48,400,000
Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan, Earned	5,600,000
LTIP Expense	$ 5,644,000	$ 0	$ 0

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Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information

The following is a summary of quarterly financial data (in thousands except per share data):

	2011
Three Months Ended	March 31		June 30		September 30		December 31
Revenues	$	1,234,351	$	1,270,949	$	1,279,731	$	1,370,953
Net income	116,487		83,082		77,308		117,926
Net income per share(1)
Basic	0.83		0.59		0.56		0.86
Diluted	0.79		0.56		0.53		0.82

	2010
Three Months Ended	March 31		June 30		September 30		December 31
Revenues	$	1,153,547	$	1,163,068	$	1,176,112	$	1,231,342
Net income	118,610		110,207		93,619		126,851
Net income per share(1)
Basic	0.77		0.73		0.64		0.88
Diluted	0.74		0.70		0.61		0.85

_______________________________________

(1) Net income per share (“EPS”) in each quarter is computed using the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during that quarter, while EPS for the full year is computed using the weighted-average number of shares outstanding during the year. Thus, the sum of the four quarters EPS does not necessarily equal the full-year EPS.

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Dividends From Subsidiaries And Statutory Financial Information (Unaudited) (Schedule of Combined Net Income and Policyholders' Surplus in Accordance with Statutory Accounting Practices) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Insurance [Abstract]
Amount available for dividend distribution without prior approval from regulatory authorities	$ 417,000,000
Net income	417,441,000	574,181,000	407,449,000
Policyholders' surplus	$ 4,107,745,000	$ 4,154,654,000	$ 3,859,086,000

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Industry Segments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Industry Segments Disclosure [Abstract]

Industry Segments

Industry Segments

The Company’s operations are presently conducted in five segments of the insurance business: Specialty, Regional, Alternative Markets, Reinsurance and International.

Our Specialty lines companies underwrite risks within the excess and surplus lines market and on an admitted basis. The risks are highly complex, often unique exposures that typically fall outside the underwriting guidelines of the standard insurance market or are best served by specialized knowledge of a particular industry. The Specialty lines of business include premises operations, commercial automobile, property, products liability and professional liability lines. The customers in this segment are highly diverse. Business is conducted through 20operating units, each delivering their products through a variety of distribution channels, depending on the customer base and particular risks insured.

Our Regional companies provide insurance products and services that meet the specific needs of each regionally differentiated customer base by developing expertise in the niches that drive local communities. They provide commercial insurance products to customers primarily in 45 states and the District of Columbia. Key clients of this segment are small-to-mid-sized businesses and state and local governmental entities. The Regional business is sold through a network of non-exclusive independent agents who are compensated on a commission basis. Our Regional operating units are organized geographically in order to provide them with the flexibility to adapt quickly to local market conditions and customer needs.

Our Alternative Markets operating units offer insurance products, analytical tools and risk management services such as loss control and claims management that enable clients to select their risk tolerance and manage it appropriately. These units specialize in insuring, reinsuring and administering self-insurance programs and other alternative risk transfer mechanisms for clients such as commercial and governmental entity employers, employer groups, insurers, and other groups or entities seeking alternative ways to manage their exposure to risks. In addition to providing insurance products, the Alternative Markets segment also provides a wide variety of fee-based services, including claims, administrative and consulting services.

Our Reinsurance companies provide other insurance companies and self-insureds with assistance in managing their net risk through reinsurance on either a portfolio basis, through treaty reinsurance, or on an individual basis, through facultative reinsurance.

Our International operating units write business in almost 40 countries worldwide, with branches or offices in 15 locations outside the United States, including the United Kingdom, Continental Europe, South America, Australia, the Asia Pacific region, Scandinavia and Canada. In each of our international operating territories, we have built decentralized structures that allow products and services to be tailored to each regional customer base. Our international businesses are managed by teams of professionals with expertise in local markets and knowledge of regional environments.

The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. Income tax expense and benefits are calculated based upon the Company’s overall effective tax rate.

Summary financial information about the Company’s operating segments is presented in the following table. Income (loss) before income taxes by segment consists of revenues less expenses related to the respective segment’s operations, including allocated investment income. Identifiable assets by segment are those assets used in or allocated to the operation of each segment.

	Revenues
(Dollars in thousands)	Earned Premiums		Investment Income		Other			Total			Pre-Tax Income (Loss)			Net Income (Loss)
December 31, 2011:
Specialty	$	1,442,748	$	175,289	$	2,704		$	1,620,741		$	292,759		$	211,871
Regional	1,065,975		75,404		4,112			1,145,491			32,382			30,331
Alternative markets	612,558		121,360		86,031			819,949			146,030			109,859
Reinsurance	426,008		91,871		—			517,879			83,251			65,422
International	613,578		42,882		—			656,460			40,084			26,055
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	—		19,545		250,438			269,983			(201,704		)	(130,382		)
Net investment gains	—		—		125,481			125,481			125,481			81,647
Consolidated	$	4,160,867	$	526,351	$	468,766		$	5,155,984		$	518,283		$	394,803
December 31, 2010:
Specialty	$	1,288,373	$	180,063	$	3,130		$	1,471,566		$	296,645		$	214,769
Regional	1,066,922		82,411		3,114			1,152,447			117,353			86,325
Alternative markets	608,191		123,309		79,173			810,673			178,607			131,126
Reinsurance	419,356		103,079		—			522,435			129,922			97,015
International	452,740		32,794		—			485,534			21,174			14,838
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	—		8,869		215,964			224,833			(196,977		)	(131,660		)
Net investment gains	—		—		56,581			56,581			56,581			36,874
Consolidated	$	3,835,582	$	530,525	$	357,962		$	4,724,069		$	603,305		$	449,287
December 31, 2009:
Specialty	$	1,354,355	$	125,351	$	3,560		$	1,483,266		$	220,906		$	167,732
Regional	1,116,871		57,530		2,725			1,177,126			106,078			80,031
Alternative markets	597,932		83,719		87,032			768,683			162,875			121,993
Reinsurance	411,511		75,505		—			487,016			86,358			70,675
International	325,180		26,767		—			351,947			22,719			14,676
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	—		10,136		191,412			201,548			(178,298		)	(121,176		)
Net investment losses	—		—		(38,408		)	(38,408		)	(38,408		)	(24,874		)
Consolidated	$	3,805,849	$	379,008	$	246,321		$	4,431,178		$	382,230		$	309,057

Identifiable assets by segment were as follows (dollars in thousands):

December 31,	2011		2010
Specialty	$	6,180,996	$	5,854,256
Regional	2,534,875		2,616,238
Alternative markets	4,050,949		3,801,597
Reinsurance	2,734,277		2,972,988
International	1,576,707		1,391,604
Corporate, other and eliminations(1)	1,409,927		891,864
Consolidated	$	18,487,731	$	17,528,547

_______________________________________

(1) Corporate, other and eliminations represent corporate revenues and expenses, net investment gains and losses and other items that are not allocated to business segments.

Net premiums earned by major line of business are as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Specialty
Other liability	$	454,582	$	384,799	$	449,120
Property	237,762		212,164		199,746
Professional liability	229,281		200,219		173,201
Commercial automobile	141,800		129,505		189,501
Products liability	96,794		112,072		131,713
Other	282,529		249,614		211,074
Total specialty	1,442,748		1,288,373		1,354,355
Regional
Commercial multi peril	394,168		389,997		405,552
Commercial automobile	289,098		301,290		322,445
Workers’ compensation	219,639		214,857		229,066
Other	163,070		160,778		159,808
Total regional	1,065,975		1,066,922		1,116,871
Alternative Markets
Primary workers’ compensation	271,173		260,508		242,259
Excess workers’ compensation	164,173		216,647		252,196
Accident and health	105,128		57,915		36,414
Other liability	28,960		24,726		23,412
Other	43,124		48,395		43,651
Total alternative markets	612,558		608,191		597,932
Reinsurance
Casualty	307,051		307,474		323,479
Property	118,957		111,882		88,032
Total reinsurance	426,008		419,356		411,511
International
Professional liability	90,871		88,997		84,101
Property	151,177		80,105		26,119
Reinsurance	104,851		74,047		56,454
Automobile	72,723		69,875		64,969
Workers’ compensation	73,823		57,802		46,698
Other liability	52,189		38,344		25,736
Other	67,944		43,570		21,103
Total international	613,578		452,740		325,180
Total	$	4,160,867	$	3,835,582	$	3,805,849

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Reserves For Losses And Loss Expenses (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Insurance Loss Reserves [Abstract]

Schedule of Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense

The table below provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending reserve balances:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Net reserves at beginning of year	$	7,999,521		$	8,147,782		$	8,122,586
Net provision for losses and loss expenses:
Claims occuring during the current year(1)	2,791,860			2,509,933			2,518,849
Decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years(2)(3)	(181,282		)	(253,248		)	(234,008		)
Loss reserve discount accretion	47,787			53,182			51,866
Total	2,658,365			2,309,867			2,336,707
Net payments for claims:
Current year	765,440			641,570			582,605
Prior year	1,721,558			1,811,507			1,751,026
Total	2,486,998			2,453,077			2,333,631
Foreign currency translation	1,224			(5,051		)	22,120
Net reserves at end of year	8,172,112			7,999,521			8,147,782
Ceded reserve at end of year	1,165,022			1,017,028			923,889
Gross reserves at end of year	$	9,337,134		$	9,016,549		$	9,071,671

_______________________________________

(1) Claims occurring during the current year are net of loss reserve discounts of $43,286,000, $67,763,000 and $80,455,000 in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

(2) The decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years is net of loss reserve discount. On an undiscounted basis, the estimates for claims occurring in prior years decreased by $182,937,000, $246,941,000 and $232,040,000 in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

(3) For certain retrospectively rated insurance polices and reinsurance agreements, reserve development is offset by additional or return premiums. Favorable reserve development, net of additional and return premiums, was $182 million, $234 million and $190 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

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Reinsurance

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]

Reinsurance

Reinsurance

The following is a summary of reinsurance financial information:

	Year Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Written premiums:
Direct	$	4,370,092		$	3,788,251		$	3,599,836
Assumed	707,221			627,826			653,603
Ceded	(719,945		)	(565,151		)	(523,344		)
Total net written premiums	$	4,357,368		$	3,850,926		$	3,730,095
Earned premiums:
Direct	$	4,164,277		$	3,744,150		$	3,690,493
Assumed	669,593			652,485			617,143
Ceded	(673,003		)	(561,053		)	(501,787		)
Total net earned premiums	$	4,160,867		$	3,835,582		$	3,805,849
Ceded losses incurred	$	458,249		$	379,153		$	252,299

The Company reinsures a portion of its exposures principally to reduce its net liability on individual risks and to protect against catastrophic losses. Estimated amounts due from reinsurers are reported net of reserves for uncollectible reinsurance of $3,169,000, $3,098,000 and $4,430,000 as of December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The following table presents the amounts due from reinsurers as of December 31, 2011 (dollars in thousands):

Reinsurer	Amount
Munich Re	$	163,420
Swiss Re	72,690
Transatlantic Re	64,619
Partner Re	60,769
Berkshire Hathaway	56,042
Axis Capital	54,121
Lloyd’s of London	52,859
Ace Group	43,463
Hannover Re Group	33,262
Arch Capital Group	22,984
Other reinsurers less then $20,000	224,380
Subtotal	848,609
Residual market pools	367,070
Total	$	1,215,679

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Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant (Statements of Cash Flows (Parent Company)) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 394,803	$ 449,287	$ 309,057
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	88,012	82,867	78,875
Stock incentive plans	27,175	27,407	24,465
Change in:
Other liabilities	10,269	19,514	123,687
Net cash from operating activities	670,279	451,316	316,054
Cash from (used in) investing activities:
Proceeds from sales of fixed maturity securities	1,293,876	1,554,906	2,436,258
Proceeds from maturities and prepayments of fixed maturity securities	1,697,144	1,374,378	1,214,157
Proceeds from sales of equity securities	159,827	137,990	188,646
Cost of purchases of fixed maturity securities	(2,815,340)	(2,755,449)	(4,869,368)
Investment in funds	(113,913)	(53,979)	(87,011)
Change in balance due to security broker	(16,194)	(297)	144,023
Net additions to property, furniture & equipment	(45,320)	(49,605)	(30,455)
Net cash from (used in) investing activities	(204,274)	37,347	(1,116,234)
Cash from (used in) financing activities:
Net proceeds from issuance of senior notes	0	309,030	333,589
Net proceeds from stock options exercised	21,963	17,730	5,426
Purchase of common treasury shares	(187,163)	(471,007)	(147,144)
Cash dividends to common stockholders	(43,253)	(49,348)	(28,843)
Other, net	14,550	(2,795)	21,522
Net cash from (used in) financing activities	(195,213)	(359,075)	173,385
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	268,790	127,522	(619,405)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	642,952	515,430	1,134,835
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	911,742	642,952	515,430
Parent Company [Member]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	394,803	449,287	309,057
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:
Net investment (gains) losses	(45,962)	1,891	(20,961)
Depreciation and amortization	4,905	3,963	2,279
Equity in undistributed (earnings) losses of subsidiaries	(74,738)	(372,577)	(245,370)
Tax payments received from subsidiaries	139,011	106,284	103,356
Federal income taxes provided by subsidiaries on a separate return basis	(79,200)	(28,377)	(117,133)
Stock incentive plans	27,176	26,318	24,078
Change in:
Federal income taxes	56,542	29,332	62,753
Other assets	(542)	16,430	(381)
Other liabilities	(6,747)	11,467	11,661
Accrued investment income	1,559	(2,776)	(137)
Other, net	277	0	(603)
Net cash from operating activities	417,084	241,242	128,599
Cash from (used in) investing activities:
Proceeds from sales of fixed maturity securities	70,665	164,920	29,355
Proceeds from maturities and prepayments of fixed maturity securities	165,158	85,695	47,133
Proceeds from sales of equity securities	47,735	3	17,897
Cost of purchases of fixed maturity securities	(240,536)	(195,646)	(353,944)
Investment in funds	0	0	5,204
Investments in and advances to subsidiaries, net	(3,867)	(18,685)	(29,179)
Change in balance due to security broker	(5,983)	(8,500)	14,483
Net additions to property, furniture & equipment	(643)	(1,212)	(224)
Other, net	0	0	1
Net cash from (used in) investing activities	32,529	26,575	(269,274)
Cash from (used in) financing activities:
Net proceeds from issuance of senior notes	0	296,636	297,461
Net proceeds from stock options exercised	21,966	17,730	5,426
Repayments of senior notes	0	(150,000)	0
Purchase of common treasury shares	(187,163)	(471,007)	(147,144)
Cash dividends to common stockholders	(43,255)	(49,348)	(28,843)
Other, net	0	0	0
Net cash from (used in) financing activities	(208,452)	(355,989)	126,900
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	241,161	(88,172)	(13,775)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	29,476	117,648	131,423
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$ 270,637	$ 29,476	$ 117,648

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Common Stockholders' Equity

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Equity [Abstract]

Common Stockholders' Equity

Common Stockholders’ Equity

The weighted average number of shares used in the computation of net income per share was as follows:

(Amounts in thousands)	2011	2010	2009
Basic	139,688	148,752	160,357
Diluted	145,672	155,081	166,574

Treasury shares have been excluded from average outstanding shares from the date of acquisition. The difference in calculating basic and diluted net income per share is attributable entirely to the dilutive effect of stock-based compensation plans.

Changes in shares of common stock outstanding, net of treasury shares, are presented below. Shares of common stock issued and outstanding do not include shares related to unissued restricted stock units and unexercised stock options.

(Amounts in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Balance, beginning of year	141,010		156,552		161,467
Shares issued	2,702		2,272		1,467
Shares repurchased	(6,192	)	(17,814	)	(6,382	)
Balance, end of year	137,520		141,010		156,552

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Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Carrying Amounts and Estimated Fair Values of Financial Instruments) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009	Dec. 31, 2008
Assets
Fixed maturity securities	$ 11,312,037	$ 11,209,154
Fixed maturity securities, fair value	11,330,910	11,215,317
Equity securities available for sale	443,439	561,053
Equity securities available for sale, fair value	443,439	561,053
Arbitrage trading account	397,312	359,192
Arbitrage trading account, fair value	397,312	359,192
Loans receivable	263,187	353,583
Loans receivable, fair value	245,169	312,515
Cash and cash equivalents	911,742	642,952	515,430	1,134,835
Cash and cash equivalents, fair value	911,742	642,952
Trading account receivable from brokers and clearing organizations	318,240	339,235
Trading account receivables from brokers and clearing organizations, fair value	318,240	339,235
Due from broker	10,875	0
Due from broker fair value	10,875	0
Liabilities
Trading account securities sold but not yet purchased	62,514	53,494
Trading account securities sold but not yet purchased, fair value	62,514	53,494
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997	242,784
Junior subordinated debentures, fair value	258,400	249,900
Senior notes and other debt	1,500,503	1,500,419
Senior notes and other debt, fair value	$ 1,587,473	$ 1,570,057

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Securities In An Unrealized Loss Position (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Securities In An Unrealized Loss Position [Abstract]

Securities In An Unrealized Loss Position

The following table summarizes all securities in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011 and 2010 by the length of time those securities have been continuously in an unrealized loss position.

	Less Than 12 Months				12 Months or Greater				Total
(Dollars in thousands)	Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses		Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Losses
December 31, 2011
U.S. government and government agency	$	24,668	$	169	$	4,800	$	182	$	29,468	$	351
State and municipal	131,417		827		183,205		15,723		314,622		16,550
Mortgage-backed securities	172,729		2,439		94,243		14,473		266,972		16,912
Corporate	341,764		8,327		125,654		27,760		467,418		36,087
Foreign	197,560		4,078		7,159		571		204,719		4,649
Fixed maturity securities	868,138		15,840		415,061		58,709		1,283,199		74,549
Common stocks	47,098		2,888		—		—		47,098		2,888
Preferred stocks	23,782		125		45,314		14,740		69,096		14,865
Equity securities available for sale	70,880		3,013		45,314		14,740		116,194		17,753
Total	$	939,018	$	18,853	$	460,375	$	73,449	$	1,399,393	$	92,302
December 31, 2010
U.S. government and government agency	$	60,228	$	420	$	6,973	$	32	$	67,201	$	452
State and municipal	951,119		26,577		156,617		18,840		1,107,736		45,417
Mortgage-backed securities	116,194		2,809		174,163		16,063		290,357		18,872
Corporate	342,929		6,581		155,259		22,798		498,188		29,379
Foreign	110,189		888		—		—		110,189		888
Fixed maturity securities	1,580,659		37,275		493,012		57,733		2,073,671		95,008
Common stocks	58,979		989		—		—		58,979		989
Preferred stocks	27,010		2,368		76,890		8,307		103,900		10,675
Equity securities available for sale	85,989		3,357		76,890		8,307		162,879		11,664
Total	$	1,666,648	$	40,632	$	569,902	$	66,040	$	2,236,550	$	106,672

Non-Investment Grade Fixed Maturity Securities

Fixed Maturity Securities — A summary of the Company’s non-investment grade fixed maturity securities that were in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2011 is presented in the table below:

(Dollars in thousands)	Number of Securities	Aggregate Fair Value		Gross Unrealized Loss
Unrealized loss less than $5 million:
Mortgage-backed securities	15	$	106,923	$	6,115
Corporate	13	48,106		3,461
State and municipal	5	42,197		4,553
Foreign	1	586		12
Unrealized loss $5 million or more:
Mortgage-backed security(1)	1	15,945		7,158
Total	35	$	213,757	$	21,299

_______________________________________

(1) This investment is a residential mortgage-backed security that was evaluated based on the performance of the underlying collateral under various economic and default scenarios. The security has met its contractual obligations and theCompany expects that it will continue to meet those contractual payment obligations as they become due. Based on this evaluation, the Company does not consider the investment to be OTTI.

Roll-Forward Of Portion Of Impairments

	For the Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010
Beginning balance of amounts related to credit losses	$	4,261	$	5,661
Additions for amounts related to credit losses	—		—
Deductions for amounts related to credit loss sales	—		(1,400		)
Ending balance of amounts related to credit losses	$	4,261	$	4,261

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Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Net Benefit Costs) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Interest cost	$ 2,716	$ 2,675	$ 2,631
Amortization of unrecognized:
Prior service costs	3,023	3,023	3,023
Net actuarial loss	1,330	424	0
Net periodic pension cost	$ 7,069	$ 6,122	$ 5,654

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Principles of consolidation and basis of presentation

Principles of consolidation and basis of presentation

The consolidated financial statements, which include the accounts of W. R. Berkley Corporation and its subsidiaries (the "Company"), have been prepared on the basis of U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. Reclassifications have been made in the 2010 and 2009 financial statements to conform to the presentation of the 2011 financial statements. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the revenues and expenses reflected during the reporting period. The most significant items on our balance sheet that involve a greater degree of accounting estimates that are subject to change in the future are the valuation of investments, other than temporary impairments, loss and loss adjustment expense reserves and premium estimates. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Revenue recognition

Revenue recognition

Insurance premiums are recognized as written at the inception of the policy. Reinsurance premiums are estimated based upon information received from ceding companies, and subsequent differences from such estimates are recorded in the period they are determined. Insurance and reinsurance premiums are primarily earned on a pro rata basis over the policy term. Fees for services are earned over the period that the services are provided.

Audit premiums are recognized when they are reliably determinable. The change in accruals for earned but unbilled audit premiums increased net premiums written and premiums earned by $1 million in 2011, and decreased net premiums written and premiums earned by $7 million and $23 million in 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Revenues from wholly-owned investees are derived from services provided to the general aviation market, including fuel and line service, aircraft sales and maintenance, avionics and engineering services and parts fabrication. Revenue is recognized upon delivery of aircraft, delivery of fuel, shipment of parts and upon completion of services.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash equivalents consist of funds invested in money market accounts and investments with an effective maturity of three months or less when purchased.

Investments

Investments

Fixed maturity securities classified as available for sale are carried at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of applicable income taxes, excluded from earnings and reported as a component of comprehensive income and a separate component of stockholders' equity. Fixed maturity securities that the Company has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held to maturity and reported at amortized cost. Investment income from fixed maturity securities is recognized based on the constant effective yield method. Premiums and discounts on mortgage-backed securities are adjusted for the effects of actual and anticipated prepayments on a retrospective basis.

Equity securities classified as available for sale are carried at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of applicable income taxes, excluded from earnings and reported as a component of comprehensive income and a separate component of stockholders' equity.

Equity securities that the Company purchased with the intent to sell in the near-term are classified as trading account securities and are reported at estimated fair value. Realized and unrealized gains and losses from trading activity are reported as net investment income and are recorded at the trade date. Short sales and short call options are presented as trading securities sold but not yet purchased. Unsettled trades and the net margin balances held by the clearing broker are presented as a trading account receivable from brokers and clearing organizations.

Investment funds are carried under the equity method of accounting. For certain investment funds, the Company's share of the earnings or losses is reported on a one-quarter lag in order to facilitate the timely completion of the Company's consolidated financial statements.

Loans receivable represent commercial real estate mortgage loans and bank loans and are carried at amortized cost. The Company monitors the performance of its loans receivable and establishes an allowance for loan losses for loans where the Company determines it is probable that the contractual terms will not be met, with a corresponding charge to earnings. For loans that are evaluated individually and deemed to be impaired, the Company establishes a specific allowance based on a discounted cash flow analysis and comparable cost and sales methodologies, if appropriate. Individual loans that are not considered impaired and smaller-balance homogeneous loans are evaluated collectively and a general allowance is established if it is considered probable that a loss has been incurred.

The accrual of interest on loans receivable is discontinued if the loan is 90 days past due based on the contractual terms of the loan unless the loan is adequately secured and in process of collection. In general, loans are placed on non-accrual status or charged off at an earlier date if collection of principal or interest is considered doubtful. Interest on these loans is accounted for on a cash basis until qualifying for return to accrual status. Loans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured.

Fair value is generally determined based on quoted market prices. For publicly traded securities for which quoted prices are unavailable, the Company determines fair value based on independent broker quotations and other observable market data. For securities traded only in private negotiations, the Company determines fair value based primarily on the cost of such securities, which is adjusted to reflect prices of recent placements of securities of the same issuer, financial data, projections and business developments of the issuer and other relevant information.

Realized gains or losses represent the difference between the cost of securities sold and the proceeds realized upon sale and are recorded at the trade date. The Company uses primarily the first-in, first-out method to determine the cost of securities sold.

The cost of securities is adjusted where appropriate to include a provision for a decline in value which is considered to be other than temporary. An other-than-temporary decline is considered to occur in investments where there has been a sustained reduction in fair value and where the Company does not expect to recover the cost basis of the investment prior to the time of sale or maturity. Since equity securities do not have a contractual cash flow or a maturity, the Company considers whether the price of an equity security is expected to recover within a reasonable period of time.

For fixed maturity securities that the Company intends to sell or, more likely than not, would be required to sell, a decline in value below amortized cost is considered to be an other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”). The amount of OTTI is equal to the difference between amortized cost and fair value at the balance sheet date. For fixed maturity securities that the Company does not intend to sell or believes that it is more likely than not it would not be required to sell, a decline in value below amortized cost is considered to be an OTTI if the Company does not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of a security(i.e.,thepresent value of cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis of the security). The portion of the decline in value considered to be a credit loss (i.e., the difference between the present value of cash flows expected to be collected and the amortized cost basis of the security) is recognized in earnings. The portion of the decline in value not considered to be a credit loss (i.e., the difference in the present value of cash flows expected to be collected and the fair value of the security) is recognized in other comprehensive income.

Impairment assessments for structured securities, including mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities, collateralized debt obligations and corporate debt, are generally evaluated based on the performance of the underlying collateral under various economic and default scenarios that may involve subjective judgments and estimates by management. Modeling these securities involves various factors, such as projected default rates, the nature and realizable value of the collateral, if any, the ability of the issuer to make scheduled payments, historical performance and other relevant economic and performance factors. If an OTTI determination is made, a discounted cash flow analysis is used to ascertain the amount of the credit impairment.

Real estate held for investment purposes is initially recorded at the purchase price, which is generally fair value, and is subsequently reported at cost less accumulated depreciation. Real estate taxes, interest and other costs incurred during development and construction are capitalized. Buildings are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the building. Minimum rental income is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Income and expenses from real estate are reported as net investment income. The carrying value of real estate is reviewed for impairment and an impairment loss is recognized if the estimated undiscounted cash flows from the use and disposition of the property are less than the carrying value of the property.

Per share data

Per share data

The Company presents both basic and diluted net income per share (“EPS”) amounts. Basic EPS is calculated by dividing net income by weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS is based upon the weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the year and is calculated using the treasury stock method for stock incentive plans. Common equivalent shares are excluded from the computation in periods in which they have an anti-dilutive effect. Stock options for which the exercise price exceeds the average market price over the period have an anti-dilutive effect on EPS and, accordingly, are excluded from the calculation.

Deferred policy acquisition costs

Deferred policy acquisition costs

Acquisition costs incurred in writing insurance and reinsurance business (primarily commissions and premium taxes) are deferred and amortized ratably over the terms of the related contracts. Ceding commissions received on reinsurance contracts are netted against acquisition costs and are recognized ratably over the life of the contract. Deferred policy acquisition costs are presented net of unearned ceding commissions. Deferred policy acquisition costs are reviewed to determine if they are recoverable from future income and, if not, are charged to expense. The recoverability of deferred policy acquisition costs is evaluated separately by each of our operating companies for each of their major lines of business. Future investment income is taken into account in measuring the recoverability of deferred policy acquisition costs.

Reserves for losses and loss expenses

Reserves for losses and loss expenses

Reserves for losses and loss expenses are an accumulation of amounts determined on the basis of (1) evaluation of claims for business written directly by the Company; (2) estimates received from other companies for reinsurance assumed by the Company; and (3) estimates for losses incurred but not reported (based on Company and industry experience). These estimates are periodically reviewed and, as experience develops and new information becomes known, the reserves are adjusted as necessary. Such adjustments are reflected in the statements of income in the period in which they are determined. The Company discounts its reserves for excess and assumed workers' compensation claims using a risk-free or statutory rate.

Reinsurance ceded

Reinsurance ceded

The unearned portion of premiums ceded to reinsurers is reported as prepaid reinsurance premiums and earned ratably over the policy term. The estimated amounts of reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses are reported as due from reinsurers. To the extent any reinsurer does not meet its obligations under reinsurance agreements, the Company must discharge its liability. Amounts due from reinsurers are reflected net of funds held where the right of offset is present. The Company has provided reserves for estimated uncollectible reinsurance.

Deposit accounting

Deposit accounting

Contracts that do not meet the risk transfer requirements of GAAP are accounted for using the deposit accounting method. Under this method, an asset or liability is recognized at the inception of the contract based on consideration paid or received. The amount of the deposit asset or liability is adjusted at subsequent reporting dates using the interest method with a corresponding credit or charge to interest income or expense.

Federal and foreign income taxes

Federal and foreign income taxes

The Company files a consolidated income tax return in the U.S. and foreign tax returns in countries where it has overseas operations. The Company's method of accounting for income taxes is the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using tax rates currently in effect or expected to apply in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to reverse. Interest and penalties, if any, are reported as income tax expense. The Company believes there are no tax positions that would require disclosure under GAAP. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that all or a portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

Foreign currency

Foreign currency

Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions (transactions denominated in a currency other than the entity's functional currency) are reported on the statements of income as other operating costs and expenses. Unrealized gains or losses resulting from translating the results of non-U.S. dollar denominated operations are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income. Revenues and expenses denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars are translated at the weighted average exchange rate during the year. Assets and liabilities are translated at the rate of exchange in effect at the balance sheet date.

Property, furniture and equipment

Property, furniture and equipment

Property, furniture and equipment are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated using the estimated useful lives of the respective assets.

Comprehensive income

Comprehensive income

Comprehensive income encompasses all changes in stockholders' equity (except those arising from transactions with stockholders) and includes net income, net unrealized holding gains or losses on available for sale securities, unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments and changes in unrecognized pension obligations.

Goodwill and other intangible assets

Goodwill and other intangible assets

Goodwill and other intangibles assets are tested for impairment on an annual basis and at interim periods where circumstances require. The Company's impairment test as of December 31, 2011 indicated that there were minimal impairment losses related to goodwill and other intangible assets. Intangible assets of $29 million are included in other assets as of December 31, 2011 and 2010.

Stock options

Stock options

The costs resulting from all share-based payment transactions with employees are recognized in the consolidated financial statements using a fair-value-based measurement method.

Recent accounting pronouncements

Recent accounting pronouncements

In October 2010, the FASB (Financial Accounting Standards Board) issued guidance regarding the treatment of costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts. This guidance modifies the definition of the types of costs that can be capitalized and specifies that the costs must be directly related to the successful acquisition of a new or renewed insurance contract. This guidance is effective for the quarter ending March 31, 2012. The Company plans to apply this guidance retrospectively and estimates that the effect of adopting this guidance will be a reduction in common stockholders' equity of between $50 million and $60 million as of January 1, 2012.

All other recently issued but not yet effective accounting and reporting guidance is either not applicable to the Company, or is not expected to have a material impact on the Company.

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Supplemental Financial Statement Information (Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Supplemental Financial Statement Data [Abstract]
Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs	$ 1,034,400	$ 917,217	$ 903,154
Other underwriting expenses	398,532	397,266	345,309
Service company expenses	75,231	72,372	78,331
Net foreign currency (gains) losses	(1,884)	2,126	4,213
Other costs and expenses	115,050	107,381	109,831
Total	$ 1,621,329	$ 1,496,362	$ 1,440,838

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Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (USD $) In Thousands	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid In Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Unrealized Investment Gains (Losses) [Member]	Currency Translation Adjustments [Member]	Net Pension Asset [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Noncontrolling Interests [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Beginning of period at Dec. 31, 2008		$ 47,024	$ 920,241	$ 3,514,531	$ (142,216)	$ (72,475)	$ (14,268)	$ (1,206,518)	$ 5,361
Stock options exercised and restricted units issued, net of tax			(17,665)
Restricted stock units expensed			23,649
Stock exercised/vested			12					27,322
Stock issued to directors			122					630
Net income to common stockholders	309,080			309,057
Dividends				(38,401)
Unrealized gains on securities not other-than-temporarily impaired					365,136
Unrealized gains (losses) on other-than-temporarily impaired securities					(3,526)
Net change in period	32,104					32,104
Net change in period	(1,548)						(1,548)
Stock repurchased								(147,144)
Change in subsidiary shares									474
Net (income) loss	23								23
Other comprehensive income (loss) , net of tax	392,187								21
End of period at Dec. 31, 2009		47,024	926,359	3,785,187	219,394	(40,371)	(15,816)	(1,325,710)	5,879	163,207
Stock options exercised and restricted units issued, net of tax			(17,042)
Restricted stock units expensed			25,584
Stock exercised/vested			0					45,687
Stock issued to directors			198					536
Net income to common stockholders	449,566			449,287
Dividends				(39,790)
Unrealized gains on securities not other-than-temporarily impaired					114,468
Unrealized gains (losses) on other-than-temporarily impaired securities					885
Net change in period	(2,117)					(2,117)
Net change in period	120						120
Stock repurchased								(471,007)
Change in subsidiary shares									814
Net (income) loss	279								279
Other comprehensive income (loss) , net of tax	113,364								8
End of period at Dec. 31, 2010	3,709,856	47,024	935,099	4,194,684	334,747	(42,488)	(15,696)	(1,750,494)	6,980	276,563
Stock options exercised and restricted units issued, net of tax			(20,601)
Restricted stock units expensed			26,303
Stock exercised/vested			0					56,303
Stock issued to directors			308					564
Net income to common stockholders	394,733			394,803
Dividends				(43,255)
Unrealized gains on securities not other-than-temporarily impaired					98,015
Unrealized gains (losses) on other-than-temporarily impaired securities					(2,343)
Net change in period	(18,751)					(18,751)
Net change in period	1,367						1,367
Stock repurchased								(187,163)
Change in subsidiary shares									671
Net (income) loss	(70)								(70)
Other comprehensive income (loss) , net of tax	78,233								(55)
End of period at Dec. 31, 2011	$ 4,015,952	$ 47,024	$ 941,109	$ 4,546,232	$ 430,419	$ (61,239)	$ (14,329)	$ (1,880,790)	$ 7,526	$ 354,851

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Junior Subordinated Debentures (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Junior subordinated debentures, aggregate principal amount	$ 1,510,829,000
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997,000	242,784,000
Trust Preferred Securities Subject To Mandatory Redemption [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Junior subordinated debentures, interest rate, stated percentage	6.75%
Junior Subordinated Debentures [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Junior subordinated debentures, aggregate principal amount	250,000,000
Junior subordinated debentures, interest rate, stated percentage	6.75%
Junior subordinated debentures	$ 243,000,000

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Investments In Fixed Maturity Securities

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Investments in Fixed Maturity Securities [Abstract]

Investments In Fixed Maturity Securities

Investments in Fixed Maturity Securities

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, investments in fixed maturity securities were as follows:

(Dollars in thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Carrying Value
December 31, 2011
Held to maturity:
State and municipal	$	74,354	$	12,546	$	—		$	86,900	$	74,354
Residential mortgage-backed securities	35,759		5,610		—			41,369		35,759
Corporate	4,996		717		—			5,713		4,996
Total held to maturity	115,109		18,873		—			133,982		115,109
Available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	906,924		69,920		(351		)	976,493		976,493
State and municipal	5,031,275		308,345		(16,550		)	5,323,070		5,323,070
Mortgage-backed securities:
Residential(1)	1,416,427		75,635		(15,894		)	1,476,168		1,476,168
Commercial	105,383		4,054		(1,018		)	108,419		108,419
Corporate	2,328,200		132,311		(36,087		)	2,424,424		2,424,424
Foreign	850,838		42,165		(4,649		)	888,354		888,354
Total available for sale	10,639,047		632,430		(74,549		)	11,196,928		11,196,928
Total investment in fixed maturity securities	$	10,754,156	$	651,303	$	(74,549	)	$	11,330,910	$	11,312,037

(Dollars in thousands)	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value		Carrying Value
December 31, 2010
Held to maturity:
State and municipal	$	71,998	$	3,440	$	(1,129	)	$	74,309	$	71,998
Residential mortgage-backed securities	39,002		3,667		—			42,669		39,002
Corporate	4,995		185		—			5,180		4,995
Total held to maturity	115,995		7,292		(1,129		)	122,158		115,995
Available for sale:
U.S. government and government agency	1,289,669		58,658		(452		)	1,347,875		1,347,875
State and municipal	5,302,513		203,221		(44,288		)	5,461,446		5,461,446
Mortgage-backed securities:
Residential(1)	1,319,289		52,165		(13,278		)	1,358,176		1,358,176
Commercial	57,057		2,207		(5,594		)	53,670		53,670
Corporate	2,055,513		93,789		(29,379		)	2,119,923		2,119,923
Foreign	713,157		39,800		(888		)	752,069		752,069
Total available for sale	10,737,198		449,840		(93,879		)	11,093,159		11,093,159
Total investment in fixed maturity securities	$	10,853,193	$	457,132	$	(95,008	)	$	11,215,317	$	11,209,154

_______________________________________

(1) Gross unrealized losses for mortgage-backed securities include $7,668,000 and $4,064,000, as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, related to the non-credit portion of OTTI recognized in other comprehensive income.

The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturity securities at December 31, 2011, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because certain issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations:

(Dollars in thousands)	Amortized Cost		Fair Value
Due in one year or less	$	731,638	$	742,334
Due after one year through five years	3,057,341		3,202,556
Due after five years through ten years	2,646,432		2,864,395
Due after ten years	2,761,176		2,895,669
Mortgage-backed securities	1,557,569		1,625,956
Total	$	10,754,156	$	11,330,910

At December 31, 2011 and 2010, there were no investments, other than investments in United States government and government agency securities, which exceeded 10% of common stockholders’ equity. At December 31, 2011, investments with a carrying value of $912 million were on deposit in custodial or trust accounts, of which $664 million was on deposit with state insurance departments, $155 million was on deposit in support of the Company’s underwriting activities at Lloyd’s, $64 million was on deposit as security for reinsurance clients and $29 million was on deposit as security for letters of credit issued in support of the Company’s reinsurance operations.

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Stock Incentive Plan (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Stock Incentive Plan [Abstract]

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity

The Company has not issued any stock options under its stock incentive plan since 2004. All outstanding options are vested and exercisable. The following table summarizes stock option information:

	2011			2010			2009
	Shares	Price(1)		Shares	Price(1)		Shares	Price(1)
Outstanding at beginning of year	3,503,384	$	10.42	5,700,552	$	9.53	6,566,377	$	9.06
Exercised	2,185,952	10.05		2,191,260	8.11		860,074	5.93
Cancelled	3,375	10.07		5,908	10.07		5,751	10.85
Outstanding at year end	1,314,057	$	11.04	3,503,384	$	10.42	5,700,552	$	9.53

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(1) Weighted average exercise price.

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2011:

	Options Outstanding and Exercisable
Range of Exercise Prices	Number Outstanding	Weighted Remaining Contractual Life (in years)	Weighted Average Price
$0 to $10.00	412,078	0.60	$	10.07
$10.01 to $17.62	901,979	0.32	11.48
Total	1,314,057	0.41	$	11.04

Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity

The following table summarizes RSU information for the three years ended December 31, 2011:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011		2010		2009
RSUs granted and unvested at beginning of period:	4,945,375		3,713,025		4,971,231
Granted	107,500		2,310,650		119,500
Vested	(576,050	)	(916,750	)	(1,287,943	)
Cancelled	(105,850	)	(161,550	)	(89,763	)
RSUs granted and unvested at end of period:	4,370,975		4,945,375		3,713,025

Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Unearned Compensation Related to RSU's

The fair value of RSUs at the date of grant are recorded as unearned compensation, a component of stockholders’ equity, and expensed over the vesting period. Following is a summary of changes in unearned compensation for the three years ended December 31, 2011:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Unearned compensation at beginning of year	$	76,139		$	46,801		$	68,503
RSUs granted, net of cancellations	2,832			58,462			2,783
RSUs expensed	(27,566		)	(27,035		)	(24,988		)
RSUs forfeiture adjustment	5,910			(2,089		)	503
Unearned compensation at end of year	$	57,315		$	76,139		$	46,801

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Fair Value Measurements (Summarize Changes in Level 3 Assets) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Beginning Balance	$ 182,255	$ 172,685
Earnings	29,065	22,332
Other Comprehensive Income	(31,735)	33,191
Purchases	15,540	42,361
Sales	(90,355)	(45,301)
Paydowns / Maturities	(22,318)	(17,113)
In	89	0
Out	0	(25,900)
Ending Balance	82,541	182,255
Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member]
Beginning Balance	91,005	56,272
Earnings	28,947	23,535
Other Comprehensive Income	(30,865)	31,633
Purchases	0	19,542
Sales	(75,225)	(39,977)
Paydowns / Maturities	0	0
In	0	0
Out	0	0
Ending Balance	13,862	91,005
Fixed Maturities Securities [Member]
Beginning Balance	88,063	116,060
Earnings	(454)	(850)
Other Comprehensive Income	(870)	1,558
Purchases	15,271	19,632
Sales	(11,864)	(5,324)
Paydowns / Maturities	(22,318)	(17,113)
In	0	0
Out	0	(25,900)
Ending Balance	67,828	88,063
Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member] | Fixed Maturities Securities [Member]
Beginning Balance		25,900
Earnings		0
Other Comprehensive Income		0
Purchases		0
Sales		0
Paydowns / Maturities		0
In		0
Out		(25,900)
Ending Balance		0
Corporate [Member] | Fixed Maturities Securities [Member]
Beginning Balance	88,063	90,160
Earnings	(454)	(850)
Other Comprehensive Income	(870)	1,558
Purchases	15,271	19,632
Sales	(11,864)	(5,324)
Paydowns / Maturities	(22,318)	(17,113)
In	0	0
Out	0	0
Ending Balance	67,828	88,063
Common Stocks [Member] | Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member]
Beginning Balance	1,559	1,559
Earnings	0	0
Other Comprehensive Income	0	0
Purchases	0	0
Sales	0	0
Paydowns / Maturities	0	0
In	0	0
Out	0	0
Ending Balance	1,559	1,559
Preferred Stocks [Member] | Equity Securities Available For Sale [Member]
Beginning Balance	89,446	54,713
Earnings	28,947	23,535
Other Comprehensive Income	(30,865)	31,633
Purchases	0	19,542
Sales	(75,225)	(39,977)
Paydowns / Maturities	0	0
In	0	0
Out	0	0
Ending Balance	12,303	89,446
Arbitrage Trading Account [Member]
Beginning Balance	3,187	353
Earnings	572	(353)
Other Comprehensive Income	0	0
Purchases	269	3,187
Sales	(3,266)	0
Paydowns / Maturities	0	0
In	89	0
Out	0	0
Ending Balance	851	3,187
Securities Sold But Not Yet Purchased [Member]
Beginning Balance	0
Earnings	40
Other Comprehensive Income	0
Purchases	67
Sales	(86)
Paydowns / Maturities	0
In	0
Out	0
Ending Balance	$ 21

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Retirement Benefits (Schedule of Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Net actuarial loss	$ 2,243,000	$ 3,264,000
Amortization of:
Net Actuarial loss	(1,330,000)	(424,000)
Prior service costs	(3,023,000)	(3,023,000)
Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)	(2,110,000)	(183,000)
Estimated prior service cost that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into periodic benefit cost during 2012	2,197,000
Estimated net actuarial loss that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into periodic benefit cost during 2012	$ 3,023,000

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Investments in Equity Securities Available for Sale (Investments in Equity Securities Available for Sale) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Cost	$ 342,393,000	$ 404,235,000
Gross Unrealized, Gains	118,799,000	168,482,000
Gross Unrealized, Losses	(17,753,000)	(11,664,000)
Fair Value	443,439,000	561,053,000
Carrying Value	443,439,000	561,053,000
Common Stocks [Member]
Cost	209,210,000	188,949,000
Gross Unrealized, Gains	113,660,000	128,096,000
Gross Unrealized, Losses	(2,888,000)	(989,000)
Fair Value	319,982,000	316,056,000
Carrying Value	319,982,000	316,056,000
Preferred Stocks [Member]
Cost	133,183,000	215,286,000
Gross Unrealized, Gains	5,139,000	40,386,000
Gross Unrealized, Losses	(14,865,000)	(10,675,000)
Fair Value	123,457,000	244,997,000
Carrying Value	$ 123,457,000	$ 244,997,000

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Fair Value Of Financial Instruments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Abstract]

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The following table presents the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments as of December 31, 2011 and 2010:

	2011				2010
(Dollars in thousands)	Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value
Assets:
Fixed maturity securities	$	11,312,037	$	11,330,910	$	11,209,154	$	11,215,317
Equity securities available for sale	443,439		443,439		561,053		561,053
Arbitrage trading account	397,312		397,312		359,192		359,192
Loans receivable	263,187		245,169		353,583		312,515
Cash and cash equivalents	911,742		911,742		642,952		642,952
Trading accounts receivable from brokers and clearing organizations	318,240		318,240		339,235		339,235
Due from broker	10,875		10,875		—		—
Liabilities:
Trading account securities sold but not yet purchased	62,514		62,514		53,494		53,494
Junior subordinated debentures	242,997		258,400		242,784		249,900
Senior notes and other debt	1,500,503		1,587,473		1,500,419		1,570,057

The estimated fair values of the Company’s fixed maturity securities, equity securities available for sale and arbitrage trading account securities are based on various valuation techniques. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for similar assets in active markets. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs may only be used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available. The fair value of loans receivable are estimated by using current institutional purchaser yield requirements for loans with similar credit characteristics. The fair value of the senior notes and other debt and the junior subordinated debentures is determined based on spreads for similar securities.

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Schedule IV - Reinsurance (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Direct Amount	$ 4,370,092	$ 3,788,251	$ 3,599,836
Ceded to Other Companies	719,945	565,151	523,345
Assumed from Other Companies	707,221	627,826	653,604
Net Amount	4,357,368	3,850,926	3,730,095
Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net	16.20%	16.30%	17.50%
Specialty Segment [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Direct Amount	1,774,871	1,492,589	1,443,728
Ceded to Other Companies	263,828	214,025	203,754
Assumed from Other Companies	43,473	33,267	20,477
Net Amount	1,554,516	1,311,831	1,260,451
Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net	2.80%	2.50%	1.60%
Regional Segment [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Direct Amount	1,143,706	1,155,970	1,217,365
Ceded to Other Companies	84,855	115,789	148,686
Assumed from Other Companies	5,656	4,166	12,421
Net Amount	1,064,507	1,044,347	1,081,100
Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net	0.50%	0.40%	1.10%
Alternative Markets Segment [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Direct Amount	760,339	619,832	567,767
Ceded to Other Companies	208,059	120,672	75,112
Assumed from Other Companies	66,817	82,885	96,982
Net Amount	619,097	582,045	589,637
Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net	10.80%	14.20%	16.40%
Reinsurance Segment [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Direct Amount	5,179	3,803	8,638
Ceded to Other Companies	22,841	24,058	32,544
Assumed from Other Companies	447,991	421,494	447,331
Net Amount	430,329	401,239	423,425
Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net	104.10%	105.00%	105.60%
International Segment [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Direct Amount	685,997	516,057	362,338
Ceded to Other Companies	140,362	90,607	63,249
Assumed from Other Companies	143,284	86,014	76,393
Net Amount	$ 688,919	$ 511,464	$ 375,482
Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net	20.80%	16.80%	20.30%

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Loans Receivable (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Loans Receivable [Line Items]
Total loans receivable, at cost	$ 263,187,000	$ 353,583,000
Valuation allowance	19,805,000	19,675,000
Impaired loans: With a valuation allowance, at cost	29,702,000	31,855,000
Impaired loans: Without a valuation allowance, at cost	30,357,000	30,685,000
Imparied loans: Unpaid principal balance	93,922,000	96,240,000
Increase in valuation allowance	130,000	6,090,000
Loans receivable charged off	759,000	140,000
Loans in nonaccrual status	30,000,000	21,000,000
Loans and Leases Receivable, Impaired, Interest Lost on Nonaccrual Loans	805,000	340,000
Aggregate amortized cost of six largest loans	187,000,000
Aggregate fair value of six largest loans	166,000,000
Aggregate cost basis of loans considered impaired, three of the largest six loans	58,000,000
Debt service coverage ratio	3.0
Specific Valuation Allowance [Member]
Loans Receivable [Line Items]
Valuation allowance	19,041,000	18,865,000
General Valuation Allowance [Member]
Loans Receivable [Line Items]
Valuation allowance	$ 764,000	$ 810,000

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Schedule IV - Reinsurance

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Supplemental Schedule of Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies [Abstract]

Schedule IV - Reinsurance

Schedule IV

W. R. Berkley Corporation and Subsidiaries

Reinsurance

Years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009

(Amounts in thousands, other than percentages)

	Premiums Written
	Direct Amount		Ceded to Other Companies		Assumed from Other Companies		Net Amount		Percentage of Amount Assumed to Net
Year ended December 31, 2011:
Specialty	$	1,774,871	$	263,828	$	43,473	$	1,554,516	2.8	%
Regional	1,143,706		84,855		5,656		1,064,507		0.5
Alternative markets	760,339		208,059		66,817		619,097		10.8
Reinsurance	5,179		22,841		447,991		430,329		104.1
International	685,997		140,362		143,284		688,919		20.8
Total	$	4,370,092	$	719,945	$	707,221	$	4,357,368	16.2	%
Year ended December 31, 2010:
Specialty	$	1,492,589	$	214,025	$	33,267	$	1,311,831	2.5	%
Regional	1,155,970		115,789		4,166		1,044,347		0.4
Alternative markets	619,832		120,672		82,885		582,045		14.2
Reinsurance	3,803		24,058		421,494		401,239		105.0
International	516,057		90,607		86,014		511,464		16.8
Total	$	3,788,251	$	565,151	$	627,826	$	3,850,926	16.3	%
Year ended December 31, 2009:
Specialty	$	1,443,728	$	203,754	$	20,477	$	1,260,451	1.6	%
Regional	1,217,365		148,686		12,421		1,081,100		1.1
Alternative markets	567,767		75,112		96,982		589,637		16.4
Reinsurance	8,638		32,544		447,331		423,425		105.6
International	362,338		63,249		76,393		375,482		20.3
Total	$	3,599,836	$	523,345	$	653,604	$	3,730,095	17.5	%

See accompanying Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

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Reserves For Losses And Loss Expenses

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Insurance Loss Reserves [Abstract]

Reserves For Losses And Loss Expenses

Reserves for Losses and Loss Expenses

The table below provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending reserve balances:

(Dollars in thousands)	2011			2010			2009
Net reserves at beginning of year	$	7,999,521		$	8,147,782		$	8,122,586
Net provision for losses and loss expenses:
Claims occuring during the current year(1)	2,791,860			2,509,933			2,518,849
Decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years(2)(3)	(181,282		)	(253,248		)	(234,008		)
Loss reserve discount accretion	47,787			53,182			51,866
Total	2,658,365			2,309,867			2,336,707
Net payments for claims:
Current year	765,440			641,570			582,605
Prior year	1,721,558			1,811,507			1,751,026
Total	2,486,998			2,453,077			2,333,631
Foreign currency translation	1,224			(5,051		)	22,120
Net reserves at end of year	8,172,112			7,999,521			8,147,782
Ceded reserve at end of year	1,165,022			1,017,028			923,889
Gross reserves at end of year	$	9,337,134		$	9,016,549		$	9,071,671

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(1) Claims occurring during the current year are net of loss reserve discounts of $43,286,000, $67,763,000 and $80,455,000 in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

(2) The decrease in estimates for claims occurring in prior years is net of loss reserve discount. On an undiscounted basis, the estimates for claims occurring in prior years decreased by $182,937,000, $246,941,000 and $232,040,000 in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

(3) For certain retrospectively rated insurance polices and reinsurance agreements, reserve development is offset by additional or return premiums. Favorable reserve development, net of additional and return premiums, was $182 million, $234 million and $190 million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

For the year ended December 31, 2011, estimates for claims occurring in prior years (net of additional and return premiums) decreased by $182 million. The favorable reserve development in 2011 was primarily attributable to accident years 2007 through 2009. The changes in prior year loss reserve estimates are generally the result of ongoing analysis of recent loss development trends. Original estimates are increased or decreased as additional information becomes known regarding individual claims and aggregate claim trends.

Environmental and Asbestos — To date, known environmental and asbestos claims have not had a material impact on the Company’s operations. These claims have not materially impacted the Company because its subsidiaries generally did not insure large industrial companies that are subject to significant environmental or asbestos exposures prior to 1986 when an absolute exclusion was incorporated into standard policy language.

The Company’s net reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses relating to asbestos and environmental claims were $34 million and $36 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The Company’s gross reserves for losses and loss adjustment expenses relating to asbestos and environmental claims were $59 million and $51 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Increases (decreases) in net incurred losses and loss expenses for reported asbestos and environmental claims were approximately $1 million, $2 million and $(0.6) million in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Net paid losses and loss expenses for asbestos and environmental claims were approximately $3 million in 2011, $3 million in 2010 and $3 million in 2009. The estimation of these liabilities is subject to significantly greater than normal variation and uncertainty because it is difficult to make an actuarial estimate of these liabilities due to the absence of a generally accepted actuarial methodology for these exposures and the potential effect of significant unresolved legal matters, including coverage issues, as well as the cost of litigating the legal issues. Additionally, the determination of ultimate damages and the final allocation of such damages to financially responsible parties are highly uncertain.

Discounting — The Company discounts its liabilities for excess and assumed workers’ compensation business because of the long period of time over which losses are paid. Discounting is intended to appropriately match losses and loss expenses to income earned on investment securities supporting the liabilities. The expected losses and loss expense payout pattern subject to discounting was derived from the Company’s loss payout experience. For non-proportional business, reserves for losses and loss expenses have been discounted using risk-free discount rates determined by reference to the U.S. Treasury yield curve. These discount rates range from 2.3% to 6.5% with a weighted average discount rate of 4.3%. For proportional business, reserves for losses and loss expenses have been discounted at the statutory rate permitted by the Department of Insurance of the State of Delaware of 2.3%. The aggregate net discount, after reflecting the effects of ceded reinsurance, was $892 million, $898 million and $877 million at December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

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Stock Incentive Plan (Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Unearned Compensation Related to RSU's) (Details) (Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member], USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Changes In Unearned Compensation [Roll Forward]
Unearned compensation at beginning of year	$ 76,139	$ 46,801	$ 68,503
RSU's granted, net of cancellations	2,832	58,462	2,783
RSU's expensed	(27,566)	(27,035)	(24,988)
RSU's forfeiture adjustment	5,910	(2,089)	503
Unearned compensation at end of year	$ 57,315	$ 76,139	$ 46,801