Basis of Preparation and Consolidation (Policy)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2011

Basis Of Preparation And Consolidation [Abstract]

Basis Of Presentation

     These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP") for interim financial information and with Article 10 of Regulation S-X as promulgated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments that are normal and recurring in nature and necessary for a fair presentation of financial position and results of operations as of the end of and for the periods presented. The results of operations for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results for a full year.

Use Of Estimates

     The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The significant estimates reflected in the Company's financial statements include, but are not limited to:

• The premium estimates for certain reinsurance agreements,

• Recoverability of deferred acquisition costs,

• The reserve for outstanding losses and loss expenses,

• Valuation of ceded reinsurance recoverables,

• Determination of impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets,

• Valuation of financial instruments, and

• Determination of other-than-temporary impairment of available for sale investments.

Consolidation

     Inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated on consolidation and all entities meeting consolidation requirements have been included in the consolidation.