Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 3,363	$ (27)	$ 17,264	$ 1,343
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in cumulative translation adjustment	401	(82)	1,046	(17)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	401	(82)	1,046	(17)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	3,764	(109)	18,310	1,326
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	83	74	(37)	1,196
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to B. Riley Financial, Inc.	$ 3,681	$ (183)	$ 18,347	$ 130