Subsequent Events	9 Months Ended
Subsequent Events	Sep. 30, 2012
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	NOTE 24 – Subsequent Events We evaluate subsequent events that have occurred after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued. There are two types of subsequent events: (1) recognized, or those that provide additional evidence about conditions that existed at the date of the balance sheet, including the estimates inherent in the process of preparing financial statements, and (2) non-recognized, or those that provide evidence about conditions that did not exist at the date of the balance sheet but arose after that date. Based on the evaluation, we did not identify any recognized subsequent events that would have required adjustment to the consolidated financial statements; however, we identified the following non-recognized subsequent event: Acquisition of KBW, Inc. On November 5, 2012 Stifel Financial Corp. and KBW, Inc. ("KBW") entered into a definitive agreement for our company to acquire 100% of the outstanding shares of KBW common stock. Under the terms of the agreement, which was unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies, KBW shareholders will receive $17.50 per share, comprised of $10.00 per share in cash and $7.50 per share in Stifel common stock. Additionally, holders of certain restricted KBW shares, that will continue to vest post closing, will receive $17.50 in Stifel common stock. The purchase price is estimated to be approximately $577.8 million, which includes the outstanding shares and restricted stock awards of KBW. The acquisition is subject to the effectiveness of a registration statement with respect to our company's shares to be issued in the transaction and other customary closing conditions. The acquisition is also subject to the approval of KBW shareholders. The merger is expected to close during the first quarter of 2013.

Tabular disclosure of significant events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date through the date the financial statements were issued or the date the financial statements were available to be issued. Examples include: the sale of a capital stock issue, purchase of a business, settlement of litigation, losses resulting from fire or flood, losses on receivables, significant realized and unrealized gains and losses that result from changes in quoted market prices of securities, declines in market prices of inventory, changes in authorized or issued debt (SEC), significant foreign exchange rate changes, substantial loans to insiders or affiliates, significant long-term investments, and substantial dividends not in the ordinary course of business.

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