Note 7 - Losses and LAE Losses and LAE for Mortgage Insurance (Details) (USD $) In Thousands	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	$ 3,260,556	$ 3,596,735
Total Reserve for Losses and LAE [Member]
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	3,260,556	3,596,735
Mortgage Insurance Segment [Member]
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	3,214,854	3,524,971
Financial Guaranty Segment [Member]
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	$ 45,702	$ 71,764