Note 10 - Losses and LAE Losses and LAE for Mortgage Insurance (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010		Dec. 31, 2009
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	$ 3,310,902		$ 3,596,735		$ 3,578,982
Total Reserve for Losses and LAE [Member]
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	3,310,902		3,596,735
Mortgage Insurance Segment
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	3,247,900		3,524,971
Financial Guaranty Segment
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	63,002	[1]	71,764	[1]
Trade Credit Reinsurance and Surety Insurance [Member]
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	$ 2,500	[1]	$ 4,300	[1]

[1] Includes reserve for losses and LAE for our trade credit reinsurance and surety business of $2.5 million and $4.3 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.