Note 2 - Segment Reporting Reconciliation of Net Income (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Net (loss) income:
Pretax income (loss)	$ (31,507)	$ (116,816)	$ (233,730)	$ (294,941)
Income tax provision (benefit)	1,665	2,443	(13,058)	(6,450)
Total net loss	(33,172)	(119,259)	(220,672)	(288,491)
Mortgage Insurance Segment
Net (loss) income:
Pretax income (loss)	(67,096)	(33,195)	(83,912)	(90,241)
Financial Guaranty Segment
Net (loss) income:
Pretax income (loss)	$ 35,589	$ (83,621)	$ (149,818)	$ (204,700)