Note 2 - Segment Reporting Reconciliation of Net Income (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net (loss) income:
Pretax income (loss)	$ (8,773)	$ 7,595	$ (242,503)	$ (287,346)
Income tax provision (benefit)	3,909	(6,730)	(9,149)	(13,180)
Total net loss	(12,682)	14,325	(233,354)	(274,166)
Mortgage Insurance Segment
Net (loss) income:
Pretax income (loss)	(7,873)	11,084	(91,785)	(79,157)
Financial Guaranty Segment
Net (loss) income:
Pretax income (loss)	$ (900)	$ (3,489)	$ (150,718)	$ (208,189)