Note 2 - Segment Reporting Reconciliation of Segment to Consolidated Results Pretax (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Adjusted pretax operating income (loss)	$ 91,090	$ (15,237)
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	50,086	(167,670)
Change In Present Value of Estimated Credit Loss Payments	362	3,144
Net Premiums Earned On Derivatives	3,445	4,992
Change in Fair Value of Derivative Instruments Expected to Reverse Over Time	46,279	(175,806)
Net gains (losses) on investments	64,451	(5,505)
Net gains (losses) on other financial instruments	698	(5,675)
Pretax income (loss)	202,518	(202,223)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	(241)	(14,723)
Net income (loss)	202,759	(187,500)
Mortgage Insurance Segment
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Adjusted pretax operating income (loss)	101,329	(11,403)
Change In Present Value of Estimated Credit Loss Payments	(139)	299
Net Premiums Earned On Derivatives	0	0
Financial Guaranty Segment
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Adjusted pretax operating income (loss)	(10,239)	(3,834)
Change In Present Value of Estimated Credit Loss Payments	501	2,845
Net Premiums Earned On Derivatives	$ 3,445	$ 4,992