Note 8 - Losses and LAE Losses and LAE for Mortgage Insurance (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Total reserve for losses and LAE	$ 1,923,711	$ 2,185,421	$ 2,919,073
Mortgage Insurance Segment
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Mortgage insurance reserves	1,893,960	2,164,353
Total reserve for losses and LAE	1,893,960		2,894,500
Financial Guaranty Segment
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Financial guaranty reserves	29,751	21,068
Total reserve for losses and LAE	$ 29,751		$ 24,573