Note 7 - Reinsurance Reinsurance Premiums Written and Earned (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Premiums Earned, Net [Abstract]
Net premiums earned-insurance	$ 227,433	$ 217,827	$ 689,465	$ 620,235
Mortgage Insurance Segment
Premiums Written, Net [Abstract]
Direct Premiums Written	253,262	262,826	766,708	730,685
Assumed Premiums Written	7	(219)	62	(668)
Ceded Premiums Written	(11,101)	(16,832)	(31,612)	(49,342)
Net premiums written	242,168	245,775	735,158	680,675
Premiums Earned, Net [Abstract]
Direct Premiums Earned	242,260	235,406	734,221	672,453
Assumed Premiums Earned	10	11	33	35
Ceded Premiums Earned	(14,837)	(17,590)	(44,789)	(52,253)
Net premiums earned-insurance	$ 227,433	$ 217,827	$ 689,465	$ 620,235