Supplemental Disclosure to Statements of Cash Flows (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2012
Cash flow information:
Interest paid, net of amount capitalized	$ 6,801	$ 766
Income tax payment		2,093
Income tax refunds	469
Non-cash activity:
Cost of inventory acquired through seller financing municipal bonds or recorded due to VIE criteria, net	15,998	431
Miscellaneous decreases to inventory	(144)	(75)
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments	519	310
Non cash increase in accrued expenses related to RSU pay out	2,939
Increase of investments in unconsolidated entities due to increase/reduction in letters of credit or accrued liabilities	(24)	(26)
Transfer of Inventory to Investment in Non-Performing Loan Portfolios and Foreclosed Real Estate		802
Transfer of inventory to investment in unconsolidated entities		5,793
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax	151	795
Miscellaneous increases (decreases) to investments in unconsolidated entities	86	(18)
Acquisition of a Business:
Fair value of assets purchased		149,959
Liabilities assumed		5,213
Cash paid		$ 144,746