Note 2 - Segment Reporting Reconciliation of Net Income (Details) (USD $) In Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010
Net income (loss):
Net income (loss)	$ 183,568	$ 112,185	$ 423,689	$ (673,250)
Mortgage Insurance Segment [Member]
Net income (loss):
Net income (loss)	(42,191)	(74,991)	(375,804)	(464,051)
Financial Guaranty Segment
Net income (loss):
Net income (loss)	225,759	187,176	799,493	(241,222)
Financial Services Segment
Net income (loss):
Net income (loss)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 32,023