Note 3 - Derivative Instruments Change in Fair Value of Derivative Instruments (Details) (USD $) In Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	$ 126,008	$ 229,783	$ 558,626	$ (372,777)
Net Premiums Earned On Derivatives [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	10,300	11,500	31,700	35,600
Financial Guaranty Credit Derivatives [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	120,100	223,700	536,600	(384,600)
Financial Guaranty VIE Derivative Liabilities [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	(4,500)	(5,200)	(9,400)	(15,900)
NIMS [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	200	(900)	(1,300)	(1,400)
Put Options On CPS[Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	0	0	0	(6,300)
Other Contract [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Change in fair value of derivative instruments	$ (100)	$ 700	$ 1,000	$ (200)