Note 8 - Reinsurance Reinsurance Premiums Written and Earned (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Premiums Earned, Net [Abstract]
Premiums earned	$ 227,156	$ 211,984	$ 646,935	$ 617,696
Mortgage Insurance and Financial Guarantee Contracts [Member]
Premiums Written, Net [Abstract]
Direct Premiums Written	261,301	268,886	729,261	784,180
Assumed Premiums Written	(217)	(126)	406	(10,729)
Ceded Premiums Written	(16,832)	(17,918)	(49,342)	(64,195)
Net premiums written	244,252	250,842	680,325	709,256
Premiums Earned, Net [Abstract]
Direct Premiums Earned	244,160	228,162	696,323	660,687
Assumed Premiums Earned	2,062	1,943	6,141	10,573
Ceded Premiums Earned	(19,066)	(18,121)	(55,529)	(53,564)
Premiums earned	$ 227,156	$ 211,984	$ 646,935	$ 617,696