Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands | Sep. 30, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010 |
|---|---|---|
| Consolidated Balance Sheets | ||
| Fixed maturity investments trading, Amortized cost | $ 3,671,728 | $ 3,859,442 |
| Fixed maturity investments available for sale, Amortized cost | 139,283 | 225,549 |
| Equity investments trading, Cost | $ 47,996 |