Everest Re (EG) 10-K 29 Feb 16 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document And Entity Information

Document And Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 01, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Registrant Name	EVEREST RE GROUP LTD
Entity Central Index Key	1,095,073
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		42,694,335
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Public Float			$ 8,043,482

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
ASSETS:
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value (amortized cost: 2015, $13,276,206; 2014, $12,831,159)	$ 13,357,294	$ 13,101,067
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at fair value	2,102	1,509
Equity securities - available for sale, at market value (cost: 2015, $122,271; 2014, $148,326)	108,940	140,210
Equity securities - available for sale, at fair value	1,337,733	1,447,820
Short-term investments	1,795,455	1,705,932
Other invested assets (cost: 2015, $786,994; 2014, $601,925)	786,994	601,925
Cash	283,658	437,474
Total investments and cash	17,672,176	17,435,937
Accrued investment income	100,942	111,075
Premiums receivable	1,479,293	1,397,983
Reinsurance receivables	840,420	670,854
Funds held by reinsureds	278,673	228,192
Deferred acquisition costs	373,072	398,408
Prepaid reinsurance premiums	157,424	154,177
Income taxes	258,541	184,762
Other assets	265,634	236,436
TOTAL ASSETS	21,426,175	20,817,824
LIABILITIES:
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses	9,951,798	9,720,813
Future policy benefit reserve	58,910	59,820
Unearned premium reserve	1,613,390	1,728,745
Funds held under reinsurance treaties	88,544	3,932
Commission reserves	79,849	87,990
Other net payable to reinsurers	166,822	139,841
Losses in course of payment	112,170	157,527
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044	400,000	400,000
6.6% Long term notes due 5/1/2067	238,368	238,364
Accrued interest on debt and borrowings	3,537	3,537
Equity index put option liability	40,705	47,022
Unsettled securities payable	15,314	41,092
Other liabilities	291,322	316,469
Total liabilities	13,060,729	12,945,152
NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS:
Redeemable noncontrolling interest - Mt. Logan Re	$ 756,861	$ 421,552
Commitments and contingencies (Note 17)
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Preferred shares, par value: $0.01; 50,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding
Common shares, par value: $0.01; 200,000 shares authorized; (2015) 68,606 and (2014) 68,336 outstanding before treasury shares	$ 686	$ 683
Additional paid-in capital	2,103,638	2,068,807
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income tax expense (benefit) of ($15,863) at 2015 and $20,715 at 2014	(231,755)	48,317
Treasury shares, at cost; 25,912 shares (2015) and 23,650 shares (2014)	(2,885,956)	(2,485,897)
Retained earnings	8,621,972	7,819,210
Total shareholders' equity attributable to Everest Re Group	7,608,585	7,451,120
TOTAL LIABILITIES, NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	$ 21,426,175	$ 20,817,824

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value, amortized cost	$ 13,276,206	$ 12,831,159
Equity securities - available for sale, at market value, cost	122,271	148,326
Other invested assets, at cost	$ 786,994	$ 601,925
Preferred shares, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred shares, authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred shares, issued	0	0
Preferred shares, outstanding	0	0
Common shares, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common shares, authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common shares, outstanding	68,606,000	68,336,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income tax expense (benefit)	$ (15,863)	$ 20,715
Treasury shares	25,912,000	23,650,000
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	6.60%	6.60%
Debt instrument, maturity date	May 1, 2067
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044 [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	4.868%	4.868%
Debt instrument, maturity date	Jun. 1, 2044

Consolidated Statements Of Oper

Consolidated Statements Of Operations And Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
REVENUES:
Premiums earned	$ 5,481,459	$ 5,169,135	$ 4,753,543
Net investment income	473,825	530,570	548,509
Net realized capital gains (losses):
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities	$ (102,199)	$ (39,502)	$ (1,052)
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to other comprehensive income (loss)
Other net realized capital gains (losses)	$ (81,948)	$ 123,548	$ 301,279
Total net realized capital gains (losses)	(184,147)	84,046	300,227
Net derivative gain (loss)	6,317	(11,599)	44,044
Other income (expense)	60,435	18,437	(5,487)
Total revenues	5,837,889	5,790,589	5,640,836
CLAIMS AND EXPENSES:
Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses	3,101,915	2,906,534	2,800,251
Commission, brokerage, taxes and fees	1,202,036	1,135,586	977,558
Other underwriting expenses	265,984	240,400	237,126
Corporate expenses	23,254	23,421	24,817
Interest, fees and bond issue cost amortization expense	36,191	38,533	46,118
Total claims and expenses	4,629,380	4,344,474	4,085,870
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES	1,208,509	1,446,115	1,554,966
Income tax expense (benefit)	134,021	187,652	289,706
NET INCOME (LOSS)	1,074,488	1,258,463	1,265,260
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(96,619)	(59,307)	(5,878)
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO EVEREST RE GROUP	977,869	1,199,156	1,259,382
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax :
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities arising during the period	(274,127)	704	(395,797)
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of net (gain) loss included in net income (loss)	93,688	21,392	(6,977)
Total URA(D) on securities arising during the period	(180,439)	22,096	(402,774)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(111,530)	(95,417)	(162)
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss) for the period	5,681	(39,110)	17,837
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of net (gain) loss included in net income (loss)	6,216	3,020	5,778
Total benefit plan net gain (loss) for the period	11,897	(36,090)	23,615
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	$ (280,072)	$ (109,411)	$ (379,321)
Other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax attributable to Everest Re Group	$ (280,072)	$ (109,411)	$ (379,321)
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)	$ 697,797	$ 1,089,745	$ 880,061
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO EVEREST RE GROUP:
Basic	$ 22.29	$ 26.16	$ 25.67
Diluted	22.10	25.91	25.44
Dividends declared	$ 4	$ 3.2	$ 2.19

Consolidated Statements Of Chan

Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Shareholders' Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Common Shares [Member]	Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Of Deferred Income Taxes [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Treasury Shares At Cost [Member]	Total
Balance, beginning of period, shares at Dec. 31, 2012	51,417,962
Issued during the period, shares	859,275
Treasury shares acquired, shares	(4,734,105)
Balance, beginning of period at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 671	$ 1,946,439	$ 537,049	$ 5,613,266	$ (1,363,958)
Issued during the period, net	$ 9
Share-based compensation plans		83,335
Net increase (decrease) during the period			(379,321)			$ (379,321)
Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group				1,259,382		1,259,382
Dividends declared ($ 4.00 per share in 2015, $3.20 per share in 2014 and $2.19 per share in 2013)				(106,681)		(106,681)
Purchase of treasury shares					(621,915)
Balance, end of period, shares at Dec. 31, 2013	47,543,132
Balance, end of period at Dec. 31, 2013	$ 680	2,029,774	157,728	6,765,967	(1,985,873)	6,968,276
Issued during the period, shares	371,359
Treasury shares acquired, shares	(3,228,854)
Issued during the period, net	$ 3
Share-based compensation plans		39,033
Net increase (decrease) during the period			(109,411)			(109,411)
Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group				1,199,156		1,199,156
Dividends declared ($ 4.00 per share in 2015, $3.20 per share in 2014 and $2.19 per share in 2013)				(145,913)		$ (145,913)
Purchase of treasury shares					(500,024)
Balance, end of period, shares at Dec. 31, 2014	44,685,637					68,336,000
Balance, end of period at Dec. 31, 2014	$ 683	2,068,807	48,317	7,819,210	(2,485,897)	$ 7,451,120
Issued during the period, shares	270,477
Treasury shares acquired, shares	(2,261,862)
Issued during the period, net	$ 3
Share-based compensation plans		34,831
Net increase (decrease) during the period			(280,072)			(280,072)
Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group				977,869		977,869
Dividends declared ($ 4.00 per share in 2015, $3.20 per share in 2014 and $2.19 per share in 2013)				(175,107)		$ (175,107)
Purchase of treasury shares					(400,059)
Balance, end of period, shares at Dec. 31, 2015	42,694,252					68,606,000
Balance, end of period at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 686	$ 2,103,638	$ (231,755)	$ 8,621,972	$ (2,885,956)	$ 7,608,585

Consolidated Statements Of Cha6

Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Shareholders' Equity (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Shareholders' Equity [Abstract]
Dividends declared	$ 4	$ 3.2	$ 2.19

Consolidated Statements Of Cash

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)	$ 1,074,488	$ 1,258,463	$ 1,265,260
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Decrease (increase) in premiums receivable	(93,837)	45,282	(217,678)
Decrease (increase) in funds held by reinsureds, net	31,225	(1,835)	162
Decrease (increase) in reinsurance receivables	(240,414)	(186,014)	118,963
Decrease (increase) in income taxes	(36,771)	31,340	213,848
Decrease (increase) in prepaid reinsurance premiums	(14,486)	(79,086)	(12,777)
Increase (decrease) in reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses	394,167	195,524	(374,027)
Increase (decrease) in future policy benefit reserve	(910)	308	(6,595)
Increase (decrease) in unearned premiums	(96,950)	161,149	261,959
Increase (decrease) in other net payable to reinsurers	38,262	29,410	(45,043)
Increase (decrease) in losses in course of payment	(43,964)	(174,206)	142,192
Change in equity adjustments in limited partnerships	(12,965)	(39,464)	(45,905)
Distribution of limited partnership income	53,984	51,120	56,982
Change in other assets and liabilities, net	264	35,419	(57,212)
Non-cash compensation expense	21,237	21,197	31,844
Amortization of bond premium (accrual of bond discount)	50,901	49,214	66,461
Amortization of underwriting discount on senior notes	4	46	54
Net realized capital (gains) losses	184,147	(84,046)	(300,227)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	1,308,382	1,313,821	1,098,261
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from fixed maturities matured/called - available for sale, at market value	2,144,930	2,142,693	2,415,730
Proceeds from fixed maturities matured/called - available for sale, at fair value		875	7,213
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at market value	1,724,093	1,811,801	1,092,387
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at fair value	1,824	36,467	21,573
Proceeds from equity securities sold - available for sale, at market value	28,936	16,901	46,142
Proceeds from equity securities sold - available for sale, at fair value	614,044	584,069	705,831
Distributions from other invested assets	57,201	115,482	100,081
Proceeds from sale of subsidiary (net of cash disposed)	3,934
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at market value	(4,718,303)	(4,672,633)	(3,543,776)
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at fair value	(2,436)	(24,098)	(6,196)
Cost of equity securities acquired - available for sale, at market value	(10,850)	(18,016)	(59,756)
Cost of equity securities acquired - available for sale, at fair value	(556,889)	(446,457)	(621,038)
Cost of other invested assets acquired	(286,599)	(224,740)	(21,935)
Net change in short-term investments	(98,903)	(497,983)	(357,451)
Net change in unsettled securities transactions	(22,719)	(4,433)	(2,808)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	(1,121,737)	(1,180,072)	(224,003)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Common shares issued during the period, net	13,597	17,839	51,500
Purchase of treasury shares	(400,059)	(500,024)	(621,915)
Net cost of junior subordinated debt securities redemption			(329,897)
Net cost of senior notes maturing		(250,000)
Net proceeds from issuance of senior notes		400,000
Third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest	266,848	136,200	87,500
Subscription advances for third party redeemable noncontrolling interest	30,000	40,000	143,000
Dividends paid to shareholders	(175,107)	(145,913)	(106,681)
Dividends paid on third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest	(68,158)	(10,334)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(332,879)	(312,232)	(776,493)
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH	(7,582)	4,575	(23,433)
Net increase (decrease) in cash	(153,816)	(173,908)	74,332
Cash, beginning of period	437,474	611,382	537,050
Cash, end of period	283,658	437,474	611,382
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Income taxes paid (recovered)	164,856	153,455	69,302
Interest paid	$ 35,973	$ 39,424	$ 38,390

Summary Of Significant Accounti

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies	1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES A. Business and Basis of Presentation. Everest Re Group, Ltd. ("Group"), a Bermuda company, through its subsidiaries, principally provides reinsurance and insurance in the U.S., Bermuda and international markets. As used in this document, "Company" means Group and its subsidiaries. During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company established new subsidiaries, Everest Preferred International Holdings, Ltd. ("Preferred International"), a Bermuda based company and Everest International Holdings (Bermuda), Ltd. ("International Holdings"), a Bermuda based company. These new subsidiaries were part of a capital restructuring within the Company to support a planned increase in international business production, which includes directly supporting Group's new Lloyd's of London Syndicate corporate member. Effective February 27, 2013, the Company established a new subsidiary, Mt. Logan Re Ltd. ("Mt. Logan Re") and effective July 1, 2013, Mt. Logan Re established separate segregated accounts and issued non-voting redeemable preferred shares to capitalize the segregated accounts. Accordingly, the financial position and operating results for Mt. Logan Re are consolidated with the Company and the non-controlling interests in Mt. Logan Re's operating results and equity are presented as separate captions in the Company's financial statements. Effective July 13, 2015, the Company sold all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of a wholly-owned subsidiary entity, Mt. McKinley Insurance Company ("Mt. McKinley"), to Clearwater Insurance Company. The operating results of Mt. McKinley through July 13, 2015 are included within the Company's financial statements. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). The statements include all of the following domestic and foreign direct and indirect subsidiaries of Group: Everest International Reinsurance, Ltd. ("Everest International"), Everest Global Services, Inc. ("Global Services"), Mt. Logan Re, Ltd. ("Mt. Logan"), Mt. Logan Insurance Managers, Ltd., Mt. Logan Management, Ltd., Everest International Holdings, Ltd. ("International Holdings"), Everest Corporate Member Limited, Everest Service Company (UK), Ltd., Everest Preferred International Holdings, Ltd. ("Preferred International"), Everest Reinsurance (Bermuda), Ltd. ("Bermuda Re"), Everest Re Advisors, Ltd., Everest Advisors (UK), Ltd., Everest Underwriting Group (Ireland), Limited ("Holdings Ireland"), Everest Reinsurance Company (Ireland) Limited ("Ireland Re"), Everest Insurance Company of Canada ("Everest Canada"), Premiere Insurance Underwriting Services ("Premiere"), Everest Reinsurance Holdings, Inc. ("Holdings"), Heartland Crop Insurance, Inc. ("Heartland"), Everest International Assurance, Ltd. (Bermuda) ("Everest Assurance"), Specialty Insurance Group, Inc. ("Specialty"), Specialty Insurance Group - Leisure and Entertainment Risk Purchasing Group LLC ("Specialty RPG"), Mt. McKinley Insurance Company ("Mt. McKinley"), Mt. McKinley Managers, L.L.C., Workcare Southeast of Georgia, Inc., Everest Reinsurance Company ("Everest Re"), Everest National Insurance Company ("Everest National"), Everest Reinsurance Company Ltda. (Brazil), Mt. Whitney Securities, Inc., Everest Indemnity Insurance Company ("Everest Indemnity") and Everest Security Insurance Company ("Everest Security"). All amounts are reported in U.S. dollars. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities (and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities) at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Ultimate actual results could differ, possibly materially, from those estimates. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Certain reclassifications and format changes have been made to prior years' amounts to conform to the 2015 presentation. B. Investments. Fixed maturity and equity security investments available for sale, at market value, reflect unrealized appreciation and depreciation, as a result of temporary changes in market value during the period, in shareholders' equity, net of income taxes in "accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)" in the consolidated balance sheets. Fixed maturity and equity securities carried at fair value reflect fair value re-measurements as net realized capital gains and losses in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). The Company records changes in fair value for its fixed maturities available for sale, at market value through shareholders' equity, net of taxes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) since cash flows from these investments will be primarily used to settle its reserve for losses and loss adjustment expense liabilities. The Company anticipates holding these investments for an extended period as the cash flow from interest and maturities will fund the projected payout of these liabilities. Fixed maturities carried at fair value represent a portfolio of convertible bond securities, which have characteristics similar to equity securities and at times, designated foreign denominated fixed maturity securities, which will be used to settle loss and loss adjustment reserves in the same currency. The Company carries all of its equity securities at fair value except for mutual fund investments whose underlying investments are comprised of fixed maturity securities. For equity securities, available for sale, at fair value, the Company reflects changes in value as net realized capital gains and losses since these securities may be sold in the near term depending on financial market conditions. Interest income on all fixed maturities and dividend income on all equity securities are included as part of net investment income in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). Unrealized losses on fixed maturities, which are deemed other-than-temporary and related to the credit quality of a security, are charged to net income (loss) as net realized capital losses. Short-term investments are stated at cost, which approximates market value. Realized gains or losses on sales of investments are determined on the basis of identified cost. For non-publicly traded securities, market prices are determined through the use of pricing models that evaluate securities relative to the U.S. Treasury yield curve, taking into account the issue type, credit quality, and cash flow characteristics of each security. For publicly traded securities, market value is based on quoted market prices or valuation models that use observable market inputs. When a sector of the financial markets is inactive or illiquid, the Company may use its own assumptions about future cash flows and risk-adjusted discount rates to determine fair value. Retrospective adjustments are employed to recalculate the values of asset-backed securities. Each acquisition lot is reviewed to recalculate the effective yield. The recalculated effective yield is used to derive a book value as if the new yield were applied at the time of acquisition. Outstanding principal factors from the time of acquisition to the adjustment date are used to calculate the prepayment history for all applicable securities. Conditional prepayment rates, computed with life to date factor histories and weighted average maturities, are used to effect the calculation of projected and prepayments for pass-through security types. Other invested assets include limited partnerships and rabbi trusts. Limited partnerships are accounted for under the equity method of accounting, which can be recorded on a monthly or quarterly lag. C. Uncollectible Receivable Balances. The Company provides reserves for uncollectible reinsurance recoverable and premium receivable balances based on management's assessment of the collectability of the outstanding balances. Such reserves are presented in the table below for the periods indicated. Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Reinsurance receivables and premium receivables $ 22,878 $ 29,497 D. Deferred Acquisition Costs. Acquisition costs, consisting principally of commissions and brokerage expenses and certain premium taxes and fees incurred at the time a contract or policy is issued and that vary with and are directly related to the Company's reinsurance and insurance business, are deferred and amortized over the period in which the related premiums are earned. Deferred acquisition costs are limited to their estimated realizable value by line of business based on the related unearned premiums, anticipated claims and claim expenses and anticipated investment income. Deferred acquisition costs amortized to income are presented in the table below for the periods indicated. Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Deferred acquisition costs $ 1,202,036 $ 1,135,586 $ 977,558 E. Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses. The reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses ("LAE") is based on individual case estimates and reports received from ceding companies. A provision is included for losses and LAE incurred but not reported ("IBNR") based on past experience. A provision is also included for certain potential liabilities relating to asbestos and environmental ("A&E") exposures, which liabilities cannot be estimated using traditional reserving techniques. See also Note 3. The reserves are reviewed periodically and any changes in estimates are reflected in earnings in the period the adjustment is made. The Company's loss and LAE reserves represent management's best estimate of the ultimate liability. Loss and LAE reserves are presented gross of reinsurance receivables and incurred losses and LAE are presented net of reinsurance. Accruals for commissions are established for reinsurance contracts that provide for the stated commission percentage to increase or decrease based on the loss experience of the contract. Changes in estimates for such arrangements are recorded as commission expense. Commission accruals for contracts with adjustable features are estimated based on expected loss and LAE. F. Future Policy Benefit Reserve. Liabilities for future policy benefits on annuity policies are carried at their accumulated values. Reserves for policy benefits include mortality claims in the process of settlement and IBNR claims. Actual experience in a particular period may fluctuate from expected results. G. Premium Revenues. Written premiums are earned ratably over the periods of the related insurance and reinsurance contracts. Unearned premium reserves are established relative to the unexpired contract period. Such reserves are established based upon reports received from ceding companies or estimated using pro rata methods based on statistical data. Reinstatement premiums represent additional premium received on reinsurance coverages, most prevalently catastrophe related, when limits have been depleted under the original reinsurance contract and additional coverage is granted. Written and earned premiums and the related costs, which have not yet been reported to the Company, are estimated and accrued. Premiums are net of ceded reinsurance. Payout annuity premiums are recognized as revenue over the premium-paying period of the policies. H. Prepaid Reinsurance Premiums. Prepaid reinsurance premiums represent unearned premium reserves ceded to other reinsurers. Prepaid reinsurance premiums for any foreign reinsurers comprising more than 10 I. Income Taxes. Holdings and its wholly-owned subsidiaries file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return. Foreign branches of subsidiaries file local tax returns as required. Group and subsidiaries not included in Holdings' consolidated tax return file separate company U.S. federal income tax returns as required. Holdings Ireland files an Irish income tax return. The UK branch of Bermuda Re files a UK income tax return. Deferred income taxes have been recorded to recognize the tax effect of temporary differences between the financial reporting and income tax bases of assets and liabilities, which arise because of differences between GAAP and income tax accounting rules. J. Foreign Currency. As a global entity, the Company transacts business in numerous currencies through business units located around the world. The base transactional currency for each business unit is determined by the local currency used for most economic activity in that area. Movements in exchange rates related to assets and liabilities at the business units between the original currency and the base currency are recorded through the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) in other income (expense), except for currency movements related to available for sale investments, which are excluded from net income (loss) and accumulated in shareholders' equity, net of deferred taxes. The business units' base currency financial statements are translated to U.S. dollars using the exchange rates at the end of period for the balance sheets and the average exchange rates in effect for the reporting period for the income statements. Gains and losses resulting from translating the foreign currency financial statements, net of deferred income taxes, are excluded from net income loss and accumulated in shareholder's equity. K. Earnings Per Common Share. Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution that would occur if options granted under various share-based compensation plans were exercised resulting in the issuance of common shares that would participate in the earnings of the entity. Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group per common share has been computed as per below, based upon weighted average common basic and dilutive shares outstanding. Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 2014 2013 Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group per share: Numerator Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group $ 977,869 $ 1,199,156 $ 1,259,382 Less: dividends declared-common shares and nonvested common shares (175,107 ) (145,913 ) (106,681 ) Undistributed earnings 802,762 1,053,243 1,152,701 Percentage allocated to common shareholders (1) 98.9 % 99.0 % 99.1 % 794,309 1,042,423 1,142,386 Add: dividends declared-common shareholders 173,367 144,447 105,689 Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share $ 967,676 $ 1,186,870 $ 1,248,075 Denominator Denominator for basic earnings per weighted-average common shares 43,415 45,377 48,619 Effect of dilutive securities: Options 380 425 437 Denominator for diluted earnings per adjusted weighted-average common shares 43,795 45,802 49,056 Per common share net income (loss) Basic $ 22.29 $ 26.16 $ 25.67 Diluted $ 22.10 $ 25.91 $ 25.44 (1) 43,415 45,377 48,619 Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding and nonvested common shares expected to vest 43,877 45,848 49,058 Percentage allocated to common shareholders 98.9 % 99.0 % 99.1 % (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) There were no All outstanding options expire on or between February 21, 2017 and September 19, 2022. L. Segmentation. The Company, through its subsidiaries, operates in five M. Derivatives. The Company sold seven two The fair value of the equity index put options can be found in the Company's consolidated balance sheets as follows: (Dollars in thousands) Derivatives not designated as Location of fair value At December 31, hedging instruments in balance sheets 2015 2014 Equity index put option contracts Equity index put option liability $ 40,705 $ 47,022 Total $ 40,705 $ 47,022 The change in fair value of the equity index put option contracts can be found in the Company's statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) as follows: (Dollars in thousands) Derivatives not designated as Location of gain (loss) in statements of For the Years Ended December 31, hedging instruments operations and comprehensive income (loss) 2015 2014 2013 Equity index put option contracts Net derivative gain (loss) $ 6,317 $ (11,599 ) $ 44,044 Total $ 6,317 $ (11,599 ) $ 44,044 N. Deposit Assets and Liabilities. In the normal course of its operations, the Company may enter into contracts that do not meet risk transfer provisions. Such contracts are accounted for using the deposit accounting method and are included in other liabilities in the Company's consolidated balance sheets. For such contracts, the Company originally records deposit liabilities for an amount equivalent to the assets received. Actuarial studies are used to estimate the final liabilities under such contracts with any change reflected in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). O. Share-Based Compensation. Share-based compensation stock option, restricted share and performance share unit awards are fair valued at the grant date and expensed over the vesting period of the award. The tax benefit on the recorded expense is deferred until the time the award is exercised or vests (becomes unrestricted). See Note 18. P. Application of Recently Issued Accounting Standard Changes. Disclosures about Short-Duration Contracts. Debt Issuance Costs. Consolidation. Treatment of Insurance Contract Acquisition Costs. 13,492 10,876 2,616 No

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Investments [Abstract]
Investments	2. INVESTMENTS The amortized cost, market value and gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of available for sale, fixed maturity, equity security investments, carried at market value and other-than-temporary impairments ("OTTI") in accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") are as follows for the periods indicated: At December 31, 2015 Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Market OTTI in AOCI (Dollars in thousands) Cost Appreciation Depreciation Value (a) Fixed maturity securities U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 805,273 $ 13,465 $ (1,861 ) $ 816,877 $ - Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions 669,945 34,020 (890 ) 703,075 - Corporate securities 4,817,014 97,159 (109,310 ) 4,804,863 1,412 Asset-backed securities 470,320 719 (3,813 ) 467,226 - Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 264,924 4,750 (3,375 ) 266,299 - Agency residential 2,313,265 25,318 (18,059 ) 2,320,524 - Non-agency residential 893 51 (46 ) 898 - Foreign government securities 1,256,983 54,403 (52,205 ) 1,259,181 53 Foreign corporate securities 2,677,589 107,163 (66,401 ) 2,718,351 36 Total fixed maturity securities $ 13,276,206 $ 337,048 $ (255,960 ) $ 13,357,294 $ 1,501 Equity securities $ 122,271 $ 3,401 $ (16,732 ) $ 108,940 $ - At December 31, 2014 Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Market OTTI in AOCI (Dollars in thousands) Cost Appreciation Depreciation Value (a) Fixed maturity securities U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 221,052 $ 10,290 $ (304 ) $ 231,038 $ - Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions 783,129 41,969 (626 ) 824,472 - Corporate securities 4,626,002 143,889 (62,906 ) 4,706,985 (6,910 ) Asset-backed securities 340,761 1,691 (1,230 ) 341,222 - Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 231,439 10,675 (429 ) 241,685 - Agency residential 2,157,182 37,555 (11,573 ) 2,183,164 - Non-agency residential 2,734 54 (57 ) 2,731 - Foreign government securities 1,488,144 71,177 (26,866 ) 1,532,455 - Foreign corporate securities 2,980,716 109,673 (53,074 ) 3,037,315 - Total fixed maturity securities $ 12,831,159 $ 426,973 $ (157,065 ) $ 13,101,067 $ (6,910 ) Equity securities $ 148,326 $ 3,831 $ (11,947 ) $ 140,210 $ - (a) Represents the amount of OTTI recognized in AOCI. Amount includes unrealized gains and losses on impaired securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date The amortized cost and market value of fixed maturity securities are shown in the following table by contractual maturity. Mortgage-backed securities are generally more likely to be prepaid than other fixed maturity securities. As the stated maturity of such securities may not be indicative of actual maturities, the totals for mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities are shown separately. At December 31, 2015 At December 31, 2014 Amortized Market Amortized Market (Dollars in thousands) Cost Value Cost Value Fixed maturity securities – available for sale: Due in one year or less $ 1,021,200 $ 1,036,016 $ 1,183,247 $ 1,189,416 Due after one year through five years 6,193,426 6,220,563 5,646,466 5,726,277 Due after five years through ten years 2,217,075 2,203,932 2,270,073 2,313,672 Due after ten years 795,103 841,836 999,257 1,102,900 Asset-backed securities 470,320 467,226 340,761 341,222 Mortgage-backed securities: Commercial 264,924 266,299 231,439 241,685 Agency residential 2,313,265 2,320,524 2,157,182 2,183,164 Non-agency residential 893 898 2,734 2,731 Total fixed maturity securities $ 13,276,206 $ 13,357,294 $ 12,831,159 $ 13,101,067 The changes in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) for the Company's investments are derived from the following sources for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Increase (decrease) during the period between the market value and cost of investments carried at market value, and deferred taxes thereon: Fixed maturity securities $ (197,231 ) $ 34,245 Fixed maturity securities, other-than-temporary impairment 8,411 (10,078 ) Equity securities (5,215 ) (3,855 ) Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax (194,035 ) 20,312 Deferred tax benefit (expense) 16,979 (1,623 ) Deferred tax benefit (expense), other-than-temporary impairment (3,383 ) 3,407 Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), net of deferred taxes, included in shareholders' equity $ (180,439 ) $ 22,096 The Company frequently reviews all of its fixed maturity, available for sale securities for declines in market value and focuses its attention on securities whose fair value has fallen below 80 The Company's assessments are based on the issuers current and expected future financial position, timeliness with respect to interest and/or principal payments, speed of repayments and any applicable credit enhancements or breakeven constant default rates on mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, as well as relevant information provided by rating agencies, investment advisors and analysts. The majority of the Company's equity securities available for sale at market value are primarily comprised of mutual fund investments whose underlying securities consist of fixed maturity securities. When a fund's value reflects an unrealized loss, the Company assesses whether the decline in value is temporary or other-than-temporary. In making its assessment, the Company considers the composition of its portfolios and their related markets, reports received from the portfolio managers and discussions with portfolio managers. If the Company determines that the declines are temporary and it has the ability and intent to continue to hold the investments, then the declines are recorded as unrealized losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). If declines are deemed to be other-than-temporary, then the carrying value of the investment is written down to fair value and recorded in net realized capital gains (losses) in the Company's consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). Retrospective adjustments are employed to recalculate the values of asset-backed securities. All of the Company's asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities have a pass-through structure. Each acquisition lot is reviewed to recalculate the effective yield. The recalculated effective yield is used to derive a book value as if the new yield were applied at the time of acquisition. Outstanding principal factors from the time of acquisition to the adjustment date are used to calculate the prepayment history for all applicable securities. Conditional prepayment rates, computed with life to date factor histories and weighted average maturities, are used in the calculation of projected prepayments for pass-through security types. The tables below display the aggregate market value and gross unrealized depreciation of fixed maturity and equity securities, by security type and contractual maturity, in each case subdivided according to length of time that individual securities had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for the periods indicated: Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2015 By Security Type Less than 12 months Greater than 12 months Total Gross Gross Gross Unrealized Unrealized Unrealized (Dollars in thousands) Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Fixed maturity securities - available for sale U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 539,177 $ (1,855 ) $ 692 $ (6 ) $ 539,869 $ (1,861 ) Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions 6,434 (84 ) 4,917 (806 ) 11,351 (890 ) Corporate securities 1,818,331 (74,161 ) 440,682 (35,149 ) 2,259,013 (109,310 ) Asset-backed securities 348,545 (2,510 ) 67,230 (1,303 ) 415,775 (3,813 ) Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 145,490 (3,375 ) - - 145,490 (3,375 ) Agency residential 1,021,390 (10,014 ) 326,449 (8,045 ) 1,347,839 (18,059 ) Non-agency residential 152 (2 ) 38 (44 ) 190 (46 ) Foreign government securities 227,384 (21,996 ) 216,428 (30,209 ) 443,812 (52,205 ) Foreign corporate securities 821,548 (25,627 ) 295,389 (40,774 ) 1,116,937 (66,401 ) Total fixed maturity securities $ 4,928,451 $ (139,624 ) $ 1,351,825 $ (116,336 ) $ 6,280,276 $ (255,960 ) Equity securities - - 91,907 (16,732 ) 91,907 (16,732 ) Total $ 4,928,451 $ (139,624 ) $ 1,443,732 $ (133,068 ) $ 6,372,183 $ (272,692 ) Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2015 By Maturity Less than 12 months Greater than 12 months Total Gross Gross Gross Unrealized Unrealized Unrealized (Dollars in thousands) Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Fixed maturity securities Due in one year or less $ 29,737 $ (1,840 ) $ 74,615 $ (13,440 ) $ 104,352 $ (15,280 ) Due in one year through five years 2,328,805 (62,329 ) 651,228 (59,993 ) 2,980,033 (122,322 ) Due in five years through ten years 969,139 (52,725 ) 206,538 (28,018 ) 1,175,677 (80,743 ) Due after ten years 85,193 (6,829 ) 25,727 (5,493 ) 110,920 (12,322 ) Asset-backed securities 348,545 (2,510 ) 67,230 (1,303 ) 415,775 (3,813 ) Mortgage-backed securities 1,167,032 (13,391 ) 326,487 (8,089 ) 1,493,519 (21,480 ) Total fixed maturity securities $ 4,928,451 $ (139,624 ) $ 1,351,825 $ (116,336 ) $ 6,280,276 $ (255,960 ) The aggregate market value and gross unrealized losses related to investments in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2015 were $ 6,372,183 272,692 0.7 139,624 46,793 39,037 116,336 72,738 18,447 no The Company, given the size of its investment portfolio and capital position, does not have the intent to sell these securities; and it is more likely than not that the Company will not have to sell the security before recovery of its cost basis. In addition, all securities currently in an unrealized loss position are current with respect to principal and interest payments. The tables below display the aggregate market value and gross unrealized depreciation of fixed maturity and equity securities, by security type and contractual maturity, in each case subdivided according to length of time that individual securities had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for the periods indicated: Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2014 By Security Type Less than 12 months Greater than 12 months Total Gross Gross Gross Unrealized Unrealized Unrealized (Dollars in thousands) Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Fixed maturity securities - available for sale U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 13,187 $ (20 ) $ 26,897 $ (284 ) $ 40,084 $ (304 ) Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions 20,428 (242 ) 18,199 (384 ) 38,627 (626 ) Corporate securities 1,245,830 (55,388 ) 362,320 (7,518 ) 1,608,150 (62,906 ) Asset-backed securities 192,253 (1,230 ) - - 192,253 (1,230 ) Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 28,191 (123 ) 9,777 (306 ) 37,968 (429 ) Agency residential 141,807 (172 ) 678,972 (11,401 ) 820,779 (11,573 ) Non-agency residential - - 266 (57 ) 266 (57 ) Foreign government securities 235,725 (15,415 ) 139,200 (11,451 ) 374,925 (26,866 ) Foreign corporate securities 567,905 (36,926 ) 290,234 (16,148 ) 858,139 (53,074 ) Total fixed maturity securities $ 2,445,326 $ (109,516 ) $ 1,525,865 $ (47,549 ) $ 3,971,191 $ (157,065 ) Equity securities 50,285 (4,068 ) 73,994 (7,879 ) 124,279 (11,947 ) Total $ 2,495,611 $ (113,584 ) $ 1,599,859 $ (55,428 ) $ 4,095,470 $ (169,012 ) Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2014 By Maturity Less than 12 months Greater than 12 months Total Gross Gross Gross Unrealized Unrealized Unrealized (Dollars in thousands) Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Fixed maturity securities Due in one year or less $ 98,021 $ (5,166 ) $ 80,002 $ (8,174 ) $ 178,023 $ (13,340 ) Due in one year through five years 1,233,244 (68,124 ) 518,613 (12,761 ) 1,751,857 (80,885 ) Due in five years through ten years 679,374 (28,529 ) 187,717 (10,734 ) 867,091 (39,263 ) Due after ten years 72,436 (6,172 ) 50,518 (4,116 ) 122,954 (10,288 ) Asset-backed securities 192,253 (1,230 ) - - 192,253 (1,230 ) Mortgage-backed securities 169,998 (295 ) 689,015 (11,764 ) 859,013 (12,059 ) Total fixed maturity securities $ 2,445,326 $ (109,516 ) $ 1,525,865 $ (47,549 ) $ 3,971,191 $ (157,065 ) The aggregate market value and gross unrealized losses related to investments in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2014 were $ 4,095,470 169,012 0.2 109,516 58,891 34,687 47,549 42,884 15 The components of net investment income are presented in the table below for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Fixed maturities $ 433,097 $ 462,757 $ 473,493 Equity securities 45,617 47,193 45,387 Short-term investments and cash 1,577 1,635 1,295 Other invested assets Limited partnerships 14,431 40,868 46,921 Other 1,804 3,619 7,329 Gross investment income before adjustments 496,526 556,072 574,425 Funds held interest income (expense) 10,767 9,471 10,613 Future policy benefit reserve income (expense) (1,907 ) (1,686 ) (2,770 ) Gross investment income 505,386 563,857 582,268 Investment expenses (31,561 ) (33,287 ) (33,759 ) Net investment income $ 473,825 $ 530,570 $ 548,509 The Company records results from limited partnership investments on the equity method of accounting with changes in value reported through net investment income. Due to the timing of receiving financial information from these partnerships, the results are generally reported on a one month or quarter lag. If the Company determines there has been a significant decline in value of a limited partnership during this lag period, a loss will be recorded in the period in which the Company identifies the decline. The Company had contractual commitments to invest up to an additional $ 490,441 The components of net realized capital gains (losses) are presented in the table below for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Fixed maturity securities, market value: Other-than-temporary impairments $ (102,199 ) $ (39,502 ) $ (1,052 ) Gains (losses) from sales (22,310 ) 4,408 6,792 Fixed maturity securities, fair value: Gains (losses) from sales 24 (3,137 ) 201 Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments (44 ) (1,498 ) 307 Equity securities, market value: Gains (losses) from sales (6,702 ) 426 2,648 Equity securities, fair value: Gains (losses) from sales (7,305 ) 156 32,747 Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments (45,627 ) 123,196 258,569 Short-term investments gain (loss) 16 (3 ) 15 Total net realized capital gains (losses) $ (184,147 ) $ 84,046 $ 300,227 The Company recorded as net realized capital gains (losses) in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) both fair value re-measurements and write-downs in the value of securities deemed to be impaired on an other-than-temporary basis as displayed in the table above. The Company had no other-than-temporary impaired securities where the impairment had both a credit and non-credit component. The proceeds and split between gross gains and losses, from sales of fixed maturity and equity securities, are presented in the table below for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Proceeds from sales of fixed maturity securities $ 1,725,917 $ 1,848,268 $ 1,113,960 Gross gains from sales 47,899 37,427 38,141 Gross losses from sales (70,185 ) (36,156 ) (31,148 ) Proceeds from sales of equity securities $ 642,980 $ 600,970 $ 751,973 Gross gains from sales 27,675 20,900 44,703 Gross losses from sales (41,682 ) (20,318 ) (9,308 ) Securities with a carrying value amount of $ 1,398,874

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Fut

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Abstract]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve	3. RESERVE FOR LOSSES, LAE AND FUTURE POLICY BENEFIT RESERVE Reserves for losses and LAE. Activity in the reserve for losses and LAE is summarized for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross reserves at January 1 $ 9,720,813 $ 9,673,240 $ 10,069,055 Less reinsurance recoverables (627,082 ) (473,866 ) (602,750 ) Net reserves at January 1 9,093,731 9,199,374 9,466,305 Incurred related to: Current year 3,170,482 2,946,396 2,818,490 Prior years (68,567 ) (39,862 ) (18,239 ) Total incurred losses and LAE 3,101,915 2,906,534 2,800,251 Paid related to: Current year 697,778 761,788 664,719 Prior years 2,186,274 2,089,734 2,353,817 Total paid losses and LAE 2,884,052 2,851,522 3,018,536 Foreign exchange/translation adjustment (190,032 ) (160,655 ) (48,646 ) Net reserves at December 31 9,121,562 9,093,731 9,199,374 Plus reinsurance recoverables 830,236 627,082 473,866 Gross reserves at December 31 $ 9,951,798 $ 9,720,813 $ 9,673,240 Incurred prior years' reserves decreased by $ 68,567 39,862 18,239 217,169 3,539 152,140 The decrease for 2014 was attributable to favorable development in the reinsurance segments of $ 202,418 137,769 186 24,973 The decrease for 2013 was attributable to a $ 148,788 130,548 The Company continues to receive claims under expired insurance and reinsurance contracts asserting injuries and/or damages relating to or resulting from environmental pollution and hazardous substances, including asbestos. Environmental claims typically assert liability for (a) the mitigation or remediation of environmental contamination or (b) bodily injury or property damage caused by the release of hazardous substances into the land, air or water. Asbestos claims typically assert liability for bodily injury from exposure to asbestos or for property damage resulting from asbestos or products containing asbestos. The Company's reserves include an estimate of the Company's ultimate liability for A&E claims. The Company's A&E liabilities emanate from Mt. McKinley's direct insurance business and Everest Re's assumed reinsurance business. All of the contracts of insurance and reinsurance under which the Company has received claims during the past three years expired more than 20 years ago. There are significant uncertainties surrounding the Company's reserves for its A&E losses. A&E exposures represent a separate exposure group for monitoring and evaluating reserve adequacy. The following table summarizes incurred losses with respect to A&E reserves on both a gross and net of reinsurance basis for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross basis: Beginning of period reserves $ 476,205 $ 402,461 $ 442,821 Incurred losses 40,000 142,233 5,599 Paid losses (83,088 ) (68,489 ) (45,959 ) End of period reserves $ 433,117 $ 476,205 $ 402,461 Net basis: Beginning of period reserves $ 458,211 $ 386,677 $ 425,691 Incurred losses 38,440 137,769 5,400 Paid losses (177,031 ) (66,235 ) (44,414 ) End of period reserves $ 319,620 $ 458,211 $ 386,677 On July 13, 2015, the Company sold Mt. McKinley, a Delaware domiciled insurance company and wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company to Clearwater Insurance Company, a Delaware domiciled insurance company. Concurrently with the closing, the Company entered into a retrocession treaty with an affiliate of Clearwater Insurance Company. Per the retrocession treaty, the Company retroceded 100 140,279 440,279 300,000 Reinsurance Receivables. Reinsurance receivables for both paid and recoverable on unpaid losses totaled $ 840,420 670,854 194,231 23.1 104,819 12.5 88,136 10.5 49,478 5.9 46,588 5.5 43,992 5.2 5 Future Policy Benefit Reserve. Activity in the reserve for future policy benefits is summarized for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Balance at beginning of year $ 59,820 $ 59,512 $ 66,107 Liabilities assumed 315 250 103 Adjustments to reserves 2,310 4,724 (3,066 ) Benefits paid in the current year (3,535 ) (4,667 ) (3,632 ) Balance at end of year $ 58,910 $ 59,820 $ 59,512 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)

Fair Value

Fair Value	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value [Abstract]
Fair Value	4. FAIR VALUE GAAP guidance regarding fair value measurements address how companies should measure fair value when they are required to use fair value measures for recognition or disclosure purposes under GAAP and provides a common definition of fair value to be used throughout GAAP. It defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly fashion between market participants at the measurement date. In addition, it establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy for the disclosure of fair value measurements. The valuation hierarchy is based on the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability. The level in the hierarchy within which a given fair value measurement falls is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the measurement, with Level 1 being the highest priority and Level 3 being the lowest priority. The levels in the hierarchy are defined as follows: Level 1: Inputs to the valuation methodology are observable inputs that reflect unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market; Level 2: Inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the financial instrument; Level 3: Inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement. The Company's fixed maturity and equity securities are primarily managed by third party investment asset managers. The investment asset managers obtain prices from nationally recognized pricing services. These services seek to utilize market data and observations in their evaluation process. They use pricing applications that vary by asset class and incorporate available market information and when fixed maturity securities do not trade on a daily basis the services will apply available information through processes such as benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings and matrix pricing. In addition, they use model processes, such as the Option Adjusted Spread model to develop prepayment and interest rate scenarios for securities that have prepayment features. In limited instances where prices are not provided by pricing services or in rare instances when a manager may not agree with the pricing service, price quotes on a non-binding basis are obtained from investment brokers. The investment asset managers do not make any changes to prices received from either the pricing services or the investment brokers. In addition, the investment asset managers have procedures in place to review the reasonableness of the prices from the service providers and may request verification of the prices. In addition, the Company continually performs analytical reviews of price changes and tests the prices on a random basis to an independent pricing source. No material variances were noted during these price validation procedures. In limited situations, where financial markets are inactive or illiquid, the Company may use its own assumptions about future cash flows and risk-adjusted discount rates to determine fair value. Due to the unavailability of prices for two 3,593 no The Company internally manages a public equity portfolio which had a fair value at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 of $ 253,575 196,980 Equity securities denominated in U.S. currency with quoted prices in active markets for identical assets are categorized as level 1 since the quoted prices are directly observable. Equity securities traded on foreign exchanges are categorized as level 2 due to the added input of a foreign exchange conversion rate to determine fair or market value. The Company uses foreign currency exchange rates published by nationally recognized sources. All categories of fixed maturity securities listed in the tables below are generally categorized as level 2, since a particular security may not have traded but the pricing services are able to use valuation models with observable market inputs such as interest rate yield curves and prices for similar fixed maturity securities in terms of issuer, maturity and seniority. For foreign government securities and foreign corporate securities, the fair values provided by the third party pricing services in local currencies, and where applicable, are converted to U.S. dollars using currency exchange rates from nationally recognized sources. The fixed maturities with fair values categorized as level 3 result when prices are not available from the nationally recognized pricing services. The asset managers will then obtain non-binding price quotes for the securities from brokers. The single broker quotes are provided by market makers or broker-dealers who are recognized as market participants in the markets in which they are providing the quotes. The prices received from brokers are reviewed for reasonableness by the third party asset managers and the Company. If the broker quotes are for foreign denominated securities, the quotes are converted to U.S. dollars using currency exchange rates from nationally recognized sources. In limited circumstances when broker prices are not available for private placements, the Company will value the securities using comparable market information. Historically, most of the level 3 fixed maturities have resulted from new issuances and the third party prices services have not yet included the issuance in their data base. Generally, in subsequent measurement periods, the issuances will be included in the data base and the fair value will transfer to level 2. The composition and valuation inputs for the presented fixed maturities categories are as follows: · U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations are primarily comprised of U.S. Treasury bonds and the fair value is based on observable market inputs such as quoted prices, reported trades, quoted prices for similar issuances or benchmark yields; · Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions are comprised of state and municipal bond issuances and the fair values are based on observable market inputs such as quoted market prices, quoted prices for similar securities, benchmark yields and credit spreads; · Corporate securities are primarily comprised of U.S. corporate and public utility bond issuances and the fair values are based on observable market inputs such as quoted market prices, quoted prices for similar securities, benchmark yields and credit spreads; · Asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities fair values are based on observable inputs such as quoted prices, reported trades, quoted prices for similar issuances or benchmark yields and cash flow models using observable inputs such as prepayment speeds, collateral performance and default spreads; · Foreign government securities are comprised of global non-U.S. sovereign bond issuances and the fair values are based on observable market inputs such as quoted market prices, quoted prices for similar securities and models with observable inputs such as benchmark yields and credit spreads and then, where applicable, converted to U.S. dollars using an exchange rate from a nationally recognized source; · Foreign corporate securities are comprised of global non-U.S. corporate bond issuances and the fair values are based on observable market inputs such as quoted market prices, quoted prices for similar securities and models with observable inputs such as benchmark yields and credit spreads and then, where applicable, converted to U.S. dollars using an exchange rate from a nationally recognized source. The Company sold seven The Company sold six 22,530 31,763 16 zero 3 432,613 2,043.94 no The Company sold one 6,706 8,942 46 zero 3 42,599 6,242.30 no The Company's liability for equity index put options is categorized as level 3 since there is no active market for these seven long dated equity put options. The fair values for these options are calculated by the Company using an industry accepted pricing model, Black-Scholes. The model inputs and assumptions are: risk free interest rates, equity market indexes values, volatilities and dividend yields and duration. The model results are then adjusted for the Company's credit default swap rate. All of these inputs and assumptions are updated quarterly. One of the option contacts is in British Pound Sterling so the fair value for this contract is converted to U.S. dollars using an exchange rate from a nationally recognized source. The following table presents the fair value measurement levels for all assets and liabilities, which the Company has recorded at fair value (fair and market value) as of the periods indicated: Fair Value Measurement Using: Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets for Other Significant Identical Observable Unobservable Assets Inputs Inputs (Dollars in thousands) December 31, 2015 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: Fixed maturities, market value U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 816,877 $ - $ 816,877 $ - Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions 703,075 - 703,075 - Corporate securities 4,804,863 - 4,800,930 3,933 Asset-backed securities 467,226 - 467,226 - Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 266,299 - 266,299 - Agency residential 2,320,524 - 2,320,524 - Non-agency residential 898 - 898 - Foreign government securities 1,259,181 - 1,259,181 - Foreign corporate securities 2,718,351 - 2,716,758 1,593 Total fixed maturities, market value 13,357,294 - 13,351,768 5,526 Fixed maturities, fair value 2,102 - 2,102 - Equity securities, market value 108,940 91,907 17,033 - Equity securities, fair value 1,337,733 1,275,666 62,067 - Liabilities: Equity index put option contracts $ 40,705 $ - $ - $ 40,705 There were no The following table presents the fair value measurement levels for all assets and liabilities, which the Company has recorded at fair value (fair and market value) as of the periods indicated: Fair Value Measurement Using: Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets for Other Significant Identical Observable Unobservable Assets Inputs Inputs (Dollars in thousands) December 31, 2014 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: Fixed maturities, market value U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 231,038 $ - $ 231,038 $ - Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions 824,472 - 824,472 - Corporate securities 4,706,985 - 4,706,985 - Asset-backed securities 341,222 - 341,222 - Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 241,685 - 233,088 8,597 Agency residential 2,183,164 - 2,183,164 - Non-agency residential 2,731 - 2,731 - Foreign government securities 1,532,455 - 1,532,455 - Foreign corporate securities 3,037,315 - 3,030,149 7,166 Total fixed maturities, market value 13,101,067 - 13,085,304 15,763 Fixed maturities, fair value 1,509 - 1,509 - Equity securities, market value 140,210 124,295 15,915 - Equity securities, fair value 1,447,820 1,337,396 110,424 - Liabilities: Equity index put option contracts $ 47,022 $ - $ - $ 47,022 The following tables present the activity under Level 3, fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs by asset type, for the periods indicated: December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Corporate Foreign Corporate Asset-backed Foreign Non-agency Agency (Dollars in thousands) Securities CMBS Corporate Total Securities Securities CMBS Corporate RMBS RMBS Total Beginning balance $ - $ 8,597 $ 7,166 $ 15,763 $ - $ 5,299 $ - $ 481 $ 347 $ - $ 6,127 Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings 4 - (9,480 ) (9,476 ) - 1,259 - 73 329 - 1,661 Included in other comprehensive income (loss) (96 ) - 3,908 3,812 42 (126 ) (426 ) (5,221 ) (138 ) - (5,869 ) Purchases, issuances and settlements 3,626 - - 3,626 1,274 21,303 9,023 4,038 (538 ) 29,845 64,945 Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 399 (8,597 ) (1 ) (8,199 ) (1,316 ) (27,735 ) - 7,795 - (29,845 ) (51,101 ) Ending balance $ 3,933 $ - $ 1,593 $ 5,526 $ - $ - $ 8,597 $ 7,166 $ - $ - $ 15,763 The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date $ - $ - $ 9,721 $ 9,721 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) The net transfers from level 3, fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs, of $ 8,199 51,101 The following table presents the activity under Level 3, fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs for equity index put option contracts, for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Liabilities: Balance, beginning of period $ 47,022 $ 35,423 Total (gains) or losses (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings (6,317 ) 11,599 Included in other comprehensive income (loss) - - Purchases, issuances and settlements - - Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 - - Balance, end of period $ 40,705 $ 47,022 The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to liabilities still held at the reporting date $ - $ - (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)

Redeemable Noncontrolling Inter

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests - MT. Logan RE	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests - MT. Logan RE [Abstract]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests - MT. Logan RE	5. REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS – MT. LOGAN RE Mt. Logan Re is a Class 3 insurer registered in Bermuda effective February 27, 2013 under The Segregated Accounts Companies Act 2000 and 100 The following table presents the activity for redeemable noncontrolling interests in the consolidated balance sheets for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, beginning of period $ 421,552 $ 93,378 Unaffiliated third party investments during period, net 306,848 279,200 Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests 96,619 59,307 Dividends paid on third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest (68,158 ) (10,334 ) Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, end of period $ 756,861 $ 421,552 In addition, the Company has invested $ 50,000 Effective January 1, 2016, unaffiliated third parties have invested an additional $ 30,000

Credit Facilities

Credit Facilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Credit Facilities [Abstract]
Credit Facilities	6. CREDIT FACILITIES The Company has two 1,100,000 Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Credit facility fees incurred $ 756 $ 659 $ 964 The terms and outstanding amounts for each facility are discussed below: Group Credit Facility Effective June 22, 2012, Group, Bermuda Re and Everest International entered into a four year, $ 800,000 850,000 200,000 an adjusted London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus a margin. prime commercial lending rate established by Wells Fargo Bank Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5 one month LIBOR Rate plus 1.0 600,000 The Group Credit Facility requires Group to maintain a debt to capital ratio of not greater than 0.35 4,249,963 25 25 5,368,970 The following table summarizes the outstanding letters of credit and/or borrowings for the periods indicated: (Dollars in thousands) At December 31, 2015 At December 31, 2014 Bank Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility Tranche One $ 200,000 $ - $ 200,000 $ - Tranche Two 600,000 2,488 12/12/2016 600,000 444,012 12/31/2015 - 447,178 12/31/2016 - - Total Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility $ 800,000 $ 449,666 $ 800,000 $ 444,012 Bermuda Re Letter of Credit Facility Effective December 31, 2015, Bermuda Re renewed its $ 300,000 300,000 0.35 % per annum of the principal amount of issued standard letters of credit (expiry of 15 months or less) 0.45 % per annum of the principal amount of issued extended tenor letters of credit (expiry maximum of up to 60 months). 0.15 The following table summarizes the outstanding letters of credit for the periods indicated: (Dollars in thousands) At December 31, 2015 At December 31, 2014 Bank Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Citibank Bilateral Letter of Credit Agreement $ 300,000 $ 3,672 11/24/2016 $ 300,000 $ 112 8/30/2015 67,783 12/31/2016 3,672 11/24/2015 179 8/30/2017 70,922 12/31/2015 316 12/31/2017 2,014 12/31/2016 99,521 12/31/2019 149,353 12/30/2018 Total Citibank Bilateral Agreement $ 300,000 $ 171,471 $ 300,000 $ 226,073 Everest International Credit Facility Effective November 9, 2015, Everest International entered into a four 175,000 0.1 0.35 The Everest International Credit Facility requires Group to maintain a debt to capital ratio of not greater than 0.35 5,215,784 70 25 25 5,468,960 The following table summarizes the outstanding letters of credit for the periods indicated: (Dollars in thousands) At December 31, 2015 At December 31, 2014 Bank Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Lloyd's Bank plc £ 175,000 £ 164,961 12/31/2019 £ - £ - - - - - Total Lloyd's Bank Credit Facility £ 175,000 £ 164,961 £ - £ - Holdings Credit Facility - Expired Effective August 15, 2011 150,000

Senior Notes

Senior Notes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Senior Notes [Abstract]
Senior Notes	7. SENIOR NOTES The table below displays Holdings' outstanding senior notes. Market value is based on quoted market prices, but due to limited trading activity, these senior notes are considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Consolidated Balance Consolidated Balance (Dollars in thousands) Date Issued Date Due Principal Amounts Sheet Amount Market Value Sheet Amount Market Value 4.868 06/05/2014 06/01/2044 400,000 $ 400,000 $ 381,204 $ 400,000 $ 404,892 5.40 10/12/2004 10/15/2014 250,000 - - - - On June 5, 2014, Holdings issued $400,000 thousand of 30 year senior notes at 4.868%, which will mature on June 1, 2044. Interest will be paid semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year. The proceeds from the issuance have been used in part to pay off the $250,000 thousand of 5.40% senior notes which matured on October 15, 2014. Interest expense incurred in connection with these senior notes is as follows for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Interest expense incurred $ 19,472 $ 21,818 $ 13,551

Long Term Subordinated Notes

Long Term Subordinated Notes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Abstract]
Long Term Subordinated Notes	8. LONG TERM SUBORDINATED NOTES The table below displays Holdings' outstanding fixed to floating rate long term subordinated notes. Market value is based on quoted market prices, but due to limited trading activity, these subordinated notes are considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. Maturity Date December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Original Consolidated Balance Consolidated Balance (Dollars in thousands) Date Issued Principal Amount Scheduled Final Sheet Amount Market Value Sheet Amount Market Value 6.6 04/26/2007 $ 400,000 05/15/2037 05/01/2067 $ 238,368 $ 208,978 $ 238,364 $ 246,312 During the fixed rate interest period from May 3, 2007 May 14, 2017 6.6 Holdings can redeem the long term subordinated notes prior to May 15, 2017, in whole but not in part at the applicable redemption price, which will equal the greater of (a) 100 0.25 0.50 On March 19, 2009, Group announced the commencement of a cash tender offer for any and all of the 6.60% fixed to floating rate long term subordinated notes. Upon expiration of the tender offer, the Company had reduced its outstanding debt by $ 161,441 Interest expense incurred in connection with these long term subordinated notes is as follows for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Interest expense incurred $ 15,749 $ 15,749 $ 15,748

Junior Subordinated Debt Securi

Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable [Abstract]
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable	9. JUNIOR SUBORDINATED DEBT SECURITIES PAYABLE In accordance with the provisions of the junior subordinated debt securities which were issued on March 29, 2004, Holdings elected to redeem the $ 329,897 6.2 7,282 Interest expense incurred in connection with these junior subordinated debt securities is as follows for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Interest expense incurred $ - $ - $ 8,181 Holdings considered the mechanisms and obligations relating to the trust preferred securities, taken together, constituted a full and unconditional guarantee by Holdings of Capital Trust II's payment obligations with respect to their trust preferred securities.

Reinsurance And Trust Agreement

Reinsurance And Trust Agreements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Reinsurance And Trust Agreements [Abstract]
Reinsurance And Trust Agreements	10. REINSURANCE AND TRUST AGREEMENTS Certain subsidiaries of Group have established trust agreements, which effectively use the Company's investments as collateral, as security for assumed losses payable to certain non-affiliated ceding companies. At December 31, 2015, the total amount on deposit in trust accounts was $ 454,384 On April 24, 2014, the Company entered into two 250,000 200,000 On November 18, 2014, the Company entered into a collateralized reinsurance agreement with Kilimanjaro Re to provide the Company with catastrophe reinsurance coverage. This agreement is a multi-year reinsurance contract which covers specified earthquake events. The agreement provides up to $ 500,000 On December 1, 2015 the Company entered into two 300,000 325,000 Kilimanjaro has financed the various property catastrophe reinsurance coverage by issuing catastrophe bonds to unrelated, external investors. On April 24, 2014, Kilimanjaro issued $ 450,000 500,000 625,000

Operating Lease Agreements

Operating Lease Agreements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Operating Lease Agreements [Abstract]
Operating Lease Agreements	11. OPERATING LEASE AGREEMENTS The future minimum rental commitments, exclusive of cost escalation clauses, at December 31, 2015, for all of the Company's operating leases with remaining non-cancelable terms in excess of one year are as follows: (Dollars in thousands) 2016 $ 14,594 2017 13,657 2018 13,544 2019 13,362 2020 12,798 Thereafter 16,511 Net commitments $ 84,466 All of these leases, the expiration terms of which range from 2017 2027 15,986 15,519 14,407

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	12. INCOME TAXES Under Bermuda law, no income or capital gains taxes are imposed on Group and its Bermuda Subsidiaries. The Minister of Finance of Bermuda has assured Group and its Bermuda subsidiaries that, pursuant to The Exempted Undertakings Tax Protection Amendment Act of 2011, they will be exempt until 2035 from imposition of any such taxes. All of the income of Group's non-Bermuda subsidiaries is subject to the applicable federal, foreign, state and local taxes on corporations. Additionally, the income of foreign branches of the Company's insurance operating companies, in particular the UK branch of Bermuda Re, is subject to various rates of income tax. Group's U.S. subsidiaries conduct business in and are subject to taxation in the U.S. Should the U.S. subsidiaries distribute current or accumulated earnings and profits in the form of dividends or otherwise, the Company would be subject to an accrual of 5 no Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Current tax expense (benefit): U.S. $ 90,486 $ 143,297 $ 116,829 Non-U.S. 14,811 22,575 18,219 Total current tax expense (benefit) 105,297 165,872 135,048 Total deferred U.S. tax expense (benefit) 28,724 21,780 154,658 Total income tax expense (benefit) $ 134,021 $ 187,652 $ 289,706 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) The weighted average expected tax provision has been calculated using the pre-tax income (loss) in each jurisdiction multiplied by that jurisdiction's applicable statutory tax rate. Reconciliation of the difference between the provision for income taxes and the expected tax provision at the weighted average tax rate for the periods indicated is provided below: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 U.S. Non-U.S. U.S. Non-U.S. U.S. Non-U.S. Underwriting gain (loss) $ 294,386 $ 617,137 $ 228,194 $ 658,421 $ 246,699 $ 491,909 Net investment income 234,709 239,115 260,501 270,069 274,920 273,589 Net realized capital gains (losses) (159,268 ) (24,879 ) 78,006 6,040 295,814 4,413 Net derivative gain (loss) - 6,317 - (11,599 ) - 44,044 Corporate expenses (7,179 ) (16,075 ) (7,252 ) (16,169 ) (8,262 ) (16,555 ) Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense (35,434 ) (756 ) (37,970 ) (563 ) (45,452 ) (665 ) Other income (expense) 27,706 32,730 (1,561 ) 19,998 (7,086 ) 1,598 Pre-tax income (loss) $ 354,920 $ 853,589 $ 519,918 $ 926,197 $ 756,633 $ 798,333 Expected tax provision at the applicable statutory rate(s) 124,221 14,848 181,972 21,279 264,822 16,279 Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from: Tax exempt income (10,004 ) - (12,231 ) - (15,038 ) - Dividend received deduction (5,364 ) - (5,910 ) - (7,809 ) - Proration 2,160 - 1,835 - 2,274 - Other 8,197 (37 ) (588 ) 1,296 27,238 1,940 Total income tax provision $ 119,210 $ 14,811 $ 165,077 $ 22,575 $ 271,487 $ 18,219 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) The Company has no reserve for uncertain tax positions. The Company's U.S. Corporation Income Tax Returns from 2009 and forward are open to IRS audit. Deferred Income taxes reflect the tax effect of the temporary differences between the value of assets and liabilities for financial statement purposes and such values as measured by the U.S. tax laws and regulations. The principal items making up the net deferred income tax assets are as follows for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Loss reserves $ 169,771 $ 153,978 Unearned premium reserves 40,624 44,582 Net unrecognized losses on benefit plans 33,971 40,377 Investment impairments 23,481 13,841 Benefit plan liability 18,747 9,873 Foreign tax credits 11,836 64,902 Alternative minimum tax credits 7,604 44,954 Uncollectible reinsurance reserves 5,534 5,237 Net operating loss carryforward 3,412 3,296 Deferred expenses 3,182 3,076 Other assets 16,663 21,048 Total deferred tax assets 334,825 405,164 Deferred tax liabilities: Net fair value income 80,268 128,856 Deferred acquisition costs 33,227 38,636 Gain on tender of debt 16,437 21,916 Net unrealized investment gains 7,491 28,108 Other liabilities 15,960 15,379 Total deferred tax liabilities 153,383 232,895 Net deferred tax assets 181,442 172,269 Less: Valuation allowance (3,412 ) (3,296 ) Total net deferred tax assets $ 178,030 $ 168,973 For U.S. income tax purposes at December 31, 2015, the Company has foreign tax credit carry forwards of $ 11,836 7,604 The Company has recorded tax benefits related to share-based compensation deductions for dividends on restricted stock, vestings of restricted stock and exercised stock options in 2015 and 2014, respectively of $ 8,064 6,603

Reinsurance

Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Reinsurance [Abstract]
Reinsurance	13. REINSURANCE The Company utilizes reinsurance agreements to reduce its exposure to large claims and catastrophic loss occurrences. These agreements provide for recovery from reinsurers of a portion of losses and LAE under certain circumstances without relieving the Company of its underlying obligations to the policyholders. Losses and LAE incurred and premiums earned are reported after deduction for reinsurance. In the event that one or more of the reinsurers were unable to meet their obligations under these reinsurance agreements, the Company would not realize the full value of the reinsurance recoverable balances. The Company may hold partial collateral, including letters of credit and funds held, under these agreements. See also Note 1C, Note 3 and Note 10. Premiums written and earned and incurred losses and LAE are comprised of the following for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Written premiums: Direct $ 1,569,791 $ 1,227,645 $ 1,268,698 Assumed 4,306,501 4,521,342 3,949,936 Ceded (498,031 ) (492,084 ) (213,813 ) Net written premiums $ 5,378,261 $ 5,256,903 $ 5,004,821 Premiums earned: Direct $ 1,491,163 $ 1,183,498 $ 1,207,833 Assumed 4,485,021 4,405,253 3,748,824 Ceded (494,725 ) (419,616 ) (203,114 ) Net premiums earned $ 5,481,459 $ 5,169,135 $ 4,753,543 Incurred losses and LAE: Direct $ 1,268,896 $ 1,100,037 $ 1,173,177 Assumed 2,152,633 2,160,663 1,833,055 Ceded (319,614 ) (354,166 ) (205,981 ) Net incurred losses and LAE $ 3,101,915 $ 2,906,534 $ 2,800,251

Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Comprehensive Income (Loss)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	14. COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) The following table presents the components of comprehensive income (loss) in the consolidated statements of operations for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (Dollars in thousands) Before Tax Tax Effect Net of Tax Before Tax Tax Effect Net of Tax Before Tax Tax Effect Net of Tax Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary $ (333,657 ) $ 54,502 $ (279,155 ) $ (4,278 ) $ 11,653 $ 7,375 $ (457,192 ) $ 62,834 $ (394,358 ) URA(D) on securities - OTTI 8,411 (3,383 ) 5,028 (10,078 ) 3,407 (6,671 ) (1,579 ) 140 (1,439 ) Reclassification of net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss) 131,211 (37,523 ) 93,688 34,668 (13,276 ) 21,392 (8,388 ) 1,411 (6,977 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments (140,918 ) 29,388 (111,530 ) (111,145 ) 15,728 (95,417 ) (10,462 ) 10,300 (162 ) Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss) 8,740 (3,059 ) 5,681 (60,169 ) 21,059 (39,110 ) 27,442 (9,605 ) 17,837 Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss) 9,563 (3,347 ) 6,216 4,647 (1,627 ) 3,020 8,889 (3,111 ) 5,778 Total other comprehensive income (loss) $ (316,650 ) $ 36,578 $ (280,072 ) $ (146,355 ) $ 36,944 $ (109,411 ) $ (441,290 ) $ 61,969 $ (379,321 ) The following table presents details of the amounts reclassified from AOCI for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, Affected line item within the statements of AOCI component 2015 2014 operations and comprehensive income (loss) (Dollars in thousands) URA(D) on securities $ 131,211 $ 34,668 Other net realized capital gains (losses) (37,523 ) (13,276 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ 93,688 $ 21,392 Net income (loss) Benefit plan net gain (loss) $ 9,563 $ 4,647 Other underwriting expenses (3,347 ) (1,627 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ 6,216 $ 3,020 Net income (loss) The following table presents the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, in the consolidated balance sheets for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Beginning balance of URA (D) on securities $ 223,250 $ 201,154 Current period change in URA (D) of investments - temporary (185,467 ) 28,767 Current period change in URA (D) of investments - non-credit OTTI 5,028 (6,671 ) Ending balance of URA (D) on securities 42,811 223,250 Beginning balance of foreign currency translation adjustments (99,947 ) (4,530 ) Current period change in foreign currency translation adjustments (111,530 ) (95,417 ) Ending balance of foreign currency translation adjustments (211,477 ) (99,947 ) Beginning balance of benefit plan net gain (loss) (74,986 ) (38,896 ) Current period change in benefit plan net gain (loss) 11,897 (36,090 ) Ending balance of benefit plan net gain (loss) (63,089 ) (74,986 ) Ending balance of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ (231,755 ) $ 48,317

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	15. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS Defined Benefit Pension Plans. The Company maintains both qualified and non-qualified defined benefit pension plans for its U.S. employees employed prior to April 1, 2010. Generally, the Company computes the benefits based on average earnings over a period prescribed by the plans and credited length of service. The Company's non-qualified defined benefit pension plan, affected in October 1995, provides compensating pension benefits for participants whose benefits have been curtailed under the qualified plan due to Internal Revenue Code limitations. Although not required to make contributions under IRS regulations, the following table summarizes the Company's contributions to the defined benefit pension plans for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Company contributions $ 5,949 $ 16,484 $ 22,536 The following table summarizes the Company's pension expense for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Pension expense $ 22,682 $ 18,543 $ 19,348 The following table summarizes the status of these defined benefit plans for U.S. employees for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Change in projected benefit obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 270,065 $ 214,059 Service cost 12,511 10,015 Interest cost 10,759 10,474 Actuarial (gain)/loss (18,595 ) 55,107 Benefits paid (20,718 ) (19,588 ) Projected benefit obligation at end of year 254,022 270,065 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 157,090 152,446 Actual return on plan assets (7,234 ) 7,747 Actual contributions during the year 5,949 16,484 Benefits paid (20,718 ) (19,588 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year 135,087 157,090 Funded status at end of year $ (118,936 ) $ (112,976 ) (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Other assets (due beyond one year) $ - $ - Other liabilities (due within one year) (1,869 ) (5,469 ) Other liabilities (due beyond one year) (117,067 ) (107,507 ) Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets $ (118,936 ) $ (112,976 ) Amounts not yet reflected in net periodic benefit cost and included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Prior service cost $ - $ (21 ) Accumulated income (loss) (91,920 ) (102,671 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ (91,920 ) $ (102,692 ) Other changes in other comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated are as follows: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year $ (102,692 ) $ (53,387 ) Net gain (loss) arising during period (259 ) (58,647 ) Recognition of amortizations in net periodic benefit cost: Prior service cost 21 49 Actuarial loss 11,011 9,294 Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year $ (91,920 ) $ (102,692 ) (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) Net periodic benefit cost for U.S. employees included the following components for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Service cost $ 12,511 $ 10,015 $ 11,182 Interest cost 10,759 10,474 8,511 Expected return on assets (11,620 ) (11,288 ) (8,495 ) Amortization of actuarial loss from earlier periods 9,243 4,341 8,101 Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost 21 49 49 Settlement 1,768 4,953 - Net periodic benefit cost $ 22,682 $ 18,543 $ 19,348 Other changes recognized in other comprehensive income (loss): Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to change from prior year (10,773 ) 49,305 Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss) $ 11,909 $ 67,847 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) The estimated transition obligation, actuarial loss and prior service cost that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year are $ 0 8,055 0 The weighted average discount rates used to determine net periodic benefit cost for 2015, 2014 and 2013 were 4.00 5.00 4.00 4.0 7.50 The weighted average discount rates used to determine the actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligation for years end 2015, 2014 and 2013 were 4.38 4.00 5.00 The following table summarizes the accumulated benefit obligation for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Qualified Plan $ 188,702 $ 200,205 Non-qualified Plan 17,756 19,167 Total $ 206,458 $ 219,371 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) The following table displays the plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Qualified Plan Projected benefit obligation $ 229,719 $ 243,525 Fair value of plan assets 135,087 157,090 Non-qualified Plan Projected benefit obligation $ 24,303 $ 26,540 Fair value of plan assets - - The following table displays the plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Qualified Plan Accumulated benefit obligation $ 188,702 $ 200,205 Fair value of plan assets 135,087 157,090 Non-qualified Plan Accumulated benefit obligation $ 17,756 $ 19,167 Fair value of plan assets - - The following table displays the expected benefit payments in the periods indicated: (Dollars in thousands) 2016 $ 6,709 2017 7,779 2018 9,607 2019 12,139 2020 10,660 Next 5 years 67,416 Plan assets consist of shares in investment trusts with 80 17 3 70 30 The following tables present the fair value measurement levels for the qualified plan assets at fair value for the periods indicated: Fair Value Measurement Using: Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets for Other Significant Identical Observable Unobservable Assets Inputs Inputs (Dollars in thousands) December 31, 2015 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: Cash $ - $ - $ - $ - Short-term investments, which approximates fair value (a) 4,034 4,034 - - Mutual funds, fair value Fixed income (b) 22,537 22,537 - - Equities (c) 86,505 86,505 - - Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value (d) 10,673 - - 10,673 Private equity limited partnerships (e) 11,338 - - 11,338 Total $ 135,087 $ 113,076 $ - $ 22,011 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) (a) This category includes high quality, short-term money market instruments, which are issued and payable in U.S. dollars (b) This category includes fixed income funds, which invest in investment grade securities of corporations, governments and government agencies with approximately 50 50 (c) This category includes funds, which invest in small, mid and multi-cap equity securities including common stocks, securities convertible into common stock and securities with common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants, with approximately 90 10 (d) This category consists of a privately held fund of U.S. and international equity funds and may include currency hedges for the foreign funds. The fair value is provided by the external investment manager (e) This category consists of private equity limited partnerships Fair Value Measurement Using: Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets for Other Significant Identical Observable Unobservable Assets Inputs Inputs (Dollars in thousands) December 31, 2014 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: Cash $ - $ - $ - $ - Short-term investments, which approximates fair value (a) 14,328 14,328 - - Mutual funds, fair value Fixed income (b) 23,948 23,948 - - Equities (c) 96,762 96,762 - - Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value (d) 10,629 - - 10,629 Private equity limited partnerships (e) 11,423 - - 11,423 Total $ 157,090 $ 135,037 $ - $ 22,053 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) (a) This category includes high quality, short-term money market instruments, which are issued and payable in U.S. dollars. (b) This category includes fixed income funds, which invest in investment grade securities of corporations, governments and government agencies with approximately 50% in U.S. securities and 50% in international securities. (c) This category includes funds, which invest in small, mid and multi-cap equity securities including common stocks, securities convertible into common stock and securities with common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants, with approximately 90% in U.S. equities and 10% in international equities. (d) This category consists of a privately held fund of U.S. and international equity funds and may include currency hedges for the foreign funds. The fair value is provided by the external investment manager. (e) This category consists of private equity limited partnerships. The following table presents the activity under Level 3, fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs for fixed maturity investments, for the period indicated: Year Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Assets: Balance, beginning of period $ 22,053 $ 19,921 Actual return on plan assets: Realized gains (losses) relating to assets sold during the period 84 75 Unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date 601 331 Purchases and capital contributions 1,719 3,390 Investment income earned on assets - - Sales and capital distributions (2,446 ) (1,664 ) Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 - - Balance, end of period $ 22,011 $ 22,053 The amount of total gains (losses) for the period included in changes in net assets attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date $ 517 $ 256 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) The Company does not expect to make any contributions to the qualified plan in 2016. Defined Contribution Plans. The Company also maintains both qualified and non-qualified defined contribution plans ("Savings Plan" and "Non-Qualified Savings Plan", respectively) covering U.S. employees. Under the plans, the Company contributes up to a maximum 3 3 8 100 The following table presents the Company's incurred expenses related to these plans for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Incurred expenses $ 5,468 $ 4,676 $ 3,903 In addition, the Company maintains several defined contribution pension plans covering non-U.S. employees. Each non-U.S. office (Brazil, Canada, London, Belgium, Singapore, Ireland and Bermuda) maintains a separate plan for the non-U.S. employees working in that location. The Company contributes various amounts based on salary, age and/or years of service. The contributions as a percentage of salary for the branch offices range from 5.0 17.7 Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Incurred expenses $ 1,423 $ 1,387 $ 1,195 Post-Retirement Plan. The Company sponsors a Retiree Health Plan for employees employed prior to April 1, 2010. This plan provides healthcare benefits for eligible retired employees (and their eligible dependants), who have elected coverage. The Company anticipates that most covered employees will become eligible for these benefits if they retire while working for the Company. The cost of these benefits is shared with the retiree. The Company accrues the post-retirement benefit expense during the period of the employee's service. The following medical cost trend rates were used to determine net cost and benefit obligations: a healthcare inflation rate for pre-Medicare claims of 7.0 4.5 6.2 4.5 Changes in the assumed healthcare cost trend can have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the healthcare plans. A one percent change in the rate would have the following effects on: Percentage Percentage Point Increase Point Decrease (Dollars in thousands) ($ Impact) ($ Impact) a. Effect on total service and interest cost components $ 706 $ (537 ) b. Effect on accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation 6,504 (5,064 ) The following table presents the post-retirement benefit expenses for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Post-retirement benefit expenses $ 3,280 $ 3,196 $ 3,801 The following table summarizes the status of this plan for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Change in projected benefit obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 36,506 $ 27,594 Service cost 1,794 1,619 Interest cost 1,187 1,320 Actuarial (gain)/loss (7,231 ) 6,475 Benefits paid (568 ) (502 ) Benefit obligation at end of year 31,687 36,506 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year - - Employer contributions 568 502 Benefits paid (568 ) (502 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year - - Funded status at end of year $ (31,687 ) $ (36,506 ) Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Other liabilities (due within one year) $ (654 ) $ (639 ) Other liabilities (due beyond one year) (31,033 ) (35,867 ) Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets $ (31,687 ) $ (36,506 ) Amounts not yet reflected in net periodic benefit cost and included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Accumulated income (loss) $ (5,139 ) $ (12,670 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ (5,139 ) $ (12,670 ) Other changes in other comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated are as follows: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year $ (12,670 ) $ (6,452 ) Net gain (loss) arising during period 7,231 (6,475 ) Recognition of amortizations in net periodic benefit cost: Actuarial loss (gain) 300 257 Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year $ (5,139 ) $ (12,670 ) Net periodic benefit cost included the following components for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Service cost $ 1,794 $ 1,619 $ 1,899 Interest cost 1,187 1,320 1,164 Net loss recognition 300 257 739 Net periodic cost $ 3,280 $ 3,196 $ 3,801 Other changes recognized in other comprehensive income (loss): Other comprehensive gain (loss) attributable to change from prior year (7,531 ) 6,218 Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss) $ (4,251 ) $ 9,414 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) The estimated transition obligation, actuarial loss and prior service cost that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year are $ 0 193 0 The weighted average discount rates used to determine net periodic benefit cost for 2015, 2014 and 2013 were 4.00 5.00 4.00 The weighted average discount rates used to determine the actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligation at year end 2015, 2014 and 2013 were 4.38 4.00 5.00 The following table displays the expected benefit payments in the years indicated: 2016 $ 654 2017 717 2018 844 2019 972 2020 1,141 Next 5 years 8,157

Dividend Restrictions And Statu

Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information [Abstract]
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information	16. DIVIDEND RESTRICTIONS AND STATUTORY FINANCIAL INFORMATION Group and its operating subsidiaries are subject to various regulatory restrictions, including the amount of dividends that may be paid and the level of capital that the operating entities must maintain. These regulatory restrictions are based upon statutory capital as opposed to GAAP basis equity or net assets. Group and one of its primary operating subsidiaries, Bermuda Re, are regulated by Bermuda law and its other primary operating subsidiary, Everest Re, is regulated by Delaware law. Bermuda Re is subject to the Bermuda Solvency Capital Requirement ("BSCR") administered by the Bermuda Monetary Authority ("BMA") and Everest Re is subject to the Risk-Based Capital Model ("RBC") developed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC"). These models represent the aggregate regulatory restrictions on net assets and statutory capital and surplus. Dividend Restrictions. Under Bermuda law, Group is prohibited from declaring or paying a dividend if such payment would reduce the realizable value of its assets to an amount less than the aggregate value of its liabilities and its issued share capital and share premium (additional paid-in capital) accounts. Group's ability to pay dividends and its operating expenses is dependent upon dividends from its subsidiaries. Under Bermuda law, Bermuda Re is prohibited from declaring or making payment of a dividend if it fails to meet its minimum solvency margin or minimum liquidity ratio. As a long term insurer, Bermuda Re is also unable to declare or pay a dividend to anyone who is not a policyholder unless, after payment of the dividend, the value of the assets in their long term business fund, as certified by their approved actuary, exceeds their liabilities for long term business by at least the $ 250 25 Bermuda Re prepares its statutory financial statements in conformity with the accounting principles set forth in Bermuda in The Insurance Act 1978, amendments thereto and related regulations. The general business statutory capital and surplus of Bermuda Re was $ 2,628,274 2,748,030 617,506 698,834 634,147 Delaware law provides that an insurance company which is a member of an insurance holding company system and is domiciled in the state shall not pay dividends without giving prior notice to the Insurance Commissioner of Delaware and may not pay dividends without the approval of the Insurance Commissioner if the value of the proposed dividend, together with all other dividends and distributions made in the preceding twelve months, exceeds the greater of (1) 10 498,455 Everest Re prepares its statutory financial statements in accordance with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the NAIC and the Delaware Insurance Department. Prescribed statutory accounting practices are set forth in the NAIC Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual. The capital and statutory surplus of Everest Re was $ 3,210,891 2,892,999 498,455 357,298 540,020 There are certain regulatory and contractual restrictions on the ability of Holdings' operating subsidiaries to transfer funds to Holdings in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances. The insurance laws of the State of Delaware, where Holdings' direct insurance subsidiaries are domiciled, require regulatory approval before those subsidiaries can pay dividends or make loans or advances to Holdings that exceed certain statutory thresholds. Capital Restrictions. In Bermuda, Bermuda Re is subject to the BSCR administered by the BMA. No regulatory action is taken if an insurer's capital and surplus is equal to or in excess of their enhanced capital requirement determined by the BSCR model. In addition, the BMA has established a target capital level for each insurer, which is 120 In the United States, Everest Re is subject to the RBC developed by the NAIC which determines an authorized control level risk-based capital. As long as the total adjusted capital is 200 The regulatory targeted capital and the actual statutory capital for Bermuda Re and Everest Re were as follows: Bermuda Re (1) Everest Re (2) At December 31, At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 (3) 2014 (3) 2015 2014 Regulatory targeted capital $ - $ 2,050,006 $ 1,355,668 $ 1,209,601 Actual capital $ 2,628,274 $ 2,748,030 $ 3,210,891 $ 2,892,999 (1) Regulatory targeted capital represents the target capital level from the applicable year's BSCR calculation. (2) Regulatory targeted capital represents 200% of the RBC authorized control level calculation for the applicable year. (3) The 2015 BSCR calculation is not yet due to be completed; however, the Company anticipates that Bermuda Re's December 31, 2015 actual capital will exceed the targeted capital level.

Contingencies

Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Contingencies [Abstract]
Contingencies	17. CONTINGENCIES In the ordinary course of business, the Company is involved in lawsuits, arbitrations and other formal and informal dispute resolution procedures, the outcomes of which will determine the Company's rights and obligations under insurance and reinsurance agreements. In some disputes, the Company seeks to enforce its rights under an agreement or to collect funds owing to it. In other matters, the Company is resisting attempts by others to collect funds or enforce alleged rights. These disputes arise from time to time and are ultimately resolved through both informal and formal means, including negotiated resolution, arbitration and litigation. In all such matters, the Company believes that its positions are legally and commercially reasonable. The Company considers the statuses of these proceedings when determining its reserves for unpaid loss and loss adjustment expenses. Aside from litigation and arbitrations related to these insurance and reinsurance agreements, the Company is not a party to any other material litigation or arbitration. The Company has entered into separate annuity agreements with The Prudential Insurance of America ("The Prudential") and an additional unaffiliated life insurance company in which the Company has either purchased annuity contracts or become the assignee of annuity proceeds that are meant to settle claim payment obligations in the future. In both instances, the Company would become contingently liable if either The Prudential or the unaffiliated life insurance company were unable to make payments related to the respective annuity contract. The table below presents the estimated cost to replace all such annuities for which the Company was contingently liable for the periods indicated: At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 The Prudential Insurance Company of America $ 142,427 $ 142,653 Unaffiliated life insurance company $ 33,062 $ 31,964

Share-Based Compensation Plans

Share-Based Compensation Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-Based Compensation Plans [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation Plans	18. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS The Company has a 2010 Stock Incentive Plan ("2010 Employee Plan"), a 2009 Non-Employee Director Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan ("2009 Director Plan") and a 2003 Non-Employee Director Equity Compensation Plan ("2003 Director Plan"). Under the 2010 Employee Plan, 4,000,000 2,715,908 no 37,439 35,215 500,000 377,487 Options and restricted shares granted under the 2010 Employee Plan and the 2002 Employee Plan vest at the earliest of 20 50 33 ten Performance Share Unit awards granted under the 2010 Employee Plan will vest 100 three 0 1.75 50 50 For share options, restricted shares and performance share units granted under the 2010 Employee Plan, the 2002 Employee Plan, the 2009 Director Plan and the 2003 Director Plan, share-based compensation expense recognized in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) was $ 21,237 21,196 31,844 4,870 5,819 5,458 For the year ended December 31, 2015, a total of 156,262 178.840 181.895 176.370 182.075 10,705 178.84 The Company recognizes, as an increase to additional paid-in capital, a realized income tax benefit from dividends, charged to retained earnings and paid to employees on equity classified non-vested equity shares. In addition, the amount recognized in additional paid-in capital for the realized income tax benefit from dividends on those awards is included in the pool of excess tax benefits available to absorb tax deficiencies on share-based payment awards. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, the Company recognized $ 446 401 237 A summary of the option activity under the Company's shareholder approved plans as of December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, and changes during the year then ended is presented in the following tables: Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Remaining Aggregate (Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands) Exercise Contractual Intrinsic Options Shares Price/Share Term Value Outstanding at January 1, 2015 888,184 $ 86.05 Granted - - Exercised 230,350 87.21 Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired 9,800 87.68 Outstanding at December 31, 2015 648,034 85.61 4.5 $ 64,352 Exercisable at December 31, 2015 495,334 84.94 4.1 $ 49,517 Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Remaining Aggregate (Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands) Exercise Contractual Intrinsic Options Shares Price/Share Term Value Outstanding at January 1, 2014 1,190,544 $ 85.44 Granted - - Exercised 286,120 83.53 Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired 16,240 85.73 Outstanding at December 31, 2014 888,184 86.05 5.2 $ 76,485 Exercisable at December 31, 2014 562,684 85.41 4.5 $ 48,812 Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Remaining Aggregate (Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands) Exercise Contractual Intrinsic Options Shares Price/Share Term Value Outstanding at January 1, 2013 2,012,164 $ 87.25 Granted - - Exercised 768,190 90.26 Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired 53,430 84.23 Outstanding at December 31, 2013 1,190,544 85.44 5.8 $ 83,313 Exercisable at December 31, 2013 579,417 86.33 4.5 $ 40,029 There were no 21,434 21,202 30,050 20,089 6,892 The following table summarizes information about share options outstanding for the period indicated: At December 31, 2015 Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Weighted- Average Weighted- Weighted- Number Remaining Average Number Average Range of Outstanding Contractual Exercise Exercisable Exercise Exercise Prices at 12/31/15 Life Price at 12/31/15 Price $ 66.0780 77.0910 111,130 3.1 $ 71.72 111,130 $ 71.72 $ 77.0911 88.1040 277,280 4.6 85.78 225,880 85.59 $ 88.1041 99.1170 211,770 5.6 89.46 110,470 90.49 $ 99.1171 110.130 47,854 2.2 99.80 47,854 99.80 648,034 4.5 85.61 495,334 84.94 The following table summarizes the status of the Company's non-vested shares and changes for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Weighted- Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Average Grant Date Grant Date Grant Date Restricted (non-vested) Shares Shares Fair Value Shares Fair Value Shares Fair Value Outstanding at January 1, 467,745 $ 120.84 429,041 $ 103.50 357,750 $ 87.86 Granted 156,262 178.80 176,159 147.44 274,715 132.95 Vested 154,387 113.12 128,549 99.55 187,397 116.83 Forfeited 34,284 138.19 8,906 118.82 16,027 103.29 Outstanding at December 31, 435,336 143.02 467,745 120.84 429,041 103.50 As of December 31, 2015, there was $ 46,024 3.2 17,464 12,797 21,894 6,915 In addition to the 2010 Employee Plan, the 2009 Director Plan and the 2003 Director Plan, Group issued 426 476 586 75 75 75 Since its 1995 initial public offering, the Company has issued to certain key employees of the Company 1,838,857 230,877 114,786 no 64,160 55,756 94,014 11,437 8,531 13,180 18,117 26,734 74,175 3,229 4,207 9,313 The following table summarized the status of the Company's non-vested performance share unit awards and changes for the period indicated: Year Ended December 31, 2015 Weighted- Average Grant Date Performance Share Unit Awards Shares Fair Value Outstanding at January 1, - $ - Granted 10,705 178.84 Vested - - Forfeited - - Outstanding at December 31, 10,705 178.84

Segment Reporting

Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting	19. SEGMENT REPORTING The U.S. Reinsurance operation writes property and casualty reinsurance and specialty lines of business, including Marine, Aviation, Surety and Accident and Health ("A&H") business, on both a treaty and facultative basis, through reinsurance brokers, as well as directly with ceding companies primarily within the U.S. The International operation writes non-U.S. property and casualty reinsurance through Everest Re's branches in Canada and Singapore and through offices in Brazil, Miami and New Jersey. The Bermuda operation provides reinsurance and insurance to worldwide property and casualty markets through brokers and directly with ceding companies from its Bermuda office and reinsurance to the United Kingdom and European markets through its UK branch and Ireland Re. The Insurance operation writes property and casualty insurance directly and through general agents, brokers and surplus lines brokers within the U.S. and Canada. The Mt. Logan Re segment represents business written for the segregated accounts of Mt. Logan Re, which were formed on July 1, 2013. The Mt. Logan Re business represents a diversified set of catastrophe exposures, diversified by risk/peril and across different geographical regions globally. These segments, with the exception of Mt. Logan Re, are managed independently, but conform with corporate guidelines with respect to pricing, risk management, control of aggregate catastrophe exposures, capital, investments and support operations. Management generally monitors and evaluates the financial performance of these operating segments based upon their underwriting results. The Mt. Logan Re segment is managed independently and seeks to write a diverse portfolio of catastrophe risks for each segregated account to achieve desired risk and return criteria. Underwriting results include earned premium less losses and loss adjustment expenses ("LAE") incurred, commission and brokerage expenses and other underwriting expenses. We measure our underwriting results using ratios, in particular loss, commission and brokerage and other underwriting expense ratios, which, respectively, divide incurred losses, commissions and brokerage and other underwriting expenses by premiums earned. Mt. Logan Re's business is sourced through operating subsidiaries of the Company; however, the activity is only reflected in the Mt. Logan Re segment. For other inter-affiliate reinsurance, business is generally reported within the segment in which the business was first produced, consistent with how the business is managed. Except for Mt. Logan Re, the Company does not maintain separate balance sheet data for its operating segments. Accordingly, the Company does not review and evaluate the financial results of its operating segments based upon balance sheet data. The following tables present the underwriting results for the operating segments for the periods indicated: U.S. Reinsurance Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross written premiums $ 1,963,466 $ 2,039,578 $ 1,809,669 Net written premiums 1,855,853 1,983,800 1,807,067 Premiums earned $ 1,952,680 $ 1,986,769 $ 1,671,513 Incurred losses and LAE 825,081 954,525 814,668 Commission and brokerage 493,261 466,291 366,890 Other underwriting expenses 50,087 45,583 47,176 Underwriting gain (loss) $ 584,251 $ 520,370 $ 442,779 International Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross written premiums $ 1,294,049 $ 1,582,426 $ 1,345,770 Net written premiums 1,208,978 1,336,633 1,327,430 Premiums earned $ 1,251,111 $ 1,310,903 $ 1,289,341 Incurred losses and LAE 749,891 748,174 675,362 Commission and brokerage 298,180 306,229 295,883 Other underwriting expenses 34,303 34,598 33,910 Underwriting gain (loss) $ 168,737 $ 221,902 $ 284,186 Bermuda Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross written premiums $ 852,489 $ 770,249 $ 774,268 Net written premiums 791,594 744,664 765,660 Premiums earned $ 822,391 $ 715,736 $ 737,986 Incurred losses and LAE 456,448 361,792 374,375 Commission and brokerage 215,992 198,848 179,138 Other underwriting expenses 36,017 34,923 34,654 Underwriting gain (loss) $ 113,934 $ 120,173 $ 149,819 Insurance Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross written premiums $ 1,532,287 $ 1,218,372 $ 1,268,745 Net written premiums 1,325,886 1,067,333 1,086,217 Premiums earned $ 1,266,660 $ 1,030,299 $ 1,037,425 Incurred losses and LAE 1,033,295 811,445 931,466 Commission and brokerage 176,213 149,777 133,695 Other underwriting expenses 136,661 118,001 119,283 Underwriting gain (loss) $ (79,509 ) $ (48,924 ) $ (147,019 ) Mt. Logan Re Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross written premiums $ 234,001 $ 138,362 $ 20,182 Net written premiums 195,950 124,473 18,447 Premiums earned $ 188,617 $ 125,428 $ 17,278 Incurred losses and LAE 37,200 30,598 4,380 Commission and brokerage 18,390 14,441 1,952 Other underwriting expenses 8,916 7,295 2,103 Underwriting gain (loss) $ 124,111 $ 73,094 $ 8,843 The following table reconciles the underwriting results for the operating segments to income before taxes as reported in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Underwriting gain (loss) $ 911,524 $ 886,615 $ 738,608 Net investment income 473,825 530,570 548,509 Net realized capital gains (losses) (184,147 ) 84,046 300,227 Net derivative gain (loss) 6,317 (11,599 ) 44,044 Corporate expenses (23,254 ) (23,421 ) (24,817 ) Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense (36,191 ) (38,533 ) (46,118 ) Other income (expense) 60,435 18,437 (5,487 ) Income (loss) before taxes $ 1,208,509 $ 1,446,115 $ 1,554,966 The Company produces business in the U.S., Bermuda and internationally. The net income deriving from and assets residing in the individual foreign countries in which the Company writes business are not identifiable in the Company's financial records. Based on gross written premium, the table below presents the largest country, other than the U.S., in which the Company writes business, for the periods indicated: Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 United Kingdom $ 740,763 $ 676,490 $ 555,332 Approximately 20.7 22.7 20.6

Dispositions

Dispositions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Dispositions [Abstract]
Dispositions	20. DISPOSITIONS On July 13, 2015, the Company closed its agreement to sell all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of Mt. McKinley, a Delaware domiciled insurance company and wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company to Clearwater Insurance Company, a Delaware domiciled insurance company. The Company received $ 20,156 Concurrently with the closing, the Company entered into a retrocession treaty with an affiliate of Clearwater Insurance Company. Per the retrocession treaty, the Company retroceded 100 140,279 100,451 440,279 300,000

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	21. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS The Company has evaluated known recognized and non-recognized subsequent events. The Company does not have any subsequent events to report.

Unaudited Quarterly Financial D

Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data	22. UNAUDITED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA Summarized quarterly financial data for the periods indicated: 2015 (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter Operating data: Gross written premiums $ 1,414,041 $ 1,258,248 $ 1,720,713 $ 1,483,290 Net written premiums 1,283,889 1,168,496 1,561,257 1,364,618 Premiums earned 1,307,077 1,332,398 1,413,640 1,428,344 Net investment income 122,583 125,046 115,511 110,685 Net realized capital gains (losses) (10,505 ) (24,178 ) (159,971 ) 10,507 Total claims and underwriting expenses 1,070,296 1,149,529 1,258,812 1,091,298 Net income (loss) 339,070 235,472 107,572 392,374 Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (16,092 ) (26,415 ) (19,019 ) (35,093 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group 322,978 209,057 88,553 357,281 Earnings per common share attributable to Everest Re Group: Basic $ 7.26 $ 4.72 $ 2.02 $ 8.32 Diluted $ 7.19 $ 4.68 $ 2.00 $ 8.26 2014 (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter Operating data: Gross written premiums $ 1,267,424 $ 1,415,362 $ 1,666,701 $ 1,399,500 Net written premiums 1,227,589 1,217,487 1,517,580 1,294,247 Premiums earned 1,144,490 1,272,317 1,389,998 1,362,330 Net investment income 123,157 131,224 142,143 134,046 Net realized capital gains (losses) 21,126 59,016 (9,448 ) 13,352 Total claims and underwriting expenses 916,049 1,077,798 1,191,389 1,097,284 Net income (loss) 302,022 297,925 301,253 357,263 Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (8,089 ) (7,741 ) (26,337 ) (17,140 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group 293,933 290,184 274,916 340,123 Earnings per common share attributable to Everest Re Group: Basic $ 6.26 $ 6.32 $ 6.05 $ 7.54 Diluted $ 6.21 $ 6.26 $ 6.00 $ 7.47

Schedule I - Summary Of Investm

Schedule I - Summary Of Investments - Other Than Investments In Related Parties	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule I - Summary Of Investments - Other Than Investments In Related Parties [Abstract]
Schedule I - Summary Of Investments - Other Than Investments In Related Parties	SCHEDULE I — SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS — OTHER THAN INVESTMENTS IN RELATED PARTIES December 31, 2015 Column A Column B Column C Column D Amount Shown in Market Balance (Dollars in thousands) Cost Value Sheet Fixed maturities-available for sale Bonds: U.S. government and government agencies $ 805,273 $ 816,877 $ 816,877 State, municipalities and political subdivisions 669,945 703,075 703,075 Foreign government securities 1,256,983 1,259,181 1,259,181 Foreign corporate securities 2,677,589 2,718,351 2,718,351 Public utilities 276,627 281,937 281,937 All other corporate bonds 4,987,321 4,965,955 4,965,955 Mortgage - backed securities: Commercial 264,924 266,299 266,299 Agency residential 2,313,265 2,320,524 2,320,524 Non-agency residential 893 898 898 Redeemable preferred stock 23,386 24,197 24,197 Total fixed maturities-available for sale 13,276,206 13,357,294 13,357,294 Fixed maturities - available for sale at fair value (1) 2,202 2,102 2,102 Equity securities - available for sale at market value 122,271 108,940 108,940 Equity securities - available for sale at fair value (1) 1,108,295 1,337,733 1,337,733 Short-term investments 1,795,455 1,795,455 1,795,455 Other invested assets 786,994 786,994 786,994 Cash 283,658 283,658 283,658 Total investments and cash $ 17,375,081 $ 17,672,176 $ 17,672,176 ( 1) Original cost does not reflect fair value adjustments, which have been realized through the statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Schedule II - Condensed Financi

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant [Abstract]
Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant	SCHEDULE II — CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE REGISTRANT CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS December 31, (Dollars and share amounts in thousands, except par value per share) 2015 2014 ASSETS: Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value $ 78,282 $ 26,297 (amortized cost: 2015, $78,153; 2014, $26,016) Short-term investments 18,288 297,751 Cash 740 1,398 Investment in subsidiaries, at equity in the underlying net assets 7,761,541 7,374,460 Accrued investment income 71 239 Receivable from subsidiaries 736 2,273 Other assets 641 1,075 TOTAL ASSETS $ 7,860,299 $ 7,703,493 LIABILITIES: Long term note payable - Affiliated $ 250,000 $ 250,000 Due to subsidiaries 1,068 1,765 Other liabilities 646 608 Total liabilities 251,714 252,373 SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY: Preferred shares, par value: $0.01; 50,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding - - Common shares, par value: $0.01; 200,000 shares authorized; (2015) 68,606 and (2014) 68,336 issued outstanding before treasury shares 686 683 Additional paid-in capital 2,103,638 2,068,807 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income tax expense (benefit) of ($15,863) at 2015 and $20,715 at 2014 (231,755 ) 48,317 Treasury shares, at cost; 25,912 shares (2015) and 23,650 shares (2014) (2,885,956 ) (2,485,897 ) Retained earnings 8,621,972 7,819,210 Total shareholders' equity 7,608,585 7,451,120 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 7,860,299 $ 7,703,493 See notes to consolidated financial statements. SCHEDULE II — CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE REGISTRANT CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (Dollars in thousands) REVENUES: Net investment income $ 3,895 $ 824 $ 982 Net realized capital gains (losses) (3,057 ) 15 - Other income (expense) (459 ) (574 ) (902 ) Net income (loss) of subsidiaries 997,730 1,214,334 1,275,955 Total revenues 998,109 1,214,599 1,276,035 EXPENSES: Interest expense - affiliated 4,300 - - Other expenses 15,940 15,443 16,653 Total expenses 20,240 15,443 16,653 INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES 977,869 1,199,156 1,259,382 Income tax expense (benefit) - - - NET INCOME (LOSS) $ 977,869 $ 1,199,156 $ 1,259,382 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities arising during the period (274,127 ) 704 (395,797 ) Reclassification adjustment for realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss) 93,688 21,392 (6,977 ) Total URA(D) on securities arising during the period (180,439 ) 22,096 (402,774 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments (111,530 ) (95,417 ) (162 ) Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss) for the period 5,681 (39,110 ) 17,837 Reclassification adjustment for amortization of net (gain) loss included in net income (loss) 6,216 3,020 5,778 Total benefit plan net gain (loss) for the period 11,897 (36,090 ) 23,615 Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax (280,072 ) (109,411 ) (379,321 ) COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) $ 697,797 $ 1,089,745 $ 880,061 See notes to consolidated financial statements. SCHEDULE II — CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE REGISTRANT CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income (loss) $ 977,869 $ 1,199,156 $ 1,259,382 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Equity in retained (earnings) deficit of subsidiaries (997,730 ) (1,214,334 ) (1,275,955 ) Dividends received from subsidiaries 590,000 690,000 665,000 Change in other assets and liabilities, net 642 20,612 1,334 Increase (decrease) in due to/from affiliates 839 (2,520 ) 1,378 Amortization of bond premium (accrual of bond discount) 525 156 241 Realized capital losses (gains) 3,057 (15 ) - Non-cash compensation expense 1,841 1,828 1,087 Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 577,043 694,883 652,467 CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Additional investment in subsidiaries (60,600 ) (73,873 ) (93,967 ) Subscription advances to Mt. Logan Re - - (20,000 ) Proceeds from fixed maturities matured/called - available for sale, at market value 26,074 4,765 7,856 Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at market value 252,047 50,010 - Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at market value (532,480 ) (49,994 ) (413 ) Net change in short-term investments 279,462 (269,307 ) 103,174 Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (35,497 ) (338,399 ) (3,350 ) CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Common shares issued during the period, net 32,962 37,208 82,258 Purchase of treasury shares (400,059 ) (500,024 ) (621,915 ) Proceeds from issuance of long term notes - affiliated - 250,000 - Dividends paid to shareholders (175,107 ) (145,913 ) (106,681 ) Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (542,204 ) (358,729 ) (646,338 ) EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH - - - Net increase (decrease) in cash (658 ) (2,245 ) 2,779 Cash, beginning of period 1,398 3,643 864 Cash, end of period $ 740 $ 1,398 $ 3,643 See notes to consolidated financial statements. 1.) The accompanying condensed financial information should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes of Everest Re Group, Ltd. and its Subsidiaries. 2.) Everest Re Group, Ltd. entered into a $ 250,000 December 31, 2023 1.72 th

Schedule III - Supplementary In

Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract]
Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information	SCHEDULE III — SUPPLEMENTARY INSURANCE INFORMATION Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E Column F Column G Column H Column I Column J Reserve Incurred Geographic Area for Losses Loss and Amortization Deferred and Loss Unearned Net Loss of Deferred Other Net Acquisition Adjustment Premium Premiums Investment Adjustment Acquisition Operating Written (Dollars in thousands) Costs Expenses Reserves Earned Income Expenses Costs Expenses Premium December 31, 2015 Domestic $ 235,956 $ 6,078,729 $ 1,084,526 $ 3,219,340 $ 245,159 $ 1,858,376 $ 669,474 $ 186,748 $ 3,181,739 International 59,322 1,802,195 267,123 1,251,111 34,181 749,891 298,180 34,303 1,208,978 Bermuda 77,794 2,070,874 261,741 1,011,008 194,485 493,648 234,382 44,933 987,544 Total $ 373,072 $ 9,951,798 $ 1,613,390 $ 5,481,459 $ 473,825 $ 3,101,915 $ 1,202,036 $ 265,984 $ 5,378,261 December 31, 2014 Domestic $ 242,178 $ 6,022,556 $ 1,099,644 $ 3,017,068 $ 253,304 $ 1,765,970 $ 616,068 $ 163,584 $ 3,051,133 International 69,050 1,778,216 347,261 1,310,903 40,262 748,174 306,229 34,598 1,336,633 Bermuda 87,180 1,920,041 281,840 841,164 237,004 392,390 213,289 42,218 869,137 Total $ 398,408 $ 9,720,813 $ 1,728,745 $ 5,169,135 $ 530,570 $ 2,906,534 $ 1,135,586 $ 240,400 $ 5,256,903 December 31, 2013 Domestic $ 224,201 $ 5,915,490 $ 1,044,609 $ 2,708,938 $ 256,120 $ 1,746,134 $ 500,585 $ 166,459 $ 2,893,284 International 68,594 1,701,907 275,083 1,289,341 44,325 675,362 295,883 33,910 1,327,430 Bermuda 70,926 2,055,843 260,253 755,264 248,064 378,755 181,090 36,757 784,107 Total $ 363,721 $ 9,673,240 $ 1,579,945 $ 4,753,543 $ 548,509 $ 2,800,251 $ 977,558 $ 237,126 $ 5,004,821

Schedule IV - Reinsurance

Schedule IV - Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule IV - Reinsurance [Abstract]
Schedule IV - Reinsurance	SCHEDULE IV — REINSURANCE Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E Column F Ceded to Assumed Gross Other from Other Net Assumed (Dollars in thousands) Amount Companies Companies Amount to Net December 31, 2015 Total property and liability insurance premiums earned $ 1,491,163 $ 494,725 $ 4,485,021 $ 5,481,459 81.8 % December 31, 2014 Total property and liability insurance premiums earned $ 1,183,498 $ 419,616 $ 4,405,253 $ 5,169,135 85.2 % December 31, 2013 Total property and liability insurance premiums earned $ 1,207,833 $ 203,114 $ 3,748,824 $ 4,753,543 78.9 %

Summary Of Significant Accoun34

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Business And Basis Of Presentation	A. Business and Basis of Presentation. Everest Re Group, Ltd. ("Group"), a Bermuda company, through its subsidiaries, principally provides reinsurance and insurance in the U.S., Bermuda and international markets. As used in this document, "Company" means Group and its subsidiaries. During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company established new subsidiaries, Everest Preferred International Holdings, Ltd. ("Preferred International"), a Bermuda based company and Everest International Holdings (Bermuda), Ltd. ("International Holdings"), a Bermuda based company. These new subsidiaries were part of a capital restructuring within the Company to support a planned increase in international business production, which includes directly supporting Group's new Lloyd's of London Syndicate corporate member. Effective February 27, 2013, the Company established a new subsidiary, Mt. Logan Re Ltd. ("Mt. Logan Re") and effective July 1, 2013, Mt. Logan Re established separate segregated accounts and issued non-voting redeemable preferred shares to capitalize the segregated accounts. Accordingly, the financial position and operating results for Mt. Logan Re are consolidated with the Company and the non-controlling interests in Mt. Logan Re's operating results and equity are presented as separate captions in the Company's financial statements. Effective July 13, 2015, the Company sold all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of a wholly-owned subsidiary entity, Mt. McKinley Insurance Company ("Mt. McKinley"), to Clearwater Insurance Company. The operating results of Mt. McKinley through July 13, 2015 are included within the Company's financial statements. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). The statements include all of the following domestic and foreign direct and indirect subsidiaries of Group: Everest International Reinsurance, Ltd. ("Everest International"), Everest Global Services, Inc. ("Global Services"), Mt. Logan Re, Ltd. ("Mt. Logan"), Mt. Logan Insurance Managers, Ltd., Mt. Logan Management, Ltd., Everest International Holdings, Ltd. ("International Holdings"), Everest Corporate Member Limited, Everest Service Company (UK), Ltd., Everest Preferred International Holdings, Ltd. ("Preferred International"), Everest Reinsurance (Bermuda), Ltd. ("Bermuda Re"), Everest Re Advisors, Ltd., Everest Advisors (UK), Ltd., Everest Underwriting Group (Ireland), Limited ("Holdings Ireland"), Everest Reinsurance Company (Ireland) Limited ("Ireland Re"), Everest Insurance Company of Canada ("Everest Canada"), Premiere Insurance Underwriting Services ("Premiere"), Everest Reinsurance Holdings, Inc. ("Holdings"), Heartland Crop Insurance, Inc. ("Heartland"), Everest International Assurance, Ltd. (Bermuda) ("Everest Assurance"), Specialty Insurance Group, Inc. ("Specialty"), Specialty Insurance Group - Leisure and Entertainment Risk Purchasing Group LLC ("Specialty RPG"), Mt. McKinley Insurance Company ("Mt. McKinley"), Mt. McKinley Managers, L.L.C., Workcare Southeast of Georgia, Inc., Everest Reinsurance Company ("Everest Re"), Everest National Insurance Company ("Everest National"), Everest Reinsurance Company Ltda. (Brazil), Mt. Whitney Securities, Inc., Everest Indemnity Insurance Company ("Everest Indemnity") and Everest Security Insurance Company ("Everest Security"). All amounts are reported in U.S. dollars. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities (and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities) at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Ultimate actual results could differ, possibly materially, from those estimates. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Certain reclassifications and format changes have been made to prior years' amounts to conform to the 2015 presentation.
Investments	B. Investments. Fixed maturity and equity security investments available for sale, at market value, reflect unrealized appreciation and depreciation, as a result of temporary changes in market value during the period, in shareholders' equity, net of income taxes in "accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)" in the consolidated balance sheets. Fixed maturity and equity securities carried at fair value reflect fair value re-measurements as net realized capital gains and losses in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). The Company records changes in fair value for its fixed maturities available for sale, at market value through shareholders' equity, net of taxes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) since cash flows from these investments will be primarily used to settle its reserve for losses and loss adjustment expense liabilities. The Company anticipates holding these investments for an extended period as the cash flow from interest and maturities will fund the projected payout of these liabilities. Fixed maturities carried at fair value represent a portfolio of convertible bond securities, which have characteristics similar to equity securities and at times, designated foreign denominated fixed maturity securities, which will be used to settle loss and loss adjustment reserves in the same currency. The Company carries all of its equity securities at fair value except for mutual fund investments whose underlying investments are comprised of fixed maturity securities. For equity securities, available for sale, at fair value, the Company reflects changes in value as net realized capital gains and losses since these securities may be sold in the near term depending on financial market conditions. Interest income on all fixed maturities and dividend income on all equity securities are included as part of net investment income in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). Unrealized losses on fixed maturities, which are deemed other-than-temporary and related to the credit quality of a security, are charged to net income (loss) as net realized capital losses. Short-term investments are stated at cost, which approximates market value. Realized gains or losses on sales of investments are determined on the basis of identified cost. For non-publicly traded securities, market prices are determined through the use of pricing models that evaluate securities relative to the U.S. Treasury yield curve, taking into account the issue type, credit quality, and cash flow characteristics of each security. For publicly traded securities, market value is based on quoted market prices or valuation models that use observable market inputs. When a sector of the financial markets is inactive or illiquid, the Company may use its own assumptions about future cash flows and risk-adjusted discount rates to determine fair value. Retrospective adjustments are employed to recalculate the values of asset-backed securities. Each acquisition lot is reviewed to recalculate the effective yield. The recalculated effective yield is used to derive a book value as if the new yield were applied at the time of acquisition. Outstanding principal factors from the time of acquisition to the adjustment date are used to calculate the prepayment history for all applicable securities. Conditional prepayment rates, computed with life to date factor histories and weighted average maturities, are used to effect the calculation of projected and prepayments for pass-through security types. Other invested assets include limited partnerships and rabbi trusts. Limited partnerships are accounted for under the equity method of accounting, which can be recorded on a monthly or quarterly lag.
Uncollectible Receivable Balances	C. Uncollectible Receivable Balances. The Company provides reserves for uncollectible reinsurance recoverable and premium receivable balances based on management's assessment of the collectability of the outstanding balances. Such reserves are presented in the table below for the periods indicated. Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Reinsurance receivables and premium receivables $ 22,878 $ 29,497
Deferred Acquisition Costs	D. Deferred Acquisition Costs. Acquisition costs, consisting principally of commissions and brokerage expenses and certain premium taxes and fees incurred at the time a contract or policy is issued and that vary with and are directly related to the Company's reinsurance and insurance business, are deferred and amortized over the period in which the related premiums are earned. Deferred acquisition costs are limited to their estimated realizable value by line of business based on the related unearned premiums, anticipated claims and claim expenses and anticipated investment income. Deferred acquisition costs amortized to income are presented in the table below for the periods indicated. Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Deferred acquisition costs $ 1,202,036 $ 1,135,586 $ 977,558
Reserve For Losses And Loss Adjustment Expenses	E. Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses. The reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses ("LAE") is based on individual case estimates and reports received from ceding companies. A provision is included for losses and LAE incurred but not reported ("IBNR") based on past experience. A provision is also included for certain potential liabilities relating to asbestos and environmental ("A&E") exposures, which liabilities cannot be estimated using traditional reserving techniques. See also Note 3. The reserves are reviewed periodically and any changes in estimates are reflected in earnings in the period the adjustment is made. The Company's loss and LAE reserves represent management's best estimate of the ultimate liability. Loss and LAE reserves are presented gross of reinsurance receivables and incurred losses and LAE are presented net of reinsurance. Accruals for commissions are established for reinsurance contracts that provide for the stated commission percentage to increase or decrease based on the loss experience of the contract. Changes in estimates for such arrangements are recorded as commission expense. Commission accruals for contracts with adjustable features are estimated based on expected loss and LAE.
Future Policy Benefit Reserve	F. Future Policy Benefit Reserve. Liabilities for future policy benefits on annuity policies are carried at their accumulated values. Reserves for policy benefits include mortality claims in the process of settlement and IBNR claims. Actual experience in a particular period may fluctuate from expected results.
Premium Revenues	G. Premium Revenues. Written premiums are earned ratably over the periods of the related insurance and reinsurance contracts. Unearned premium reserves are established relative to the unexpired contract period. Such reserves are established based upon reports received from ceding companies or estimated using pro rata methods based on statistical data. Reinstatement premiums represent additional premium received on reinsurance coverages, most prevalently catastrophe related, when limits have been depleted under the original reinsurance contract and additional coverage is granted. Written and earned premiums and the related costs, which have not yet been reported to the Company, are estimated and accrued. Premiums are net of ceded reinsurance. Payout annuity premiums are recognized as revenue over the premium-paying period of the policies.
Prepaid Reinsurance Premiums	H. Prepaid Reinsurance Premiums. Prepaid reinsurance premiums represent unearned premium reserves ceded to other reinsurers. Prepaid reinsurance premiums for any foreign reinsurers comprising more than 10
Income Taxes	I. Income Taxes. Holdings and its wholly-owned subsidiaries file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return. Foreign branches of subsidiaries file local tax returns as required. Group and subsidiaries not included in Holdings' consolidated tax return file separate company U.S. federal income tax returns as required. Holdings Ireland files an Irish income tax return. The UK branch of Bermuda Re files a UK income tax return. Deferred income taxes have been recorded to recognize the tax effect of temporary differences between the financial reporting and income tax bases of assets and liabilities, which arise because of differences between GAAP and income tax accounting rules.
Foreign Currency	J. Foreign Currency. As a global entity, the Company transacts business in numerous currencies through business units located around the world. The base transactional currency for each business unit is determined by the local currency used for most economic activity in that area. Movements in exchange rates related to assets and liabilities at the business units between the original currency and the base currency are recorded through the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) in other income (expense), except for currency movements related to available for sale investments, which are excluded from net income (loss) and accumulated in shareholders' equity, net of deferred taxes. The business units' base currency financial statements are translated to U.S. dollars using the exchange rates at the end of period for the balance sheets and the average exchange rates in effect for the reporting period for the income statements. Gains and losses resulting from translating the foreign currency financial statements, net of deferred income taxes, are excluded from net income loss and accumulated in shareholder's equity.
Earnings Per Common Share	K. Earnings Per Common Share. Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution that would occur if options granted under various share-based compensation plans were exercised resulting in the issuance of common shares that would participate in the earnings of the entity. Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group per common share has been computed as per below, based upon weighted average common basic and dilutive shares outstanding. Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 2014 2013 Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group per share: Numerator Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group $ 977,869 $ 1,199,156 $ 1,259,382 Less: dividends declared-common shares and nonvested common shares (175,107 ) (145,913 ) (106,681 ) Undistributed earnings 802,762 1,053,243 1,152,701 Percentage allocated to common shareholders (1) 98.9 % 99.0 % 99.1 % 794,309 1,042,423 1,142,386 Add: dividends declared-common shareholders 173,367 144,447 105,689 Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share $ 967,676 $ 1,186,870 $ 1,248,075 Denominator Denominator for basic earnings per weighted-average common shares 43,415 45,377 48,619 Effect of dilutive securities: Options 380 425 437 Denominator for diluted earnings per adjusted weighted-average common shares 43,795 45,802 49,056 Per common share net income (loss) Basic $ 22.29 $ 26.16 $ 25.67 Diluted $ 22.10 $ 25.91 $ 25.44 (1) 43,415 45,377 48,619 Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding and nonvested common shares expected to vest 43,877 45,848 49,058 Percentage allocated to common shareholders 98.9 % 99.0 % 99.1 % (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) There were no All outstanding options expire on or between February 21, 2017 and September 19, 2022.
Segmentation	L. Segmentation. The Company, through its subsidiaries, operates in five
Derivatives	M. Derivatives. The Company sold seven two The fair value of the equity index put options can be found in the Company's consolidated balance sheets as follows: (Dollars in thousands) Derivatives not designated as Location of fair value At December 31, hedging instruments in balance sheets 2015 2014 Equity index put option contracts Equity index put option liability $ 40,705 $ 47,022 Total $ 40,705 $ 47,022 The change in fair value of the equity index put option contracts can be found in the Company's statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) as follows: (Dollars in thousands) Derivatives not designated as Location of gain (loss) in statements of For the Years Ended December 31, hedging instruments operations and comprehensive income (loss) 2015 2014 2013 Equity index put option contracts Net derivative gain (loss) $ 6,317 $ (11,599 ) $ 44,044 Total $ 6,317 $ (11,599 ) $ 44,044
Deposit Assets And Liabilities	N. Deposit Assets and Liabilities. In the normal course of its operations, the Company may enter into contracts that do not meet risk transfer provisions. Such contracts are accounted for using the deposit accounting method and are included in other liabilities in the Company's consolidated balance sheets. For such contracts, the Company originally records deposit liabilities for an amount equivalent to the assets received. Actuarial studies are used to estimate the final liabilities under such contracts with any change reflected in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).
Share-Based Compensation	O. Share-Based Compensation. Share-based compensation stock option, restricted share and performance share unit awards are fair valued at the grant date and expensed over the vesting period of the award. The tax benefit on the recorded expense is deferred until the time the award is exercised or vests (becomes unrestricted). See Note 18.
Application Of Recently Issued Accounting Standard Changes	P. Application of Recently Issued Accounting Standard Changes. Disclosures about Short-Duration Contracts. Debt Issuance Costs. Consolidation. Treatment of Insurance Contract Acquisition Costs. 13,492 10,876 2,616 No

Summary Of Significant Accoun35

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule Of Uncollectible Reinsurance Recoverable And Premium Receivables	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Reinsurance receivables and premium receivables $ 22,878 $ 29,497
Schedule Of Deferred Acquisition Costs Amortized To Income	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Deferred acquisition costs $ 1,202,036 $ 1,135,586 $ 977,558
Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 2014 2013 Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group per share: Numerator Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group $ 977,869 $ 1,199,156 $ 1,259,382 Less: dividends declared-common shares and nonvested common shares (175,107 ) (145,913 ) (106,681 ) Undistributed earnings 802,762 1,053,243 1,152,701 Percentage allocated to common shareholders (1) 98.9 % 99.0 % 99.1 % 794,309 1,042,423 1,142,386 Add: dividends declared-common shareholders 173,367 144,447 105,689 Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share $ 967,676 $ 1,186,870 $ 1,248,075 Denominator Denominator for basic earnings per weighted-average common shares 43,415 45,377 48,619 Effect of dilutive securities: Options 380 425 437 Denominator for diluted earnings per adjusted weighted-average common shares 43,795 45,802 49,056 Per common share net income (loss) Basic $ 22.29 $ 26.16 $ 25.67 Diluted $ 22.10 $ 25.91 $ 25.44 (1) 43,415 45,377 48,619 Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding and nonvested common shares expected to vest 43,877 45,848 49,058 Percentage allocated to common shareholders 98.9 % 99.0 % 99.1 % (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Fair Value Of The Equity Index Put Options	(Dollars in thousands) Derivatives not designated as Location of fair value At December 31, hedging instruments in balance sheets 2015 2014 Equity index put option contracts Equity index put option liability $ 40,705 $ 47,022 Total $ 40,705 $ 47,022
Change In Fair Value Of The Equity Index Put Option Contracts	(Dollars in thousands) Derivatives not designated as Location of gain (loss) in statements of For the Years Ended December 31, hedging instruments operations and comprehensive income (loss) 2015 2014 2013 Equity index put option contracts Net derivative gain (loss) $ 6,317 $ (11,599 ) $ 44,044 Total $ 6,317 $ (11,599 ) $ 44,044

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Investments [Abstract]
Summary Of Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) Of Available For Sale, Fixed Maturity And Equity Security Investments	At December 31, 2015 Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Market OTTI in AOCI (Dollars in thousands) Cost Appreciation Depreciation Value (a) Fixed maturity securities U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 805,273 $ 13,465 $ (1,861 ) $ 816,877 $ - Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions 669,945 34,020 (890 ) 703,075 - Corporate securities 4,817,014 97,159 (109,310 ) 4,804,863 1,412 Asset-backed securities 470,320 719 (3,813 ) 467,226 - Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 264,924 4,750 (3,375 ) 266,299 - Agency residential 2,313,265 25,318 (18,059 ) 2,320,524 - Non-agency residential 893 51 (46 ) 898 - Foreign government securities 1,256,983 54,403 (52,205 ) 1,259,181 53 Foreign corporate securities 2,677,589 107,163 (66,401 ) 2,718,351 36 Total fixed maturity securities $ 13,276,206 $ 337,048 $ (255,960 ) $ 13,357,294 $ 1,501 Equity securities $ 122,271 $ 3,401 $ (16,732 ) $ 108,940 $ - At December 31, 2014 Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Market OTTI in AOCI (Dollars in thousands) Cost Appreciation Depreciation Value (a) Fixed maturity securities U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 221,052 $ 10,290 $ (304 ) $ 231,038 $ - Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions 783,129 41,969 (626 ) 824,472 - Corporate securities 4,626,002 143,889 (62,906 ) 4,706,985 (6,910 ) Asset-backed securities 340,761 1,691 (1,230 ) 341,222 - Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 231,439 10,675 (429 ) 241,685 - Agency residential 2,157,182 37,555 (11,573 ) 2,183,164 - Non-agency residential 2,734 54 (57 ) 2,731 - Foreign government securities 1,488,144 71,177 (26,866 ) 1,532,455 - Foreign corporate securities 2,980,716 109,673 (53,074 ) 3,037,315 - Total fixed maturity securities $ 12,831,159 $ 426,973 $ (157,065 ) $ 13,101,067 $ (6,910 ) Equity securities $ 148,326 $ 3,831 $ (11,947 ) $ 140,210 $ - (a)
Summary Of Amortized Cost And Market Value Of Fixed Maturity Securities, By Contractual Maturity	At December 31, 2015 At December 31, 2014 Amortized Market Amortized Market (Dollars in thousands) Cost Value Cost Value Fixed maturity securities – available for sale: Due in one year or less $ 1,021,200 $ 1,036,016 $ 1,183,247 $ 1,189,416 Due after one year through five years 6,193,426 6,220,563 5,646,466 5,726,277 Due after five years through ten years 2,217,075 2,203,932 2,270,073 2,313,672 Due after ten years 795,103 841,836 999,257 1,102,900 Asset-backed securities 470,320 467,226 340,761 341,222 Mortgage-backed securities: Commercial 264,924 266,299 231,439 241,685 Agency residential 2,313,265 2,320,524 2,157,182 2,183,164 Non-agency residential 893 898 2,734 2,731 Total fixed maturity securities $ 13,276,206 $ 13,357,294 $ 12,831,159 $ 13,101,067
Summary Of Changes In Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) For The Company's Investments	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Increase (decrease) during the period between the market value and cost of investments carried at market value, and deferred taxes thereon: Fixed maturity securities $ (197,231 ) $ 34,245 Fixed maturity securities, other-than-temporary impairment 8,411 (10,078 ) Equity securities (5,215 ) (3,855 ) Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax (194,035 ) 20,312 Deferred tax benefit (expense) 16,979 (1,623 ) Deferred tax benefit (expense), other-than-temporary impairment (3,383 ) 3,407 Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), net of deferred taxes, included in shareholders' equity $ (180,439 ) $ 22,096
Summary Of Aggregate Market Value And Gross Unrealized Depreciation Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities, By Security Type	Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2015 By Security Type Less than 12 months Greater than 12 months Total Gross Gross Gross Unrealized Unrealized Unrealized (Dollars in thousands) Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Fixed maturity securities - available for sale U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 539,177 $ (1,855 ) $ 692 $ (6 ) $ 539,869 $ (1,861 ) Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions 6,434 (84 ) 4,917 (806 ) 11,351 (890 ) Corporate securities 1,818,331 (74,161 ) 440,682 (35,149 ) 2,259,013 (109,310 ) Asset-backed securities 348,545 (2,510 ) 67,230 (1,303 ) 415,775 (3,813 ) Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 145,490 (3,375 ) - - 145,490 (3,375 ) Agency residential 1,021,390 (10,014 ) 326,449 (8,045 ) 1,347,839 (18,059 ) Non-agency residential 152 (2 ) 38 (44 ) 190 (46 ) Foreign government securities 227,384 (21,996 ) 216,428 (30,209 ) 443,812 (52,205 ) Foreign corporate securities 821,548 (25,627 ) 295,389 (40,774 ) 1,116,937 (66,401 ) Total fixed maturity securities $ 4,928,451 $ (139,624 ) $ 1,351,825 $ (116,336 ) $ 6,280,276 $ (255,960 ) Equity securities - - 91,907 (16,732 ) 91,907 (16,732 ) Total $ 4,928,451 $ (139,624 ) $ 1,443,732 $ (133,068 ) $ 6,372,183 $ (272,692 ) Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2014 By Security Type Less than 12 months Greater than 12 months Total Gross Gross Gross Unrealized Unrealized Unrealized (Dollars in thousands) Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Fixed maturity securities - available for sale U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 13,187 $ (20 ) $ 26,897 $ (284 ) $ 40,084 $ (304 ) Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions 20,428 (242 ) 18,199 (384 ) 38,627 (626 ) Corporate securities 1,245,830 (55,388 ) 362,320 (7,518 ) 1,608,150 (62,906 ) Asset-backed securities 192,253 (1,230 ) - - 192,253 (1,230 ) Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 28,191 (123 ) 9,777 (306 ) 37,968 (429 ) Agency residential 141,807 (172 ) 678,972 (11,401 ) 820,779 (11,573 ) Non-agency residential - - 266 (57 ) 266 (57 ) Foreign government securities 235,725 (15,415 ) 139,200 (11,451 ) 374,925 (26,866 ) Foreign corporate securities 567,905 (36,926 ) 290,234 (16,148 ) 858,139 (53,074 ) Total fixed maturity securities $ 2,445,326 $ (109,516 ) $ 1,525,865 $ (47,549 ) $ 3,971,191 $ (157,065 ) Equity securities 50,285 (4,068 ) 73,994 (7,879 ) 124,279 (11,947 ) Total $ 2,495,611 $ (113,584 ) $ 1,599,859 $ (55,428 ) $ 4,095,470 $ (169,012 )
Summary Of Aggregate Market Value And Gross Unrealized Depreciation Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities, By Contractual Maturity	Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2015 By Maturity Less than 12 months Greater than 12 months Total Gross Gross Gross Unrealized Unrealized Unrealized (Dollars in thousands) Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Fixed maturity securities Due in one year or less $ 29,737 $ (1,840 ) $ 74,615 $ (13,440 ) $ 104,352 $ (15,280 ) Due in one year through five years 2,328,805 (62,329 ) 651,228 (59,993 ) 2,980,033 (122,322 ) Due in five years through ten years 969,139 (52,725 ) 206,538 (28,018 ) 1,175,677 (80,743 ) Due after ten years 85,193 (6,829 ) 25,727 (5,493 ) 110,920 (12,322 ) Asset-backed securities 348,545 (2,510 ) 67,230 (1,303 ) 415,775 (3,813 ) Mortgage-backed securities 1,167,032 (13,391 ) 326,487 (8,089 ) 1,493,519 (21,480 ) Total fixed maturity securities $ 4,928,451 $ (139,624 ) $ 1,351,825 $ (116,336 ) $ 6,280,276 $ (255,960 ) Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2014 By Maturity Less than 12 months Greater than 12 months Total Gross Gross Gross Unrealized Unrealized Unrealized (Dollars in thousands) Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Market Value Depreciation Fixed maturity securities Due in one year or less $ 98,021 $ (5,166 ) $ 80,002 $ (8,174 ) $ 178,023 $ (13,340 ) Due in one year through five years 1,233,244 (68,124 ) 518,613 (12,761 ) 1,751,857 (80,885 ) Due in five years through ten years 679,374 (28,529 ) 187,717 (10,734 ) 867,091 (39,263 ) Due after ten years 72,436 (6,172 ) 50,518 (4,116 ) 122,954 (10,288 ) Asset-backed securities 192,253 (1,230 ) - - 192,253 (1,230 ) Mortgage-backed securities 169,998 (295 ) 689,015 (11,764 ) 859,013 (12,059 ) Total fixed maturity securities $ 2,445,326 $ (109,516 ) $ 1,525,865 $ (47,549 ) $ 3,971,191 $ (157,065 )
Summary Of Components Of Net Investment Income	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Fixed maturities $ 433,097 $ 462,757 $ 473,493 Equity securities 45,617 47,193 45,387 Short-term investments and cash 1,577 1,635 1,295 Other invested assets Limited partnerships 14,431 40,868 46,921 Other 1,804 3,619 7,329 Gross investment income before adjustments 496,526 556,072 574,425 Funds held interest income (expense) 10,767 9,471 10,613 Future policy benefit reserve income (expense) (1,907 ) (1,686 ) (2,770 ) Gross investment income 505,386 563,857 582,268 Investment expenses (31,561 ) (33,287 ) (33,759 ) Net investment income $ 473,825 $ 530,570 $ 548,509
Summary Of Components Of Net Realized Capital Gains (Losses)	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Fixed maturity securities, market value: Other-than-temporary impairments $ (102,199 ) $ (39,502 ) $ (1,052 ) Gains (losses) from sales (22,310 ) 4,408 6,792 Fixed maturity securities, fair value: Gains (losses) from sales 24 (3,137 ) 201 Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments (44 ) (1,498 ) 307 Equity securities, market value: Gains (losses) from sales (6,702 ) 426 2,648 Equity securities, fair value: Gains (losses) from sales (7,305 ) 156 32,747 Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments (45,627 ) 123,196 258,569 Short-term investments gain (loss) 16 (3 ) 15 Total net realized capital gains (losses) $ (184,147 ) $ 84,046 $ 300,227
Summary Of Gross Gains (Losses) From Sales Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Proceeds from sales of fixed maturity securities $ 1,725,917 $ 1,848,268 $ 1,113,960 Gross gains from sales 47,899 37,427 38,141 Gross losses from sales (70,185 ) (36,156 ) (31,148 ) Proceeds from sales of equity securities $ 642,980 $ 600,970 $ 751,973 Gross gains from sales 27,675 20,900 44,703 Gross losses from sales (41,682 ) (20,318 ) (9,308 )

Reserve For Losses, LAE And F37

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Abstract]
Summary Of Activity In The Reserve For Losses And LAE	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross reserves at January 1 $ 9,720,813 $ 9,673,240 $ 10,069,055 Less reinsurance recoverables (627,082 ) (473,866 ) (602,750 ) Net reserves at January 1 9,093,731 9,199,374 9,466,305 Incurred related to: Current year 3,170,482 2,946,396 2,818,490 Prior years (68,567 ) (39,862 ) (18,239 ) Total incurred losses and LAE 3,101,915 2,906,534 2,800,251 Paid related to: Current year 697,778 761,788 664,719 Prior years 2,186,274 2,089,734 2,353,817 Total paid losses and LAE 2,884,052 2,851,522 3,018,536 Foreign exchange/translation adjustment (190,032 ) (160,655 ) (48,646 ) Net reserves at December 31 9,121,562 9,093,731 9,199,374 Plus reinsurance recoverables 830,236 627,082 473,866 Gross reserves at December 31 $ 9,951,798 $ 9,720,813 $ 9,673,240
Summary Of Incurred Losses With Respect To A&E Reserve On Both Gross And Net Of Reinsurance Basis	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross basis: Beginning of period reserves $ 476,205 $ 402,461 $ 442,821 Incurred losses 40,000 142,233 5,599 Paid losses (83,088 ) (68,489 ) (45,959 ) End of period reserves $ 433,117 $ 476,205 $ 402,461 Net basis: Beginning of period reserves $ 458,211 $ 386,677 $ 425,691 Incurred losses 38,440 137,769 5,400 Paid losses (177,031 ) (66,235 ) (44,414 ) End of period reserves $ 319,620 $ 458,211 $ 386,677
Summary Of Activity In The Reserve For Future Policy Benefits	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Balance at beginning of year $ 59,820 $ 59,512 $ 66,107 Liabilities assumed 315 250 103 Adjustments to reserves 2,310 4,724 (3,066 ) Benefits paid in the current year (3,535 ) (4,667 ) (3,632 ) Balance at end of year $ 58,910 $ 59,820 $ 59,512 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)

Fair Value (Tables)

Fair Value (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurement Levels For All Assets And Liabilities	Fair Value Measurement Using: Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets for Other Significant Identical Observable Unobservable Assets Inputs Inputs (Dollars in thousands) December 31, 2015 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: Fixed maturities, market value U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 816,877 $ - $ 816,877 $ - Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions 703,075 - 703,075 - Corporate securities 4,804,863 - 4,800,930 3,933 Asset-backed securities 467,226 - 467,226 - Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 266,299 - 266,299 - Agency residential 2,320,524 - 2,320,524 - Non-agency residential 898 - 898 - Foreign government securities 1,259,181 - 1,259,181 - Foreign corporate securities 2,718,351 - 2,716,758 1,593 Total fixed maturities, market value 13,357,294 - 13,351,768 5,526 Fixed maturities, fair value 2,102 - 2,102 - Equity securities, market value 108,940 91,907 17,033 - Equity securities, fair value 1,337,733 1,275,666 62,067 - Liabilities: Equity index put option contracts $ 40,705 $ - $ - $ 40,705 Fair Value Measurement Using: Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets for Other Significant Identical Observable Unobservable Assets Inputs Inputs (Dollars in thousands) December 31, 2014 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: Fixed maturities, market value U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government agencies and corporations $ 231,038 $ - $ 231,038 $ - Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions 824,472 - 824,472 - Corporate securities 4,706,985 - 4,706,985 - Asset-backed securities 341,222 - 341,222 - Mortgage-backed securities Commercial 241,685 - 233,088 8,597 Agency residential 2,183,164 - 2,183,164 - Non-agency residential 2,731 - 2,731 - Foreign government securities 1,532,455 - 1,532,455 - Foreign corporate securities 3,037,315 - 3,030,149 7,166 Total fixed maturities, market value 13,101,067 - 13,085,304 15,763 Fixed maturities, fair value 1,509 - 1,509 - Equity securities, market value 140,210 124,295 15,915 - Equity securities, fair value 1,447,820 1,337,396 110,424 - Liabilities: Equity index put option contracts $ 47,022 $ - $ - $ 47,022
Activity Under Level 3, Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs By Asset Type	December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Corporate Foreign Corporate Asset-backed Foreign Non-agency Agency (Dollars in thousands) Securities CMBS Corporate Total Securities Securities CMBS Corporate RMBS RMBS Total Beginning balance $ - $ 8,597 $ 7,166 $ 15,763 $ - $ 5,299 $ - $ 481 $ 347 $ - $ 6,127 Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings 4 - (9,480 ) (9,476 ) - 1,259 - 73 329 - 1,661 Included in other comprehensive income (loss) (96 ) - 3,908 3,812 42 (126 ) (426 ) (5,221 ) (138 ) - (5,869 ) Purchases, issuances and settlements 3,626 - - 3,626 1,274 21,303 9,023 4,038 (538 ) 29,845 64,945 Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 399 (8,597 ) (1 ) (8,199 ) (1,316 ) (27,735 ) - 7,795 - (29,845 ) (51,101 ) Ending balance $ 3,933 $ - $ 1,593 $ 5,526 $ - $ - $ 8,597 $ 7,166 $ - $ - $ 15,763 The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date $ - $ - $ 9,721 $ 9,721 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs For Equity Index Put Option Contracts	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Liabilities: Balance, beginning of period $ 47,022 $ 35,423 Total (gains) or losses (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings (6,317 ) 11,599 Included in other comprehensive income (loss) - - Purchases, issuances and settlements - - Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 - - Balance, end of period $ 40,705 $ 47,022 The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to liabilities still held at the reporting date $ - $ - (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)

Redeemable Noncontrolling Int39

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests - MT. Logan RE (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests - MT. Logan RE [Abstract]
Activity For Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, beginning of period $ 421,552 $ 93,378 Unaffiliated third party investments during period, net 306,848 279,200 Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests 96,619 59,307 Dividends paid on third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest (68,158 ) (10,334 ) Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, end of period $ 756,861 $ 421,552

Credit Facilities (Tables)

Credit Facilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Summary Of Costs Incurred Connection With Credit Facilities	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Credit facility fees incurred $ 756 $ 659 $ 964
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Summary Of Outstanding Letters Of Credit And/Or Borrowings	(Dollars in thousands) At December 31, 2015 At December 31, 2014 Bank Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility Tranche One $ 200,000 $ - $ 200,000 $ - Tranche Two 600,000 2,488 12/12/2016 600,000 444,012 12/31/2015 - 447,178 12/31/2016 - - Total Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility $ 800,000 $ 449,666 $ 800,000 $ 444,012
Citibank Bilateral Agreement [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Summary Of Outstanding Letters Of Credit And/Or Borrowings	(Dollars in thousands) At December 31, 2015 At December 31, 2014 Bank Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Citibank Bilateral Letter of Credit Agreement $ 300,000 $ 3,672 11/24/2016 $ 300,000 $ 112 8/30/2015 67,783 12/31/2016 3,672 11/24/2015 179 8/30/2017 70,922 12/31/2015 316 12/31/2017 2,014 12/31/2016 99,521 12/31/2019 149,353 12/30/2018 Total Citibank Bilateral Agreement $ 300,000 $ 171,471 $ 300,000 $ 226,073
Lloyd's of London Bank Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Summary Of Outstanding Letters Of Credit And/Or Borrowings	(Dollars in thousands) At December 31, 2015 At December 31, 2014 Bank Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Commitment In Use Date of Expiry Lloyd's Bank plc £ 175,000 £ 164,961 12/31/2019 £ - £ - - - - - Total Lloyd's Bank Credit Facility £ 175,000 £ 164,961 £ - £ -

Senior Notes (Tables)

Senior Notes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Senior Notes [Abstract]
Schedule Of Outstanding Senior Notes	December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Consolidated Balance Consolidated Balance (Dollars in thousands) Date Issued Date Due Principal Amounts Sheet Amount Market Value Sheet Amount Market Value 4.868 06/05/2014 06/01/2044 400,000 $ 400,000 $ 381,204 $ 400,000 $ 404,892 5.40 10/12/2004 10/15/2014 250,000 - - - -
Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Senior Notes	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Interest expense incurred $ 19,472 $ 21,818 $ 13,551

Long Term Subordinated Notes (T

Long Term Subordinated Notes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Abstract]
Schedule Of Outstanding Fixed To Floating Rate Long Term Subordinated Notes	Maturity Date December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Original Consolidated Balance Consolidated Balance (Dollars in thousands) Date Issued Principal Amount Scheduled Final Sheet Amount Market Value Sheet Amount Market Value 6.6 04/26/2007 $ 400,000 05/15/2037 05/01/2067 $ 238,368 $ 208,978 $ 238,364 $ 246,312
Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Long Term Subordinated Notes	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Interest expense incurred $ 15,749 $ 15,749 $ 15,748

Junior Subordinated Debt Secu43

Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable [Abstract]
Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Junior Subordinated Debt Securities	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Interest expense incurred $ - $ - $ 8,181

Operating Lease Agreements (Tab

Operating Lease Agreements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Operating Lease Agreements [Abstract]
Future Minimum Rental Commitments	(Dollars in thousands) 2016 $ 14,594 2017 13,657 2018 13,544 2019 13,362 2020 12,798 Thereafter 16,511 Net commitments $ 84,466

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Components Of The Provision	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Current tax expense (benefit): U.S. $ 90,486 $ 143,297 $ 116,829 Non-U.S. 14,811 22,575 18,219 Total current tax expense (benefit) 105,297 165,872 135,048 Total deferred U.S. tax expense (benefit) 28,724 21,780 154,658 Total income tax expense (benefit) $ 134,021 $ 187,652 $ 289,706 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Reconciliation Of The Difference Between The Provision For Income Taxes And The Expected Tax Provision At The Weighted Average Tax Rate	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 U.S. Non-U.S. U.S. Non-U.S. U.S. Non-U.S. Underwriting gain (loss) $ 294,386 $ 617,137 $ 228,194 $ 658,421 $ 246,699 $ 491,909 Net investment income 234,709 239,115 260,501 270,069 274,920 273,589 Net realized capital gains (losses) (159,268 ) (24,879 ) 78,006 6,040 295,814 4,413 Net derivative gain (loss) - 6,317 - (11,599 ) - 44,044 Corporate expenses (7,179 ) (16,075 ) (7,252 ) (16,169 ) (8,262 ) (16,555 ) Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense (35,434 ) (756 ) (37,970 ) (563 ) (45,452 ) (665 ) Other income (expense) 27,706 32,730 (1,561 ) 19,998 (7,086 ) 1,598 Pre-tax income (loss) $ 354,920 $ 853,589 $ 519,918 $ 926,197 $ 756,633 $ 798,333 Expected tax provision at the applicable statutory rate(s) 124,221 14,848 181,972 21,279 264,822 16,279 Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from: Tax exempt income (10,004 ) - (12,231 ) - (15,038 ) - Dividend received deduction (5,364 ) - (5,910 ) - (7,809 ) - Proration 2,160 - 1,835 - 2,274 - Other 8,197 (37 ) (588 ) 1,296 27,238 1,940 Total income tax provision $ 119,210 $ 14,811 $ 165,077 $ 22,575 $ 271,487 $ 18,219 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Net Deferred Income Tax Assets	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Loss reserves $ 169,771 $ 153,978 Unearned premium reserves 40,624 44,582 Net unrecognized losses on benefit plans 33,971 40,377 Investment impairments 23,481 13,841 Benefit plan liability 18,747 9,873 Foreign tax credits 11,836 64,902 Alternative minimum tax credits 7,604 44,954 Uncollectible reinsurance reserves 5,534 5,237 Net operating loss carryforward 3,412 3,296 Deferred expenses 3,182 3,076 Other assets 16,663 21,048 Total deferred tax assets 334,825 405,164 Deferred tax liabilities: Net fair value income 80,268 128,856 Deferred acquisition costs 33,227 38,636 Gain on tender of debt 16,437 21,916 Net unrealized investment gains 7,491 28,108 Other liabilities 15,960 15,379 Total deferred tax liabilities 153,383 232,895 Net deferred tax assets 181,442 172,269 Less: Valuation allowance (3,412 ) (3,296 ) Total net deferred tax assets $ 178,030 $ 168,973

Reinsurance (Tables)

Reinsurance (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Reinsurance [Abstract]
Premiums Written And Earned And Incurred Losses And LAE	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Written premiums: Direct $ 1,569,791 $ 1,227,645 $ 1,268,698 Assumed 4,306,501 4,521,342 3,949,936 Ceded (498,031 ) (492,084 ) (213,813 ) Net written premiums $ 5,378,261 $ 5,256,903 $ 5,004,821 Premiums earned: Direct $ 1,491,163 $ 1,183,498 $ 1,207,833 Assumed 4,485,021 4,405,253 3,748,824 Ceded (494,725 ) (419,616 ) (203,114 ) Net premiums earned $ 5,481,459 $ 5,169,135 $ 4,753,543 Incurred losses and LAE: Direct $ 1,268,896 $ 1,100,037 $ 1,173,177 Assumed 2,152,633 2,160,663 1,833,055 Ceded (319,614 ) (354,166 ) (205,981 ) Net incurred losses and LAE $ 3,101,915 $ 2,906,534 $ 2,800,251

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Ta

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Components Of Comprehensive Income (Loss) In The Consolidated Statements Of Operations	Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (Dollars in thousands) Before Tax Tax Effect Net of Tax Before Tax Tax Effect Net of Tax Before Tax Tax Effect Net of Tax Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary $ (333,657 ) $ 54,502 $ (279,155 ) $ (4,278 ) $ 11,653 $ 7,375 $ (457,192 ) $ 62,834 $ (394,358 ) URA(D) on securities - OTTI 8,411 (3,383 ) 5,028 (10,078 ) 3,407 (6,671 ) (1,579 ) 140 (1,439 ) Reclassification of net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss) 131,211 (37,523 ) 93,688 34,668 (13,276 ) 21,392 (8,388 ) 1,411 (6,977 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments (140,918 ) 29,388 (111,530 ) (111,145 ) 15,728 (95,417 ) (10,462 ) 10,300 (162 ) Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss) 8,740 (3,059 ) 5,681 (60,169 ) 21,059 (39,110 ) 27,442 (9,605 ) 17,837 Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss) 9,563 (3,347 ) 6,216 4,647 (1,627 ) 3,020 8,889 (3,111 ) 5,778 Total other comprehensive income (loss) $ (316,650 ) $ 36,578 $ (280,072 ) $ (146,355 ) $ 36,944 $ (109,411 ) $ (441,290 ) $ 61,969 $ (379,321 )
Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Years Ended December 31, Affected line item within the statements of AOCI component 2015 2014 operations and comprehensive income (loss) (Dollars in thousands) URA(D) on securities $ 131,211 $ 34,668 Other net realized capital gains (losses) (37,523 ) (13,276 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ 93,688 $ 21,392 Net income (loss) Benefit plan net gain (loss) $ 9,563 $ 4,647 Other underwriting expenses (3,347 ) (1,627 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ 6,216 $ 3,020 Net income (loss)
Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Of Tax, In The Consolidated Balance Sheets	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Beginning balance of URA (D) on securities $ 223,250 $ 201,154 Current period change in URA (D) of investments - temporary (185,467 ) 28,767 Current period change in URA (D) of investments - non-credit OTTI 5,028 (6,671 ) Ending balance of URA (D) on securities 42,811 223,250 Beginning balance of foreign currency translation adjustments (99,947 ) (4,530 ) Current period change in foreign currency translation adjustments (111,530 ) (95,417 ) Ending balance of foreign currency translation adjustments (211,477 ) (99,947 ) Beginning balance of benefit plan net gain (loss) (74,986 ) (38,896 ) Current period change in benefit plan net gain (loss) 11,897 (36,090 ) Ending balance of benefit plan net gain (loss) (63,089 ) (74,986 ) Ending balance of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ (231,755 ) $ 48,317

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Summary Of Contributions To Defined Benefit Pension Plans	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Company contributions $ 5,949 $ 16,484 $ 22,536
Summary Of Pension Expense	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Pension expense $ 22,682 $ 18,543 $ 19,348
Summary Of Accumulated Benefit Obligation	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Qualified Plan $ 188,702 $ 200,205 Non-qualified Plan 17,756 19,167 Total $ 206,458 $ 219,371 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Projected Benefit Obligations In Excess Of Plan Assets	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Qualified Plan Projected benefit obligation $ 229,719 $ 243,525 Fair value of plan assets 135,087 157,090 Non-qualified Plan Projected benefit obligation $ 24,303 $ 26,540 Fair value of plan assets - -
Accumulated Benefit Obligations In Excess Of Plan Assets	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Qualified Plan Accumulated benefit obligation $ 188,702 $ 200,205 Fair value of plan assets 135,087 157,090 Non-qualified Plan Accumulated benefit obligation $ 17,756 $ 19,167 Fair value of plan assets - -
Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs For Fixed Maturity Investments	Year Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Assets: Balance, beginning of period $ 22,053 $ 19,921 Actual return on plan assets: Realized gains (losses) relating to assets sold during the period 84 75 Unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date 601 331 Purchases and capital contributions 1,719 3,390 Investment income earned on assets - - Sales and capital distributions (2,446 ) (1,664 ) Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3 - - Balance, end of period $ 22,011 $ 22,053 The amount of total gains (losses) for the period included in changes in net assets attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date $ 517 $ 256 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Incurred Expenses Related To Defined Contribution Plans For U.S. Employees	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Incurred expenses $ 5,468 $ 4,676 $ 3,903
Incurred Expenses Related To Defined Contribution Plans For Non-U.S. Employees	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Incurred expenses $ 1,423 $ 1,387 $ 1,195
Changes In The Assumed Healthcare Cost Trend	Percentage Percentage Point Increase Point Decrease (Dollars in thousands) ($ Impact) ($ Impact) a. Effect on total service and interest cost components $ 706 $ (537 ) b. Effect on accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation 6,504 (5,064 )
Post-Retirement Benefit Expenses	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Post-retirement benefit expenses $ 3,280 $ 3,196 $ 3,801
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Summary Of Status Of Plan	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Change in projected benefit obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 270,065 $ 214,059 Service cost 12,511 10,015 Interest cost 10,759 10,474 Actuarial (gain)/loss (18,595 ) 55,107 Benefits paid (20,718 ) (19,588 ) Projected benefit obligation at end of year 254,022 270,065 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 157,090 152,446 Actual return on plan assets (7,234 ) 7,747 Actual contributions during the year 5,949 16,484 Benefits paid (20,718 ) (19,588 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year 135,087 157,090 Funded status at end of year $ (118,936 ) $ (112,976 ) (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Amounts Recognized In The Consolidated Balance Sheets	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Other assets (due beyond one year) $ - $ - Other liabilities (due within one year) (1,869 ) (5,469 ) Other liabilities (due beyond one year) (117,067 ) (107,507 ) Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets $ (118,936 ) $ (112,976 )
Amounts Not Yet Reflected In Net Periodic Benefit Cost And Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Prior service cost $ - $ (21 ) Accumulated income (loss) (91,920 ) (102,671 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ (91,920 ) $ (102,692 )
Other Changes In Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year $ (102,692 ) $ (53,387 ) Net gain (loss) arising during period (259 ) (58,647 ) Recognition of amortizations in net periodic benefit cost: Prior service cost 21 49 Actuarial loss 11,011 9,294 Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year $ (91,920 ) $ (102,692 ) (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Net Periodic Benefit Cost For U.S. Employees	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Service cost $ 12,511 $ 10,015 $ 11,182 Interest cost 10,759 10,474 8,511 Expected return on assets (11,620 ) (11,288 ) (8,495 ) Amortization of actuarial loss from earlier periods 9,243 4,341 8,101 Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost 21 49 49 Settlement 1,768 4,953 - Net periodic benefit cost $ 22,682 $ 18,543 $ 19,348 Other changes recognized in other comprehensive income (loss): Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to change from prior year (10,773 ) 49,305 Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss) $ 11,909 $ 67,847 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Expected Benefit Payments	(Dollars in thousands) 2016 $ 6,709 2017 7,779 2018 9,607 2019 12,139 2020 10,660 Next 5 years 67,416
Fair Value Measurement Levels For Qualified Plan Assets	Fair Value Measurement Using: Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets for Other Significant Identical Observable Unobservable Assets Inputs Inputs (Dollars in thousands) December 31, 2015 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: Cash $ - $ - $ - $ - Short-term investments, which approximates fair value (a) 4,034 4,034 - - Mutual funds, fair value Fixed income (b) 22,537 22,537 - - Equities (c) 86,505 86,505 - - Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value (d) 10,673 - - 10,673 Private equity limited partnerships (e) 11,338 - - 11,338 Total $ 135,087 $ 113,076 $ - $ 22,011 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) (a) This category includes high quality, short-term money market instruments, which are issued and payable in U.S. dollars. (b) This category includes fixed income funds, which invest in investment grade securities of corporations, governments and government agencies with approximately 50% in U.S. securities and 50% in international securities. (c) This category includes funds, which invest in small, mid and multi-cap equity securities including common stocks, securities convertible into common stock and securities with common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants, with approximately 90% in U.S. equities and 10% in international equities. (d) This category consists of a privately held fund of U.S. and international equity funds and may include currency hedges for the foreign funds. The fair value is provided by the external investment manager. (e) This category consists of private equity limited partnerships. Fair Value Measurement Using: Quoted Prices in Active Significant Markets for Other Significant Identical Observable Unobservable Assets Inputs Inputs (Dollars in thousands) December 31, 2014 (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Assets: Cash $ - $ - $ - $ - Short-term investments, which approximates fair value (a) 14,328 14,328 - - Mutual funds, fair value Fixed income (b) 23,948 23,948 - - Equities (c) 96,762 96,762 - - Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value (d) 10,629 - - 10,629 Private equity limited partnerships (e) 11,423 - - 11,423 Total $ 157,090 $ 135,037 $ - $ 22,053 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.) (a) This category includes high quality, short-term money market instruments, which are issued and payable in U.S. dollars. (b) This category includes fixed income funds, which invest in investment grade securities of corporations, governments and government agencies with approximately 50% in U.S. securities and 50% in international securities. (c) This category includes funds, which invest in small, mid and multi-cap equity securities including common stocks, securities convertible into common stock and securities with common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants, with approximately 90% in U.S. equities and 10% in international equities. (d) This category consists of a privately held fund of U.S. and international equity funds and may include currency hedges for the foreign funds. The fair value is provided by the external investment manager. (e) This category consists of private equity limited partnerships.
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Summary Of Status Of Plan	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Change in projected benefit obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 36,506 $ 27,594 Service cost 1,794 1,619 Interest cost 1,187 1,320 Actuarial (gain)/loss (7,231 ) 6,475 Benefits paid (568 ) (502 ) Benefit obligation at end of year 31,687 36,506 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year - - Employer contributions 568 502 Benefits paid (568 ) (502 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year - - Funded status at end of year $ (31,687 ) $ (36,506 )
Amounts Recognized In The Consolidated Balance Sheets	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Other liabilities (due within one year) $ (654 ) $ (639 ) Other liabilities (due beyond one year) (31,033 ) (35,867 ) Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets $ (31,687 ) $ (36,506 )
Amounts Not Yet Reflected In Net Periodic Benefit Cost And Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Accumulated income (loss) $ (5,139 ) $ (12,670 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ (5,139 ) $ (12,670 )
Other Changes In Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year $ (12,670 ) $ (6,452 ) Net gain (loss) arising during period 7,231 (6,475 ) Recognition of amortizations in net periodic benefit cost: Actuarial loss (gain) 300 257 Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year $ (5,139 ) $ (12,670 )
Net Periodic Benefit Cost For U.S. Employees	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Service cost $ 1,794 $ 1,619 $ 1,899 Interest cost 1,187 1,320 1,164 Net loss recognition 300 257 739 Net periodic cost $ 3,280 $ 3,196 $ 3,801 Other changes recognized in other comprehensive income (loss): Other comprehensive gain (loss) attributable to change from prior year (7,531 ) 6,218 Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss) $ (4,251 ) $ 9,414 (Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Expected Benefit Payments	2016 $ 654 2017 717 2018 844 2019 972 2020 1,141 Next 5 years 8,157

Dividend Restrictions And Sta49

Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information [Abstract]
Regulatory Targeted Capital And The Actual Statutory Capital	Bermuda Re (1) Everest Re (2) At December 31, At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 (3) 2014 (3) 2015 2014 Regulatory targeted capital $ - $ 2,050,006 $ 1,355,668 $ 1,209,601 Actual capital $ 2,628,274 $ 2,748,030 $ 3,210,891 $ 2,892,999 (1) (2) (3)

Contingencies (Tables)

Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Contingencies [Abstract]
Summary Of Estimated Cost To Replace Annuities For Contingent Liability	At December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 The Prudential Insurance Company of America $ 142,427 $ 142,653 Unaffiliated life insurance company $ 33,062 $ 31,964

Share-Based Compensation Plans

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Share-Based Compensation Plans [Abstract]
Company's Shareholder Approved Plans	Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Remaining Aggregate (Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands) Exercise Contractual Intrinsic Options Shares Price/Share Term Value Outstanding at January 1, 2015 888,184 $ 86.05 Granted - - Exercised 230,350 87.21 Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired 9,800 87.68 Outstanding at December 31, 2015 648,034 85.61 4.5 $ 64,352 Exercisable at December 31, 2015 495,334 84.94 4.1 $ 49,517 Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Remaining Aggregate (Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands) Exercise Contractual Intrinsic Options Shares Price/Share Term Value Outstanding at January 1, 2014 1,190,544 $ 85.44 Granted - - Exercised 286,120 83.53 Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired 16,240 85.73 Outstanding at December 31, 2014 888,184 86.05 5.2 $ 76,485 Exercisable at December 31, 2014 562,684 85.41 4.5 $ 48,812 Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Remaining Aggregate (Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands) Exercise Contractual Intrinsic Options Shares Price/Share Term Value Outstanding at January 1, 2013 2,012,164 $ 87.25 Granted - - Exercised 768,190 90.26 Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired 53,430 84.23 Outstanding at December 31, 2013 1,190,544 85.44 5.8 $ 83,313 Exercisable at December 31, 2013 579,417 86.33 4.5 $ 40,029
Share Options Outstanding And Exercisable	At December 31, 2015 Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Weighted- Average Weighted- Weighted- Number Remaining Average Number Average Range of Outstanding Contractual Exercise Exercisable Exercise Exercise Prices at 12/31/15 Life Price at 12/31/15 Price $ 66.0780 77.0910 111,130 3.1 $ 71.72 111,130 $ 71.72 $ 77.0911 88.1040 277,280 4.6 85.78 225,880 85.59 $ 88.1041 99.1170 211,770 5.6 89.46 110,470 90.49 $ 99.1171 110.130 47,854 2.2 99.80 47,854 99.80 648,034 4.5 85.61 495,334 84.94
Summary Of Company's Non-Vested Shares And Changes	Years Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Weighted- Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Average Grant Date Grant Date Grant Date Restricted (non-vested) Shares Shares Fair Value Shares Fair Value Shares Fair Value Outstanding at January 1, 467,745 $ 120.84 429,041 $ 103.50 357,750 $ 87.86 Granted 156,262 178.80 176,159 147.44 274,715 132.95 Vested 154,387 113.12 128,549 99.55 187,397 116.83 Forfeited 34,284 138.19 8,906 118.82 16,027 103.29 Outstanding at December 31, 435,336 143.02 467,745 120.84 429,041 103.50
Company's Non-Vested Performance Share Unit Awards	Year Ended December 31, 2015 Weighted- Average Grant Date Performance Share Unit Awards Shares Fair Value Outstanding at January 1, - $ - Granted 10,705 178.84 Vested - - Forfeited - - Outstanding at December 31, 10,705 178.84

Segment Reporting (Tables)

Segment Reporting (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule Of Underwriting Results For Operating Segments	U.S. Reinsurance Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross written premiums $ 1,963,466 $ 2,039,578 $ 1,809,669 Net written premiums 1,855,853 1,983,800 1,807,067 Premiums earned $ 1,952,680 $ 1,986,769 $ 1,671,513 Incurred losses and LAE 825,081 954,525 814,668 Commission and brokerage 493,261 466,291 366,890 Other underwriting expenses 50,087 45,583 47,176 Underwriting gain (loss) $ 584,251 $ 520,370 $ 442,779 International Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross written premiums $ 1,294,049 $ 1,582,426 $ 1,345,770 Net written premiums 1,208,978 1,336,633 1,327,430 Premiums earned $ 1,251,111 $ 1,310,903 $ 1,289,341 Incurred losses and LAE 749,891 748,174 675,362 Commission and brokerage 298,180 306,229 295,883 Other underwriting expenses 34,303 34,598 33,910 Underwriting gain (loss) $ 168,737 $ 221,902 $ 284,186 Bermuda Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross written premiums $ 852,489 $ 770,249 $ 774,268 Net written premiums 791,594 744,664 765,660 Premiums earned $ 822,391 $ 715,736 $ 737,986 Incurred losses and LAE 456,448 361,792 374,375 Commission and brokerage 215,992 198,848 179,138 Other underwriting expenses 36,017 34,923 34,654 Underwriting gain (loss) $ 113,934 $ 120,173 $ 149,819 Insurance Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross written premiums $ 1,532,287 $ 1,218,372 $ 1,268,745 Net written premiums 1,325,886 1,067,333 1,086,217 Premiums earned $ 1,266,660 $ 1,030,299 $ 1,037,425 Incurred losses and LAE 1,033,295 811,445 931,466 Commission and brokerage 176,213 149,777 133,695 Other underwriting expenses 136,661 118,001 119,283 Underwriting gain (loss) $ (79,509 ) $ (48,924 ) $ (147,019 ) Mt. Logan Re Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Gross written premiums $ 234,001 $ 138,362 $ 20,182 Net written premiums 195,950 124,473 18,447 Premiums earned $ 188,617 $ 125,428 $ 17,278 Incurred losses and LAE 37,200 30,598 4,380 Commission and brokerage 18,390 14,441 1,952 Other underwriting expenses 8,916 7,295 2,103 Underwriting gain (loss) $ 124,111 $ 73,094 $ 8,843
Schedule Of Underwriting Results For Operating Segments To Income (Loss) Before Taxes	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 Underwriting gain (loss) $ 911,524 $ 886,615 $ 738,608 Net investment income 473,825 530,570 548,509 Net realized capital gains (losses) (184,147 ) 84,046 300,227 Net derivative gain (loss) 6,317 (11,599 ) 44,044 Corporate expenses (23,254 ) (23,421 ) (24,817 ) Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense (36,191 ) (38,533 ) (46,118 ) Other income (expense) 60,435 18,437 (5,487 ) Income (loss) before taxes $ 1,208,509 $ 1,446,115 $ 1,554,966
Schedule Of Gross Written Premiums Derived From Largest Non-U.S. Market	Years Ended December 31, (Dollars in thousands) 2015 2014 2013 United Kingdom $ 740,763 $ 676,490 $ 555,332

Unaudited Quarterly Financial53

Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Summary Of Quarterly Financial Data	2015 (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter Operating data: Gross written premiums $ 1,414,041 $ 1,258,248 $ 1,720,713 $ 1,483,290 Net written premiums 1,283,889 1,168,496 1,561,257 1,364,618 Premiums earned 1,307,077 1,332,398 1,413,640 1,428,344 Net investment income 122,583 125,046 115,511 110,685 Net realized capital gains (losses) (10,505 ) (24,178 ) (159,971 ) 10,507 Total claims and underwriting expenses 1,070,296 1,149,529 1,258,812 1,091,298 Net income (loss) 339,070 235,472 107,572 392,374 Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (16,092 ) (26,415 ) (19,019 ) (35,093 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group 322,978 209,057 88,553 357,281 Earnings per common share attributable to Everest Re Group: Basic $ 7.26 $ 4.72 $ 2.02 $ 8.32 Diluted $ 7.19 $ 4.68 $ 2.00 $ 8.26 2014 (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter Operating data: Gross written premiums $ 1,267,424 $ 1,415,362 $ 1,666,701 $ 1,399,500 Net written premiums 1,227,589 1,217,487 1,517,580 1,294,247 Premiums earned 1,144,490 1,272,317 1,389,998 1,362,330 Net investment income 123,157 131,224 142,143 134,046 Net realized capital gains (losses) 21,126 59,016 (9,448 ) 13,352 Total claims and underwriting expenses 916,049 1,077,798 1,191,389 1,097,284 Net income (loss) 302,022 297,925 301,253 357,263 Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (8,089 ) (7,741 ) (26,337 ) (17,140 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group 293,933 290,184 274,916 340,123 Earnings per common share attributable to Everest Re Group: Basic $ 6.26 $ 6.32 $ 6.05 $ 7.54 Diluted $ 6.21 $ 6.26 $ 6.00 $ 7.47

Summary Of Significant Accoun54

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)segmentitemshares	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2012USD ($)
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Minimum percent of prepaid reinsurance premiums for any foreign reinsurers that were collateralized	10.00%
Number of Operating Segments | segment	5
Equity index put option contracts sold | item	7
Derivatives, number of indices | item	2
Deferred acquisition costs	$ 373,072,000	$ 398,408,000
Supplementary Insurance Information, Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	$ 1,202,036,000	1,135,586,000	$ 977,558,000
Additional expense incurred related to guidance		$ 0
Anti-dilutive options | shares	0	0	0
Authoritative Guidance [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Deferred acquisition costs	$ 13,492,000
Supplementary Insurance Information, Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs			$ 2,616,000	$ 10,876,000

Summary Of Significant Accoun55

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Uncollectible Reinsurance Recoverable And Premium Receivables) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Reinsurance recoverable and premium receivables	$ 22,878	$ 29,497

Summary Of Significant Accoun56

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Deferred Acquisition Costs Amortized To Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Deferred acquisition costs	$ 1,202,036	$ 1,135,586	$ 977,558

Summary Of Significant Accoun57

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group	$ 357,281	$ 88,553	$ 209,057	$ 322,978	$ 340,123	$ 274,916	$ 290,184	$ 293,933	$ 977,869	$ 1,199,156	$ 1,259,382
Less: dividends declared-common shares and nonvested common shares									(175,107)	(145,913)	(106,681)
Undistributed earnings									$ 802,762	$ 1,053,243	$ 1,152,701
Percentage allocated to common shareholders									98.90%	99.00%	99.10%
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders, total									$ 794,309	$ 1,042,423	$ 1,142,386
Add: dividends declared-common shareholders									173,367	144,447	105,689
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share									$ 967,676	$ 1,186,870	$ 1,248,075
Denominator for basic earnings per weighted-average common shares									43,415	45,377	48,619
Effect of dilutive securities: Options									380	425	437
Denominator for diluted earnings per adjusted weighted-average common shares									43,795	45,802	49,056
Basic	$ 8.32	$ 2.02	$ 4.72	$ 7.26	$ 7.54	$ 6.05	$ 6.32	$ 6.26	$ 22.29	$ 26.16	$ 25.67
Diluted	$ 8.26	$ 2	$ 4.68	$ 7.19	$ 7.47	$ 6	$ 6.26	$ 6.21	$ 22.10	$ 25.91	$ 25.44
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding									43,415	45,377	48,619
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding and nonvested common shares expected to vest									43,877	45,848	49,058

Summary Of Significant Accoun58

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Fair Value Of The Equity Index Put Options) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Line Items]
Equity index put option liability	$ 40,705	$ 47,022
Equity Index Put Option Contracts [Member] | Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Line Items]
Equity index put option liability	$ 40,705	$ 47,022

Summary Of Significant Accoun59

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Changes In Fair Value Of The Equity Index Put Option Contracts) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Line Items]
Net derivative gain (loss)	$ 6,317	$ (11,599)	$ 44,044
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member] | Equity Index Put Option Contracts [Member]
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Line Items]
Net derivative gain (loss)	$ 6,317	$ (11,599)	$ 44,044

Investments (Narrative) (Detail

Investments (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Percentage threshold that triggers a review of available for sale debt securities for declines in market value	80.00%
Aggregate market value of investments in unrealized loss position	$ 6,372,183	$ 4,095,470
Gross unrealized losses on investments in unrealized loss position	272,692	169,012
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	139,624	113,584
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, greater than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	133,068	$ 55,428
Additional contractual commitments	490,441
Securities with a carrying value	$ 1,398,874
Sales Revenue, Net [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Percentage threshold of unrealized losses not exceeded by any one single issuer	0.70%	0.20%
Minimum [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Limited partnership financial reporting lag time, months	1 month
Maximum [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Limited partnership financial reporting lag time, months	3 months
Investment Grade [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, greater than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation		$ 42,884
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Aggregate market value of investments in unrealized loss position	$ 6,280,276	3,971,191
Gross unrealized losses on investments in unrealized loss position	255,960	157,065
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	139,624	109,516
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, greater than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	116,336	47,549
Energy Sector [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	46,793	58,891
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, greater than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	18,447
Foreign Exchange Losses [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	39,037	34,687
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, greater than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	$ 72,738
Sub-prime and Alt-A Loans [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, greater than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation		$ 15

Investments (Summary Of Unreali

Investments (Summary Of Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) Of Available For Sale, Fixed Maturity And Equity Security Investments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total		$ 13,276,206	$ 12,831,159
Unrealized Appreciation		337,048	426,973
Unrealized Depreciation		(255,960)	(157,065)
Market Value		13,357,294	13,101,067
OTTI in AOCI	[1]	1,501	6,910
U.S. Treasury Securities And Obligations Of U.S. Government Agencies And Corporations [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total		805,273	221,052
Unrealized Appreciation		13,465	10,290
Unrealized Depreciation		(1,861)	(304)
Market Value		816,877	231,038
Obligations Of U.S. States And Political Subdivisions [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total		669,945	783,129
Unrealized Appreciation		34,020	41,969
Unrealized Depreciation		(890)	(626)
Market Value		703,075	824,472
Corporate Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total		4,817,014	4,626,002
Unrealized Appreciation		97,159	143,889
Unrealized Depreciation		(109,310)	(62,906)
Market Value		4,804,863	4,706,985
OTTI in AOCI	[1]	1,412	6,910
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total		470,320	340,761
Unrealized Appreciation		719	1,691
Unrealized Depreciation		(3,813)	(1,230)
Market Value		467,226	341,222
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total		264,924	231,439
Unrealized Appreciation		4,750	10,675
Unrealized Depreciation		(3,375)	(429)
Market Value		266,299	241,685
Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total		2,313,265	2,157,182
Unrealized Appreciation		25,318	37,555
Unrealized Depreciation		(18,059)	(11,573)
Market Value		2,320,524	2,183,164
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total		893	2,734
Unrealized Appreciation		51	54
Unrealized Depreciation		(46)	(57)
Market Value		898	2,731
Foreign Government Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total		1,256,983	1,488,144
Unrealized Appreciation		54,403	71,177
Unrealized Depreciation		(52,205)	(26,866)
Market Value		1,259,181	1,532,455
OTTI in AOCI	[1]	53
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total		2,677,589	2,980,716
Unrealized Appreciation		107,163	109,673
Unrealized Depreciation		(66,401)	(53,074)
Market Value		2,718,351	3,037,315
OTTI in AOCI	[1]	36
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total		122,271	148,326
Unrealized Appreciation		3,401	3,831
Unrealized Depreciation		(16,732)	(11,947)
Market Value		$ 108,940	$ 140,210
[1]	Represents the amount of OTTI recognized in AOCI. Amount includes unrealized gains and losses on impaired securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date

Investments (Summary Of Amortiz

Investments (Summary Of Amortized Cost And Market Value Of Fixed Maturity Securities, By Contractual Maturity) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Amortized Cost	$ 13,276,206	$ 12,831,159
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Market Value	13,357,294	13,101,067
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due in one year or less, Amortized Cost	1,021,200	1,183,247
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after one year through five years, Amortized Cost	6,193,426	5,646,466
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after five years through ten years, Amortized Cost	2,217,075	2,270,073
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after ten years, Amortized Cost	795,103	999,257
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due in one year or less, Market Value	1,036,016	1,189,416
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after one year through five years, Market Value	6,220,563	5,726,277
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after five years through ten years, Market Value	2,203,932	2,313,672
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after ten years, Market Value	841,836	1,102,900
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Amortized Cost	470,320	340,761
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Market Value	467,226	341,222
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Amortized Cost	264,924	231,439
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Market Value	266,299	241,685
Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Amortized Cost	2,313,265	2,157,182
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Market Value	2,320,524	2,183,164
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Amortized Cost	893	2,734
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Market Value	$ 898	$ 2,731

Investments (Summary Of Changes

Investments (Summary Of Changes In Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) For The Company's Investments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax	$ (194,035)	$ 20,312
Deferred tax benefit (expense)	16,979	(1,623)
Deferred tax benefit (expense), other-than-temporary impairment	(3,383)	3,407
Total URA(D) on securities arising during the period	(180,439)	22,096	$ (402,774)
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax	(197,231)	34,245
Fixed Maturity Securities, Other-Than-Temporary Impairment [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax	8,411	(10,078)
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax	$ (5,215)	$ (3,855)

Investments (Summary Of Aggrega

Investments (Summary Of Aggregate Market Value And Gross Unrealized Depreciation Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities, By Security Type) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	$ 4,928,451	$ 2,495,611
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(139,624)	(113,584)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	1,443,732	1,599,859
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(133,068)	(55,428)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	6,372,183	4,095,470
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(272,692)	(169,012)
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	4,928,451	2,445,326
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(139,624)	(109,516)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	1,351,825	1,525,865
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(116,336)	(47,549)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	6,280,276	3,971,191
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(255,960)	(157,065)
U.S. Treasury Securities And Obligations Of U.S. Government Agencies And Corporations [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	539,177	13,187
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(1,855)	(20)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	692	26,897
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(6)	(284)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	539,869	40,084
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(1,861)	(304)
Obligations Of U.S. States And Political Subdivisions [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	6,434	20,428
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(84)	(242)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	4,917	18,199
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(806)	(384)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	11,351	38,627
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(890)	(626)
Corporate Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	1,818,331	1,245,830
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(74,161)	(55,388)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	440,682	362,320
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(35,149)	(7,518)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	2,259,013	1,608,150
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(109,310)	(62,906)
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	348,545	192,253
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(2,510)	(1,230)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	67,230
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(1,303)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	415,775	192,253
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(3,813)	(1,230)
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	145,490	28,191
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(3,375)	(123)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value		9,777
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation		(306)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	145,490	37,968
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(3,375)	(429)
Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	1,021,390	141,807
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(10,014)	(172)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	326,449	678,972
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(8,045)	(11,401)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	1,347,839	820,779
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(18,059)	(11,573)
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	152
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(2)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	38	266
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(44)	(57)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	190	266
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(46)	(57)
Foreign Government Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	227,384	235,725
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(21,996)	(15,415)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	216,428	139,200
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(30,209)	(11,451)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	443,812	374,925
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(52,205)	(26,866)
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	821,548	567,905
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(25,627)	(36,926)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	295,389	290,234
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(40,774)	(16,148)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	1,116,937	858,139
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(66,401)	(53,074)
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value		50,285
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation		(4,068)
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	91,907	73,994
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(16,732)	(7,879)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	91,907	124,279
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	$ (16,732)	$ (11,947)

Investments (Summary Of Aggre65

Investments (Summary Of Aggregate Market Value And Gross Unrealized Depreciation Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities, By Contractual Maturity) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	$ 4,928,451	$ 2,495,611
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(139,624)	(113,584)
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	1,443,732	1,599,859
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(133,068)	(55,428)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	6,372,183	4,095,470
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(272,692)	(169,012)
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	4,928,451	2,445,326
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(139,624)	(109,516)
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	1,351,825	1,525,865
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(116,336)	(47,549)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	6,280,276	3,971,191
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(255,960)	(157,065)
Due In One Year Or Less [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	29,737	98,021
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(1,840)	(5,166)
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	74,615	80,002
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(13,440)	(8,174)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	104,352	178,023
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(15,280)	(13,340)
Due In One Year Through Five Years [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	2,328,805	1,233,244
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(62,329)	(68,124)
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	651,228	518,613
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(59,993)	(12,761)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	2,980,033	1,751,857
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(122,322)	(80,885)
Due In Five Years Through Ten Years [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	969,139	679,374
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(52,725)	(28,529)
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	206,538	187,717
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(28,018)	(10,734)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	1,175,677	867,091
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(80,743)	(39,263)
Due After Ten Years [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	85,193	72,436
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(6,829)	(6,172)
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	25,727	50,518
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(5,493)	(4,116)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	110,920	122,954
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(12,322)	(10,288)
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	348,545	192,253
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(2,510)	(1,230)
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	67,230
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(1,303)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	415,775	192,253
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	(3,813)	(1,230)
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	1,167,032	169,998
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized loss, less than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(13,391)	(295)
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	326,487	689,015
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	(8,089)	(11,764)
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	1,493,519	859,013
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	$ (21,480)	$ (12,059)

Investments (Summary Of Compone

Investments (Summary Of Components Of Net Investment Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	$ 496,526	$ 556,072	$ 574,425
Funds held interest income (expense)	10,767	9,471	10,613
Future policy benefit reserve income (expense)	(1,907)	(1,686)	(2,770)
Gross investment income	505,386	563,857	582,268
Investment expenses	(31,561)	(33,287)	(33,759)
Net investment income	473,825	530,570	548,509
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	433,097	462,757	473,493
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	45,617	47,193	45,387
Short-Term Investments And Cash [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	1,577	1,635	1,295
Limited Partnerships [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	14,431	40,868	46,921
Other [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	$ 1,804	$ 3,619	$ 7,329

Investments (Summary Of Compo67

Investments (Summary Of Components Of Net Realized Capital Gains (Losses)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairments									$ (102,199)	$ (39,502)	$ (1,052)
Total net realized capital gains (losses)	$ 10,507	$ (159,971)	$ (24,178)	$ (10,505)	$ 13,352	$ (9,448)	$ 59,016	$ 21,126	(184,147)	84,046	300,227
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member] | Market Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairments									(102,199)	(39,502)	(1,052)
Gains (losses) from sales									(22,310)	4,408	6,792
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gains (losses) from sales									24	(3,137)	201
Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments									(44)	(1,498)	307
Equity Securities [Member] | Market Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gains (losses) from sales									(6,702)	426	2,648
Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gains (losses) from sales									(7,305)	156	32,747
Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments									(45,627)	123,196	258,569
Short-Term Investments And Cash [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gains (losses) from sales									$ 16	$ (3)	$ 15

Investments (Summary Of Gross G

Investments (Summary Of Gross Gains (Losses) From Sales Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Proceeds from sales of securities	$ 1,725,917	$ 1,848,268	$ 1,113,960
Gross gains from sales	47,899	37,427	38,141
Gross losses from sales	(70,185)	(36,156)	(31,148)
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Proceeds from sales of securities	642,980	600,970	751,973
Gross gains from sales	27,675	20,900	44,703
Gross losses from sales	$ (41,682)	$ (20,318)	$ (9,308)

Reserve For Losses, LAE And F69

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 13, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in insurance business		$ (68,567)	$ (39,862)	$ (18,239)
Increase (decrease) in reinsurance business		217,169	(202,418)	(148,788)
Reinsurance receivables		$ 840,420	670,854
Retrocession percent		5.00%
Contracts of insurance and reinsurance received claims during the past three years, in years		20 years
Case reserve established by the Company on direct excess insurance claims		$ 9,951,798	9,720,813	9,673,240	$ 10,069,055
Liabilites retroceded, percentage	100.00%
Cash conisderation	$ 140,279
Maximum liability retroceded	440,279
Total amount of liabilities retroceded	300,000
Construction Liability, Umbrella, and Workers Compenstion Reserves [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in insurance business		152,140	24,973	$ 130,548
Resolution Group Reinsurance (Barbados) Limited [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables		$ 194,231
Reinsurance receivable, percent		23.10%
Zurich Vericherungs Gesellschaft [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables		$ 88,136
Reinsurance receivable, percent		10.50%
C. V. Starr [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables		$ 104,819
Reinsurance receivable, percent		12.50%
Transatlantic Reinsurance Company [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables		$ 43,992
Reinsurance receivable, percent		5.20%
Hannover Rueck SE [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables		$ 46,588
Reinsurance receivable, percent		5.50%
Axis Reinsurance Company [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables		$ 49,478
Reinsurance receivable, percent		5.90%
A&E [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Partially offset, related to development on A&E reserves			(137,769)
Cash conisderation	$ 100,451
Mt. Logan Re [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Partially offset, related to development on A&E reserves		$ 3,539	$ 186

Reserve For Losses, LAE And F70

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve (Summary Of Activity In The Reserve For Losses And LAE) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Abstract]
Gross reserves at January 1	$ 9,720,813	$ 9,673,240	$ 10,069,055
Less reinsurance recoverable	830,236	627,082	473,866	$ 602,750
Net reserves at January 1	9,093,731	9,199,374	9,466,305
Incurred related to: Current year	3,170,482	2,946,396	2,818,490
Incurred related to: Prior years	(68,567)	(39,862)	(18,239)
Total incurred losses and LAE	3,101,915	2,906,534	2,800,251
Paid related to: Current year	697,778	761,788	664,719
Paid related to: Prior years	2,186,274	2,089,734	2,353,817
Total paid losses and LAE	2,884,052	2,851,522	3,018,536
Foreign exchange/translation adjustment	(190,032)	(160,655)	(48,646)
Net reserves at December 31	9,121,562	9,093,731	9,199,374
Plus reinsurance recoverable	830,236	627,082	473,866
Gross reserves at December 31	$ 9,951,798	$ 9,720,813	$ 9,673,240

Reserve For Losses, LAE And F71

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve (Summary Of Incurred Losses With Respect To A&E Reserves On Both Gross And Net Of Reinsurance Basis) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Abstract]
Gross basis: Beginning of period reserves	$ 476,205	$ 402,461	$ 442,821
Gross basis: Incurred losses	40,000	142,233	5,599
Gross basis: Paid losses	(83,088)	(68,489)	(45,959)
Gross basis: End of period reserves	433,117	476,205	402,461
Net basis: Beginning of period reserves	458,211	386,677	425,691
Net basis: Incurred losses	38,440	137,769	5,400
Net basis: Paid losses	(177,031)	(66,235)	(44,414)
Net basis: End of period reserves	$ 319,620	$ 458,211	$ 386,677

Reserve For Losses, LAE And F72

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve (Summary Of Activity In The Reserve For Future Policy Benefits) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Abstract]
Balance at beginning of year	$ 59,820	$ 59,512	$ 66,107
Liabilities assumed	315	250	103
Adjustments to reserves	2,310	4,724	(3,066)
Benefits paid in the current year	(3,535)	(4,667)	(3,632)
Balance at end of year	$ 58,910	$ 59,820	$ 59,512

Fair Value (Narrative) (Details

Fair Value (Narrative) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015GBP (£)security	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)security	Dec. 31, 2005security	Dec. 31, 2001security
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair value of public equity portfolio		$ 196,980,000		$ 253,575,000
Number of equity index put option contracts | security					7	7
Transfers between level 1 and 2				$ 0
Transfers from level 3	$ 8,199,000	51,101,000
Private Placement [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Number of equity index put option contracts | security			2	2
Unavailability Of Prices [Member] | Private Placement [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities		$ 0		$ 3,593,000
Standard & Poor's 500 Index [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Number of equity index put option contracts | security			6	6
Theoretical maximum payout occurs based on index value				$ 0
Total consideration, net of commissions				22,530,000
Estimates the probability of equity index put option contract will falling below the strike price on the exercise date	16.00%
Discount factor	3.00%
Present value of theoretical maximum payouts				432,613,000
Settlement amount if contracts had expired				0
Equity Index				$ 2,043.94
FTSE 100 Index [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Number of equity index put option contracts | security			1	1
Theoretical maximum payout occurs based on index value				$ 0
Total consideration, net of commissions				6,706,000
Estimates the probability of equity index put option contract will falling below the strike price on the exercise date	46.00%
Discount factor	3.00%
Present value of theoretical maximum payouts				42,599,000
Settlement amount if contracts had expired				0
Equity Index | £			£ 6,242.30
Fair Value [Member] | Standard & Poor's 500 Index [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Total consideration, net of commissions				31,763,000
Fair Value [Member] | FTSE 100 Index [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Total consideration, net of commissions				$ 8,942,000

Fair Value (Fair Value Measurem

Fair Value (Fair Value Measurement Levels For All Assets And Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	$ 13,357,294	$ 13,101,067
Fixed maturities, fair value	2,102	1,509
Equity securities, market value	108,940	140,210
Equity securities, fair value	1,337,733	1,447,820
Equity index put option contracts	40,705	47,022
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Equity securities, market value	91,907	124,295
Equity securities, fair value	1,275,666	1,337,396
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	13,351,768	13,085,304
Fixed maturities, fair value	2,102	1,509
Equity securities, market value	17,033	15,915
Equity securities, fair value	62,067	110,424
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	5,526	15,763
Equity index put option contracts	40,705	47,022
U.S. Treasury Securities And Obligations Of U.S. Government Agencies And Corporations [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	816,877	231,038
U.S. Treasury Securities And Obligations Of U.S. Government Agencies And Corporations [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	816,877	231,038
Obligations Of U.S. States And Political Subdivisions [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	703,075	824,472
Obligations Of U.S. States And Political Subdivisions [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	703,075	824,472
Corporate Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	4,804,863	4,706,985
Corporate Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	4,800,930	4,706,985
Corporate Securities [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	3,933
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	467,226	341,222
Asset-Backed Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	467,226	341,222
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	266,299	241,685
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	266,299	233,088
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value		8,597
Agency Residential [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	2,320,524	2,183,164
Agency Residential [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	2,320,524	2,183,164
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	898	2,731
Non-Agency Residential [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	898	2,731
Foreign Government Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	1,259,181	1,532,455
Foreign Government Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	1,259,181	1,532,455
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	2,718,351	3,037,315
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	2,716,758	3,030,149
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	$ 1,593	$ 7,166

Fair Value (Activity Under Leve

Fair Value (Activity Under Level 3, Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs By Asset Type) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 15,763	$ 6,127
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings	(9,476)	1,661
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	3,812	(5,869)
Purchases, issuances and settlements	3,626	64,945
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	(8,199)	(51,101)
Ending balance	5,526	$ 15,763
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date	9,721
Corporate Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings	4
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	(96)	$ 42
Purchases, issuances and settlements	3,626	1,274
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	399	$ (1,316)
Ending balance	$ 3,933
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance		$ 5,299
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings		1,259
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)		(126)
Purchases, issuances and settlements		21,303
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3		$ (27,735)
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 8,597
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)		$ (426)
Purchases, issuances and settlements		9,023
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	$ (8,597)
Ending balance		$ 8,597
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 7,166	$ 481
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings	(9,480)	73
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	3,908	(5,221)
Purchases, issuances and settlements		4,038
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	(1)	7,795
Ending balance	1,593	$ 7,166
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date	$ 9,721
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance		$ 347
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings		329
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)		(138)
Purchases, issuances and settlements		$ (538)
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date
Agency Residential [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Purchases, issuances and settlements		$ 29,845
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3		$ (29,845)
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date

Fair Value (Fair Value Measur76

Fair Value (Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs For Equity Index Put Option Contracts) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of period	$ 47,022	$ 35,423
Total (gains) or losses (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings	$ (6,317)	$ 11,599
Total (gains) or losses (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)
Purchases, issuances and settlements
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3
Balance, end of period	$ 40,705	$ 47,022
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to liabilities still held at the reporting date

Redeemable Noncontrolling Int77

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests - MT. Logan RE (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jan. 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Event [Member]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Unaffiliated third party investments during period, net	$ 30,000
Logan Re [Member]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Voting common share percentage		100.00%
Investment, redeemable preferred shares, segregated accounts		$ 50,000
Unaffiliated third party investments during period, net		$ 306,848	$ 279,200

Redeemable Noncontrolling Int78

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests - MT. Logan RE (Activity For Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, beginning of period				$ 421,552					$ 421,552
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	$ (35,093)	$ (19,019)	$ (26,415)	(16,092)	$ (17,140)	$ (26,337)	$ (7,741)	$ (8,089)	96,619	$ 59,307	$ 5,878
Dividends paid on third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest									(68,158)	(10,334)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, end of period	756,861				421,552				756,861	421,552
Logan Re [Member]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, beginning of period				$ 421,552				$ 93,378	421,552	93,378
Unaffiliated third party investments during period, net									306,848	279,200
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests									96,619	59,307
Dividends paid on third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest									(68,158)	(10,334)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, end of period	$ 756,861				$ 421,552				$ 756,861	$ 421,552	$ 93,378

Credit Facilities (Narrative) (

Credit Facilities (Narrative) (Details) £ in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Jun. 22, 2012USD ($)	Jul. 27, 2007USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015GBP (£)item	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Nov. 09, 2015GBP (£)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, number of facilities | item			2
Line of credit facility, commitment					$ 1,100,000
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, term of credit facility	4 years	5 years
Line of credit facility, commitment	$ 800,000	$ 850,000		$ 800,000	$ 800,000
Line of credit facility, required minimum debt-to-capital ratio			0.35		0.35
Line of credit facility, required minimum net worth					$ 4,249,963
Percentage amount of consolidated net income required to be reserved to maintain compliance with facility covenants			25.00%
Percentage amount of increase in consolidated net worth from new issuance required to be reserved to maintain compliance with facility covenants			25.00%
Increase in reserves due to new issuance during the period required to maintain compliance with facility covenants					5,368,970
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member] | Federal Funds [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, spread on variable rate basis			0.50%
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, spread on variable rate basis			1.00%
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1 [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis			an adjusted London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus a margin.
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1(a) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis			prime commercial lending rate established by Wells Fargo Bank
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1(b) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis			Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1(c) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis			one month LIBOR Rate plus 1.0
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility Tranche One [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, commitment				200,000	200,000
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility Tranche Two [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, commitment					600,000
Citibank Holdings Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, initiation date			Aug. 15, 2011
Line of credit facility, term of credit facility			3 years
Line of credit facility, commitment				150,000
Citibank Bilateral Agreement [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, commitment				$ 300,000	$ 300,000
Per annum commitment fee on undrawn credit			0.15%
Citibank Bilateral Agreement [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1(a) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis			% per annum of the principal amount of issued standard letters of credit (expiry of 15 months or less)
Percentage of interest on the principal amount of letters of credit issued			0.35%
Maximum term allowed to execute issued letters of credit			15 months
Citibank Bilateral Agreement [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1(b) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis			% per annum of the principal amount of issued extended tenor letters of credit (expiry maximum of up to 60 months).
Percentage of interest on the principal amount of issued extended tenor letters of credit			0.45%
Maximum term allowed to execute issued letters of credit			60 months
Everest International Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, required minimum debt-to-capital ratio			0.35		0.35
Line of credit facility, required minimum net worth					$ 5,215,784
Consolidated net worth, percentage				70.00%
Percentage amount of consolidated net income required to be reserved to maintain compliance with facility covenants			25.00%
Percentage amount of increase in consolidated net worth from new issuance required to be reserved to maintain compliance with facility covenants			25.00%
Increase in reserves due to new issuance during the period required to maintain compliance with facility covenants					$ 5,468,960
Lloyd's of London Bank Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, term of credit facility			4 years
Line of credit facility, commitment | £			£ 175,000			£ 175,000
Percentage commitment fee per annum			0.10%
Per annum commitment fee on undrawn credit			0.35%

Credit Facilities (Summary Of C

Credit Facilities (Summary Of Costs Incurred Connection With Credit Facilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Credit Facilities [Abstract]
Credit facility fees incurred	$ 756	$ 659	$ 964

Credit Facilities (Summary Of O

Credit Facilities (Summary Of Outstanding Letters Of Credit And/Or Borrowings Of Group Credit Facility) (Details) £ in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Nov. 09, 2015GBP (£)	Jun. 22, 2012USD ($)	Jul. 27, 2007USD ($)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment			$ 1,100,000
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility Tranche One [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment		$ 200,000	200,000
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility Tranche Two Issuance One [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment		600,000	600,000
In Use		$ 444,012	2,488
Date of Expiry	Dec. 12, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility Tranche Two Issuance Two [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
In Use			447,178
Date of Expiry	Dec. 31, 2016
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment		$ 800,000	800,000		$ 800,000	$ 850,000
In Use		$ 444,012	$ 449,666
Lloyd's Bank PLC [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment | £	£ 175,000
In Use | £	£ 164,961
Date of Expiry	Dec. 31, 2019
Lloyd's of London Bank Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment | £	£ 175,000			£ 175,000
In Use | £	£ 164,961

Credit Facilities (Summary Of82

Credit Facilities (Summary Of Outstanding Letters Of Credit And Borrowings Of Bermuda Re Letter Of Credit Facility) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment	$ 1,100,000
Citibank Bilateral Letter Of Credit Agreement One [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment	300,000	$ 300,000
In Use	$ 3,672	$ 112
Date of Expiry	Nov. 24, 2016	Aug. 30, 2015
Citibank Bilateral Letter Of Credit Agreement Two [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
In Use	$ 67,783	$ 3,672
Date of Expiry	Dec. 31, 2016	Nov. 24, 2015
Citibank Bilateral Letter Of Credit Agreement Three [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
In Use	$ 179	$ 70,922
Date of Expiry	Aug. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2015
Citibank Bilateral Letter Of Credit Agreement Four [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
In Use	$ 316	$ 2,014
Date of Expiry	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Citibank Bilateral Letter Of Credit Agreement Five [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
In Use	$ 99,521	$ 149,353
Date of Expiry	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 30, 2018
Citibank Bilateral Agreement [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment	$ 300,000	$ 300,000
In Use	$ 171,471	$ 226,073

Senior Notes (Narrative) (Detai

Senior Notes (Narrative) (Details) - Senior Notes [Member] - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Date Issued	Jun. 5, 2014
Principal amounts	$ 400,000,000
Debt maturity term	30 years
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	4.868%	4.868%
Date due	Jun. 1, 2044
5.4% Senior notes due 10/15/2014 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Date Issued	Oct. 12, 2004
Principal amounts	$ 250,000,000
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	5.40%
Date due	Oct. 15, 2014

Senior Notes (Schedule Of Outst

Senior Notes (Schedule Of Outstanding Senior Notes) (Details) - Senior Notes [Member] - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	4.868%	4.868%
Date issued	Jun. 5, 2014
Date due	Jun. 1, 2044
Principal amounts	$ 400,000,000
Consolidated balance sheet amount	400,000,000	$ 400,000,000
Market value	$ 381,204,000	$ 404,892,000
5.4% Senior notes due 10/15/2014 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	5.40%
Date issued	Oct. 12, 2004
Date due	Oct. 15, 2014
Principal amounts	$ 250,000,000

Senior Notes (Schedule Of Inter

Senior Notes (Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Senior Notes) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Senior Notes [Abstract]
Interest expense incurred	$ 19,472	$ 21,818	$ 13,551

Long Term Subordinated Notes (N

Long Term Subordinated Notes (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 19, 2009	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate		6.60%	6.60%
Maturity Date		May 1, 2067
Percentage of principal amount required for redemption		100.00%
Outstanding debt reduction	$ 161,441
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable spread on treasury rate		0.25%
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable spread on treasury rate		0.50%
Fixed Rate Interest Period [Member] | Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate		6.60%
Interest basis, 3 month LIBOR plus number of basis points, reset quarterly		2.385%
Right to defer interest on one or more occasions for up to number of consecutive years		10 years
Fixed Rate Interest Period [Member] | Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest payment date		May 3, 2007
Fixed Rate Interest Period [Member] | Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest payment date		May 14, 2017
Floating Rate Interest Period [Member] | Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Right to defer interest on one or more occasions for up to number of consecutive years		10 years
5.4% Senior notes due 10/15/2014 [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate		5.40%
Maturity Date		Oct. 15, 2014
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044 [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate		4.868%	4.868%
Maturity Date		Jun. 1, 2044

Long Term Subordinated Notes (S

Long Term Subordinated Notes (Schedule Of Outstanding Fixed To Floating Rate Long Term Subordinated Notes) (Details) - Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member] - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	6.60%	6.60%
Date Issued	Apr. 26, 2007
Original Principal Amount	$ 400,000,000
Maturity Date	May 1, 2067
Consolidated balance sheet amount	$ 238,368,000	$ 238,364,000
Market value	$ 208,978,000	$ 246,312,000
Scheduled [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity Date	May 15, 2037
Final [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity Date	May 1, 2067

Long Term Subordinated Notes 88

Long Term Subordinated Notes (Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Long Term Subordinated Notes) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Abstract]
Interest expense incurred	$ 15,749	$ 15,749	$ 15,748

Junior Subordinated Debt Secu89

Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable (Narrative) (Details) - Junior Subordinated Debt Securities [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	6.20%
Original Principal Amount	$ 329,897,000
Early redemption of junior subordinated debt, pre-tax expense	$ 7,282,000

Junior Subordinated Debt Secu90

Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable (Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Junior Subordinated Debt Securities) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable [Abstract]
Interest expense incurred	$ 8,181

Reinsurance And Trust Agreeme91

Reinsurance And Trust Agreements (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 01, 2015USD ($)item	Nov. 18, 2014USD ($)	Apr. 24, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)item	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Amount on deposit in trust accounts				$ 454,384
Reinsurance coverage amount				$ 498,031	$ 492,084	$ 213,813
Kilimanjaro Re Limited [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Number of collateralized reinsurance agreements | item	2			2
Kilimanjaro Re Limited [Member] | Catastrophe Reinsurance [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Reinsurance coverage amount		$ 500,000
Catastrophe reinsurance bonds funded amount	$ 625,000	$ 500,000	$ 450,000
Kilimanjaro Re Limited [Member] | Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement 1 [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Reinsurance coverage amount	300,000		250,000
Kilimanjaro Re Limited [Member] | Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement 2 [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Reinsurance coverage amount	$ 325,000		$ 200,000

Operating Lease Agreements (Nar

Operating Lease Agreements (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Rental expense	$ 15,986	$ 15,519	$ 14,407
Minimum [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Lease expiration year	2,017
Maximum [Member]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Lease expiration year	2,027

Operating Lease Agreements (Fut

Operating Lease Agreements (Future Minimum Rental Commitments) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Operating Lease Agreements [Abstract]
2,016	$ 14,594
2,017	13,657
2,018	13,544
2,019	13,362
2,020	12,798
Thereafter	16,511
Net commitments	$ 84,466

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Detai

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Accrual withholding taxes percent	5.00%
Accrual Withholding Taxes	$ 0
Tax benefits related to share-based compensation	8,064	$ 6,603
Foreign tax credits	11,836	64,902
Alternative minimum tax credits	7,604	44,954
Net operating loss carryforward	$ 3,412	$ 3,296

Income Taxes (Components Of The

Income Taxes (Components Of The Provision) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]
U.S.	$ 90,486	$ 143,297	$ 116,829
Non-U.S.	14,811	22,575	18,219
Total current tax expense (benefit)	105,297	165,872	135,048
Total deferred U.S. tax expense (benefit)	28,724	21,780	154,658
Total income tax expense (benefit)	$ 134,021	$ 187,652	$ 289,706

Income Taxes (Reconciliation Of

Income Taxes (Reconciliation Of The Difference Between The Provision For Income Taxes And The Expected Tax Provision At The Weighted Average Tax Rate) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Net investment income	$ 110,685	$ 115,511	$ 125,046	$ 122,583	$ 134,046	$ 142,143	$ 131,224	$ 123,157	$ 473,825	$ 530,570	$ 548,509
Net realized capital gains (losses)	$ 10,507	$ (159,971)	$ (24,178)	$ (10,505)	$ 13,352	$ (9,448)	$ 59,016	$ 21,126	(184,147)	84,046	300,227
Net derivative gain (loss)									6,317	(11,599)	44,044
Corporate expenses									(23,254)	(23,421)	(24,817)
Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense									(36,191)	(38,533)	(46,118)
Other income (expense)									60,435	18,437	(5,487)
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									1,208,509	1,446,115	1,554,966
Total income tax expense (benefit)									134,021	187,652	289,706
U.S. [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Underwriting gain (loss)									294,386	228,194	246,699
Net investment income									234,709	260,501	274,920
Net realized capital gains (losses)									(159,268)	78,006	295,814
Corporate expenses									(7,179)	(7,252)	(8,262)
Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense									(35,434)	(37,970)	(45,452)
Other income (expense)									27,706	(1,561)	(7,086)
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									354,920	519,918	756,633
Expected tax provision at the applicable statutory rate(s)									124,221	181,972	264,822
Increase (decrease) in tax resulting from: Tax exempt income									(10,004)	(12,231)	(15,038)
Increase (decrease) in tax resulting from: Dividend received deduction									(5,364)	(5,910)	(7,809)
Increase (decrease) in tax resulting from: Proration									2,160	1,835	2,274
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from: Other									8,197	(588)	27,238
Total income tax expense (benefit)									119,210	165,077	271,487
Non-U.S. [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Underwriting gain (loss)									617,137	658,421	491,909
Net investment income									239,115	270,069	273,589
Net realized capital gains (losses)									(24,879)	6,040	4,413
Net derivative gain (loss)									6,317	(11,599)	44,044
Corporate expenses									(16,075)	(16,169)	(16,555)
Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense									(756)	(563)	(665)
Other income (expense)									32,730	19,998	1,598
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									853,589	926,197	798,333
Expected tax provision at the applicable statutory rate(s)									14,848	21,279	16,279
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from: Other									(37)	1,296	1,940
Total income tax expense (benefit)									14,811	22,575	18,219
Parent Company [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Net investment income									3,895	824	982
Net realized capital gains (losses)									(3,057)	15
Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense									(4,300)
Other income (expense)									(459)	(574)	(902)
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									$ 977,869	$ 1,199,156	$ 1,259,382
Total income tax expense (benefit)

Income Taxes (Net Deferred Inco

Income Taxes (Net Deferred Income Tax Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Loss reserve	$ 169,771	$ 153,978
Unearned premium reserve	40,624	44,582
Net unrecognized losses on benefit plans	33,971	40,377
Investment impairments	23,481	13,841
Benefit plan liability	18,747	9,873
Foreign tax credits	11,836	64,902
Alternative minimum tax credits	7,604	44,954
Uncollectible reinsurance reserve	5,534	5,237
Net operating loss carryforward	3,412	3,296
Deferred expenses	3,182	3,076
Other assets	16,663	21,048
Total deferred tax assets	334,825	405,164
Net fair value income	80,268	128,856
Deferred acquisition costs	33,227	38,636
Gain on tender of debt	16,437	21,916
Net unrealized investment gains	7,491	28,108
Other liabilities	15,960	15,379
Total deferred tax liabilities	153,383	232,895
Net deferred tax assets	181,442	172,269
Valuation allowance	(3,412)	(3,296)
Total net deferred tax assets	$ 178,030	$ 168,973

Reinsurance (Details)

Reinsurance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reinsurance [Abstract]
Written premiums: Direct									$ 1,569,791	$ 1,227,645	$ 1,268,698
Written premiums: Assumed									4,306,501	4,521,342	3,949,936
Written premiums: Ceded									(498,031)	(492,084)	(213,813)
Net written premiums	$ 1,364,618	$ 1,561,257	$ 1,168,496	$ 1,283,889	$ 1,294,247	$ 1,517,580	$ 1,217,487	$ 1,227,589	5,378,261	5,256,903	5,004,821
Premiums earned: Direct									1,491,163	1,183,498	1,207,833
Premiums earned: Assumed									4,485,021	4,405,253	3,748,824
Premium earned: Ceded									(494,725)	(419,616)	(203,114)
Net premiums earned	$ 1,428,344	$ 1,413,640	$ 1,332,398	$ 1,307,077	$ 1,362,330	$ 1,389,998	$ 1,272,317	$ 1,144,490	5,481,459	5,169,135	4,753,543
Incurred losses and LAE: Direct									1,268,896	1,100,037	1,173,177
Incurred losses and LAE: Assumed									2,152,633	2,160,663	1,833,055
Incurred losses and LAE: Ceded									(319,614)	(354,166)	(205,981)
Net incurred losses and LAE									$ 3,101,915	$ 2,906,534	$ 2,800,251

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Co

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Components Of Comprehensive Income (Loss) In The Consolidated Statements Of Operations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary, Before Tax	$ (333,657)	$ (4,278)	$ (457,192)
URA (D) on securities - OTTI, Before Tax	8,411	(10,078)	(1,579)
Reclassification on net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss), Before Tax	131,211	34,668	(8,388)
Foreign currency translation adjustments, Before Tax	(140,918)	(111,145)	(10,462)
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss), Before Tax	8,740	(60,169)	27,442
Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss), Before Tax	9,563	4,647	8,889
Total other comprehensive income (loss), Before Tax	(316,650)	(146,355)	(441,290)
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary, Tax Effect	54,502	11,653	62,834
URA (D) on securities - OTTI, Tax Effect	(3,383)	3,407	140
Reclassification of net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss), Tax Effect	(37,523)	(13,276)	1,411
Foreign currency translation adjustments, Tax Effect	29,388	15,728	10,300
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss), Tax Effect	(3,059)	21,059	(9,605)
Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss), Tax Effect	(3,347)	(1,627)	(3,111)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), Tax Effect	36,578	36,944	61,969
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary, Net of Tax	(279,155)	7,375	(394,358)
URA (D) on securities - OTTI, Net of Tax	5,028	(6,671)	(1,439)
Reclassification on net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss), Net of Tax	93,688	21,392	(6,977)
Foreign currency translation adjustments, Net of Tax	(111,530)	(95,417)	(162)
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss), Net of Tax	5,681	(39,110)	17,837
Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss), Net of Tax	6,216	3,020	5,778
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	$ (280,072)	$ (109,411)	$ (379,321)

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Re

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other net realized capital gains (losses)									$ (81,948)	$ 123,548	$ 301,279
Other underwriting expenses									265,984	240,400	237,126
Income tax expense (benefit)									134,021	187,652	289,706
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO EVEREST RE GROUP	$ 357,281	$ 88,553	$ 209,057	$ 322,978	$ 340,123	$ 274,916	$ 290,184	$ 293,933	$ 977,869	$ 1,199,156	$ 1,259,382
Parent Company [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Income tax expense (benefit)
URA(D) On Securities [Member] | Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other net realized capital gains (losses)									$ 131,211	$ 34,668
Income tax expense (benefit)									(37,523)	(13,276)
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO EVEREST RE GROUP									93,688	21,392
Benefit Plan Liabilities [Member] | Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other underwriting expenses									9,563	4,647
Income tax expense (benefit)									(3,347)	(1,627)
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO EVEREST RE GROUP									$ 6,216	$ 3,020

Comprehensive Income (Loss) 101

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Of Tax, In The Consolidated Balance Sheets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Beginning balance of URA (D) on securities	$ 223,250	$ 201,154
Current period change in URA(D) of investments - temporary	(185,467)	28,767
Current period change in URA (D) of investments - non-credit OTTI	5,028	(6,671)
Ending balance of URA (D) on securities	42,811	223,250	$ 201,154
Beginning balance of foreign currency translation adjustments	(99,947)	(4,530)
Current period change in foreign currency translation adjustments	(111,530)	(95,417)
Ending balance of foreign currency translation adjustments	(211,477)	(99,947)	(4,530)
Beginning balance of benefit plan net gain (loss)	(74,986)	(38,896)
Current period change in benefit plan net gain (loss)	11,897	(36,090)	23,615
Ending balance of benefit plan net gain (loss)	(63,089)	(74,986)	$ (38,896)
Ending balance of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$ (231,755)	$ 48,317

Employee Benefit Plans (Narrati

Employee Benefit Plans (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated transition obligation amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net public benefit cost over the next year	$ 0
Estimated actuarial loss amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year	8,055
Estimated prior service cost amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year	$ 0
Weighted average discount rate used to determine net periodic benefit cost	4.00%	5.00%	4.00%
Rate of compensation increase to determine the net periodic benefit cost	4.00%	4.00%	4.00%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	7.50%	7.50%	7.50%
Weighted average discount rates used to determine actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligation	4.38%	4.00%	5.00%
Defined contribution plans, employer contribution plans, employer contribution percentage, maximum	3.00%
Defined contribution plans, employer contribution percentage, for new hires, minimum	3.00%
Defined contribution plans, employer contribution percentage, for new hires, maximum	8.00%
Vested contribution after three years, percentage	100.00%
Defined contribution plans vesting period, years	3 years
Defined contribution plan employer contribution percentage for branch offices, minimum	5.00%
Defined contribution plan employer contribution percentage for branch offices, maximum	17.70%
Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Plan assets consist of shares in investment trusts, percentage	80.00%
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Plan assets consist of shares in investment trusts, percentage	17.00%
Cash [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Plan assets consist of shares in investment trusts, percentage	3.00%
Equities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target asset allocation percentage	70.00%
Bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target asset allocation percentage	30.00%
Pre-Medicare Claims [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Healthcare inflation rate	7.00%
Healthcare inflation rate decreased	4.50%
Post-Medicare Claims [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Healthcare inflation rate	6.20%
Healthcare inflation rate decreased	4.50%
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated transition obligation amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net public benefit cost over the next year	$ 0
Estimated actuarial loss amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year	193
Estimated prior service cost amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year	$ 0
Weighted average discount rate used to determine net periodic benefit cost	4.00%	5.00%	4.00%
Weighted average discount rates used to determine actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligation	4.38%	4.00%	5.00%

Employee Benefit Plans (Summary

Employee Benefit Plans (Summary Of Contributions To Defined Benefit Pension Plans) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Company contributions	$ 5,949	$ 16,484	$ 22,536

Employee Benefit Plans (Summ104

Employee Benefit Plans (Summary Of Pension Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Pension expense	$ 22,682	$ 18,543	$ 19,348

Employee Benefit Plans (Summ105

Employee Benefit Plans (Summary Of Status Of Plan) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance, beginning of period	$ 22,053	$ 19,921
Balance, end of period	22,011	22,053	$ 19,921
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	270,065	214,059
Service cost	12,511	10,015	11,182
Interest cost	10,759	10,474	8,511
Actuarial (gain)/loss	(18,595)	55,107
Benefits paid	(20,718)	(19,588)
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	254,022	270,065	214,059
Balance, beginning of period	157,090	152,446
Actual return on plan assets	(7,234)	7,747
Actual contributions during the year	5,949	16,484
Balance, end of period	135,087	157,090	152,446
Funded status at end of year	(118,936)	(112,976)
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	36,506	27,594
Service cost	1,794	1,619	1,899
Interest cost	1,187	1,320	1,164
Actuarial (gain)/loss	(7,231)	6,475
Benefits paid	(568)	(502)
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	$ 31,687	$ 36,506	$ 27,594
Balance, beginning of period
Actual contributions during the year	$ 568	$ 502
Balance, end of period
Funded status at end of year	$ (31,687)	$ (36,506)

Employee Benefit Plans (Amounts

Employee Benefit Plans (Amounts Recognized In The Consolidated Balance Sheets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other assets (due beyond one year)
Other liabilities (due within one year)	$ (1,869)	$ (5,469)
Other liabilities (due beyond one year)	(117,067)	(107,507)
Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets	(118,936)	(112,976)
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other liabilities (due within one year)	(654)	(639)
Other liabilities (due beyond one year)	(31,033)	(35,867)
Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets	$ (31,687)	$ (36,506)

Employee Benefit Plans (Amou107

Employee Benefit Plans (Amounts Not Yet Reflected In Net Periodic Benefit Cost And Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Prior service cost	$ (21)
Accumulated income (loss)	(102,671)	$ (91,920)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(102,692)	(91,920)	$ (53,387)
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated income (loss)	(12,670)	(5,139)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$ (12,670)	$ (5,139)	$ (6,452)

Employee Benefit Plans (Other C

Employee Benefit Plans (Other Changes In Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year	$ (102,692)	$ (53,387)
Net gain (loss) arising during period	(259)	(58,647)
Prior service cost	21	49
Actuarial loss (gain)	11,011	9,294
Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year	(91,920)	(102,692)
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year	(12,670)	(6,452)
Net gain (loss) arising during period	7,231	(6,475)
Actuarial loss (gain)	300	257
Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year	$ (5,139)	$ (12,670)

Employee Benefit Plans (Net Per

Employee Benefit Plans (Net Periodic Benefit Cost For U.S. Employees) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	$ 0
Net periodic benefit cost	22,682	$ 18,543	$ 19,348
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	12,511	10,015	11,182
Interest cost	10,759	10,474	8,511
Expected return on plan assets	(11,620)	(11,288)	(8,495)
Amortization of actuarial loss from earlier periods	9,243	4,341	8,101
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	21	49	49
Settlement	(1,768)	(4,953)
Net periodic benefit cost	22,682	18,543	19,348
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to change from prior year	(10,773)	49,305
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss)	11,909	67,847
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	1,794	1,619	1,899
Interest cost	1,187	1,320	1,164
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	0
Settlement	(300)	(257)	(739)
Net periodic benefit cost	3,280	3,196	$ 3,801
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to change from prior year	(7,531)	6,218
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss)	$ (4,251)	$ 9,414

Employee Benefit Plans (Summ110

Employee Benefit Plans (Summary Of Accumulated Benefit Obligation) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	$ 206,458	$ 219,371
Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	188,702	200,205
Non-Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	$ 17,756	$ 19,167

Employee Benefit Plans (Project

Employee Benefit Plans (Projected Benefit Obligations In Excess Of Plan Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Projected benefit obligation	$ 229,719	$ 243,525
Fair value of plan assets	135,087	157,090
Non-Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Projected benefit obligation	$ 24,303	$ 26,540
Fair value of plan assets

Employee Benefit Plans (Accumul

Employee Benefit Plans (Accumulated Benefit Obligations In Excess Of Plan Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	$ 188,702	$ 200,205
Fair value of plan assets	135,087	157,090
Non-Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	$ 17,756	$ 19,167
Fair value of plan assets

Employee Benefit Plans (Expecte

Employee Benefit Plans (Expected Benefit Payments) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,016	$ 6,709
2,017	7,779
2,018	9,607
2,019	12,139
2,020	10,660
Next 5 years	67,416
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,016	654
2,017	717
2,018	844
2,019	972
2,020	1,141
Next 5 years	$ 8,157

Employee Benefit Plans (Fair Va

Employee Benefit Plans (Fair Value Measurement Levels For Qualified Plan Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Short-term investments, which approximates fair value	[1]	$ 4,034	$ 14,328
Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value	[2]	10,673	10,629
Private equity limited partnerships	[3]	11,338	11,423
Total		$ 135,087	$ 157,090
Percent of fixed income funds in US securities		50.00%	50.00%
Percent of fixed income funds in international securities		50.00%	50.00%
Percent of equities mutual funds in US equities		90.00%	90.00%
Percent of equities mutual funds in international equities		10.00%	10.00%
Cash Managed By Employee Benefit Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash
Fixed Income [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value	[4]	$ 22,537	$ 23,948
Equities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value	[5]	86,505	96,762
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Short-term investments, which approximates fair value	[1]	4,034	14,328
Total		$ 113,076	$ 135,037
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Cash Managed By Employee Benefit Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Fixed Income [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value	[4]	$ 22,537	$ 23,948
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Equities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value	[5]	$ 86,505	$ 96,762
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Short-term investments, which approximates fair value	[1]
Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value	[2]
Private equity limited partnerships	[3]
Total
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Cash Managed By Employee Benefit Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Fixed Income [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value	[4]
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Equities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value	[5]
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value	[2]	$ 10,673	$ 10,629
Private equity limited partnerships	[3]	11,338	11,423
Total		$ 22,011	$ 22,053
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Cash Managed By Employee Benefit Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash
[1]	This category includes high quality, short-term money market instruments, which are issued and payable in U.S. dollars
[2]	This category consists of a privately held fund of U.S. and international equity funds and may include currency hedges for the foreign funds. The fair value is provided by the external investment manager
[3]	This category consists of private equity limited partnerships
[4]	This category includes fixed income funds, which invest in investment grade securities of corporations, governments and government agencies with approximately 50% in U.S. securities and 50% in international securities
[5]	This category includes funds, which invest in small, mid and multi-cap equity securities including common stocks, securities convertible into common stock and securities with common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants, with approximately 90% in U.S. equities and 10% in international equities

Employee Benefit Plans (Fair115

Employee Benefit Plans (Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs For Fixed Maturity Investments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of period	$ 22,053	$ 19,921
Realized gains (losses) relating to assets sold during the period	84	75
Unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date	601	331
Purchases and capital contributions	$ 1,719	$ 3,390
Investment income earned on assets
Sales and capital distributions	$ (2,446)	$ (1,664)
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3
Balance, end of period	$ 22,011	$ 22,053
The amount of total gains (losses) for the period included in changes in net assets attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date	$ 517	$ 256

Employee Benefit Plans (Incurre

Employee Benefit Plans (Incurred Expenses Related To Defined Contribution Plans For U.S. Employees) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Benefits and Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Incurred expenses	$ 5,468	$ 4,676	$ 3,903

Employee Benefit Plans (Incu117

Employee Benefit Plans (Incurred Expenses Related To Defined Contribution Plans For Non-U.S. Employees) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Employee Benefits and Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Incurred expenses	$ 1,423	$ 1,387	$ 1,195

Employee Benefit Plans (Changes

Employee Benefit Plans (Changes In The Assumed Healthcare Cost Trend) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Employee Benefits and Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Effect on total service and interest cost components, Percentage Point Increase	$ 706
Effect on total service and interest cost components, Percentage Point Decrease	(537)
Effect on accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation, Percentage Point Increase	6,504
Effect on accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation, Percentage Point Decrease	$ (5,064)

Employee Benefit Plans (Post-Re

Employee Benefit Plans (Post-Retirement Benefit Expenses) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Post-retirement benefit expenses	$ 3,280	$ 3,196	$ 3,801

Dividend Restrictions And St120

Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information [Line Items]
Minimum solvency margin	$ 250
Prior approval of the Bermuda Monetary Authority is required for dividend payments, if percentage exceeds in prior-year end total statutory capital	25.00%
Dividend payment restrictions, period in months	12 months
Dividend payment restrictions, percentage of statutory surplus required	10.00%
Available for payment of dividends in 2016 without need for prior regulatory approval	$ 498,455
Target capital level, percent of the enhanced capital requirement		120.00%
Minimum percent of total adjusted capital	200.00%
Everest Re [Member]
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information [Line Items]
Statutory capital and surplus	$ 3,210,891	$ 2,892,999
Statutory net income(loss)	498,455	357,298	$ 540,020
Bermuda Re [Member]
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information [Line Items]
Statutory capital and surplus	2,628,274	2,748,030
Statutory net income(loss)	$ 617,506	$ 698,834	$ 634,147

Dividend Restrictions And St121

Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information (Regulatory Targeted Capital And Actual Statutory Capital) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Compliance with Regulatory Capital Requirements under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Minimum Percent Of Total Adjusted Capital		200.00%
Bermuda Re [Member]
Compliance with Regulatory Capital Requirements under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Regulatory targeted capital	[1],[2]		$ 2,050,006
Actual capital	[1],[2]	$ 2,628,274	2,748,030
Everest Re [Member]
Compliance with Regulatory Capital Requirements under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Regulatory targeted capital	[3]	1,355,668	1,209,601
Actual capital	[3]	$ 3,210,891	$ 2,892,999
[1]	Regulatory targeted capital represents the target capital level from the applicable year's BSCR calculation.
[2]	The 2015 BSCR calculation is not yet due to be completed; however, the Company anticipates that Bermuda Re's December 31, 2015 actual capital will exceed the targeted capital level.
[3]	Regulatory targeted capital represents 200% of the RBC authorized control level calculation for the applicable year.

Contingencies (Details)

Contingencies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
The Prudential Insurance Company Of America [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Estimated cost to replace annuities	$ 142,427	$ 142,653
Unaffiliated Life Insurance Company [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Estimated cost to replace annuities	$ 33,062	$ 31,964

Share-Based Compensation Pla123

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Nov. 17, 2015	Sep. 09, 2015	May. 13, 2015	Feb. 25, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common shares, authorized					200,000,000	200,000,000
Vesting period of options and restricted shares, years					3 years
Share units					0	0	0
Share-based compensation expense					$ 21,237	$ 21,196	$ 31,844
Expiration period, in years					10 years
Income tax benefit recorded					$ 4,870	5,819	5,458
Additional paid-in capital due to tax benefit from dividends on restricted shares					446	401	237
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised					21,434	21,202	30,050
Cash received from the exercised share options					20,089
Tax benefit realized from the options exercised					6,892
Unrecognized compensation cost					46,024
Tax benefit from stock options vested					6,915
Fair value of shares vested					$ 17,464	12,797	21,894
Unrecognized compensation cost expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period, years					3 years 2 months 12 days
Aggregate value of issuances					$ 75	$ 75	$ 75
Employee Plans, 1995 And 2002 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share units					0
2010 Employee Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common shares, authorized					4,000,000
Remaining shares					2,715,908
Percentage of options and restricted shares granted					20.00%
Vesting period of options and restricted shares, years					5 years
2009 Director Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common shares, authorized					37,439
Remaining shares					35,215
2003 Director Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common shares, authorized					500,000
Remaining shares					377,487
Percentage of options and restricted shares granted					33.00%
Vesting period of options and restricted shares, years					3 years
1995 Director Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of options and restricted shares granted					50.00%
Vesting period of options and restricted shares, years					2 years
Key Employees [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted shares issued					1,838,857
Restricted shares cancelled					230,877
Non-Employee Directors [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common shares, issued					426	476	586
Restricted shares issued					114,786
Restricted shares cancelled					0
Common stock acquired					64,160	55,756	94,014
Common stock, value					$ 11,437	$ 8,531	$ 13,180
Employees And Non-Employee Directors [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common stock acquired					18,117	26,734	74,175
Common stock, value					$ 3,229	$ 4,207	$ 9,313
Restricted Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted	$ 182.075	$ 176.370	$ 181.895	$ 178.840
Share units					156,262
Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted					$ 178.84
Share units					10,705
Performance Shares [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share units				10,705
Share-based compensation awards, exercise price				$ 178.84
Performance Shares [Member] | 2010 Employee Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of options and restricted shares granted					100.00%
Vesting period of options and restricted shares, years					3 years
Performance Shares [Member] | 2010 Employee Plan [Member] | Growth In Book Value [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance share unit valuation growth, percentage					50.00%
Performance Shares [Member] | 2010 Employee Plan [Member] | Operating Return on Equity [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance share unit valuation growth, percentage					50.00%
Performance Shares [Member] | 2010 Employee Plan [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares of stock per unit awarded					1.75
Performance Shares [Member] | 2010 Employee Plan [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares of stock per unit awarded					0

Share-Based Compensation Pla124

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Company's Shareholder Approved Plans) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-Based Compensation Plans [Abstract]
Outstanding at January 1, Shares	888,184	1,190,544	2,012,164
Exercised, Shares	230,350	286,120	768,190
Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired, Shares	9,800	16,240	53,430
Outstanding at December 31, Shares	648,034	888,184	1,190,544
Exercisable at December 31, Shares	495,334	562,684	579,417
Outstanding at January 1, Weighted-Average Exercise Price/Share	$ 86.05	$ 85.44	$ 87.25
Exercised, Weighted- Average Exercise Price/Share	87.21	83.53	90.26
Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired, Weighted- Average Exercise Price/Share	87.68	85.73	84.23
Outstanding at December 31, Weighted-Average Exercise Price/Share	85.61	86.05	85.44
Exercisable at December 31, Weighted-Average Exercise Price/Share	$ 84.94	$ 85.41	$ 86.33
Outstanding at December 31, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term	4 years 6 months	5 years 2 months 12 days	5 years 9 months 18 days
Exercisable at December 31, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term	4 years 1 month 6 days	4 years 6 months	4 years 6 months
Outstanding at December 31, Average Intrinsic Value	$ 64,352	$ 76,485	$ 83,313
Exercisable at December 31, Average Intrinsic Value	$ 49,517	$ 48,812	$ 40,029

Share-Based Compensation Pla125

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Share Options Outstanding And Exercisable) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding | shares	648,034
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average-Remaining Contractual Life	4 years 6 months
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 85.61
Options Exercisable, Number Exercisable | shares	495,334
Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 84.94
$66.0780 - $77.0910 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Lower range limit	66.0780
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Upper range limit	$ 77.0910
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding | shares	111,130
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average-Remaining Contractual Life	3 years 1 month 6 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 71.72
Options Exercisable, Number Exercisable | shares	111,130
Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 71.72
$77.0910 - $88.1040 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Lower range limit	77.0911
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Upper range limit	$ 88.1040
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding | shares	277,280
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average-Remaining Contractual Life	4 years 7 months 6 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 85.78
Options Exercisable, Number Exercisable | shares	225,880
Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 85.59
$88.1040 - $99.1171 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Lower range limit	88.1041
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Upper range limit	$ 99.1170
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding | shares	211,770
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average-Remaining Contractual Life	5 years 7 months 6 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 89.46
Options Exercisable, Number Exercisable | shares	110,470
Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 90.49
$99.1171 - $110.103 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Lower range limit	99.1171
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Upper range limit	$ 110.1300
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding | shares	47,854
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average-Remaining Contractual Life	2 years 2 months 12 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 99.80
Options Exercisable, Number Exercisable | shares	47,854
Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 99.80

Share-Based Compensation Pla126

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Summary Of Company's Non-Vested Shares And Changes) (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-Based Compensation Plans [Abstract]
Outstanding at January 1, Shares	467,745	429,041	357,750
Granted - Shares	156,262	176,159	274,715
Vested, Shares	154,387	128,549	187,397
Forfeited, Shares	34,284	8,906	16,027
Outstanding at December 31, Shares	435,336	467,745	429,041
Outstanding at January 1, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 120.84	$ 103.50	$ 87.86
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	178.80	147.44	132.95
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	113.12	99.55	116.83
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	138.19	118.82	103.29
Outstanding at December 31, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 143.02	$ 120.84	$ 103.50

Share-Based Compensation Pla127

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Company's Non-Vested Performance Share Unit Awards) (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted	0	0	0
Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted	10,705
Outstanding at December 31	10,705
Weighted-average grant date fair value, Granted	$ 178.84
Weighted-average grant date fair value, Outstanding December 31	$ 178.84

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of Underwriting Results For Operating Segments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross written premium									$ 1,569,791	$ 1,227,645	$ 1,268,698
Net written premiums	$ 1,364,618	$ 1,561,257	$ 1,168,496	$ 1,283,889	$ 1,294,247	$ 1,517,580	$ 1,217,487	$ 1,227,589	5,378,261	5,256,903	5,004,821
Premiums earned	$ 1,428,344	$ 1,413,640	$ 1,332,398	$ 1,307,077	$ 1,362,330	$ 1,389,998	$ 1,272,317	$ 1,144,490	5,481,459	5,169,135	4,753,543
Incurred losses and LAE									3,101,915	2,906,534	2,800,251
Commission and brokerage									1,202,036	1,135,586	977,558
Other underwriting expenses									265,984	240,400	237,126
U.S. Reinsurance [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross written premium									1,963,466	2,039,578	1,809,669
Net written premiums									1,855,853	1,983,800	1,807,067
Premiums earned									1,952,680	1,986,769	1,671,513
Incurred losses and LAE									825,081	954,525	814,668
Commission and brokerage									493,261	466,291	366,890
Other underwriting expenses									50,087	45,583	47,176
Underwriting gain (loss)									584,251	520,370	442,779
International [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross written premium									1,294,049	1,582,426	1,345,770
Net written premiums									1,208,978	1,336,633	1,327,430
Premiums earned									1,251,111	1,310,903	1,289,341
Incurred losses and LAE									749,891	748,174	675,362
Commission and brokerage									298,180	306,229	295,883
Other underwriting expenses									34,303	34,598	33,910
Underwriting gain (loss)									168,737	221,902	284,186
Bermuda [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross written premium									852,489	770,249	774,268
Net written premiums									791,594	744,664	765,660
Premiums earned									822,391	715,736	737,986
Incurred losses and LAE									456,448	361,792	374,375
Commission and brokerage									215,992	198,848	179,138
Other underwriting expenses									36,017	34,923	34,654
Underwriting gain (loss)									113,934	120,173	149,819
U.S. Insurance [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross written premium									1,532,287	1,218,372	1,268,745
Net written premiums									1,325,886	1,067,333	1,086,217
Premiums earned									1,266,660	1,030,299	1,037,425
Incurred losses and LAE									1,033,295	811,445	931,466
Commission and brokerage									176,213	149,777	133,695
Other underwriting expenses									136,661	118,001	119,283
Underwriting gain (loss)									(79,509)	(48,924)	(147,019)
Mt. Logan Re [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross written premium									234,001	138,362	20,182
Net written premiums									195,950	124,473	18,447
Premiums earned									188,617	125,428	17,278
Incurred losses and LAE									37,200	30,598	4,380
Commission and brokerage									18,390	14,441	1,952
Other underwriting expenses									8,916	7,295	2,103
Underwriting gain (loss)									$ 124,111	$ 73,094	$ 8,843

Segment Reporting (Schedule 129

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of Underwriting Results For Operating Segments To Income (Loss) Before Taxes) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Net investment income	$ 110,685	$ 115,511	$ 125,046	$ 122,583	$ 134,046	$ 142,143	$ 131,224	$ 123,157	$ 473,825	$ 530,570	$ 548,509
Net realized capital gains (losses)	$ 10,507	$ (159,971)	$ (24,178)	$ (10,505)	$ 13,352	$ (9,448)	$ 59,016	$ 21,126	(184,147)	84,046	300,227
Net derivative gain (loss)									6,317	(11,599)	44,044
Corporate expenses									(23,254)	(23,421)	(24,817)
Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense									(36,191)	(38,533)	(46,118)
Other income (expense)									60,435	18,437	(5,487)
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									1,208,509	1,446,115	1,554,966
Operating Segments [Member]
Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items]
Underwriting gain (loss)									911,524	886,615	738,608
Net investment income									473,825	530,570	548,509
Net realized capital gains (losses)									(184,147)	84,046	300,227
Net derivative gain (loss)									6,317	(11,599)	44,044
Corporate expenses									(23,254)	(23,421)	(24,817)
Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense									(36,191)	(38,533)	(46,118)
Other income (expense)									60,435	18,437	(5,487)
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									$ 1,208,509	$ 1,446,115	$ 1,554,966

Segment Reporting (Schedule 130

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of Gross Written Premiums Derived From Largest Non-U.S. Market) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross written premium	$ 1,569,791	$ 1,227,645	$ 1,268,698
Percentage threshold of company revenue not exceeded by any other country	20.70%	22.70%	20.60%
United Kingdom Gross Written Premium [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross written premium	$ 740,763	$ 676,490	$ 555,332

Dispositions (Details)

Dispositions (Details) $ in Thousands	Jul. 13, 2015USD ($)
Cash for the sale of Mt. Mckinley	$ 20,156
Liabilites retroceded, percentage	100.00%
Cash conisderation	$ 140,279
Maximum liability retroceded	440,279
Total amount of liabilities retroceded	300,000
A&E [Member]
Cash conisderation	$ 100,451

Unaudited Quarterly Financia132

Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Gross written premiums	$ 1,483,290	$ 1,720,713	$ 1,258,248	$ 1,414,041	$ 1,399,500	$ 1,666,701	$ 1,415,362	$ 1,267,424
Net written premiums	1,364,618	1,561,257	1,168,496	1,283,889	1,294,247	1,517,580	1,217,487	1,227,589	$ 5,378,261	$ 5,256,903	$ 5,004,821
Premiums earned	1,428,344	1,413,640	1,332,398	1,307,077	1,362,330	1,389,998	1,272,317	1,144,490	5,481,459	5,169,135	4,753,543
Net investment income	110,685	115,511	125,046	122,583	134,046	142,143	131,224	123,157	473,825	530,570	548,509
Net realized capital gains (losses)	10,507	(159,971)	(24,178)	(10,505)	13,352	(9,448)	59,016	21,126	(184,147)	84,046	300,227
Total claims and underwriting expenses	1,091,298	1,258,812	1,149,529	1,070,296	1,097,284	1,191,389	1,077,798	916,049	4,629,380	4,344,474	4,085,870
Net income (loss)	392,374	107,572	235,472	339,070	357,263	301,253	297,925	302,022	1,074,488	1,258,463	1,265,260
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(35,093)	(19,019)	(26,415)	(16,092)	(17,140)	(26,337)	(7,741)	(8,089)	96,619	59,307	5,878
Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group	$ 357,281	$ 88,553	$ 209,057	$ 322,978	$ 340,123	$ 274,916	$ 290,184	$ 293,933	$ 977,869	$ 1,199,156	$ 1,259,382
Basic	$ 8.32	$ 2.02	$ 4.72	$ 7.26	$ 7.54	$ 6.05	$ 6.32	$ 6.26	$ 22.29	$ 26.16	$ 25.67
Diluted	$ 8.26	$ 2	$ 4.68	$ 7.19	$ 7.47	$ 6	$ 6.26	$ 6.21	$ 22.10	$ 25.91	$ 25.44

Schedule I - Summary Of Inve133

Schedule I - Summary Of Investments - Other Than Investments In Related Parties (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	$ 17,375,081
Total investments and cash, Market Value	17,672,176
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	17,672,176
Total Fixed Maturities-Available For Sale [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	13,276,206
Total investments and cash, Market Value	13,357,294
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	13,357,294
U.S. Treasury Securities And Obligations Of U.S. Government Agencies And Corporations [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	805,273
Total investments and cash, Market Value	816,877
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	816,877
Obligations Of U.S. States And Political Subdivisions [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	669,945
Total investments and cash, Market Value	703,075
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	703,075
Foreign Government Securities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	1,256,983
Total investments and cash, Market Value	1,259,181
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	1,259,181
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	2,677,589
Total investments and cash, Market Value	2,718,351
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	2,718,351
Public Utilities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	276,627
Total investments and cash, Market Value	281,937
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	281,937
All Other Corporate Bonds [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	4,987,321
Total investments and cash, Market Value	4,965,955
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	4,965,955
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	264,924
Total investments and cash, Market Value	266,299
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	266,299
Agency Residential [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	2,313,265
Total investments and cash, Market Value	2,320,524
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	2,320,524
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	893
Total investments and cash, Market Value	898
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	898
Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	23,386
Total investments and cash, Market Value	24,197
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	24,197
Fixed Maturities - Available For Sale At Fair Value [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	2,202	[1]
Total investments and cash, Market Value	2,102	[1]
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	2,102	[1]
Equity Securities - Available For Sale At Market Value [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	122,271
Total investments and cash, Market Value	108,940
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	108,940
Equity Securities - Available For Sale At Fair Value [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	1,108,295	[1]
Total investments and cash, Market Value	1,337,733	[1]
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	1,337,733	[1]
Short-Term Investments And Cash [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	1,795,455
Total investments and cash, Market Value	1,795,455
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	1,795,455
Other Invested Assets [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	786,994
Total investments and cash, Market Value	786,994
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	786,994
Cash [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	283,658
Total investments and cash, Market Value	283,658
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	$ 283,658
[1]	Original cost does not reflect fair value adjustments, which have been realized through the statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Schedule II - Condensed Fina134

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant (Narrative) (Details) - Parent Company [Member] - Notes Payable [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 250,000,000
Maturity Date	Dec. 31, 2023
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	1.72%

Schedule II - Condensed Fina135

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant (Condensed Balance Sheets) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	$ 13,357,294	$ 13,101,067
Short-term investments	1,795,455	1,705,932
Cash	283,658	437,474
Accrued investment income	100,942	111,075
Other assets	265,634	236,436
TOTAL ASSETS	21,426,175	20,817,824
Long term note payable - Affiliated	238,368	238,364
Accrued interest and debt borrowings	3,537	3,537
Other liabilities	291,322	316,469
Total liabilities	$ 13,060,729	$ 12,945,152
Preferred shares, par value: $0.01; 50,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding
Common shares, par value: $0.01; 200,000 shares authorized; (2015) 68,606 and (2014) 68,336 outstanding before treasury shares	$ 686	$ 683
Additional paid-in capital	2,103,638	2,068,807
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income	(231,755)	48,317
Treasury shares, at cost; 25,912 shares (2015) and 23,650 shares (2014)	(2,885,956)	(2,485,897)
Retained earnings	8,621,972	7,819,210
Total shareholders' equity attributable to Everest Re Group	7,608,585	7,451,120	$ 6,968,276
TOTAL LIABILITIES, NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	21,426,175	20,817,824
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value, amortized cost	$ 13,276,206	$ 12,831,159
Preferred shares, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred shares, authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred shares, issued	0	0
Preferred shares, outstanding	0	0
Common shares, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common shares, authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common shares, outstanding	68,606,000	68,336,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), deferred income tax expense (benefit)	$ (15,863)	$ 20,715
Treasury shares, at cost	25,912,000	23,650,000
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	$ 78,282	$ 26,297
Short-term investments	18,288	297,751
Cash	740	1,398
Investment in subsidiaries, at equity in the underlying net assets	7,761,541	7,374,460
Accrued investment income	71	239
Receivable from subsidiaries	736	2,273
Other assets	641	1,075
TOTAL ASSETS	7,860,299	7,703,493
Long term note payable - Affiliated	250,000	250,000
Due to subsidiaries	1,068	1,765
Other liabilities	646	608
Total liabilities	$ 251,714	$ 252,373
Preferred shares, par value: $0.01; 50,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding
Common shares, par value: $0.01; 200,000 shares authorized; (2015) 68,606 and (2014) 68,336 outstanding before treasury shares	$ 686	$ 683
Additional paid-in capital	2,103,638	2,068,807
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income	(231,755)	48,317
Treasury shares, at cost; 25,912 shares (2015) and 23,650 shares (2014)	(2,885,956)	(2,485,897)
Retained earnings	8,621,972	7,819,210
Total shareholders' equity attributable to Everest Re Group	7,608,585	7,451,120
TOTAL LIABILITIES, NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	7,860,299	7,703,493
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value, amortized cost	$ 78,153	$ 26,016
Preferred shares, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred shares, authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred shares, issued	0	0
Preferred shares, outstanding	0	0
Common shares, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common shares, authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common shares, issued	68,606,000	68,336,000
Common shares, outstanding	68,606,000	68,336,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), deferred income tax expense (benefit)	$ 15,863	$ 20,715
Treasury shares, at cost	25,912,000	23,650,000

Schedule II - Condensed Fina136

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant (Condensed Statements Of Operations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net investment income	$ 110,685	$ 115,511	$ 125,046	$ 122,583	$ 134,046	$ 142,143	$ 131,224	$ 123,157	$ 473,825	$ 530,570	$ 548,509
Net realized capital gains (losses)	10,507	(159,971)	(24,178)	(10,505)	13,352	(9,448)	59,016	21,126	(184,147)	84,046	300,227
Other income (expense)									60,435	18,437	(5,487)
Total revenues									5,837,889	5,790,589	5,640,836
Interest expense - affiliated									36,191	38,533	46,118
Total expenses	1,091,298	1,258,812	1,149,529	1,070,296	1,097,284	1,191,389	1,077,798	916,049	4,629,380	4,344,474	4,085,870
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									1,208,509	1,446,115	1,554,966
Income tax expense (benefit)									134,021	187,652	289,706
NET INCOME (LOSS)	$ 392,374	$ 107,572	$ 235,472	$ 339,070	$ 357,263	$ 301,253	$ 297,925	$ 302,022	1,074,488	1,258,463	1,265,260
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities arising during the period									(274,127)	704	(395,797)
Reclassification adjustment for realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)									(93,688)	(21,392)	6,977
Total URA(D) on securities arising during the period									(180,439)	22,096	(402,774)
Foreign currency translation adjustments									(111,530)	(95,417)	(162)
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss) for the period									5,681	(39,110)	17,837
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of net (gain) loss included in net income (loss)									6,216	3,020	5,778
Total benefit plan net gain (loss) for the period									11,897	(36,090)	23,615
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax									(280,072)	(109,411)	(379,321)
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)									697,797	1,089,745	880,061
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net investment income									3,895	824	982
Net realized capital gains (losses)									(3,057)	15
Other income (expense)									(459)	(574)	(902)
Net income (loss) of subsidiaries									997,730	1,214,334	1,275,955
Total revenues									998,109	1,214,599	1,276,035
Interest expense - affiliated									4,300
Other expenses									15,940	15,443	16,653
Total expenses									20,240	15,443	16,653
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									$ 977,869	$ 1,199,156	$ 1,259,382
Income tax expense (benefit)
NET INCOME (LOSS)									$ 977,869	$ 1,199,156	$ 1,259,382
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities arising during the period									(274,127)	704	(395,797)
Reclassification adjustment for realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)									(93,688)	(21,392)	6,977
Total URA(D) on securities arising during the period									(180,439)	22,096	(402,774)
Foreign currency translation adjustments									(111,530)	(95,417)	(162)
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss) for the period									5,681	(39,110)	17,837
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of net (gain) loss included in net income (loss)									6,216	3,020	5,778
Total benefit plan net gain (loss) for the period									11,897	(36,090)	23,615
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax									(280,072)	(109,411)	(379,321)
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)									$ 697,797	$ 1,089,745	$ 880,061

Schedule II - Condensed Fina137

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant (Condensed Statements Of Cash Flows) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net income (loss)	$ 392,374	$ 107,572	$ 235,472	$ 339,070	$ 357,263	$ 301,253	$ 297,925	$ 302,022	$ 1,074,488	$ 1,258,463	$ 1,265,260
Change in other assets and liabilities, net									264	35,419	(57,212)
Amortization of bond premium (accrual of bond discount)									50,901	49,214	66,461
Realized capital losses (gains)	(10,507)	$ 159,971	$ 24,178	10,505	(13,352)	$ 9,448	$ (59,016)	(21,126)	184,147	(84,046)	(300,227)
Non-cash compensation expense									21,237	21,197	31,844
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities									1,308,382	1,313,821	1,098,261
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at market value									1,724,093	1,811,801	1,092,387
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at market value									(4,718,303)	(4,672,633)	(3,543,776)
Net change in short-term investments									(98,903)	(497,983)	(357,451)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities									(1,121,737)	(1,180,072)	(224,003)
Common shares issued during the period, net									13,597	17,839	51,500
Purchase of treasury shares									(400,059)	(500,024)	(621,915)
Dividends paid to shareholders									(175,107)	(145,913)	(106,681)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities									(332,879)	(312,232)	(776,493)
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH									(7,582)	4,575	(23,433)
Net increase (decrease) in cash									(153,816)	(173,908)	74,332
Cash, beginning of period				437,474				611,382	437,474	611,382	537,050
Cash, end of period	283,658				437,474				283,658	437,474	611,382
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net income (loss)									977,869	1,199,156	1,259,382
Equity in retained (earnings) deficit of subsidiaries									(997,730)	(1,214,334)	(1,275,955)
Dividends received from subsidiaries									590,000	690,000	665,000
Change in other assets and liabilities, net									642	20,612	1,334
Increase (decrease) in due to/from affiliates									839	(2,520)	1,378
Amortization of bond premium (accrual of bond discount)									525	156	241
Realized capital losses (gains)									3,057	(15)
Non-cash compensation expense									1,841	1,828	1,087
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities									577,043	694,883	652,467
Additional investment in subsidiaries									(60,600)	(73,873)	(93,967)
Subscription advances to Mt. Logan Re											(20,000)
Proceeds from fixed maturities matured/called - available for sale, at market value									26,074	4,765	7,856
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at market value									252,047	50,010
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at market value									(532,480)	(49,994)	(413)
Net change in short-term investments									279,462	(269,307)	103,174
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities									(35,497)	(338,399)	(3,350)
Common shares issued during the period, net									32,962	37,208	82,258
Purchase of treasury shares									(400,059)	(500,024)	(621,915)
Proceeds from issuance of long term notes- affiliated										250,000
Dividends paid to shareholders									(175,107)	(145,913)	(106,681)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities									$ (542,204)	$ (358,729)	$ (646,338)
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH
Net increase (decrease) in cash									$ (658)	$ (2,245)	$ 2,779
Cash, beginning of period				$ 1,398				$ 3,643	1,398	3,643	864
Cash, end of period	$ 740				$ 1,398				$ 740	$ 1,398	$ 3,643

Schedule III - Supplementary138

Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Acquisition Costs	$ 373,072	$ 398,408	$ 363,721
Reverse for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	9,951,798	9,720,813	9,673,240
Unearned Premium Reserves	1,613,390	1,728,745	1,579,945
Premiums Earned	5,481,459	5,169,135	4,753,543
Net Investment Income	473,825	530,570	548,509
Incurred Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses	3,101,915	2,906,534	2,800,251
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	1,202,036	1,135,586	977,558
Other Operating Expenses	265,984	240,400	237,126
Net Written Premium	5,378,261	5,256,903	5,004,821
U.S. [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Acquisition Costs	235,956	242,178	224,201
Reverse for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	6,078,729	6,022,556	5,915,490
Unearned Premium Reserves	1,084,526	1,099,644	1,044,609
Premiums Earned	3,219,340	3,017,068	2,708,938
Net Investment Income	245,159	253,304	256,120
Incurred Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses	1,858,376	1,765,970	1,746,134
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	669,474	616,068	500,585
Other Operating Expenses	186,748	163,584	166,459
Net Written Premium	3,181,739	3,051,133	2,893,284
International [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Acquisition Costs	59,322	69,050	68,594
Reverse for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	1,802,195	1,778,216	1,701,907
Unearned Premium Reserves	267,123	347,261	275,083
Premiums Earned	1,251,111	1,310,903	1,289,341
Net Investment Income	34,181	40,262	44,325
Incurred Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses	749,891	748,174	675,362
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	298,180	306,229	295,883
Other Operating Expenses	34,303	34,598	33,910
Net Written Premium	1,208,978	1,336,633	1,327,430
Bermuda [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Acquisition Costs	77,794	87,180	70,926
Reverse for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	2,070,874	1,920,041	2,055,843
Unearned Premium Reserves	261,741	281,840	260,253
Premiums Earned	1,011,008	841,164	755,264
Net Investment Income	194,485	237,004	248,064
Incurred Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses	493,648	392,390	378,755
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	234,382	213,289	181,090
Other Operating Expenses	44,933	42,218	36,757
Net Written Premium	$ 987,544	$ 869,137	$ 784,107

Schedule IV - Reinsurance (Deta

Schedule IV - Reinsurance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Gross Amount									$ 1,491,163	$ 1,183,498	$ 1,207,833
Ceded to Other Companies									494,725	419,616	203,114
Assumed from Other Companies									4,485,021	4,405,253	3,748,824
Net Amount	$ 1,428,344	$ 1,413,640	$ 1,332,398	$ 1,307,077	$ 1,362,330	$ 1,389,998	$ 1,272,317	$ 1,144,490	5,481,459	5,169,135	4,753,543
Total Property And Liability Insurance Premiums Earned [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Gross Amount									1,491,163	1,183,498	1,207,833
Ceded to Other Companies									494,725	419,616	203,114
Assumed from Other Companies									4,485,021	4,405,253	3,748,824
Net Amount									$ 5,481,459	$ 5,169,135	$ 4,753,543
Assumed to Net	81.80%				85.20%				81.80%	85.20%	78.90%