Stifel Financial (SF) 10-K 1 Mar 16 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 19, 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	STIFEL FINANCIAL CORP
Entity Central Index Key	720,672
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		69,507,842
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Public Float			$ 4.2
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes

Consolidated Statements Of Fina

Consolidated Statements Of Financial Condition - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents		$ 811,019	$ 689,782
Cash segregated for regulatory purposes		227,727	49,646
Receivables:
Brokerage clients, net		1,599,218	483,887
Brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations		601,831	651,074
Securities purchased under agreements to resell	[1]	160,423	55,078
Financial instruments owned, at fair value		749,443	786,855
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value		1,629,907	1,513,478
Held-to-maturity securities, at amortized cost	[2]	1,855,399	1,177,565
Loans held for sale, at lower of cost or market		189,921	121,939
Bank loans, net of allowance		3,143,515	2,065,420
Investments, at fair value		181,017	210,255
Fixed assets, net		181,966	124,246
Goodwill		915,602	795,026
Intangible assets, net		63,177	54,563
Loans and advances to financial advisors and other employees, net		401,293	197,757
Deferred tax assets, net		285,127	258,142
Other assets		339,330	283,438
Total Assets		13,335,915	9,518,151
Payables:
Brokerage clients		1,000,422	321,496
Brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations		438,031	14,023
Drafts		183,857	75,198
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase	[3]	278,674	39,180
Bank deposits		6,638,356	4,790,081
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value		521,744	587,265
Accrued compensation		363,791	359,050
Accounts payable and accrued expenses		349,040	302,320
Borrowings		237,084
Senior notes		750,000	625,000
Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts		82,500	82,500
Total liabilities		$ 10,843,499	$ 7,196,113
Shareholders’ Equity:
Preferred stock - $1 par value; authorized 3,000,000 shares; none issued
Common stock - $0.15 par value; authorized 97,000,000 shares; issued 69,507,842 and 66,336,018 shares, respectively		$ 10,426	$ 9,950
Additional paid-in-capital		1,820,772	1,634,114
Retained earnings		805,685	716,305
Accumulated other comprehensive income		(39,533)	(38,331)
Total Shareholders’ Equity		2,597,350	2,322,038
Treasury stock, at cost, 2,483,071 and 5 shares, respectively		(104,934)
Total Shareholders’ Equity		2,492,416	2,322,038
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity		$ 13,335,915	$ 9,518,151
[1]	Collateral received includes securities received by our company from the counterparty. These securities are not included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless there is an event of default.
[2]	Held-to-maturity securities are carried in the consolidated statements of financial condition at amortized cost, and the changes in the value of these securities, other than impairment charges, are not reported on the consolidated financial statements.
[3]	Collateral pledged includes the fair value of securities pledged by our company to the counter party. These securities are included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless we default.

Consolidated Statements Of Fin3

Consolidated Statements Of Financial Condition (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract]
Preferred stock, par value	$ 1	$ 1
Preferred stock, shares authorized	3,000,000	3,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value	$ 0.15	$ 0.15
Common stock, shares authorized	97,000,000	97,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	69,507,842	66,336,018
Treasury stock, shares	2,483,071	5

Consolidated Statements Of Oper

Consolidated Statements Of Operations (Unaudited) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Revenues:
Commissions		$ 749,536	$ 674,418	$ 640,287
Principal transactions		389,319	409,823	408,954
Investment banking		503,052	578,689	457,736
Asset management and service fees		493,761	386,001	305,639
Interest		179,101	185,969	142,539
Other income		62,224	14,785	64,659
Total revenues		2,376,993	2,249,685	2,019,814
Interest expense		45,399	41,261	46,368
Net revenues	[1]	2,331,594	2,208,424	1,973,446
Non-interest expenses:
Compensation and benefits		1,568,862	1,403,932	1,311,386
Occupancy and equipment rental		207,465	169,040	158,268
Communications and office supplies		130,678	106,926	99,726
Commissions and floor brokerage		42,518	36,555	37,225
Other operating expenses		240,504	201,177	181,612
Total non-interest expenses		2,190,027	1,917,630	1,788,217
Income from continuing operations before income tax expense		141,567	290,794	185,229
Provision for income taxes		49,231	111,664	12,322
Income from continuing operations		92,336	179,130	172,907
Discontinued operations:
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax			(3,063)	(10,894)
Net income		$ 92,336	$ 176,067	$ 162,013
Earnings per basic common share
Income from continuing operations		$ 1.35	$ 2.69	$ 2.72
Income from discontinued operations			(0.04)	(0.17)
Earnings per basic common share		1.35	2.65	2.55
Earnings per diluted common share
Income from continuing operations		1.18	2.35	2.35
Income from discontinued operations			(0.04)	(0.15)
Earnings per diluted common share		$ 1.18	$ 2.31	$ 2.20
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic		68,543	66,472	63,568
Diluted		78,554	76,376	73,504
[1]	No individual client accounted for more than 10 percent of total net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013.

Consolidated Statements Of Comp

Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income		$ 92,336	$ 176,067	$ 162,013
Other comprehensive income:
Changes in unrealized gains/(losses) on available-for-sale securities	[1],[2]	1,389	1,838	(48,528)
Changes in unrealized gains on cash flow hedging instruments, net of tax	[3]	1,088	2,141	6,917
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax		(3,679)	(7,280)	1,663
Total other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax		(1,202)	(3,301)	(39,948)
Comprehensive income		91,134	172,766	122,065
Changes in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, tax		700	2,100	24,900
Reclassifications to earnings of realized gains on available-for-sale securities		2,100	2,300	1,200
Reclassifications to earnings of losses on cash flow hedging instruments		$ 3,800	$ 6,100	$ 8,600
[1]	Amounts are net of reclassifications to earnings of realized gains of $2.1 million, $2.3 million, and $1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively
[2]	Net of taxes of $0.7 million, $2.1 million, and $24.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively
[3]	Amounts are net of reclassifications to earnings of losses of $3.8 million, $6.1 million, and $8.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively

Consolidated Statements Of Chan

Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Shareholders' Equity - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid In Capital	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) [Member]	Treasury Stock at Cost [Member]	Unearned Employee Stock Ownership Plan [Member]
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 1,494,661	$ 8,245	$ 1,100,137	$ 383,970	$ 4,918	$ (2,505)	$ (104)
Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2012		54,968
Net income	162,013			162,013
Unrealized gain on securities, net of tax	(48,528)				(48,528)
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedging activities, net of tax	6,917				6,917
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax	1,663				1,663
Purchase of treasury stock	(13,670)					(13,670)
Employee stock ownership plan purchases	819		715				$ 104
Issuance of stock for employee benefit plans	(59,792)	$ 266	(68,897)	(5,074)		13,913
Issuance of stock for employee benefit plans, Shares		1,774
Stock option exercises	651	$ 5	(1,552)			2,198
Stock option exercises, Shares		28
Unit amortization	148,215		148,215
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	12,018		12,018
Issuance of common stock for acquisitions	265,066	$ 1,033	264,033
Stock Issued During Period Shares Acquisitions		6,887
Issuance of restricted stock awards for acquisitions	86,221		86,221
Stone & Youngberg contingent earn-out	3,266	$ 13	3,253
Stone and Youngberg contingent earn-out, Shares		87
Other	(671)			(671)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	2,058,849	$ 9,562	1,544,143	540,238	(35,030)	(64)
Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2013		63,744
Net income	176,067			176,067
Unrealized gain on securities, net of tax	1,838				1,838
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedging activities, net of tax	2,141				2,141
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax	(7,280)				(7,280)
Issuance of stock for employee benefit plans	(67,265)	$ 324	(67,653)			64
Issuance of stock for employee benefit plans, Shares		2,158
Stock option exercises	316	$ 4	312
Stock option exercises, Shares		33
Unit amortization	118,271		118,271
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	19,858		19,858
Issuance of common stock for acquisitions	19,243	$ 60	19,183
Stock Issued During Period Shares Acquisitions		401
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	2,322,038	$ 9,950	1,634,114	716,305	(38,331)
Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2014		66,336
Net income	92,336			92,336
Unrealized gain on securities, net of tax	1,389				1,389
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedging activities, net of tax	1,088				1,088
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax	(3,679)				(3,679)
Purchase of treasury stock	(117,752)					(117,752)
Issuance of stock for employee benefit plans	(66,000)	$ 263	(75,126)	(2,956)		11,819
Issuance of stock for employee benefit plans, Shares		1,754
Stock option exercises	$ 660	$ 3	(342)			999
Stock option exercises, Shares	44	17
Unit amortization	$ 167,848		167,848
Excess tax benefit from stock-based compensation	14,741		14,741
Issuance of common stock for acquisitions	79,747	$ 210	79,537
Stock Issued During Period Shares Acquisitions		1,400
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 2,492,416	$ 10,426	$ 1,820,772	$ 805,685	$ (39,533)	$ (104,934)
Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2015		69,507

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	$ 92,336	$ 176,067	$ 162,013
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	36,715	29,280	33,988
Amortization of loans and advances to financial advisors and other employees	53,913	64,735	64,930
Amortization of premium on investment portfolio	2,750	5,847	8,321
Provision for loan losses and allowance for loans and advances to financial advisors and other employees	14,694	9,713	10,618
Amortization of intangible assets	10,423	12,366	12,131
Deferred income taxes	(2,578)	5,256	(26,389)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	(14,741)	(19,858)	(12,018)
Stock-based compensation	165,641	94,006	137,447
Losses on sale of investments	9,255	22	13,319
Gain on acquisition			(7,566)
Other, net	(13,159)	(9,778)	(3,640)
Decrease/(increase) in operating assets, net of assets acquired:
Cash segregated for regulatory purposes	(178,081)	(45,343)	128,142
Receivables:
Brokerage clients, net	(1,003,257)	58,917	(42,627)
Brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations	82,960	(263,391)	(30,634)
Securities purchased under agreements to resell	(105,345)	169,997	(66,380)
Financial instruments owned, including those pledged	90,716	26,280	70,053
Loans originated as held for sale	(1,855,714)	(1,132,671)	(1,275,647)
Proceeds from mortgages held for sale	1,814,168	1,112,318	1,372,552
Loans and advances to financial advisors and other employees	(187,234)	(79,216)	(71,857)
Other assets	47,990	(2,509)	79,662
Increase/(decrease) in operating liabilities, net of liabilities assumed:
Brokerage clients	678,926	2,554	23,433
Brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations	98,301	(8,198)	3,976
Drafts	108,659	488	(15,723)
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased	(65,521)	106,051	85,127
Other liabilities and accrued expenses	(261,326)	(62,664)	48,988
Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities	(379,509)	250,269	702,219
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Sale of bank foreclosed assets	75
Increase in bank loans, net	(517,563)	(668,354)	(249,018)
Payments for:
Purchase of available-for-sale securities	(991,954)	(416,851)	(1,314,290)
Purchase of held-to-maturity securities	(802,668)	(7,959)	(16,438)
Purchase of investments	(45,151)	(48,834)	(71,777)
Purchase of fixed assets	(69,822)	(26,632)	(32,278)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(604,659)	(80,378)	(88,592)
Net cash used in investing activities	(1,973,265)	(392,936)	(1,106,274)
Maturities, calls, sales, and principal paydowns of available-for-sale securities	866,899	698,895	435,827
Calls and principal paydowns of held-to-maturity securities	126,258	96,618	93,703
Sale or maturity of investments	65,320	60,428	90,265
Sale of aircraft			45,951
Sale of other real estate owned		131	373
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Repayments of short-term borrowings	(126,637)	(55,700)	(249,000)
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes, net	297,042	295,638
Increase/(decrease) in securities sold under agreements to repurchase	239,494	(224,629)	123,463
Increase in bank deposits, net	1,848,275	126,758	881,794
Increase/(decrease) in securities loaned	325,707	(35,914)	20,948
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	14,741	19,858	12,018
Issuance of common stock for stock option exercises	660	317	650
Proceeds from advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank	148,000
Repurchase of common stock	(117,752)		(13,670)
Repayment of non-recourse debt			(58,992)
Repayment of Senior Notes	(175,000)
Contingent consideration	(29,598)
Extinguishment of subordinated debt		(3,131)	(2,187)
Net cash provided by financing activities	2,424,932	123,197	715,024
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	(3,601)	(7,308)	1,650
Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	121,237	(26,778)	312,619
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	689,782	716,560	403,941
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	811,019	689,782	716,560
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid for interest	41,801	40,471	46,360
Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds	59,356	107,009	5,803
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Unit grants, net of forfeitures	267,769	190,003	228,230
Issuance of common stock for acquisitions	80,981	$ 19,183	265,066
Shares surrendered into treasury	$ 223
Stone & Youngberg contingent earn-out			$ 3,266

Nature Of Operations And Basis

Nature Of Operations And Basis Of Presentation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Nature Of Operations And Basis Of Presentation	NOTE 1 – Nature of Operations and Basis of Presentation Nature of Operations Stifel Financial Corp. (the “Parent”), through its wholly owned subsidiaries, is principally engaged in retail brokerage; securities trading; investment banking; investment advisory; retail, consumer, and commercial banking; and related financial services. We have offices throughout the United States and several European cities. Our major geographic area of concentration is throughout the United States, with a growing presence in the United Kingdom and Europe. Our company’s principal customers are individual investors, corporations, municipalities, and institutions. Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include Stifel Financial Corp. and its wholly owned subsidiaries, principally Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”) and Stifel Bank & Trust (“Stifel Bank”). All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “we,” “us,” “our,” or “our company” in this report refer to Stifel Financial Corp. and its wholly owned subsidiaries. We have prepared the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Pursuant to these rules and regulations, we have omitted certain information and footnote disclosures we normally include in our annual consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. In management’s opinion, we have made all adjustments (consisting only of normal, recurring adjustments, except as otherwise noted) necessary to fairly present our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Our interim period operating results do not necessarily indicate the results that may be expected for any other interim period or for the full fiscal year. These financial statements and accompanying notes should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 on file with the SEC. Certain amounts from prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current period’s presentation. The effect of these reclassifications on our company’s previously reported consolidated financial statements was not material. Consolidation Policies The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Stifel Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries. We also have investments or interests in other entities for which we must evaluate whether to consolidate by determining whether we have a controlling financial interest or are considered to be the primary beneficiary. In determining whether to consolidate these entities, we evaluate whether the entity is a voting interest entity or a variable interest entity (“VIE”). Voting Interest Entity. Voting interest entities are entities that have (i) total equity investment at risk sufficient to fund expected future operations independently, and (ii) equity holders who have the obligation to absorb losses or receive residual returns and the right to make decisions about the entity’s activities. We consolidate voting interest entities when we determine that there is a controlling financial interest, usually ownership of all, or a majority of, the voting interest. Variable Interest Entity. VIEs are entities that lack one or more of the characteristics of a voting interest entity. We are required to consolidate certain VIEs in which we have the power to direct the activities of the entity and the obligation to absorb significant losses or receive significant benefits. In other cases, we consolidate VIEs when we are deemed to be the primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is defined as the entity that has a variable interest, or a combination of variable interests, that maintains control and receives benefits or will absorb losses that are not pro rata with its ownership interests. The determination as to whether an entity is a VIE is based on the structure and nature of the entity. We also consider other characteristics, such as the ability to influence the decision-making relative to the entity’s activities and how the entity is financed. With the exception of entities eligible for the deferral codified in Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2010-10, “Consolidation: Amendments for Certain Investment Funds” (“ASU 2010-10”) (generally asset managers and investment companies), ASC 810 states that a controlling financial interest in an entity is present when an enterprise has a variable interest, or combination of variable interests, that have both the power to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and the obligation to absorb losses of the entity or the rights to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the entity. Entities meeting the deferral provision defined by ASU 2010-10 are evaluated under the historical VIE guidance. Under the historical guidance, a controlling financial interest in an entity is present when an enterprise has a variable interest, or combination of variable interests, that will absorb a majority of the entity’s expected losses, receive a majority of the entity’s expected residual returns, or both. The enterprise with a controlling financial interest, known as the primary beneficiary, consolidates the VIE. We determine whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE by first performing a qualitative analysis of the VIE’s control structure, expected benefits and losses, and expected residual returns. This analysis includes a review of, among other factors, the VIE’s capital structure, contractual terms, which interests create or absorb benefits or losses, variability, related party relationships, and the design of the VIE. Where a qualitative analysis is not conclusive, we perform a quantitative analysis. We reassess our initial evaluation of an entity as a VIE and our initial determination of whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE upon the occurrence of certain reconsideration events. See Note 28 for additional information on VIEs.

Summary Of Significant Accounti

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies	NOTE 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Cash and Cash Equivalents We consider money market mutual funds and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are not restricted or segregated to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents include money market mutual funds, deposits with banks, certificates of deposit, and federal funds sold. Cash and cash equivalents also include balances that Stifel Bank maintains at the Federal Reserve Bank. Cash Segregated for Regulatory Purposes Our broker-dealer subsidiaries are subject to Rule 15c3-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which requires our company to maintain cash or qualified securities in a segregated reserve accounts for the exclusive benefit of its clients. In accordance with Rule 15c3-3, our company has portions of its cash segregated for the exclusive benefit of clients at December 31, 2015. Brokerage Client Receivables, Net Brokerage client receivables include receivables of our company’s broker-dealer subsidiaries, which represent amounts due on cash and margin transactions and are generally collateralized by securities owned by clients. Brokerage client receivables, primarily consisting of floating-rate loans collateralized by customer-owned securities, are charged interest at rates similar to other such loans made throughout the industry. The receivables are reported at their outstanding principal balance net of allowance for doubtful accounts. When a brokerage client receivable is considered to be impaired, the amount of the impairment is generally measured based on the fair value of the securities acting as collateral, which is measured based on current prices from independent sources, such as listed market prices or broker-dealer price quotations. Securities owned by customers, including those that collateralize margin or other similar transactions, are not reflected in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Securities Borrowed and Securities Loaned Securities borrowed require our company to deliver cash to the lender in exchange for securities and are included in receivables from brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations in the consolidated statements of financial condition. For securities loaned, we generally receive collateral in the form of cash in an amount in excess of the market value of securities loaned. Securities loaned are included in payables to brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations in the consolidated statements of financial condition. We monitor the market value of securities borrowed and loaned on a daily basis, with additional collateral obtained or refunded as necessary. Fees received or paid are recorded in interest revenue or interest expense. Substantially all of these transactions are executed under master netting agreements, which gives us right of offset in the event of counterparty default; however, such receivables and payables with the same counterparty are not set-off in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Securities Purchased Under Agreements to Resell and Repurchase Agreements Securities purchased under agreements to resell (“resale agreements”) are collateralized financing transactions that are recorded at their contractual amounts plus accrued interest. We obtain control of collateral with a market value equal to or in excess of the principal amount loaned and accrued interest under resale agreements. These agreements are short-term in nature and are collateralized by U.S. government agency securities. We value collateral on a daily basis, with additional collateral obtained when necessary to minimize the risk associated with this activity. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase (“repurchase agreements”) are collateralized financing transactions that are recorded at their contractual amounts plus accrued interest. We make delivery of securities sold under agreements to repurchase and monitor the value of collateral on a daily basis. When necessary, we will deliver additional collateral. Financial Instruments We measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis, including cash equivalents, financial instruments owned, available-for-sale securities, investments, financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, and derivatives. Other than those separately discussed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements, the remaining financial instruments are generally short-term in nature, and their carrying values approximate fair value. The fair value of a financial instrument is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., “the exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. We have categorized our financial instruments measured at fair value into a three-level classification in accordance with Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurement,” Level 1 – Quoted prices (unadjusted) are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the measurement date. A quoted price for an identical asset or liability in an active market provides the most reliable fair value measurement, because it is directly observable to the market. Level 2 – Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets, which are either directly or indirectly observable as of the measurement date. The nature of these financial instruments includes instruments for which quoted prices are available but traded less frequently, derivative instruments whose fair value have been derived using a model where inputs to the model are directly observable in the market, or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data, and instruments that are fair valued using other financial instruments, the parameters of which can be directly observed. Level 3 – Instruments that have little to no pricing observability as of the measurement date. These financial instruments do not have two-way markets and are measured using management’s best estimate of fair value, where the inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation. Valuation of Financial Instruments When available, we use observable market prices, observable market parameters, or broker or dealer prices (bid and ask prices) to derive the fair value of financial instruments. In the case of financial instruments transacted on recognized exchanges, the observable market prices represent quotations for completed transactions from the exchange on which the financial instrument is principally traded. A substantial percentage of the fair value of our financial instruments owned, available-for-sale securities, investments, and financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, are based on observable market prices, observable market parameters, or derived from broker or dealer prices. The availability of observable market prices and pricing parameters can vary from product to product. Where available, observable market prices and pricing or market parameters in a product may be used to derive a price without requiring significant judgment. In certain markets, observable market prices or market parameters are not available for all products, and fair value is determined using techniques appropriate for each particular product. These techniques involve some degree of judgment. For investments in illiquid or privately held securities that do not have readily determinable fair values, the determination of fair value requires us to estimate the value of the securities using the best information available. Among the factors we consider in determining the fair value of investments are the cost of the investment, terms and liquidity, developments since the acquisition of the investment, the sales price of recently issued securities, the financial condition and operating results of the issuer, earnings trends and consistency of operating cash flows, the long-term business potential of the issuer, the quoted market price of securities with similar quality and yield that are publicly traded, and other factors generally pertinent to the valuation of investments. In instances where a security is subject to transfer restrictions, the value of the security is based primarily on the quoted price of a similar security without restriction but may be reduced by an amount estimated to reflect such restrictions. The fair value of these investments is subject to a high degree of volatility and may be susceptible to significant fluctuation in the near term, and the differences could be material. The degree of judgment used in measuring the fair value of financial instruments generally correlates to the level of pricing observability. Pricing observability is impacted by a number of factors, including the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new to the market and not yet established, and the characteristics specific to the transaction. Financial instruments with readily available active quoted prices for which fair value can be measured from actively quoted prices generally will have a higher degree of pricing observability and a lesser degree of judgment used in measuring fair value. Conversely, financial instruments rarely traded or not quoted will generally have less, or no, pricing observability and a higher degree of judgment used in measuring fair value. See Note 6 for additional information on how we value our financial instruments. Available-for-Sale and Held-to-Maturity Securities Securities available for sale include U.S. government agency securities; state and municipal securities; agency, non-agency, and commercial mortgage-backed securities; corporate fixed income securities; and asset-backed securities. Securities held to maturity are recorded at amortized cost based on our company’s positive intent and ability to hold these securities to maturity. Securities held to maturity include agency and commercial mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, consisting of collateralized loan obligation securities and ARS, and corporate fixed income securities. We evaluate all securities in an unrealized loss position quarterly to assess whether the impairment is other-than-temporary on a quarterly basis. Our other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) assessment is a subjective process requiring the use of judgments and assumptions. Accordingly, we consider a number of qualitative and quantitative criteria in our assessment, including the extent and duration of the impairment, recent events specific to the issuer and/or industry to which the issuer belongs, the payment structure of the security, external credit ratings and the failure of the issuer to make scheduled interest or principal payments, the value of underlying collateral, current market conditions, and our company’s ability and intent to hold the investment until its value recovers or the securities mature. We may determine that the decline in fair value of an investment is other-than-temporary if our analysis of these factors indicates that we will not recover our investment in the securities. If we determine that impairment on our debt securities is other-than-temporary and we have made the decision to sell the security or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis, we recognize the entire portion of the impairment in earnings. If we have not made a decision to sell the security and we do not expect that we will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of the amortized cost basis, we recognize only the credit component of OTTI in other income in the consolidated statements of operations. The remaining unrealized loss due to factors other than credit, or the non-credit component, is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss. We determine the credit component based on the difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and the present value of its expected future cash flows, discounted based on the purchase yield. The non-credit component represents the difference between the security’s fair value and the present value of expected future cash flows. We estimate the portion of loss attributable to credit using a discounted cash flow model. Key assumptions used in estimating the expected cash flows include default rates, loss severity, and prepayment rates. Assumptions used can vary widely based on the collateral underlying the securities and are influenced by factors such as collateral type, loan interest rate, geographical location of the borrower, and borrower characteristics. Unrealized gains and losses on our available-for-sale securities are reported, net of taxes, in accumulated other comprehensive income included in shareholders’ equity. Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts are recorded as interest income using the interest method. Realized gains and losses from sales of securities available for sale are determined on a specific identification basis and are included in other revenue in the consolidated statements of operations in the period they are sold. Loan Classification We classify loans based on our investment strategy and management’s assessment of our intent and ability to hold loans for the foreseeable future or until maturity. Management’s intent and ability with respect to certain loans may change from time to time depending on a number of factors, including economic, liquidity, and capital conditions. The accounting and measurement framework for loans differs depending on the loan classification. The classification criteria and accounting and measurement framework for bank loans and loans held for sale are described below. Bank Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses Bank loans consist of commercial and residential mortgage loans, home equity loans, stock-secured loans, construction loans, and commercial and industrial and consumer loans originated or acquired by Stifel Bank. Bank loans include those loans that management has the intent and ability to hold and are recorded at outstanding principal adjusted for any charge-offs, allowance for loan losses, deferred origination fees and costs, and purchased discounts. Loan origination costs, net of fees, are deferred and recognized over the contractual life of the loan as an adjustment of yield using the interest method. Bank loans are generally collateralized by real estate, real property, marketable securities, or other assets of the borrower. Interest income is recognized using the effective interest rate method, which is based upon the respective interest rates and the average daily asset balance. Discount accretion is recognized using the effective interest rate method, which is based upon the respective interest rate and expected lives of loans. We regularly review the loan portfolio and have established an allowance for loan losses for inherent losses estimated to have occurred in the loan portfolio through a provision for loan losses charged to other operating expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. In providing for the allowance for loan losses, we consider historical loss experience, the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, estimated value of any underlying collateral, and prevailing economic conditions. This evaluation is inherently subjective, as it requires estimates that are susceptible to significant revision as more information becomes available. Loans Held for Sale Loans that we intend to sell or for which we do not have the ability and intent to hold for the foreseeable future are classified as held for sale. Loans held for sale consist of fixed-rate and adjustable-rate residential real estate mortgage loans intended for sale. Loans held for sale are stated at lower of cost or market value. Declines in market value below cost and any gains or losses on the sale of these assets are recognized in other revenues in the consolidated statements of operations. Market value is determined based on prevailing market prices for loans with similar characteristics or on sale contract prices. Deferred fees and costs related to these loans are not amortized but are recognized as part of the cost basis of the loan at the time it is sold. Because loans held for sale are reported at lower of cost or market value, an allowance for loan losses is not established for loans held for sale. Impaired Loans A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement will not be collectible. Factors considered in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value, and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. We determine the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower's prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. Once a loan is determined to be impaired, when principal or interest becomes 90 days past due or when collection becomes uncertain, the accrual of interest and amortization of deferred loan origination fees is discontinued (“non-accrual status”) and any accrued and unpaid interest income is reversed. Loans placed on non-accrual status are returned to accrual status when all delinquent principal and interest payments are collected and the collectibility of future principal and interest payments is reasonably assured. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when we believe the uncollectibility of a loan balance is certain. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance for loan losses. Large groups of smaller balance homogenous loans are collectively evaluated for impairment. Accordingly, we do not separately identify individual consumer and residential loans for impairment measurements. Impairment is measured on a loan-by-loan basis for non-homogeneous loans, and a specific allowance is established for individual loans determined to be impaired. Impairment is measured by comparing the carrying value of the impaired loan to the present value of its expected cash flow discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the loan’s observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Investments Our broker-dealer subsidiaries report changes in fair value of marketable and non-marketable securities in other income in the consolidated statements of operations. The fair value of marketable investments is generally based on either quoted market or dealer prices. The fair value of non-marketable securities is based on management’s estimate using the best information available, which generally consists of quoted market prices for similar securities and internally developed discounted cash flow models. Investments in the consolidated statements of financial condition contain investments in securities that are marketable and securities that are not readily marketable. These investments are not included in our broker-dealer trading inventory or available-for-sale or held-to-maturity portfolios and represent the acquiring and disposing of debt or equity instruments for our benefit. Fixed Assets Office equipment is depreciated on an accelerated basis over the estimated useful life of the asset of two to seven years. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the estimated useful life of the asset or the term of the lease. Buildings and building improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset of three to thirty-nine years. Depreciation expense is recorded in occupancy and equipment rental expense in the consolidated statements of operations. Office equipment, leasehold improvements, and property are stated at cost net of accumulated depreciation and amortization in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Office equipment is reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the cost of acquired businesses in excess of the fair value of the related net assets acquired. We test goodwill for impairment on an annual basis and on an interim basis when certain events or circumstances exist. We test for impairment at the reporting unit level, which is generally at the level of or one level below our company’s business segments. For both the annual and interim tests, we have the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, we determine it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is greater than its carrying amount, then performing the two-step impairment test is not required. However, if we conclude otherwise, we are then required to perform the first step of the two-step impairment test. Goodwill impairment is determined by comparing the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its respective carrying value. If the estimated fair value exceeds the carrying value, goodwill at the reporting unit level is not deemed to be impaired. If the estimated fair value is below carrying value, however, further analysis is required to determine the amount of the impairment. Additionally, if the carrying value of a reporting unit is zero or a negative value and it is determined that it is more likely than not the goodwill is impaired, further analysis is required. The estimated fair values of the reporting units are derived based on valuation techniques we believe market participants would use for each of the reporting units. We have elected July 31 as our annual impairment testing date. Identifiable intangible assets, which are amortized over their estimated useful lives, are tested for potential impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying value of an asset or asset group may not be fully recoverable. Loans and Advances We offer transition pay, principally in the form of upfront loans, to financial advisors and certain key revenue producers as part of our company’s overall growth strategy. These loans are generally forgiven by a charge to compensation and benefits over a five- to ten-year period if the individual satisfies certain conditions, usually based on continued employment and certain performance standards. We monitor and compare individual financial advisor production to each loan issued to ensure future recoverability. If the individual leaves before the term of the loan expires or fails to meet certain performance standards, the individual is required to repay the balance. In determining the allowance for doubtful receivables from former employees, management considers the facts and circumstances surrounding each receivable, including the amount of the unforgiven balance, the reasons for the terminated employment relationship, and the former employees’ overall financial situation. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities We recognize all of our derivative instruments at fair value as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition. These instruments are recorded in other assets or accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition and in the operating section of the consolidated statements of cash flows as increases or decreases of other assets and accounts payable and accrued expenses. Our company’s policy is not to offset fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments and fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral or the obligation to return cash collateral arising from derivative instruments recognized at fair value executed with the same counterparty under master netting arrangements. The accounting for changes in the fair value (i.e., gains and losses) of a derivative instrument depends on whether it has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship and, further, on the type of hedging relationship. For those derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments under Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging,” For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges (i.e., hedging the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows that is attributable to a particular risk), the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax, and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The remaining gain or loss on the derivative instrument in excess of the cumulative change in the present value of future cash flows of the hedged item, if any, is recognized in current earnings during the period of change. We do not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes and, at December 31, 2015, do not have any derivatives that are not designated in qualifying cash flow hedging relationships. See Note 15 for additional details. Revenue Recognition Customer securities transactions are recorded on a settlement date basis, with related commission revenues and expenses recorded on a trade date basis. Commission revenues are recorded as the amount charged to the customer, which, in certain cases, may include varying discounts. Principal securities transactions are recorded on a trade date basis. We typically distribute our proprietary equity research products to our client base of institutional investors at no charge. These proprietary equity research products are accounted for as a cost of doing business. Investment banking revenues, which include underwriting fees, management fees, advisory fees, and sales credits earned in connection with the distribution of the underwritten securities, are recorded when services for the transactions are completed under the terms of each engagement. Expenses associated with such transactions are deferred until the related revenue is recognized or the engagement is otherwise concluded. Investment banking revenues are presented net of related unreimbursed expenses. Expenses related to investment banking deals not completed are recognized as non-interest expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. For the periods presented, there were no significant expenses recognized for incomplete transactions. We have not recognized any incentive income that is subject to contingent repayments. Asset management and service fees are recorded when earned, based on the period-end assets in the accounts, and consist of customer account service fees, per account fees (such as IRA fees), and wrap fees on managed accounts. We earn fees from the investment partnerships that we manage or of which we are a general partner. Such management fees are generally based on the net assets or committed capital of the underlying partnerships. We have agreed, in certain cases, to waive management fees, in lieu of making a cash contribution, in satisfaction of our general partner investment commitments to the investment partnerships. In these cases, we generally recognize our management fee revenues at the time when we are allocated a special profit interest in realized gains from these partnerships. Operating Leases We lease office space and equipment under operating leases. We recognize rent expense related to these operating leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The lease term commences on the earlier of the date when we become legally obligated for the rent payments or the date on which we take possession of the property. For tenant improvement allowances and rent holidays, we record a deferred rent liability in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition and amortize the deferred rent over the lease term as a reduction to occupancy and equipment rental expense in the consolidated statements of operations. Income Taxes We compute income taxes using the asset and liability method, under which deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of our company’s assets and liabilities. We establish a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that these items will either expire before we are able to realize their benefits, or that future deductibility is uncertain. We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the consolidated financial statements from such a position are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in provision for income taxes/(benefit) in the consolidated statements of operations. See Note 24 for further information regarding income taxes. Foreign Currency Translation We consolidate our foreign subsidiaries, which have designated their local currency as their functional currency. Assets and liabilities of these foreign subsidiaries are translated at year-end rates of exchange. Revenues and expenses are translated at an average rate for the period. In accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 830, “Foreign Currency Matters,” Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance Business Combinations In September 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) No. 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805): "Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments" (“ASU 2015-16”), which eliminates the requirement for an acquirer in a business combination to account for measurement-period adjustments retrospectively. Under this ASU, acquirers must recognize measurement-period adjustments in the period in which they determine the amounts, including the effect on earnings of any amounts they would have recorded in previous periods if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. We elected to early adopt this ASU in the third quarter of 2015. The adoption of ASU 2015-16 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value per Share In May 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-07, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent).” The guidance removes the requirement to categorize within the fair value hierarchy all investments for which fair value is measured using the net asset value per share practical expedient. The guidance also removes the requirement to make certain disclosures for all investments that are eligible to be measured at fair value using the net asset value per share practical expedient. Rather, those disclosures are limited to investments for which the entity has elected to measure the fair value using that practical expedient. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015 and for interim periods within those years. The guidance shall be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. Early application is permitted. The guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Interest - Imputation of Interest In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, “Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs” (“ASU 2015-03”). The guidance in ASU 2015-03 requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liabil

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	NOTE 3 – Acquisitions Kelwynne, LLC On October 7, 2015, Stifel Aviation Finance Acquisition, LLC (“SAFA”) completed the acquisition of Kelwynne, LLC. On October 19, 2015, SAFA sold Kelwynne, LLC to Stifel Aviation Finance II, LLC (“SAF2”). Stifel Venture Corp owns 40% of SAF2’s Class A units. Upon SAFA’s sale of Kelwynne, LLC to SAF2, the Company deconsolidated SAF2 as it was no longer majority-owned or controlled the Company. Barclays’ Wealth and Investment Management, Americas On December 4, 2015, we completed the purchase of the Barclays’ Wealth and Investment Management (“Barclays”), Americas franchise in the U.S. Under the agreement, we acquired approximately $2.1 billion of assets, including securities-based loans, margin loans, and broker-notes. Acquired assets were recorded at fair value. The fair values for loans were estimated using discounted cash flow analyses using interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms. The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805 (“Topic 805”), “Business Combinations.” Accordingly, goodwill was measured as the excess of the acquisition-date fair value of the consideration transferred over the amount of acquisition-date identifiable assets acquired net of assumed liabilities. We recorded $32.2 million of goodwill in the consolidated statement of financial condition, which has been allocated to our company’s Global Wealth Management segment. The allocation of the purchase price is preliminary and will be finalized upon completion of the analysis of the fair values of the net assets of Barclays at closing and the identified intangible assets. The final goodwill and intangible assets recorded on the consolidated statement of financial condition may differ from that reflected herein as a result of future measurement period adjustments. In management’s opinion, the goodwill represents the value expected from the synergies created the synergies created through the operational enhancement benefits that will result from the integration of the hired financial advisors and the conversion of the customer accounts to the Stifel platform. Goodwill is expected to be deductible for federal income tax purposes. In addition, deferred consideration is payable based on certain revenue generated by Stifel in accordance with the distribution agreement. The deferred consideration of $15.6 million has been recognized as a liability and is included in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition at December 31, 2015. In the first quarter of 2016, the Company finalized the service terms for the approximately 2.0 million restricted stock units granted in connection with the Barclays transaction. The Company expects to expense approximately $60.0 million in the first quarter of 2016, related to the majority of those awards. Pro forma information is not presented, because the acquisition is not considered to be material, as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The results of operations of Barclays have been included in our results prospectively from the date of acquisition. Sterne Agee Group, Inc. On June 5, 2015, we completed the purchase of all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Sterne Agee Group, Inc. (“Sterne Agee”), a financial services firm that offers comprehensive wealth management and investment services to a diverse client base including corporations, municipalities and individual investors. The purchase was completed pursuant to the merger agreement dated February 23, 2015. The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805 (“Topic 805”), “Business Combinations.” Accordingly, goodwill was measured as the excess of the acquisition-date fair value of the consideration transferred over the amount of acquisition-date identifiable assets acquired net of assumed liabilities. We recorded $90.1 million of goodwill and intangible assets in the consolidated statement of financial condition, which has been allocated to our company’s Global Wealth Management and Institutional Group segments. The allocation of the purchase price is preliminary and will be finalized upon completion of the analysis of the fair values of the net assets of Sterne Agee at closing and the identified intangible assets. The final goodwill and intangible assets recorded on the consolidated statement of financial condition may differ from that reflected herein as a result of future measurement period adjustments. In management’s opinion, the goodwill represents the value expected from the synergies created through the operational enhancement benefits that will result from the integration of Sterne Agee’s business and the reputation and expertise of Sterne Agee in the financial services sector. On June 5, 2015, certain employees were granted restricted stock units of our company as retention. The fair value of the awards issued as retention was $23.8 million. The fair value of the awards is based upon the closing price of our company’s common stock on the date of grant. There are no continuing service requirements associated with these restricted stock units, and accordingly were expensed at date of grant. This charge is included in compensation and benefits in the consolidated statement of operations for nine months ended September 30, 2015. In addition, we have paid $33.8 million in the form of notes to associates for retention. These notes will be forgiven by a charge to compensation and benefits over a five- to ten-year period if the individual satisfies certain conditions, usually based on continued employment and certain performance standards. Prior to the closing date, Sterne Agee had established adequate reserves for various claims that were included the opening balance sheet. During the third quarter of 2015, this matter was settled and paid, and the excess reserves associated with the Canyon Ridge matter were distributed to Sterne Agee Group, Inc. shareholders. Under the terms of the agreements governing the acquisition, we have withheld a portion of the purchase price of Sterne Agee Group, Inc. pending the resolution of currently existing or subsequently arising liabilities relating to the operation of the Sterne Agee Group Inc. business prior to the closing of the acquisition. Based upon currently available information and review with counsel, we believe the amounts which we are allowed to withhold will be adequate to fully indemnify us from any losses related to the pre-closing operations of Sterne Agee Group, Inc. Pro forma information is not presented, because the acquisition is not considered to be material, as defined by the SEC. The results of operations of Sterne Agee have been included in our results prospectively from the date of acquisition. Merchant Capital, LLC On December 31, 2014, we acquired Merchant, a public finance investment banking firm headquartered in Montgomery, Alabama, which serves the Southeastern market. The strategic combination of our company and Merchant is expected to further strengthen our company’s position in several key underwriting markets in the Southeast. The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805 (“Topic 805”), “Business Combinations.” Accordingly, goodwill was measured as the excess of the acquisition-date fair value of the consideration transferred over the amount of acquisition-date identifiable assets acquired net of assumed liabilities. We recorded $17.9 million of goodwill as an asset in the consolidated statement of financial condition, which has been allocated to our company's Institutional Group segment. In management’s opinion, the goodwill represents the value expected from the synergies created through the operational enhancement benefits that will result from the integration of Merchant’s business and the reputation and expertise of Merchant in the public finance space within the investment banking sector. 1919 Investment Counsel & Trust Co., National Association On November 7, 2014, we completed the acquisition of 1919 Investment Counsel and 1919, an asset management firm and trust company that provides customized investment advisory and trust services, on a discretionary basis, to individuals, families, and institutions throughout the country. The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805 (“Topic 805”), “Business Combinations.” Accordingly, goodwill was measured as the excess of the acquisition-date fair value of the consideration transferred over the amount of acquisition-date identifiable assets acquired net of assumed liabilities. We recorded $11.6 million of goodwill as an asset in the consolidated statement of financial condition, which has been allocated to our company’s Global Wealth Management segment. Identifiable intangible assets purchased by our company consisted of customer relationships with estimated acquisition-date fair value of $6.1 million. In management’s opinion, the goodwill represents the value expected from the synergies created through the operational enhancement benefits that will result from the integration of 1919 Investment Counsel’s business and the reputation and expertise of 1919 Investment Counsel in the asset management sector and as a trust company. On November 7, 2014, certain employees were granted restricted stock or restricted stock units of our company as retention. The fair value of the awards issued as retention was $11.2 million. There are no continuing service requirements associated with these restricted stock units, and accordingly, they were expensed at date of grant. This charge is included in compensation and benefits in the consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2014. In addition, we have paid $10.8 million in the form of notes to associates for retention. These notes will be forgiven by a charge to compensation and benefits over a five- to ten-year period if the individual satisfies certain conditions, usually based on continued employment and certain performance standards. Oriel Securities On July 31, 2014, we completed the acquisition of Oriel, a London-based stockbroking and investment banking firm. The combination of our company and Oriel has created a significant middle-market investment banking group in London, with broad research coverage across most sectors of the economy, equity and debt sales and trading, and investment banking services. The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805 (“Topic 805”), “Business Combinations.” Accordingly, goodwill was measured as the excess of the acquisition-date fair value of the consideration transferred over the amount of acquisition-date identifiable assets acquired net of assumed liabilities. We recorded $18.2 million of goodwill as an asset in the consolidated statement of financial condition, which has been allocated to our company’s Institutional Group segment. Identifiable intangible assets purchased by our company consisted of trade name and non-compete agreements with estimated acquisition-date fair values of $1.9 million and $1.4 million, respectively. In management’s opinion, the goodwill represents the value expected from the synergies created through the operational enhancement benefits that will result from the integration of Oriel’s business and the reputation and expertise of Oriel in the investment banking sector in the United Kingdom. On July 31, 2014, certain employees were granted restricted stock or restricted stock units of our company as retention. The fair value of the awards issued as retention was $6.8 million. There are no continuing service requirements associated with these restricted stock units, and accordingly, they were expensed at date of grant. This charge is included in compensation and benefits in the consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2014. De La Rosa & Co. On April 3, 2014, we acquired De La Rosa, a California-based public finance investment banking boutique. The addition of the De La Rosa team is expected to further strengthen our company’s position in a number of key underwriting markets in California. The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805 (“Topic 805”), “Business Combinations.” Accordingly, goodwill was measured as the excess of the acquisition-date fair value of the consideration transferred over the amount of acquisition-date identifiable assets acquired net of assumed liabilities. We recorded $17.4 million of goodwill as an asset in the consolidated statement of financial condition, which has been allocated to our company’s Institutional Group segment. Identifiable intangible assets purchased by our company consisted of customer relationships and trade name with estimated acquisition-date fair values of $0.2 million and $1.8 million, respectively. In management’s opinion, the goodwill represents the value expected from the synergies created through the operational enhancement benefits that will result from the integration of De La Rosa’s business and the reputation and expertise of De La Rosa in the investment banking sector. Acacia Federal Savings Bank (“Acacia Federal”) On October 31, 2013, Stifel Bank completed its acquisition of Acacia Federal Savings Bank, a federally chartered savings institution with one retail branch. Under the agreement, we acquired approximately $337.1 million of loans and $180.4 million of other assets (primarily cash and due from banks and investment securities). In addition, we assumed approximately $435.4 million of deposits and $10.0 million of other liabilities. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed were recorded at fair value in accordance with ASC 805, “Business Combinations.” The fair values for loans were estimated using discounted cash flow analyses using interest rates currently being offered for loans with similar terms. This value was reduced by an estimate of probable losses and the credit risk associated with the loans. The fair values of deposits were estimated by discounting cash flows using interest rates currently being offered on deposits with similar maturities. We recognized a $7.6 million bargain purchase gain during the year ended December 31, 2013, which is included in other income in the consolidated statements of operations. Ziegler Capital Management, LLC On November 30, 2013, we acquired ZCM, an asset management firm that provides investment solutions for institutions, mutual fund sub-advisory clients, municipalities, pension plans, Taft-Hartley plans, and individual investors. The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting in accordance with ASC 805 (“Topic 805”), “Business Combinations.” Accordingly, goodwill was measured as the excess of the acquisition-date fair value of the consideration transferred over the amount of acquisition-date identifiable assets acquired net of assumed liabilities. We recorded $6.8 million of goodwill as an asset in the consolidated statement of financial condition, which has been allocated to our company’s Global Wealth Management segment. Identifiable intangible assets purchased by our company consisted of customer relationships and trade name with acquisition-date fair values of $3.4 million and $0.1 million, respectively. In management’s opinion, the goodwill represents the value expected from the synergies created through the operational enhancement benefits that will result from the integration of ZCM’s business and the reputation and expertise of ZCM in the asset management sector. KBW, Inc. On February 15, 2013, we completed the purchase of all of the outstanding shares of common stock of KBW, Inc. (“KBW, Inc.”), a full-service investment bank specializing in the financial services industry based in New York, New York. The purchase was completed pursuant to the merger agreement dated November 5, 2012. Under the terms of the merger agreement, each share of common stock, including certain restricted stock, of KBW, Inc. issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the merger was cancelled and converted into the right to receive a combination of cash. In addition, on February 15, 2013, certain employees were granted restricted stock or restricted stock units of our company as retention. The fair value of the awards issued as retention was $30.6 million. There are no continuing service requirements associated with these restricted stock units, and accordingly, they were expensed at date of grant. This charge is included in compensation and benefits in the consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2013. Stone & Youngberg LLC On October 1, 2011, we acquired Stone & Youngberg, a leading financial services firm specializing in municipal finance and fixed income securities. The purchase consideration consisted of cash, a portion paid at closing and $24.0 million to be paid in installments over the next three years, and common stock. In addition, we may be required to pay a contingent earn-out over a five-year period after the closing, which is capped at $25.0 million, based upon revenue goals, as established in the purchase agreement. We recognized a liability for estimated earn-out payments over the five-year period. Additionally, we recognized a liability for the installment payments to be made over the next year. The liability for earn-out payments was $9.3 million at December 31, 2015. These liabilities are included in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition.

Discontinued Operations

Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Discontinued Operations And Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	NOTE 4 – Discontinued Operations (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Net revenues $ — $ (121 ) $ 11,794 Restructuring expense — 217 6,881 Operating expenses — 3,924 15,697 Total non-interest expenses — 4,141 22,578 Loss from discontinued operations before income tax expense — (4,262 ) (10,784 ) Income tax expense/(benefit) — (1,199 ) 110 Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax $ — $ (3,063 ) $ (10,894 )

Receivables From And Payables T

Receivables From And Payables To Brokers, Dealers And Clearing Organizations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Due To And From Broker Dealers And Clearing Organizations [Abstract]
Receivables From And Payables To Brokers, Dealers And Clearing Organizations	NOTE 5 – Receivables From and Payables to Brokers, Dealers, and Clearing Organizations Amounts receivable from brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations at December 31, 2015 and 2014, included (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Deposits paid for securities borrowed $ 318,105 $ 445,542 Receivables from clearing organizations 260,077 198,079 Securities failed to deliver 23,649 7,453 $ 601,831 $ 651,074 Amounts payable to brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations at December 31, 2015 and 2014, included (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Deposits received from securities loaned $ 329,670 $ 4,215 Payable to clearing organizations 92,008 2,443 Securities failed to receive 16,353 7,365 $ 438,031 $ 14,023 Deposits paid for securities borrowed approximate the market value of the securities. Securities failed to deliver and receive represent the contract value of securities that have not been delivered or received on settlement date.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	NOTE 6 – Fair Value Measurements We measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis, including cash equivalents, financial instruments owned, available-for-sale securities, investments, financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, and derivatives. We generally utilize third-party pricing services to value Level 1 and Level 2 available-for-sale investment securities, as well as certain derivatives designated as cash flow hedges. We review the methodologies and assumptions used by the third-party pricing services and evaluate the values provided, principally by comparison with other available market quotes for similar instruments and/or analysis based on internal models using available third-party market data. We may occasionally adjust certain values provided by the third-party pricing service when we believe, as the result of our review, that the adjusted price most appropriately reflects the fair value of the particular security. Following are descriptions of the valuation methodologies and key inputs used to measure financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value. The descriptions include an indication of the level of the fair value hierarchy in which the assets or liabilities are classified. Cash Equivalents Cash equivalents include highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. Due to their short-term nature, the carrying amount of these instruments approximates the estimated fair value. Actively traded money market funds are measured at their reported net asset value, which approximates fair value. As such, we classify the estimated fair value of these instruments as Level 1. Financial Instruments Owned and Available-For-Sale Securities When available, the fair value of financial instruments is based on quoted prices in active markets and reported in Level 1. Level 1 financial instruments include highly liquid instruments with quoted prices, such as equity securities listed in active markets, corporate fixed income securities, and U.S. government securities. If quoted prices are not available for identical instruments, fair values are obtained from pricing services, broker quotes, or other model-based valuation techniques with observable inputs, such as the present value of estimated cash flows, and reported as Level 2. The nature of these financial instruments include instruments for which quoted prices are available but traded less frequently, instruments whose fair value has been derived using a model where inputs to the model are directly observable in the market, or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data, and instruments that are fair valued using other financial instruments, the parameters of which can be directly observed. Level 2 financial instruments include U.S. government agency securities, mortgage-backed securities, corporate fixed income securities infrequently traded, state and municipal securities, asset-backed securities, and equity securities not actively traded. We have identified Level 3 financial instruments to include certain corporate fixed income securities with unobservable pricing inputs and certain state and municipal securities, which include auction rate securities (“ARS”). Level 3 financial instruments have little to no pricing observability as of the report date. These financial instruments do not have active two-way markets and are measured using management’s best estimate of fair value, where the inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation. ARS are valued based upon our expectations of issuer redemptions and using internal discounted cash flow models that utilize unobservable inputs. Investments Investments carried at fair value primarily include corporate equity securities, ARS, investments in mutual funds, U.S. government securities, and investments in public companies, private equity securities, and partnerships, which are classified as other in the following tables. Corporate equity securities, mutual funds, and U.S. government securities are valued based on quoted prices in active markets and reported in Level 1. ARS for which the market has been dislocated and largely ceased to function are reported as Level 3 assets. The methods used to value ARS are discussed above. Investments in partnerships and other investments include our general and limited partnership interests in investment partnerships and direct investments in non-public companies. The net assets of investment partnerships consist primarily of investments in non-marketable securities. The value of these investments is at risk to changes in equity markets, general economic conditions, and a variety of other factors. We estimate fair value for private equity investments based on our percentage ownership in the net asset value of the entire fund, as reported by the fund or on behalf of the fund, after indication that the fund adheres to applicable fair value measurement guidance. The valuation of these investments requires significant management judgment due to the absence of quoted market prices, inherent lack of liquidity, and long-term nature of these assets. As a result, these values cannot be determined with precision, and the calculated fair value estimates may not be realizable in a current sale or immediate settlement of the instrument. For those funds where the net asset value is not reported by the fund, we derive the fair value of the fund by estimating the fair value of each underlying investment in the fund. In addition to using qualitative information about each underlying investment, as provided by the fund, we give consideration to information pertinent to the specific nature of the debt or equity investment, such as relevant market conditions, offering prices, operating results, financial conditions, exit strategy, and other qualitative information, as available. The lack of an independent source to validate fair value estimates, including the impact of future capital calls and transfer restrictions, is an inherent limitation in the valuation process. Commitments to fund additional investments in nonmarketable equity securities recorded at fair value were $11.4 million and $11.5 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Financial Instruments Sold, But Not Yet Purchased Financial instruments sold, but not purchased, recorded at fair value based on quoted prices in active markets and other observable market data include highly liquid instruments with quoted prices, such as U.S. government securities, corporate fixed income securities, and equity securities listed in active markets, which are reported as Level 1. If quoted prices are not available, fair values are obtained from pricing services, broker quotes, or other model-based valuation techniques with observable inputs, such as the present value of estimated cash flows, and reported as Level 2. The nature of these financial instruments include instruments for which quoted prices are available but traded less frequently, instruments whose fair value has been derived using a model where inputs to the model are directly observable in the market, or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data, and instruments that are fair valued using other financial instruments, the parameters of which can be directly observed. Level 2 financial instruments include U.S. government agency securities, mortgage-backed securities not actively traded, and corporate fixed income securities. Derivatives Derivatives are valued using quoted market prices for identical instruments when available or pricing models based on the net present value of estimated future cash flows. The valuation models used require market observable inputs, including contractual terms, market prices, yield curves, credit curves, and measures of volatility. We manage credit risk for our derivative positions on a counterparty-by-counterparty basis and calculate credit valuation adjustments, included in the fair value of these instruments, on the basis of our relationships at the counterparty portfolio/master netting agreement level. These credit valuation adjustments are determined by applying a credit spread for the counterparty to the total expected exposure of the derivative after considering collateral and other master netting arrangements. We have classified our interest rate swaps as Level 2. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2015, are presented below (in thousands): December 31, 2015 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 91,268 $ 91,268 $ — $ — Financial instruments owned: U.S. government securities 45,167 45,167 — — U.S. government agency securities 116,949 — 116,949 — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 205,473 — 205,473 — Non-agency 33,319 — 31,843 1,476 Corporate securities: - Fixed income securities 203,910 13,203 190,707 — Equity securities 31,642 29,388 1,635 619 State and municipal securities 112,983 — 112,983 — Total financial instruments owned 749,443 87,758 659,590 2,095 Available-for-sale securities: U.S. government agency securities 1,698 — 1,698 — State and municipal securities 74,167 — 74,167 — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 304,893 — 304,893 — Commercial 11,310 — 11,310 — Non-agency 2,518 — 2,518 — Corporate fixed income securities 319,408 — 319,408 — Asset-backed securities 915,913 — 915,913 — Total available-for-sale securities 1,629,907 — 1,629,907 — Investments: Corporate equity securities 30,737 26,436 — 4,301 Mutual funds 15,493 15,493 — — U.S. government securities 102 102 — — Auction rate securities: Equity securities 55,710 — 5,268 50,442 Municipal securities 1,315 — — 1,315 Other 1 77,660 4,911 2,873 69,876 Total investments 181,017 46,942 8,141 125,934 $ 2,651,635 $ 225,968 $ 2,297,638 $ 128,029 1 Includes $54.5 million of partnership interests, $14.6 million of private company investments, and $2.8 million of private equity and other investments. December 31, 2015 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Liabilities: Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased: U.S. government securities $ 186,030 $ 186,030 $ — $ — U.S. government agency securities — — — — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 50,830 — 50,830 Non-agency — — — — Corporate securities: Fixed income securities 255,700 3,601 252,099 — Equity securities 29,184 22,894 6,290 — State and municipal securities — — — — Total financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased 521,744 212,525 309,219 — Derivative contracts 2 3,591 — 3,591 — $ 525,335 $ 212,525 $ 312,810 $ — 2 Included in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2014, are presented below (in thousands): December 31, 2014 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 122,875 $ 122,875 $ — $ — Financial instruments owned: U.S. government securities 58,992 58,992 — — U.S. government agency securities 101,439 — 101,439 — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 159,057 — 159,057 — Non-agency 13,366 189 12,371 806 Corporate securities: Fixed income securities 245,909 75,236 168,680 1,993 Equity securities 77,548 76,316 88 1,144 State and municipal securities 130,544 — 130,544 — Total financial instruments owned 786,855 210,733 572,179 3,943 Available-for-sale securities: U.S. government agency securities 1,610 — 1,610 — State and municipal securities 74,401 — 74,401 — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 209,206 — 209,206 — Commercial 107,644 — 107,644 — Non-agency 3,137 — 3,137 — Corporate fixed income securities 337,406 50,892 286,514 — Asset-backed securities 780,074 — 736,029 44,045 Total available-for-sale securities 1,513,478 50,892 1,418,541 44,045 Investments: Corporate equity securities 59,203 35,123 24,080 — Mutual funds 18,144 18,144 — — U.S. government securities 6,555 104 6,451 — Auction rate securities: Equity securities 46,197 — — 46,197 Municipal securities 1,326 — — 1,326 Other 1 78,830 1,283 4,557 72,990 Total investments 210,255 54,654 35,088 120,513 $ 2,633,463 $ 439,154 $ 2,025,808 $ 168,501 1 Includes $42.1 million of partnership interests, $16.4 million of private company investments, and $14.3 million of private equity and other investments. December 31, 2014 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Liabilities: Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased: U.S. government securities $ 146,592 $ 146,592 $ — $ — U.S. government agency securities 10,029 — 10,029 — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 28,067 — 28,067 — Non-agency 4,556 401 4,155 — Corporate securities: Fixed income securities 293,008 17,116 275,892 — Equity securities 105,013 105,013 — — Total financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased 587,265 269,122 318,143 — Derivative contracts 2 5,641 — 5,641 — $ 592,906 $ 269,122 $ 323,784 $ — 2 Included in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition. The following table summarizes the changes in fair value carrying values associated with Level 3 financial instruments during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 Financial instruments owned Available- for-sale securities Mortgage- Backed Securities – Non-Agency Corporate Fixed Income Securities Equity Securities Asset- Backed Securities Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 806 $ 1,993 $ 1,144 $ 44,045 Unrealized gains/(losses): Included in changes in net assets 2 (241 ) 84 — — Included in OCI 3 — — — 342 Realized gains/(losses) 2 127 53 — (2,136 ) Purchases — 11,643 — — Sales — (13,773 ) (525 ) (42,251 ) Redemptions (332 ) — — — Transfers: Into Level 3 1,116 — — — Out of Level 3 — — — — Net change 670 (1,993 ) (525 ) (44,045 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 1,476 $ — $ 619 $ — Year Ended December 31, 2015 Investments Corporate Equity Securities Auction Rate Securities – Equity Auction Rate Securities – Municipal Other 1 Balance at December 31, 2014 $ — $ 46,197 $ 1,326 $ 72,990 Unrealized gains/(losses): Included in changes in net assets 2 1,410 (413 ) (11 ) 1,241 Included in OCI 3 — — — (1,381 ) Realized gains 2 — — — — Purchases — 15,176 — 26,659 Sales — — — (16,245 ) Redemptions — (5,250 ) — (4,770 ) Transfers: Into Level 3 7,732 — — — Out of Level 3 (4,841 ) (5,268 ) — (8,618 ) Net change 4,301 4,245 (11 ) (3,114 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 4,301 $ 50,442 $ 1,315 $ 69,876 1 Includes partnership interests, private company investments, and private equity investments. 2 Realized and unrealized gains/(losses) related to financial instruments owned and investments are reported in other income in the consolidated statements of operations. 3 Unrealized gains/(losses) related to available-for-sale securities are reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Year Ended December 31, 2014 Financial instruments owned Available- for-sale securities Mortgage- Backed Securities – Non-Agency Corporate Fixed Income Securities Equity Securities State & Municipal Securities Balance at December 31, 2013 $ — $ 2,039 $ 241 $ 6,200 Unrealized gains/(losses): Included in changes in net assets 2 (127 ) (445 ) (494 ) — Included in OCI 3 — — — 62 Realized gains/(losses) 2 13 (1,320 ) 4,965 — Purchases — 8,549 1,394 — Sales — (5,783 ) (5,205 ) — Redemptions (44 ) (88 ) — — Transfers: Into Level 3 964 — 243 — Out of Level 3 — (959 ) — (6,262 ) Net change 806 (46 ) 903 (6,200 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 806 $ 1,993 $ 1,144 $ — Year Ended December 31, 2014 Investments Asset Backed Securities Auction Rate Securities – Equity Auction Rate Securities – Municipal Other 1 Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 58,078 $ 56,693 $ 10,939 $ 97,768 Unrealized gains/(losses): Included in changes in net assets 2 — 604 688 (18 ) Included in OCI 3 (530 ) — — — Realized gains 2 1,322 — — 3,412 Purchases — 25 1,650 3,630 Sales (4,825 ) (1,725 ) (10,324 ) (25,030 ) Redemptions (10,000 ) (9,400 ) (1,627 ) (4,413 ) Transfers: Into Level 3 — — — 1,524 Out of Level 3 — — — (3,883 ) Net change (14,033 ) (10,496 ) (9,613 ) (24,778 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 44,045 $ 46,197 $ 1,326 $ 72,990 1 Includes partnership interests, private company investments, and private equity investments. 2 Realized and unrealized gains/(losses) related to financial instruments owned and investments are reported in other income in the consolidated statements of operations. 3 Unrealized gains/(losses) related to available-for-sale securities are reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the consolidated statements of financial condition. The results included in the table above are only a component of the overall investment strategies of our company. The table above does not present Level 1 or Level 2 valued assets or liabilities. The changes to our company’s Level 3 classified instruments were principally a result of sales of private equity investments and ARS, offset by ARS purchases during the year ended December 31, 2015. The changes in unrealized gains/(losses) recorded in earnings for the year ended December 31, 2015, relating to Level 3 assets still held at December 31, 2015, were immaterial. The following table summarizes quantitative information related to the significant unobservable inputs utilized in our company’s Level 3 recurring fair value measurements as of December 31, 2015. Valuation technique Unobservable input Range Weighted average Investments: Auction rate securities: Equity securities Discounted cash flow Discount rate 2.3% - 13.4% 7.2% Workout period 1 - 3 years 2.3 years Municipal securities Discounted cash flow Discount rate 0.3% - 12.7% 7.7% Workout period 1 - 4 years 2.8 years The fair value of certain Level 3 assets was determined using various methodologies, as appropriate, including net asset values (“NAVs”) of underlying investments, third-party pricing vendors and broker quotes. These inputs are evaluated for reasonableness through various procedures, including due diligence reviews of third-party pricing vendors, variance analyses, consideration of current market environment, and other analytical procedures. The fair value for our auction rate securities was determined using an income approach based on an internally developed discounted cash flow model. The discounted cash flow model utilizes two significant unobservable inputs: discount rate and workout period. The discount rate was calculated using credit spreads of the underlying collateral or similar securities. The workout period was based on an assessment of publicly available information on efforts to re-establish functioning markets for these securities and our company’s own redemption experience. Significant increases in any of these inputs in isolation would result in a significantly lower fair value. On an ongoing basis, management verifies the fair value by reviewing the appropriateness of the discounted cash flow model and its significant inputs. General and limited partnership interests in investment partnerships totaled $52.5 million and $42.1 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The general and limited partnership interests in investment partnerships were primarily valued based upon NAVs received from third-party fund managers. The various partnerships are investment companies, which record their underlying investments at fair value based on fair value policies established by management of the underlying fund. Fair value policies at the underlying fund generally require the funds to utilize pricing/valuation information, including independent appraisals, from third-party sources. However, in some instances, current valuation information for illiquid securities or securities in markets that are not active may not be available from any third-party source or fund management may conclude that the valuations that are available from third-party sources are not reliable. In these instances, fund management may perform model-based analytical valuations that may be used as an input to value these investments. Direct investments in private equity companies totaled $17.4 million and $21.2 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Direct investments in private equity companies may be valued using the market approach and were valued based on an assessment of each underlying investment, incorporating evaluation of additional significant third-party financing, changes in valuations of comparable peer companies, the business environment of the companies, market indices, assumptions relating to appropriate risk adjustments for nonperformance, and legal restrictions on disposition, among other factors. The fair value derived from the methods used are evaluated and weighted, as appropriate, considering the reasonableness of the range of values indicated. Under the market approach, fair value may be determined by reference to multiples of market-comparable companies or transactions, including earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (“EBITDA”) multiples. For securities utilizing the market comparable companies valuation technique, a significant increase (decrease) in the EBITDA multiple in isolation could result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement. Transfers Within the Fair Value Hierarchy We assess our financial instruments on a quarterly basis to determine the appropriate classification within the fair value hierarchy. Transfers between fair value classifications occur when there are changes in pricing observability levels. Transfers of financial instruments among the levels are deemed to occur at the beginning of the reporting period. There were $3.5 million of transfers of financial assets from Level 2 to Level 1 during the year ended December 31, 2015. There were $9.6 million of transfers of financial assets from Level 1 to Level 2 during the year ended December 31, 2015, related to primarily related to corporate fixed income securities for which there were low volumes of recent trade activity observed. There were $1.3 million of transfers of financial assets into Level 3 during the year ended December 31, 2015. There were $6.3 million of transfers of financial assets out of Level 3 during the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily related to other investments for which market trades were observed that provided transparency into the valuation of these assets. Fair Value of Financial Instruments The following reflects the fair value of financial instruments as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, whether or not recognized in the consolidated statements of financial condition at fair value (in thousands). December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Carrying Value Estimated Fair Value Carrying Value Estimated Fair Value Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 811,019 $ 811,019 $ 689,782 $ 689,782 Cash segregated for regulatory purposes 227,727 227,727 49,646 49,646 Securities purchased under agreements to resell 160,423 160,423 55,078 55,078 Financial instruments owned 749,443 749,443 786,855 786,855 Available-for-sale securities 1,629,907 1,629,907 1,513,478 1,513,478 Held-to-maturity securities 1,855,399 1,874,998 1,177,565 1,211,976 Loans held for sale 189,921 189,921 121,939 121,939 Bank loans 3,143,515 3,188,402 2,065,420 2,086,864 Investments 181,017 181,017 210,255 210,255 Financial liabilities: Securities sold under agreements to repurchase $ 278,674 $ 278,674 $ 39,180 $ 39,180 Bank deposits 6,638,356 6,627,818 4,790,081 4,246,214 Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased 521,744 521,744 587,265 587,265 Derivative contracts 1 3,591 3,591 5,641 5,641 Borrowings 237,084 237,084 — — Senior notes 750,000 745,999 625,000 638,690 Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts 82,500 72,371 82,500 76,714 1 Included in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition. The following table presents the estimated fair values of financial instruments not measured at fair value on a recurring basis (in thousands): December 31, 2015 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial assets: Cash $ 719,751 $ 719,751 $ — $ — Cash segregated for regulatory purposes 227,727 227,727 — — Securities purchased under agreements to resell 160,423 160,423 — — Held-to-maturity securities 1,874,998 — 1,317,582 557,416 Loans held for sale 189,921 — 189,921 — Bank loans 3,188,402 — 3,188,402 — Financial liabilities: Securities sold under agreements to repurchase $ 278,674 $ 278,674 $ — $ — Bank deposits 6,627,818 — 6,627,818 — Borrowings 237,084 — 237,054 — Senior notes 745,999 745,999 — — Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts 72,371 — — 72,371 December 31, 2014 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial assets: Cash $ 566,907 $ 566,907 $ — $ — Cash segregated for regulatory purposes 49,646 49,646 — — Securities purchased under agreements to resell 55,078 44,996 10,082 — Held-to-maturity securities 1,211,976 — 969,913 242,063 Loans held for sale 121,939 — 121,939 — Bank loans 2,086,864 — 2,086,864 — Financial liabilities: Securities sold under agreements to repurchase $ 39,180 $ 39,180 $ — $ — Bank deposits 4,246,214 — 4,246,214 — Borrowings — — — — Senior notes 638,690 638,690 — — Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts 76,714 — — 76,714 The following, as supplemented by the discussion above, describes the valuation techniques used in estimating the fair value of our financial instruments as of December 31, 2015 and 2014. Financial Assets Securities Purchased Under Agreements to Resell Securities purchased under agreements to resell are collateralized financing transactions that are recorded at their contractual amounts plus accrued interest. The carrying values at December 31, 2015 and 2014 approximate fair value due to their short-term nature. Held-to-Maturity Securities Securities held to maturity are recorded at amortized cost based on our company’s positive intent and ability to hold these securities to maturity. Securities held to maturity include agency mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, consisting of corporate obligations, collateralized debt obligation securities, and corporate fixed income securities. The estimated fair value, included in the above table, is determined using several factors; however, primary weight is given to discounted cash flow modeling techniques that incorporated an estimated discount rate based upon recent observable debt security issuances with similar characteristics. Loans Held for Sale Loans held for sale consist of fixed-rate and adjustable-rate residential real estate mortgage loans intended for sale. Loans held for sale are stated at lower of cost or fair value. Fair value is determined based on prevailing market prices for loans with similar characteristics or on sale contract prices. Bank Loans The fair values of mortgage loans and commercial loans were estimated using a discounted cash flow method, a form of the income approach. Discount rates were determined considering rates at which similar portfolios of loans would be made under current conditions and considering liquidity spreads applicable to each loan portfolio based on the secondary market. Financial Liabilities Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase Securities sold under agreements to repurchase are collateralized financing transactions that are recorded at their contractual amounts plus accrued interest. The carrying values at December 31, 2015 and 2014 approximate fair value due to the short-term nature. Bank Deposits The fair value of interest-bearing deposits, including certificates of deposits, demand deposits, savings, and checking accounts, was calculated by discounting the future cash flows using discount rates based on the replacement cost of funding of similar structures and terms. Borrowings The carrying amount of borrowings approximates fair value due to the relative short-term nature of such borrowings, some of which are day-to-day. The portion of borrowings which are not “day-to-day” are primarily comprised of Stifel Bank’s borrowings from the FHLB which, by their nature, reflect terms that approximate current market rates for similar borrowings. Senior Notes The fair value of our senior notes is estimated based upon quoted market prices. Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts The fair value of our trust preferred securities is based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows. We have assumed a discount rate based on the coupon achieved in our 5.375% senior notes due 2022. These fair value disclosures represent our best estimates based on relevant market information and information about the financial instruments. Fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future expected losses, current economic conditions, risk characteristics of the various instruments, and other factors. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision. Changes in the above methodologies and assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

Financial Instruments Owned And

Financial Instruments Owned And Financial Instruments Sold, But Not Yet Purchased	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Trading Securities Balance Sheet Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Financial Instruments Owned And Financial Instruments Sold, But Not Yet Purchased	NOTE 7 – Financial Instruments Owned and Financial Instruments Sold, But Not Yet Purchased The components of financial instruments owned and financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Financial instruments owned: U.S. government securities $ 45,167 $ 58,992 U.S. government agency securities 116,949 101,439 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 205,473 159,057 Non-agency 33,319 13,366 Corporate securities: Fixed income securities 203,910 245,909 Equity securities 31,642 77,548 State and municipal securities 112,983 130,544 $ 749,443 $ 786,855 Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased: U.S. government securities $ 186,030 $ 146,592 U.S. government agency securities — 10,029 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 50,830 28,067 Non-agency — 4,556 Corporate securities: Fixed income securities 255,700 293,008 Equity securities 29,184 105,013 $ 521,744 $ 587,265 At December 31, 2015 and 2014, financial instruments owned in the amount of $508.5 million and $425.1 million, respectively, were pledged as collateral for our repurchase agreements and short-term borrowings. Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, represent obligations of our company to deliver the specified security at the contracted price, thereby creating a liability to purchase the security in the market at prevailing prices in future periods. We are obligated to acquire the securities sold short at prevailing market prices in future periods, which may exceed the amount reflected in the consolidated statements of financial condition.

Available-For-Sale And Held-To-

Available-For-Sale And Held-To-Maturity Securities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Investments Debt And Equity Securities [Abstract]
Available-For-Sale And Held-To-Maturity Securities	NOTE 8 – Available-for-Sale and Held-to-Maturity Securities The following tables provide a summary of the amortized cost and fair values of the available-for-sale securities and held-to-maturity securities at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) December 31, 2015 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains 1 Gross Unrealized Losses 1 Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale securities U.S. government agency securities $ 1,700 $ 1 $ (3 ) $ 1,698 State and municipal securities 75,953 28 (1,814 ) 74,167 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 306,309 125 (1,541 ) 304,893 Commercial 11,177 134 (1 ) 11,310 Non-agency 2,679 2 (163 ) 2,518 Corporate fixed income securities 321,017 743 (2,352 ) 319,408 Asset-backed securities 922,563 774 (7,424 ) 915,913 $ 1,641,398 $ 1,807 $ (13,298 ) $ 1,629,907 Held-to-maturity securities 2 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency $ 1,257,808 $ 23,346 $ (3,105 ) $ 1,278,049 Commercial 59,521 1,832 — 61,353 Non-agency 929 — (15 ) 914 Asset-backed securities 496,996 2,076 (4,139 ) 494,933 Corporate fixed income securities 40,145 — (396 ) 39,749 $ 1,855,399 $ 27,254 $ (7,655 ) $ 1,874,998 December 31, 2014 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains 1 Gross Unrealized Losses 1 Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale securities U.S. government agency securities $ 1,613 $ 1 $ (4 ) $ 1,610 State and municipal securities 76,518 20 (2,137 ) 74,401 Mortgage-backed securities: - Agency 206,982 3,137 (913 ) 209,206 Commercial 107,100 633 (89 ) 107,644 Non-agency 3,186 5 (54 ) 3,137 Corporate fixed income securities 336,210 2,016 (820 ) 337,406 Asset-backed securities 788,908 1,321 (10,155 ) 780,074 $ 1,520,517 $ 7,133 $ (14,172 ) $ 1,513,478 Held-to-maturity securities 2 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency $ 884,451 $ 32,926 $ (42 ) $ 917,335 Commercial 59,462 2,257 — 61,719 Non-agency 1,081 — (17 ) 1,064 Asset-backed securities 177,335 3,151 (2,645 ) 177,841 Corporate fixed income securities 55,236 4 (1,223 ) 54,017 $ 1,177,565 $ 38,338 $ (3,927 ) $ 1,211,976 1 Unrealized gains/(losses) related to available-for-sale securities are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income. 2 Held-to-maturity securities are carried in the consolidated statements of financial condition at amortized cost, and the changes in the value of these securities, other than impairment charges, are not reported on the consolidated financial statements. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, we received proceeds of $641.6 million, $300.3 million, and $197.5 million respectively, from the sale of available-for-sale securities, which resulted in net realized gains of $3.2 million, $3.7 million, and $2.0 million respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, unrealized gains, net of deferred tax expense, of $1.4 million, $1.8 million, respectively, were recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income in the consolidated statements of financial condition. During the year ended December 31, 2013, unrealized losses, net of deferred tax benefit, of $48.5 million were recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income in the consolidated statements of financial condition. The table below summarizes the amortized cost and fair values of debt securities by contractual maturity (in thousands) December 31, 2015 Available-for-sale securities Held-to-maturity securities Amortized Cost Estimated Fair Value Amortized Cost Estimated Fair Value Debt securities Within one year $ 9,710 $ 9,723 $ — $ — After one year through three years 88,249 88,426 40,145 39,748 After three years through five years 169,684 168,573 — — After five years through ten years 275,252 271,146 — — After ten years 778,338 773,318 496,996 494,934 Mortgage-backed securities After one year through three years 66 67 — — After five years through ten years 583 614 269,700 269,989 After ten years 319,516 318,040 1,048,558 1,070,327 $ 1,641,398 $ 1,629,907 $ 1,855,399 $ 1,874,998 The maturities of our available-for-sale (fair value) and held-to-maturity (amortized cost) securities at December 31, 2015, are as follows (in thousands) Within 1 Year 1-5 Years 5-10 Years After 10 Years Total Available-for-sale: 1 U.S. government agency securities $ 701 $ 997 $ — $ — $ 1,698 State and municipal securities — — 7,333 66,834 74,167 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency — — 614 304,279 304,893 Commercial — — — 11,310 11,310 Non-agency — 67 — 2,451 2,518 Corporate fixed income securities 9,023 256,001 54,384 — 319,408 Asset-backed securities — — 209,429 706,484 915,913 $ 9,724 $ 257,065 $ 271,760 $ 1,091,358 $ 1,629,907 Held-to-maturity: Mortgage-backed securities: Agency $ — $ — $ 210,179 $ 1,047,629 $ 1,257,808 Commercial — — 59,521 — 59,521 Non-agency — — — 929 929 Asset-backed securities — — — 496,996 496,996 Corporate fixed income securities — 40,145 — — 40,145 $ — $ 40,145 $ 269,700 $ 1,545,554 $ 1,855,399 1 Due to the immaterial amount of income recognized on tax-exempt securities, yields were not calculated on a tax-equivalent basis. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, securities and loans of $1.4 billion and $1.2 billion, respectively, were pledged at the Federal Home Loan Bank as collateral for borrowings and letters of credit obtained to secure public deposits. At December 31, 2015, securities of $1.1 billion were pledged with the Federal Reserve discount window. The following table shows the gross unrealized losses and fair value of the Company’s investment securities with unrealized losses, aggregated by investment category and length of time the individual investment securities have been in continuous unrealized loss positions, at December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Less than 12 months 12 months or more Total Gross Unrealized Losses Estimated Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Estimated Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale securities U.S. government securities $ (3 ) $ 1,449 $ — $ — $ (3 ) $ 1,449 State and municipal securities (415 ) 26,357 (1,399 ) 38,231 (1,814 ) 64,588 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency (1,165 ) 279,762 (376 ) 8,516 (1,541 ) 288,278 Commercial (1 ) 130 — — (1 ) 130 Non-agency - - (163 ) 2,362 (163 ) 2,362 Corporate fixed income securities (2,352 ) 239,614 — — (2,352 ) 239,614 Asset-backed securities (3,519 ) 600,224 (3,905 ) 136,257 (7,424 ) 736,481 $ (7,455 ) $ 1,147,536 $ (5,843 ) $ 185,366 $ (13,298 ) $ 1,332,902 Held-to-maturity securities Mortgage-backed securities: Agency $ (3,078 ) $ 477,552 $ (27 ) $ 2,156 $ (3,105 ) $ 479,708 Non-agency — — (15 ) 914 (15 ) 914 Asset-backed securities (1,080 ) 258,098 (3,059 ) 68,499 (4,139 ) 326,597 Corporate fixed income securities — — (396 ) 39,748 (396 ) 39,748 $ (4,158 ) $ 735,650 $ (3,497 ) $ 111,317 $ (7,655 ) $ 846,967 At December 31, 2015, the amortized cost of 117 securities classified as available for sale exceeded their fair value by $13.3 million, of which $5.8 million related to investment securities that had been in a loss position for 12 months or longer. The total fair value of these investments at December 31, 2015, was $1.3 billion, which was 81.8% of our available-for-sale portfolio. At December 31, 2015, the carrying value of 50 securities held to maturity exceeded their fair value by $7.7 million, of which $3.5 million related to securities held to maturity that have been in a loss position for 12 months or longer. As discussed in more detail below, we conduct periodic reviews of all securities with unrealized losses to assess whether the impairment is other-than-temporary. Other-Than-Temporary Impairment We evaluate all securities in an unrealized loss position quarterly to assess whether the impairment is other-than-temporary. Our other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) assessment is a subjective process requiring the use of judgments and assumptions. There was no credit-related OTTI recognized during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. We believe the gross unrealized losses related to all other securities of $21.0 million as of December 31, 2015, are attributable to issuer-specific credit spreads and changes in market interest rates and asset spreads. We, therefore, do not expect to incur any credit losses related to these securities. In addition, we have no intent to sell these securities with unrealized losses, and it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell these securities prior to recovery of the amortized cost. No OTTI charge was recorded during the year ended December 31, 2015 related to these securities. Accordingly, we have concluded that the impairment on these securities is not other-than-temporary.

Bank Loans

Bank Loans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Bank Loans	NOTE 9 – Bank Loans The following table presents the balance and associated percentage of each major loan category in our bank loan portfolio at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands, except percentages) December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance Percent Balance Percent Securities-based loans $ 1,388,953 43.7 % $ 732,799 34.6 % Commercial and industrial 1,216,656 38.2 896,853 42.4 Consumer 36,846 1.2 25,489 1.2 Residential real estate 429,132 13.5 432,646 20.4 Commercial real estate 92,623 2.9 15,902 0.8 Home equity lines of credit 12,475 0.4 12,945 0.6 Construction and land 3,899 0.1 — — Gross bank loans 3,180,584 100.0 % 2,116,634 100.0 % Unamortized loan discount (5,296 ) (30,533 ) Unamortized loan fees, net of loan fees (1,567 ) (1,631 ) Loans in process (419 ) 1,681 Allowance for loan losses (29,787 ) (20,731 ) Bank loans, net $ 3,143,515 $ 2,065,420 At December 31, 2015 and 2014, Stifel Bank had loans outstanding to its executive officers, directors, and their affiliates in the amount of $2.0 million and $0.6 million, respectively, and loans outstanding to other Stifel Financial Corp. executive officers, directors, and their affiliates in the amount of $7.2 million and $5.3 million, respectively. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, we had mortgage loans held for sale of $189.9 million and $121.9 million, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, we recognized gains of $12.7 During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Bank reclassified $227.6 million of residential mortgages to held for sale. During the year ended December 31, 2015, Stifel Bank sold $184.4 million in unpaid principal balance. As these loans carried a significant portion of the unamortized loan discount at the time of sale, we recognized a $14.7 million gain which is reflected in other income on the consolidated statements of operations. At December 31, 2015, $26.9 million remains in held for sale. The following table details activity in the allowance for loan losses by portfolio segment for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015 Beginning Balance Provision Charge- offs Recoveries Ending Balance Commercial and industrial $ 16,609 $ 8,139 $ — $ — $ 24,748 Securities based loans 1,099 508 — — 1,607 Consumer 156 (58 ) — 7 105 Residential real estate 787 544 (144 ) 54 1,241 Commercial real estate 232 (30 ) — 62 264 Home equity lines of credit 267 15 — 8 290 Construction & Land — 78 — — 78 Qualitative 1,581 (127 ) — — 1,454 $ 20,731 $ 9,069 $ (144 ) $ 131 $ 29,787 Year Ended December 31, 2014 Beginning Balance Provision Charge- offs Recoveries Ending Balance Commercial and industrial $ 9,832 $ 7,287 $ (510 ) $ — $ 16,609 Securities based loans 893 211 (5 ) — 1,099 Consumer — 172 (16 ) — 156 Residential real estate 408 373 — 6 787 Commercial real estate 198 (23 ) — 57 232 Home equity lines of credit 174 93 — — 267 Construction & Land 12 (12 ) — — — Qualitative 1,151 430 — — 1,581 $ 12,668 $ 8,531 $ (531 ) $ 63 $ 20,731 The following table presents the recorded balances of loans and amount of allowance allocated based upon impairment method by portfolio segment at December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Allowance for Loan Losses Recorded Investment in Loans Individually Evaluated for Impairment Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Total Individually Evaluated for Impairment Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ 24,748 $ 24,748 $ — $ 1,216,656 $ 1,216,656 Securities based loans — 1,607 1,607 — 1,388,953 1,388,953 Consumer 14 91 105 14 36,832 36,846 Residential real estate 24 1,217 1,241 182 428,950 429,132 Commercial real estate — 264 264 — 92,623 92,623 Home equity lines of credit 149 141 290 323 12,152 12,475 Construction & Land — 78 78 — 3,899 3,899 Qualitative — 1,454 1,454 — — — $ 187 $ 29,600 $ 29,787 $ 519 $ 3,180,065 $ 3,180,584 The following table presents the recorded balances of loans and amount of allowance allocated based upon impairment method by portfolio segment at December 31, 2014 (in thousands) Allowance for Loan Losses Recorded Investment in Loans Individually Evaluated for Impairment Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Total Individually Evaluated for Impairment Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ 16,609 $ 16,609 $ — $ 896,853 $ 896,853 Securities based loans — 1,099 1,099 — 732,799 732,799 Consumer 13 143 156 13 25,476 25,489 Residential real estate 87 700 787 377 432,269 432,646 Commercial real estate 23 209 232 23 15,879 15,902 Home equity lines of credit 149 118 267 323 12,622 12,945 Construction and land — — — — — — Qualitative — 1,581 1,581 — — — $ 272 $ 20,459 $ 20,731 $ 736 $ 2,115,898 $ 2,116,634 In determining the amount of our allowance, we rely on an analysis of our loan portfolio, our experience and our evaluation of general economic conditions, as well as the requirements of the written agreement and other regulatory input. If our assumptions prove to be incorrect, our current allowance may not be sufficient to cover future loan losses and we may experience significant increases to our provision. There are two components of the allowance for loan losses: the inherent allowance component and the specific allowance component. The inherent allowance component of the allowance for loan losses is used to estimate the probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio and includes non-homogeneous loans that have not been identified as impaired and portfolios of smaller balance homogeneous loans. The Company maintains methodologies by loan product for calculating an allowance for loan losses that estimates the inherent losses in the loan portfolio. Qualitative and environmental factors such as economic and business conditions, nature and volume of the portfolio and lending terms, and volume and severity of past due loans may also be considered in the calculations. The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level reasonable to ensure that it can adequately absorb the estimated probable losses inherent in the portfolio. The specific allowance component of the allowance for loan losses is used to estimate probable losses for non-homogeneous exposures, including loans modified in a Troubled Debt Restructuring (“TDR”), which have been specifically identified for impairment analysis by the Company and determined to be impaired. At December 31, 2015, we had $0.9 million of non-accrual loans, net of discounts, which included $0.2 million in troubled debt restructurings, for which there was a specific allowance of $0.2 million. At December 31, 2014, we had $4.9 million of non-accrual loans, net of discounts, which included $1.0 million in troubled debt restructurings, for which there was a specific allowance of $0.3 million. The gross interest income related to impaired loans, which would have been recorded had these loans been current in accordance with their original terms, and the interest income recognized on these loans during the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, were insignificant to the consolidated financial statements. The tables below present loans that were individually evaluated for impairment by portfolio segment at December 31, 2015 and 2014, included the average recorded investment balance (in thousands) December 31, 2015 Unpaid Contractual Principal Balance Recorded Investment with No Allowance Recorded Investment with Allowance Total Recorded Investment Related Allowance Average Recorded Investment Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Consumer 944 — 15 15 15 23 Residential real estate 776 524 182 706 24 752 Commercial real estate — — — — — — Home equity lines of credit 342 19 323 342 149 342 Construction and land — — — — — — Total $ 2,062 $ 543 $ 520 $ 1,063 $ 188 $ 1,117 December 31, 2014 Unpaid Contractual Principal Balance Recorded Investment with No Allowance Recorded Investment with Allowance Total Recorded Investment Related Allowance Average Recorded Investment Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Consumer 13 — 13 13 13 15 Residential real estate 5,006 3,944 377 4,321 87 4,646 Commercial real estate 228 — 228 228 23 235 Home equity lines of credit 323 — 323 323 149 323 Construction and land — — — — — — Total $ 5,570 $ 3,944 $ 941 $ 4,885 $ 272 $ 5,219 The following table presents the aging of the recorded investment in past due loans at December 31, 2015 and 2014 by portfolio segment (in thousands) As of December 31, 2015 30 – 89 Days Past Due 90 or More Days Past Due Total Past Due Current Balance Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — $ 1,216,656 1,216,656 Securities based loans — — — 1,388,953 1,388,953 Consumer 7 7 14 36,832 36,846 Residential real estate 3,310 450 3,760 425,372 429,132 Commercial real estate — — — 92,623 92,623 Home equity lines of credit 323 19 342 12,133 12,475 Construction and land — — — 3,899 3,899 Total $ 3,640 $ 476 $ 4,116 $ 3,176,468 $ 3,180,584 As of December 31, 2015* Non-accrual Restructured Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — Consumer 15 — 15 Residential real estate 380 326 706 Commercial real estate — — — Home equity lines of credit 342 — 342 Construction and land — — — Total $ 737 $ 326 $ 1,063 * There were no loans past due 90 days and still accruing interest at December 31, 2015. As of December 31, 2014 30 – 89 Days Past Due 90 or More Days Past Due Total Past Due Current Balance Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — $ 896,853 896,853 Securities based loans — — — 732,799 732,799 Consumer 28 14 42 25,447 25,489 Residential real estate 6,603 4,834 11,437 421,209 432,646 Commercial real estate — — — 15,902 15,902 Home equity lines of credit — — — 12,945 12,945 Construction and land — — — — - Total $ 6,631 $ 4,848 $ 11,479 $ 2,105,155 $ 2,116,634 As of December 31, 2014* Non-accrual Restructured Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — Consumer 13 — 13 Residential real estate 4,321 — 4,321 Commercial real estate 228 — 228 Home equity lines of credit 323 — 323 Construction and land — — — Total $ 4,885 $ — $ 4,885 * There were no loans past due 90 days and still accruing interest at December 31, 2014. Credit quality indicators As of December 31, 2015, bank loans were primarily extended to non-investment grade borrowers. Substantially all of these loans align with the U.S. Federal bank regulatory agencies’ definition of Pass. Loans meet the definition of Pass when they are performing and/or do not demonstrate adverse characteristics that are likely to result in a credit loss. A loan is determined to be impaired when principal or interest becomes 90 days past due or when collection becomes uncertain. At the time a loan is determined to be impaired, the accrual of interest and amortization of deferred loan origination fees is discontinued (“non-accrual status”), and any accrued and unpaid interest income is reversed. We closely monitor economic conditions and loan performance trends to manage and evaluate our exposure to credit risk. Trends in delinquency ratios are an indicator, among other considerations, of credit risk within our loan portfolios. The level of nonperforming assets represents another indicator of the potential for future credit losses. Accordingly, key metrics we track and use in evaluating the credit quality of our loan portfolio include delinquency and nonperforming asset rates, as well as charge-off rates and our internal risk ratings of the loan portfolio. In general, we are a secured lender. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, 97.2 % and 95.8% of our loan portfolio was collateralized, respectively. Collateral is required in accordance with the normal credit evaluation process based upon the creditworthiness of the customer and the credit risk associated with the particular transaction. The Company uses the following definitions for risk ratings: Pass . A credit exposure rated pass has a continued expectation of timely repayment, all obligations of the borrower are current, and the obligor complies with material terms and conditions of the lending agreement. Special Mention . Extensions of credit that have potential weakness that deserve management’s close attention, and if left uncorrected may, at some future date, result in the deterioration of the repayment prospects or collateral position. Substandard . Obligor has a well-defined weakness that jeopardizes the repayment of the debt and has a high probability of payment default with the distinct possibility that the Company will sustain some loss if noted deficiencies are not corrected. Doubtful . Inherent weakness in the exposure makes the collection or repayment in full, based on existing facts, conditions and circumstances, highly improbable, and the amount of loss is uncertain. Doubtful loans are considered impaired. Substandard loans are regularly reviewed for impairment. When a loan is impaired the impairment is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate or as a practical expedient the observable market price of the loan or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. Portfolio segments: Commercial and industrial (C&I). C&I loans primarily include commercial and industrial lending used for general corporate purposes, working capital and liquidity, and “event-driven." “Event-driven” loans support client merger, acquisition or recapitalization activities. C&I lending is structured as revolving lines of credit, letter of credit facilities, term loans and bridge loans. Risk factors considered in determining the allowance for corporate loans include the borrower’s financial strength, seniority of the loan, collateral type, leverage, volatility of collateral value, debt cushion, and covenants. Securities-based loans . Securities-based loans allow clients to borrow money against the value of qualifying securities for any suitable purpose other than purchasing, trading, or carrying securities or refinancing margin debt. The majority of consumer loans are structured as revolving lines of credit and letter of credit facilities and are primarily offered through Stifel’s Pledged Asset ("SPA") program. The allowance methodology for securities-based lending considers the collateral type underlying the loan. Consumer. Consumer loans allow customers to purchase non-investment goods and services. Real Estate . Real estate loans include commercial real estate, residential real estate non-conforming loans, residential real estate conforming loans and home equity lines of credit. The allowance methodology real estate loans considers several factors, including, but not limited to, loan-to-value ratio, FICO score, home price index, delinquency status, credit limits, and utilization rates. Construction and land . Short-term loans used to finance the development of a real estate project. Based on the most recent analysis performed, the risk category of our loan portfolio was as follows: (in thousands) : As of December 31, 2015 Pass Special Mention Substandard Doubtful Total Commercial and industrial $ 1,191,030 $ 11,320 $ 14,306 $ — $ 1,216,656 Securities based loans 1,388,939 — 14 — 1,388,953 Consumer 36,846 — — — 36,846 Residential real estate 427,950 1,182 — — 429,132 Commercial real estate 92,623 — — — 92,623 Home equity lines of credit 12,456 — 19 — 12,475 Construction and land 3,899 — — — 3,899 Total $ 3,153,743 $ 12,502 $ 14,339 $ — $ 3,180,584 As of December 31, 2014 Pass Special Mention Substandard Doubtful Total Commercial and industrial $ 896,853 $ — $ — $ — 896,853 Securities based loans 732,799 — — 732,799 Consumer 25,447 28 14 — 25,489 Residential real estate 421,209 6,603 4,834 — 432,646 Commercial real estate 15,902 — — — 15,902 Home equity lines of credit 12,945 — — — 12,945 Construction and land — — — — — Total $ 2,105,155 $ 6,631 $ 4,848 $ — $ 2,116,634

Fixed Assets

Fixed Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Fixed Assets	NOTE 10 – Fixed Assets The following is a summary of fixed assets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Furniture and equipment $ 238,075 $ 194,421 Building and leasehold improvements 146,954 124,390 Property on operating leases 21,064 100 406,093 318,911 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (224,127 ) (194,665 ) $ 181,966 $ 124,246 For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, depreciation and amortization totaled $36.7 million, $29.3 million, and $34.0 million, respectively.

Goodwill And Intangible Assets

Goodwill And Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill And Intangible Assets	NOTE 11 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets Our annual goodwill impairment testing was completed as of July 31, 2015, with no impairment identified. The carrying amount of goodwill and intangible assets attributable to each of our reporting segments is presented in the following table (in thousands) December 31, 2014 Net Additions Impairment Losses December 31, 2015 Goodwill Global Wealth Management $ 177,171 $ 118,213 $ — $ 295,384 Institutional Group 617,855 2,363 — 620,218 $ 795,026 $ 120,576 $ — $ 915,602 December 31, 2014 Net Additions Amortization December 31, 2015 Intangible assets Global Wealth Management $ 23,503 $ 12,084 $ (5,560 ) $ 30,027 Institutional Group 31,060 6,953 (4,863 ) 33,150 $ 54,563 $ 19,037 $ (10,423 ) $ 63,177 The additions to goodwill and intangible assets during the year ended December 31, 2015, are primarily attributable to the acquisition of Sterne Agee, which closed on June 5, 2015, and Barclays, which closed on December 31, 2015. The allocation of the purchase price for these acquisitions is preliminary and will be finalized upon completion of the analysis of the fair values of the net assets of the acquisitions as of the respective acquisition dates and the identified intangible assets. The final goodwill recorded on the consolidated statement of financial condition may differ from the preliminary estimate reflected herein. Goodwill for certain of our acquisitions is deductible for tax purposes. Amortizable intangible assets consist of acquired customer relationships, trade name, investment banking backlog, and non-compete agreements that are amortized over their contractual or determined useful lives. Intangible assets subject to amortization as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows (in thousands) December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Customer relationships $ 78,580 $ 37,322 $ 63,661 $ 29,636 Trade name 24,456 6,969 21,423 5,322 Investment banking backlog 7,440 7,388 7,388 7,388 Core deposits 5,447 5,447 5,447 4,657 Non-compete agreements 2,517 255 1,484 120 $ 118,440 $ 57,381 $ 99,403 $ 47,123 Amortization expense related to intangible assets was $10.4 million, $12.3 million, and $11.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. The weighted-average remaining lives of the following intangible assets at December 31, 2015, are: customer relationships, 7.5 years; trade name, 11.3 years; and non-compete agreements, 2.8 years. We have an intangible asset that is not subject to amortization and is therefore, not included in the table below. As of December 31, 2015, we expect amortization expense in future periods to be as follows (in thousands) Fiscal year 2016 $ 7,613 2017 6,988 2018 6,500 2019 5,949 2020 6,027 Thereafter 27,982 $ 61,059

Borrowings

Borrowings	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Short Term Debt Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Borrowings	NOTE 12 – Borrowings Our short-term financing is generally obtained through short-term bank line financing on an uncommitted, secured basis, committed bank line financing on an unsecured basis, advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank, term loans, and securities lending arrangements. We borrow from various banks on a demand basis with company-owned and customer securities pledged as collateral. The value of customer-owned securities used as collateral is not reflected in the consolidated statements of financial condition. The following table details the components of borrowings (in thousands) December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Borrowings on secured lines of credit $ 30,000 $ — Federal Home Loan Bank advances 148,000 — Term loans 59,084 — $ 237,084 $ — Our uncommitted secured lines of credit at December 31, 2015, totaled $980.0 million with seven banks and are dependent on having appropriate collateral, as determined by the bank agreements, to secure an advance under the line. The availability of our uncommitted lines is subject to approval by the individual banks each time an advance is requested and may be denied. Our peak daily borrowing on our uncommitted secured lines was $496.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2015. There are no compensating balance requirements under these arrangements. Any borrowings on secured lines of credit are day-to-day and are generally utilized to finance certain fixed income securities. At December 31, 2015, our uncommitted secured lines of credit were collateralized by company-owned securities valued at $248.5 million. Our committed bank line financing at December 31, 2015, consisted of a $100.0 million revolving credit facility. The credit facility expires in December 2017. The applicable interest rate under the revolving credit facility is calculated as a per annum rate equal to the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 2.00%, as defined in the revolving credit facility. At December 31, 2015, we had no advances on our revolving credit facility and were in compliance with all covenants. The Federal Home Loan advances as of December 31, 2015 are floating-rate advances. The weighted average interest rates during the year ended December 31, 2015 on these advances is 0.31%. The advances are secured by Stifel Bank’s residential mortgage loan portfolio and investment portfolio. The interest rates reset on a daily basis. Stifel Bank has the option to prepay these advances without penalty on the interest reset date. As of December 31, 2015, a subsidiary of the Parent was a party to two Term Loans (“Term Loans”) with Regions Bank. The Term Loans mature on June 3, 2016. The interest rate under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement is calculated as per annum rate equal to LIBOR, as defined. During the year ended December 31, 2015, interest rates ranged from 1.68% to 1.92%.

Senior Notes

Senior Notes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Senior Notes	NOTE 13 – Senior Notes The following table summarizes our senior notes as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 3.50% senior notes, due 2020 1 $ 300,000 $ — 5.375% senior notes, due 2022 2 150,000 150,000 4.250% senior notes, due 2024 3 300,000 300,000 6.70% senior notes, due 2022 4 — 175,000 $ 750,000 $ 625,000 1 In December 2015, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 3.50% senior notes due December 2020. Interest on these senior notes is payable semi-annually in arrears. We may redeem the notes in whole or in part, at our option, at a redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus a “make-whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption. 2 In December 2012, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $150.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.375% senior notes due December 2022. Interest on these senior notes is payable quarterly in arrears. On or after December 31, 2015, we may redeem some or all of the senior notes at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes being redeemed plus accrued interest thereon to the redemption date. 3 In July 2014, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.250% senior notes due July 2024. Interest on these senior notes is payable semi-annually in arrears. We may redeem the notes in whole or in part, at our option, at a redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus a “make-whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption. 4 In January 2012, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $175.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.70% senior notes due January 2022. Interest on these senior notes is payable quarterly in arrears. On January 15, 2015, we redeemed 100% of our company’s outstanding 6.70% senior notes. Our senior notes mature as follows, based upon contractual terms: 2016 $ — 2017 — 2018 — 2019 — 2020 300,000 Thereafter 450,000 $ 750,000

Bank Deposits

Bank Deposits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Deposits Liabilities Balance Sheet Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Bank Deposits	NOTE 14 – Bank Deposits Deposits consist of money market and savings accounts, certificates of deposit, and demand deposits. Deposits at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Money market and savings accounts $ 6,429,780 $ 4,600,757 Demand deposits (interest-bearing) 185,275 101,652 Certificates of deposit 15,087 77,197 Demand deposits (non-interest-bearing) 8,214 10,475 6,638,356 $ 4,790,081 The weighted-average interest rate on deposits was 0.17% and 0.19% at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Certificates of deposit, less than $100: Within one year $ 4,863 $ 26,769 One to three years 2,356 6,874 Three to five years 145 1,268 Over five years — — $ 7,364 $ 34,911 Certificates of deposit, $100 and greater: Within one year $ 5,464 $ 33,784 One to three years 1,975 7,520 Three to five years 284 723 Over five years — 259 7,723 42,286 $ 15,087 $ 77,197 At December 31, 2015 and 2014, the amount of deposits includes related party deposits, primarily brokerage customers’ deposits from Stifel of $6.6 billion and $4.7 billion, respectively, and interest-bearing and time deposits of executive officers, directors, and their affiliates of $0.3 million and $0.3 million, respectively.

Derivative Instruments And Hedg

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
General Discussion Of Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities	NOTE 15 – Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities We use interest rate swaps as part of our interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps generally involve the exchange of fixed and variable rate interest payments between two parties, based on a common notional principal amount and maturity date with no exchange of underlying principal amounts. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for our company making fixed payments. Our policy is not to offset fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments and fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral or the obligation to return cash collateral arising from derivative instruments recognized at fair value executed with the same counterparty under master netting arrangements. The following table provides the notional values and fair values of our derivative instruments as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives Notional Value Balance Sheet Location Positive Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Negative Fair Value Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under Topic 815: Cash flow interest rate contracts $ 179,110 Other assets $ — Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ (3,591 ) December 31, 2014 Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives Notional Value Balance Sheet Location Positive Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Negative Fair Value Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under Topic 815: Cash flow interest rate contracts $ 272,967 Other assets $ — Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ (5,641 ) Cash Flow Hedges We have entered into interest rate swap agreements that effectively modify our exposure to interest rate risk by converting floating rate debt to a fixed rate debt over the next ten years. Any unrealized gains or losses related to cash flow hedging instruments are reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into earnings in the same period the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings and are recorded in interest expense on the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. The ineffective portion of the cash flow hedging instruments is recorded in other income or other operating expense. The loss recognized during the year ended December 31, 2015, related to ineffectiveness was insignificant. Amounts reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss related to derivatives will be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on our variable rate deposits. During the next twelve months, we estimate that $1.9 million will be reclassified as an increase to interest expense. The following table shows the effect of our company’s derivative instruments in the consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effectiveness) Location of Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Location of Loss Recognized in OCI (Ineffectiveness) Loss Recognized Due to Ineffectiveness Cash flow interest rate contracts $ (2,137 ) Interest Expense $ 3,824 None $ — Year Ended December 31, 2014 Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effectiveness) Location of Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Location of Loss Recognized in OCI (Ineffectiveness) Loss Recognized Due to Ineffectiveness Cash flow interest rate contracts $ (2,576 ) Interest expense $ 6,068 None $ — Year Ended December 31, 2013 Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effectiveness) Location of Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Location of Loss Recognized in OCI (Ineffectiveness) Loss Recognized Due to Ineffectiveness Cash flow interest rate contracts $ 2,644 Interest expense $ 8,593 None $ — We maintain a risk management strategy that incorporates the use of derivative instruments to minimize significant unplanned fluctuations in earnings caused by interest rate volatility. Our goal is to manage sensitivity to changes in rates by hedging the maturity characteristics of variable rate affiliated deposits, thereby limiting the impact on earnings. By using derivative instruments, we are exposed to credit and market risk on those derivative positions. We manage the market risk associated with interest rate contracts by establishing and monitoring limits as to the types and degree of risk that may be undertaken. Credit risk is equal to the extent of the fair value gain in a derivative if the counterparty fails to perform. When the fair value of a derivative contract is positive, this generally indicates that the counterparty owes our company and, therefore, creates a repayment risk for our company. When the fair value of a derivative contract is negative, we owe the counterparty and, therefore, have no repayment risk. See Note 5 in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for further discussion on how we determine the fair value of our financial instruments. We minimize the credit (or repayment) risk in derivative instruments by entering into transactions with high-quality counterparties that are reviewed periodically by senior management. Credit Risk-Related Contingency Features We have agreements with our derivative counterparties containing provisions where if we default on any of our indebtedness, including default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, then we could also be declared in default on our derivative obligations. We have agreements with certain of our derivative counterparties that contain provisions where if our shareholders’ equity declines below a specified threshold or if we fail to maintain a specified minimum shareholders’ equity, then we could be declared in default on our derivative obligations. Certain of our agreements with our derivative counterparties contain provisions where if a specified event or condition occurs that materially changes our creditworthiness in an adverse manner, we may be required to fully collateralize our obligations under the derivative instrument. Regulatory Capital-Related Contingency Features Certain of our derivative instruments contain provisions that require us to maintain our capital adequacy requirements. If we were to lose our status as “adequately capitalized,” we would be in violation of those provisions, and the counterparties of the derivative instruments could request immediate payment or demand immediate and ongoing full overnight collateralization on derivative instruments in net liability positions. As of December 31, 2015, the fair value of derivatives in a net liability position, which includes accrued interest but excludes any adjustment for nonperformance risk, related to these agreements was $3.6 million (termination value). We have minimum collateral posting thresholds with certain of our derivative counterparties and have posted cash collateral of $12.7 million against our obligations under these agreements. If we had breached any of these provisions at December 31, 2015, we would have been required to settle our obligations under the agreements at the termination value. Counterparty Risk In the event of counterparty default, our economic loss may be higher than the uncollateralized exposure of our derivatives if we were not able to replace the defaulted derivatives in a timely fashion. We monitor the risk that our uncollateralized exposure to each of our counterparties for interest rate swaps will increase under certain adverse market conditions by performing periodic market stress tests. These tests evaluate the potential additional uncollateralized exposure we would have to each of these derivative counterparties assuming changes in the level of market rates over a brief time period.

Debentures To Stifel Financial

Debentures To Stifel Financial Capital Trusts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Junior Subordinated Debenture Owed To Unconsolidated Subsidiary Trust [Abstract]
Debentures To Stifel Financial Capital Trusts	NOTE 16 – Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts The following table summarizes our debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Debenture to Stifel Financial Capital Trust II 1 $ 35,000 $ 35,000 Debenture to Stifel Financial Capital Trust III 2 35,000 35,000 Debenture to Stifel Financial Capital Trust IV 3 12,500 12,500 $ 82,500 $ 82,500 1 On August 12, 2005, we completed a private placement of $35.0 million of 6.38% Cumulative Trust Preferred Securities. The trust preferred securities were offered by Stifel Financial Capital Trust II (the “Trust II”), a non-consolidated wholly owned subsidiary of our company. The trust preferred securities mature on September 30, 2035, but may be redeemed by our company, and in turn, the Trust II would call the debenture beginning September 30, 2010. The Trust II requires quarterly distributions of interest to the holders of the trust preferred securities. Distributions will be payable at a floating interest rate equal to three-month LIBOR plus 1.70% per annum. 2 On March 30, 2007, we completed a private placement of $35.0 million of 6.79% Cumulative Trust Preferred Securities. The trust preferred securities were offered by Stifel Financial Capital Trust III (the "Trust III"), a non-consolidated wholly owned subsidiary of our company. The trust preferred securities mature on June 6, 2037, but may be redeemed by our company, and in turn, Trust III would call the debenture beginning June 6, 2012. Trust III requires quarterly distributions of interest to the holders of the trust preferred securities. Distributions will be payable at a floating interest rate equal to three-month LIBOR plus 1.85% per annum. 3 On June 28, 2007, we completed a private placement of $35.0 million of 6.78% Cumulative Trust Preferred Securities. The trust preferred securities were offered by Stifel Financial Capital Trust IV (the “Trust IV”), a non-consolidated wholly owned subsidiary of our company. The trust preferred securities mature on September 6, 2037, but may be redeemed by our company, and in turn, Trust IV would call the debenture beginning September 6, 2012. Trust IV requires quarterly distributions of interest to the holders of the trust preferred securities. Distributions will be payable at a floating interest rate equal to three-month LIBOR plus 1.85% per annum.

Disclosures About Offsetting As

Disclosures About Offsetting Assets And Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Offsetting [Abstract]
Disclosures About Offsetting Assets And Liabilities	NOTE 17 – Disclosures About Offsetting Assets and Liabilities The following table provides information about financial assets and derivative assets that are subject to offset as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets Gross Amounts Offset in the of Financial Condition Net Amounts Presented in the Statement of Financial Condition Amounts available for offset Available collateral Net Amount As of December 31, 2015: Securities borrowing 1 $ 318,105 $ — $ 318,105 $ (182,399 ) $ (123,309 ) $ 12,397 Reverse repurchase agreements 2 160,423 — $ 160,423 (160,423 ) — $ - $ 478,528 $ — $ 478,528 $ (342,822 ) $ (123,309 ) $ 12,397 As of December 31, 2014: Securities borrowing 1 $ 445,542 $ — $ 445,542 $ — $ (431,301 ) $ 14,241 Reverse repurchase agreements 2 55,078 — 55,078 — (54,955 ) 123 $ 500,620 $ — $ 500,620 $ — $ (486,256 ) $ 14,364 1 Securities borrowing transactions are included in receivables from brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations on the consolidated statements of financial condition. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information on receivables from brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations. 2 Collateral received includes securities received by our company from the counterparty. These securities are not included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless there is an event of default. The following table provides information about financial liabilities and derivative liabilities that are subject to offset as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition Gross Amounts of Recognized Liabilities Gross Amounts Offset in the Statement of Financial Condition Net Amounts Presented in the Statement of Financial Condition Amounts available for offset Collateral Pledged Net Amount As of December 31, 2015: Securities lending 3 $ (329,670 ) $ — $ (329,670 ) $ 182,399 $ 132,784 $ (14,487 ) Repurchase agreements 4 (278,674 ) — (278,674 ) 160,423 118,251 - Cash flow interest rate contracts (3,591 ) — (3,591 ) — 3,591 - $ (611,935 ) $ — $ (611,935 ) $ 342,822 $ 254,626 $ (14,487 ) As of December 31, 2014: Securities lending 3 $ (4,215 ) $ — $ (4,215 ) $ — $ 3,892 $ (323 ) Repurchase agreements 4 (39,180 ) — (39,180 ) — 39,089 (91 ) Cash flow interest rate contracts (5,641 ) — (5,641 ) — 5,641 — $ (49,036 ) $ — $ (49,036 ) $ — $ 48,622 $ (414 ) 3 Securities lending transactions are included in payables to brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations on the consolidated statements of financial condition. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information on payables to brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations. 4 Collateral pledged includes the fair value of securities pledged by our company to the counter party. These securities are included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless we default.

Commitments, Guarantees, And Co

Commitments, Guarantees, And Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
Commitments, Guarantees, And Contingencies	NOTE 18 – Commitments, Guarantees, and Contingencies Broker-Dealer Commitments and Guarantees In the normal course of business, we enter into underwriting commitments. Settlement of transactions relating to such underwriting commitments, which were open at December 31, 2015, had no material effect on the consolidated financial statements. In connection with margin deposit requirements of The Options Clearing Corporation, we pledged customer-owned securities valued at $82.2 million to satisfy the minimum margin deposit requirement at December 31, 2015. In connection with margin deposit requirements of the National Securities Clearing Corporation, we deposited $27.4 million in cash to satisfy the minimum margin deposit requirement at December 31, 2015. We also provide guarantees to securities clearinghouses and exchanges under their standard membership agreement, which requires members to guarantee the performance of other members. Under the agreement, if another member becomes unable to satisfy its obligations to the clearinghouse, other members would be required to meet shortfalls. Our liability under these agreements is not quantifiable and may exceed the cash and securities we have posted as collateral. However, the potential requirement for us to make payments under these arrangements is considered remote. Accordingly, no liability has been recognized for these arrangements. Other Commitments In the ordinary course of business, Stifel Bank has commitments to extend credit in the form of commitments to originate loans, standby letters of credit, and lines of credit. See Note 23 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for further details. We have committed capital to certain entities, and these commitments generally have no specified call dates. We had $23.8 million of commitments outstanding at December 31, 2015, of which $12.5 million relate to commitments to certain strategic relationships with Business Development Corporations. Concentration of Credit Risk We provide investment, capital-raising, and related services to a diverse group of domestic customers, including governments, corporations, and institutional and individual investors. Our exposure to credit risk associated with the non-performance of customers in fulfilling their contractual obligations pursuant to securities transactions can be directly impacted by volatile securities markets, credit markets, and regulatory changes. This exposure is measured on an individual customer basis and on a group basis for customers that share similar attributes. To reduce the potential for risk concentrations, counterparty credit limits have been implemented for certain products and are continually monitored in light of changing customer and market conditions. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, we did not have significant concentrations of credit risk with any one customer or counterparty, or any group of customers or counterparties. Operating Leases Future minimum commitments under non-cancelable operating leases at December 31, 2015, are as follows (in thousands) 2016 $ 92,848 2017 81,987 2018 73,844 2019 68,666 2020 54,119 Thereafter 149,195 $ 520,659 Certain leases contain provisions for renewal options and escalation clauses based on increases in certain costs incurred by the lessor. We amortize office lease incentives and rent escalation on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease. Rent expense for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 was $93.6 million, $78.6 million, and $74.2 million, net of sublease income.

Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Loss Contingency Information About Litigation Matters [Abstract]
Legal Proceedings	NOTE 19 – Legal Proceedings Our company and its subsidiaries are named in and subject to various proceedings and claims arising primarily from our securities business activities, including lawsuits, arbitration claims, class actions, and regulatory matters. Some of these claims seek substantial compensatory, punitive, or indeterminate damages. Our company and its subsidiaries are also involved in other reviews, investigations, and proceedings by governmental and self-regulatory organizations regarding our business, which may result in adverse judgments, settlements, fines, penalties, injunctions, and other relief. We are contesting the allegations in these claims, and we believe that there are meritorious defenses in each of these lawsuits, arbitrations, and regulatory investigations. In view of the number and diversity of claims against our company, the number of jurisdictions in which litigation is pending, and the inherent difficulty of predicting the outcome of litigation and other claims, we cannot state with certainty what the eventual outcome of pending litigation or other claims will be. We have established reserves for potential losses that are probable and reasonably estimable that may result from pending and potential legal actions, investigations, and regulatory proceedings. In many cases, however, it is inherently difficult to determine whether any loss is probable or even possible or to estimate the amount or range of any potential loss, particularly where proceedings may be in relatively early stages or where plaintiffs are seeking substantial or indeterminate damages. Matters frequently need to be more developed before a loss or range of loss can reasonably be estimated. In our opinion, based on currently available information, review with outside legal counsel, and consideration of amounts provided for in our consolidated financial statements with respect to these matters, including the matters described below, the ultimate resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse impact on our financial position and results of operations. However, resolution of one or more of these matters may have a material effect on the results of operations in any future period, depending upon the ultimate resolution of those matters and depending upon the level of income for such period. For matters where a reserve has not been established and for which we believe a loss is reasonably possible, as well as for matters where a reserve has been recorded but for which an exposure to loss in excess of the amount accrued is reasonably possible, based on currently available information, we believe that such losses will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. SEC/Wisconsin Lawsuit A civil lawsuit was filed against our company by the SEC in connection with our role in the sale of collateralized debt obligations (“CDOs”) investments to five Southeastern Wisconsin school districts (the “school districts”) in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin on August 10, 2011. The SEC has asserted claims under Section 15c(1) (A), Section 10b and Rule 10b-5 of the Exchange Act and Sections 17a(1), 17a(2) and 17a(3) of the Securities Act. The claims are based upon both alleged misrepresentations and omissions in connection with the sale of the CDOs to the school districts, as well as the allegedly unsuitable nature of the CDOs. We answered, denied the substantive allegations of the amended complaint and asserted various affirmative defenses. In January 2016, the parties filed motions for summary judgment and are awaiting the court’s rulings on those motions. The lawsuit had been set for trial commencing on April 11, 2016, but the Court has postponed the trial to commence on September 12, 2016. While there can be no assurance that we will be successful, we intend to vigorously defend the claims. EDC Bond Issuance Matter We have been named, along with other parties, in a lawsuit filed in Wisconsin state court asserting various claims by LDF Acquisition LLC (“LDF”), a special purpose vehicle created by Saybrook Tax Exempt Investors LLC (collectively “Saybrook”) and by the Lac Du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians and its Lake of the Torches Economic Development Corporation (the “Tribe”) in which, among other things, Saybrook seeks repayment from the Tribe for the proceeds from a $50 million 2008 bond offering (“the bonds’) and in which the Tribe seeks to avoid repayment, as well as other claims against us and others. We were the initial purchaser of the bonds, which were immediately sold to LDF. The claims asserted against Stifel are for breaches of implied warranties of validity and title, securities fraud and statutory misrepresentation under Wisconsin state law, intentional and negligent misrepresentations relating to those matters. Saybrook seeks rescissionary relief as well as restitutionary damages, including the amounts paid for the bonds, plus costs. The claims are set for trial commencing on October 11, 2016. Broyles, et al. v. Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. et al. Matter Our Company, Stifel Nicolaus and Stone & Youngberg, LLC (“Stone & Youngberg”) are named in an Amended Complaint filed in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana alleging fraud on the part of Stone & Youngberg in the formation of the Collybus CDO manufactured by Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. (“Cantor”) and purchased by Commonwealth Advisors (“CA”) on behalf of several CA funds, as well as in connection with other transactions in the CA funds with CA. The original Complaint named Cantor, CA, and CA’s CEO, Walter Morales. The CA funds filed a Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition which stayed the original lawsuit until the reorganization plan was entered by the court in the fall of 2013. Shortly thereafter, the CA funds filed their first Amended Complaint, which has been amended several times since then. The claims are set for trial commencing on November 28, 2016. While there can be no assurance that we will be successful, we intend to vigorously defend the claims. We have established reserves supported by purchase price consideration the Company has withheld pursuant to the terms of the acquisition of Stone & Youngberg in 2011 which at this time we believe are adequate.

Regulatory Capital Requirements

Regulatory Capital Requirements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Regulatory Capital Requirements [Abstract]
Regulatory Capital Requirements	NOTE 20 – Regulatory Capital Requirements We operate in a highly regulated environment and are subject to capital requirements, which may limit distributions to our company from its subsidiaries. Distributions from our broker-dealer subsidiaries are subject to net capital rules. A broker-dealer that fails to comply with the SEC’s Uniform Net Capital Rule (Rule 15c3-1) may be subject to disciplinary actions by the SEC and self-regulatory organizations, such as FINRA, including censures, fines, suspension, or expulsion. Stifel has chosen to calculate its net capital under the alternative method, which prescribes that their net capital shall not be less than the greater of $1.0 million or two percent of aggregate debit balances (primarily receivables from customers) computed in accordance with the SEC’s Customer Protection Rule (Rule 15c3-3). Our other broker-dealer subsidiaries calculate their net capital under the aggregate indebtedness method, whereby their aggregate indebtedness may not be greater than fifteen times their net capital (as defined). At December 31, 2015, Stifel had net capital of $310.1 million, which was 20.2% of aggregate debit items and $279.3 million in excess of its minimum required net capital. At December 31, 2015, all of our other broker-dealer subsidiaries’ net capital exceeded the minimum net capital required under the SEC rule. Our international subsidiaries are subject to the regulatory supervision and requirements of the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom. At December 31, 2015, our international subsidiaries’ capital and reserves were in excess of the financial resources requirement under the rules of the FCA. Our company, as a bank holding company, and Stifel Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by the Federal and state banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on our company’s and Stifel Bank’s financial results. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, our company and Stifel Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of our assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. Our company’s and Stifel Bank’s capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors. Effective January 1, 2015, our company and Stifel Bank became subject to Basel III. Under the Basel III rules, the quantity and quality of regulatory capital increases, a capital conservation buffer was established, selected changes were made to the calculation of risk-weighted assets, and a new ratio, common equity Tier 1 was introduced, all of which are applicable to both our company and Stifel Bank. Various aspects of Basel III will be subject to multi-year transition periods through December 31, 2018. Our company and Stifel Bank are required to maintain minimum amounts and ratios of Total and Tier 1 capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined), Tier 1 capital to average assets (as defined), and under rules defined in Basel III, Common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets. Our company and Stifel Bank each calculate these ratios in order to assess compliance with both regulatory requirements and their internal capital policies. At current capital levels, our company and Stifel Bank are each categorized as “well capitalized” under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as “well capitalized,” our company and Stifel Bank must maintain total risk-based, Tier 1 risk-based, and Tier 1 leverage ratios as set forth in the tables below (in thousands, except ratios) Stifel Financial Corp. – Federal Reserve Capital Amounts December 31, 2015 Actual For Capital Adequacy Purposes To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Common equity tier 1 capital $ 1,572,883 25.4 % $ 278,996 4.5 % $ 402,994 6.5 % Tier 1 capital 1,631,324 26.3 371,995 6.0 495,993 8.0 Total capital 1,661,746 26.8 495,993 8.0 619,992 10.0 Tier 1 leverage 1,631,324 16.6 392,848 4.0 491,060 5.0 Stifel Bank – Federal Reserve Capital Amounts December 31, 2015 Actual For Capital Adequacy Purposes To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Common equity tier 1 capital $ 457,300 13.6 % 150,802 4.5 % 217,825 6.5 % Tier 1 capital 457,300 13.6 201,069 6.0 268,092 8.0 Total capital 487,844 14.6 268,092 8.0 335,115 10.0 Tier 1 leverage 457,300 8.1 226,905 4.0 283,632 5.0

Interest Income And Interest Ex

Interest Income And Interest Expense	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Banking And Thrift Interest [Abstract]
Interest Income And Interest Expense	NOTE 21 – Interest Income and Interest Expense The components of interest income and interest expense are as follows (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Interest income: Investment securities $ 53,787 $ 71,526 $ 62,155 Bank loans, net of unearned income 79,816 71,167 38,608 Margin balances 22,421 19,095 18,222 Other 23,077 24,181 23,554 $ 179,101 $ 185,969 $ 142,539 Interest expense: Senior notes $ 25,695 $ 26,617 $ 20,648 Bank deposits 7,813 7,926 11,775 Other 11,891 6,718 13,945 $ 45,399 $ 41,261 $ 46,368

Employee Incentive, Deferred Co

Employee Incentive, Deferred Compensation, And Retirement Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Share Based Compensation Allocation And Classification In Financial Statements [Abstract]
Employee Incentive, Deferred Compensation, And Retirement Plans	NOTE 22 – Employee Incentive, Deferred Compensation, and Retirement Plans We maintain several incentive stock award plans that provide for the granting of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, performance award, stock units and debentures to our employees. We are permitted to issue new shares under all stock award plans approved by shareholders or to reissue our treasury shares. Awards under our company’s incentive stock award plans are granted at market value at the date of grant. The awards generally vest ratably over a one- to eight-year vesting period. All stock-based compensation plans are administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors (“Compensation Committee”), which has the authority to interpret the plans, determine to whom awards may be granted under the plans, and determine the terms of each award. According to these plans, we are authorized to grant an additional 5.4 million shares at December 31, 2015. Stock-based compensation expense included in compensation and benefits expense in the consolidated statements of operations for our company’s incentive stock award plans was $142.1 million, $111.6 million, and $124.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. The tax benefit related to stock-based compensation recognized in shareholders’ equity was $14.7 million, $19.9 million, and $12.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. On June 5, 2015, certain employees were granted restricted stock units of our company as retention. The fair value of the awards issued as retention was $23.8 million. The fair value of the awards is based upon the closing price of our company’s common stock on the date of grant. There are no continuing service requirements associated with these restricted stock units, and accordingly were expensed at date of grant. This charge is included in compensation and benefits in the consolidated statement of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015. Stock Options We have substantially eliminated the use of stock options as a form of compensation. During the year ended December 31, 2015, no options were granted. A summary of option activity under the plans as of December 31, 2014, and changes during the year then ended is presented below (in thousands, except exercise price and contractual terms): Options Weighted- average exercise price Weighted-average remaining contractual term Aggregate intrinsic value Outstanding December 31, 2014 126 $ 31.61 Granted — — Exercised 44 16.48 Forfeited — — Expired — — Outstanding December 31, 2015 82 $ 39.88 1.62 $ 1,156 At December 31, 2015, all outstanding options were exercisable. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2015 was not material, The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $1.6 million and $2.8 million, respectively. Cash proceeds from the exercise of stock options were not material for the year ended December 31, 2015. Cash proceeds were $0.3 million and $3.6 million, for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Tax benefits realized from the exercise of stock options for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 were $0.6 million, $0.5 million, and $1.1 million, respectively. Stock Units A stock unit represents the right to receive a share of common stock from our company at a designated time in the future without cash payment by the employee and is issued in lieu of cash incentive, principally for deferred compensation and employee retention plans. The restricted stock units vest on an annual basis over the next one to eight years and are distributable, if vested, at future specified dates. At December 31, 2015, the total number of stock units outstanding was 18.5 million, of which 12.3 million were unvested. A summary of unvested stock unit activity under the plans as of December 31, 2015, and changes during the year then ended is presented below (in thousands, except weighted-average fair value) Stock Units Weighted-average grant date fair value Unvested December 31, 2014 11,404 $ 39.70 Granted 3,672 49.99 Vested (2,313 ) 45.64 Cancelled (489 ) 36.61 Unvested December 31, 2015 12,274 $ 41.78 At December 31, 2015, there was unrecognized compensation cost for stock units of approximately $319 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.3 years. Deferred Compensation Plans The Wealth Accumulation Plan (the “Plan”) is provided to certain revenue producers, officers, and key administrative employees, whereby a certain percentage of their incentive compensation is deferred as defined by the Plan into company stock units and debentures. Participants may elect to defer a portion of their incentive compensation. Deferred awards generally vest over a one- to eight-year period and are distributable upon vesting or at future specified dates. Deferred compensation costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. Elective deferrals are 100% vested. Additionally, the Plan allows Stifel Nicolaus’ financial advisors who achieve certain levels of production, the option to defer a certain percentage of their gross commissions. As stipulated by the Plan, the financial advisors will defer 4% of their gross commissions. They have the option to: 1) defer 5% of their gross commissions into company stock units and may elect to defer an additional 1% of gross commissions into company stock units with a 25% matching contribution, or 2) defer up to 2% in mutual funds, which earn a return based on the performance of index mutual funds as designated by our company or a fixed income option. The mutual fund deferral option does not include a company match. Financial advisors have no ownership in the mutual funds. Included in the investments in the consolidated statements of financial condition are investments in mutual funds of $15.5 million and $18.1 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, that were purchased by our company to economically hedge, on an after-tax basis, its liability to the financial advisors who choose to base the performance of their return on the index mutual fund option. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, the deferred compensation liability related to the mutual fund option of $12.4 million and $15.7 million, respectively, is included in accrued compensation in the consolidated statements of financial condition. In addition, certain financial advisors, upon joining our company, may receive company stock units in lieu of transition cash payments. Deferred compensation related to these awards generally vests over a one- to eight-year period. Deferred compensation costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the deferral period. Employee Profit Sharing Plan Eligible employees of our company who have met certain service requirements may participate in the Stifel Financial Corp. Profit Sharing 401(k) Plan (the “Plan”). Employees are permitted within limitations imposed by tax law to make pre-tax contributions to the Plan. We may match certain employee contributions or make additional contributions to the Plan at the discretion at our discretion. Our contributions to the Profit Sharing Plan were $7.7 million, $4.9 million, and $6.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.

Off-Balance Sheet Credit Risk

Off-Balance Sheet Credit Risk	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Concentration Risks Types No Concentration Percentage [Abstract]
Off-Balance Sheet Credit Risk	NOTE 23 – Off-Balance Sheet Credit Risk In the normal course of business, we execute, settle, and finance customer and proprietary securities transactions. These activities expose our company to off-balance sheet risk in the event that customers or other parties fail to satisfy their obligations. In accordance with industry practice, securities transactions generally settle within three business days after trade date. Should a customer or broker fail to deliver cash or securities as agreed, we may be required to purchase or sell securities at unfavorable market prices. We borrow and lend securities to facilitate the settlement process and finance transactions, utilizing customer margin securities held as collateral. We monitor the adequacy of collateral levels on a daily basis. We periodically borrow from banks on a collateralized basis, utilizing firm and customer margin securities in compliance with SEC rules. Should the counterparty fail to return customer securities pledged, we are subject to the risk of acquiring the securities at prevailing market prices in order to satisfy our customer obligations. We control our exposure to credit risk by continually monitoring our counterparties’ positions, and where deemed necessary, we may require a deposit of additional collateral and/or a reduction or diversification of positions. Our company sells securities it does not currently own (short sales) and is obligated to subsequently purchase such securities at prevailing market prices. We are exposed to risk of loss if securities prices increase prior to closing the transactions. We control our exposure to price risk from short sales through daily review and setting position and trading limits. We manage our risks associated with the aforementioned transactions through position and credit limits and the continuous monitoring of collateral. Additional collateral is required from customers and other counterparties when appropriate. We have accepted collateral in connection with resale agreements, securities borrowed transactions, and customer margin loans. Under many agreements, we are permitted to sell or repledge these securities held as collateral and use these securities to enter into securities lending arrangements or to deliver to counterparties to cover short positions. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, the fair value of securities accepted as collateral where we are permitted to sell or repledge the securities was $2.4 billion and $1.2 billion, respectively, and the fair value of the collateral that had been sold or repledged was $278.7 million and $39.2 million, respectively. We enter into interest rate derivative contracts to manage exposures that arise from business activities that result in the receipt or payment of future known and uncertain cash amounts, the value of which are determined by interest rates. Our derivative financial instruments are principally used to manage differences in the amount, timing, and duration of our known or expected cash payments related to certain variable-rate affiliated deposits. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable-rate amounts from a counterparty in exchange for us making fixed-rate payments. Our interest rate hedging strategies may not work in all market environments and, as a result, may not be effective in mitigating interest rate risk. Derivatives’ notional contract amounts are not reflected as assets or liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Rather, the market or fair value of the derivative transactions are reported in the consolidated statements of financial condition as other assets or accounts payable and accrued expenses, as applicable. For a complete discussion of our activities related to derivative instruments, see Note 15 in the notes to consolidated financial statements. In the ordinary course of business, Stifel Bank has commitments to originate loans, standby letters of credit, and lines of credit. Commitments to originate loans are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established by the contract. These commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since a portion of the commitments may expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash commitments. Each customer’s creditworthiness is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if necessary, is based on the credit evaluation of the counterparty. Collateral held varies, but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant and equipment, commercial real estate, and residential real estate. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, Stifel Bank had outstanding commitments to originate loans aggregating $130.5 million and $122.8 million, respectively. The commitments extended over varying periods of time, with all commitments at December 31, 2015, scheduled to be disbursed in the following three months. Through Stifel Bank, in the normal course of business, we originate residential mortgage loans and sell them to investors. We may be required to repurchase mortgage loans that have been sold to investors in the event there are breaches of certain representations and warranties contained within the sales agreements. We may be required to repurchase mortgage loans that were sold to investors in the event that there was inadequate underwriting or fraud, or in the event that the loans become delinquent shortly after they are originated. We also may be required to indemnify certain purchasers and others against losses they incur in the event of breaches of representations and warranties and in various other circumstances, and the amount of such losses could exceed the repurchase amount of the related loans. Consequently, we may be exposed to credit risk associated with sold loans. Standby letters of credit are irrevocable conditional commitments issued by Stifel Bank to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Financial standby letters of credit are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements, including commercial paper, bond financing, and similar transactions. Performance standby letters of credit are issued to guarantee performance of certain customers under non-financial contractual obligations. The credit risk involved in issuing standby letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loans to customers. Should Stifel Bank be obligated to perform under the standby letters of credit, it may seek recourse from the customer for reimbursement of amounts paid. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, Stifel Bank had outstanding letters of credit totaling $38.7 million and $10.4 million, respectively. A majority of the standby letters of credit commitments at December 31, 2015, have expiration terms that are less than one year. Lines of credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. Lines of credit generally have fixed expiration dates. Stifel Bank uses the same credit policies in granting lines of credit as it does for on-balance sheet instruments. At December 31, 2015 and 2014, Stifel Bank had granted unused lines of credit to commercial and consumer borrowers aggregating $403.2 million and $358.1 million, respectively.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Components Of Income Tax Expense Benefit Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Income Taxes	NOTE 24 – Income Taxes The provision for income taxes consists of the following (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Current taxes: Federal $ 43,962 $ 100,262 $ 26,695 State 9,672 21,835 9,954 Foreign 1,329 (1,831 ) 365 54,963 120,266 37,014 Deferred taxes: Federal (9,396 ) (275 ) (20,724 ) State 3,056 (8,064 ) (2,000 ) Foreign 608 (263 ) (1,968 ) (5,732 ) (8,602 ) (24,692 ) Provision for income taxes $ 49,231 $ 111,664 $ 12,322 Reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate with our company’s effective income tax rate is as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Statutory rate $ 49,548 $ 101,778 $ 64,831 State income taxes, net of federal income tax 7,908 14,860 11,433 Change in valuation allowance 535 (2,433 ) 1,659 Provision to return 904 (2,956 ) (3,003 ) Investment in subsidiary (4,800 ) — (58,153 ) Change in uncertain tax position (3,903 ) 276 (2,956 ) Non-taxable book gain — — (2,647 ) Revaluation of deferred taxes — — (2,290 ) Other, net (961 ) 139 3,448 $ 49,231 $ 111,664 $ 12,322 Tax effect of temporary differences and carryforwards that comprise significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Deferred compensation $ 173,759 $ 161,972 Net operating loss carryforwards 48,831 50,251 Accrued expenses 65,451 37,673 Unrealized loss on investments 27,769 35,855 Depreciation 10,055 13,306 Receivable reserves 16,343 10,595 Investment and jobs creation credit - 350 Total deferred tax assets 342,208 310,002 Valuation allowance (12,738 ) (7,385 ) 329,470 302,617 Deferred tax liabilities: Goodwill and other intangibles (33,437 ) (24,346 ) Change in accounting method (625 ) (12,270 ) Prepaid expenses (4,211 ) (3,602 ) Other (6,070 ) (4,257 ) (44,343 ) (44,475 ) Net deferred tax asset $ 285,127 $ 258,142 Our net deferred tax asset at December 31, 2015, includes net operating loss carryforwards of $77.4 million that expire between 2016 and 2035. A valuation allowance is recorded to the extent that it is more likely than not that any portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. The valuation allowance was increased by $5.4 million to adjust the tax benefit of certain state tax credits and foreign net operating losses that we have determined is more likely than not realizable. We believe the realization of the remaining net deferred tax asset of $285.1 million is more likely than not based on the ability to carry back losses against prior year taxable income and expectations of future taxable income. The current tax payable, included in accounts payable and accrued expenses, is a receivable of $1.0 million and a payable of $31.3 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. We have recorded income tax expense at U.S. tax rates on all profits, except for undistributed profits of our foreign subsidiaries that are considered indefinitely reinvested. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred tax liability related to indefinitely reinvested profits is not feasible. If management’s intentions or U.S. tax laws change in the future, there may be a significant impact on the provision for income taxes to record a change in the tax liability in the period the change occurs. Uncertain Tax Positions As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, we had $2.7 million and $5.5 million, respectively, of gross unrecognized tax benefits, all of which, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in provision for income taxes/(benefits) in the consolidated statements of operations. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, we had accrued interest and penalties of $0.8 million and $1.2 million, respectively, before benefit of federal tax deduction, included in accounts payable and accrued expenses on our consolidated statements of financial condition. The amount of interest and penalties recognized on our consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 was not significant. The following table summarizes the activity related to our company’s unrecognized tax benefits from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Beginning balance $ 5,510 $ 5,158 $ 1,750 Increase related to prior year tax positions 1,206 627 3,044 Decrease related to prior year tax positions (33 ) (443 ) (40 ) Increase related to current year tax positions - 294 133 Decrease related to settlements with taxing authorities (4,815 ) (126 ) (6,086 ) Decrease related to lapsing of statute of limitations — — (356 ) Increase related to business acquisitions 849 — 6,713 Ending balance $ 2,717 $ 5,510 $ 5,158 We file income tax returns with the U.S. federal jurisdiction, various states, and certain foreign jurisdictions. We are not subject to U.S. federal examination for taxable years before 2011. We are not subject to certain state and local, or non-U.S. income tax examinations for taxable years before 2008. There is a reasonable possibility that the unrecognized tax benefits will change within the next 12 months as a result of the expiration of various statutes of limitations or for the resolution of U.S. federal and state examinations, but we do not expect this change to be material to the consolidated financial statements.

Segment Reporting

Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting Information Profit Loss [Abstract]
Segment Reporting	NOTE 25 – Segment Reporting We currently operate through the following three reporting segments: Global Wealth Management, Institutional Group, and various corporate activities combined in the Other segment. Our Global Wealth Management segment consists of two operating segments, the Private Client Group and Stifel Bank. The Private Client Group includes branch offices and independent contractor offices of our broker-dealer subsidiaries located throughout the United States. These branches provide securities brokerage services, including the sale of equities, mutual funds, fixed income products, and insurance, as well as offering banking products to their clients through Stifel Bank. Stifel Bank segment provides residential, consumer, and commercial lending, as well as FDIC-insured deposit accounts to customers of our private client group customers and to the general public. The Institutional Group segment includes institutional sales and trading. It provides securities brokerage, trading, and research services to institutions, with an emphasis on the sale of equity and fixed income products. This segment also includes the management of and participation in underwritings for both corporate and public finance (exclusive of sales credits generated through the private client group, which are included in the Global Wealth Management segment), merger and acquisition, and financial advisory services. The Other segment includes interest income from stock borrow activities, unallocated interest expense, interest income and gains and losses from investments held, compensation expense associated with the expensing of restricted stock awards with no continuing service requirements in conjunction with recent acquisitions, and all unallocated overhead cost associated with the execution of orders; processing of securities transactions; custody of client securities; receipt, identification, and delivery of funds and securities; compliance with regulatory and legal requirements; internal financial accounting and controls; and general administration and acquisition charges. Information concerning operations in these segments of business for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 is as follows (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Net revenues: (1) Global Wealth Management $ 1,377,313 $ 1,232,651 $ 1,117,179 Institutional Group 975,594 997,071 864,371 Other (21,313 ) (21,298 ) (8,104 ) $ 2,331,594 $ 2,208,424 $ 1,973,446 Income/(loss) before income taxes: Global Wealth Management $ 382,126 $ 346,978 $ 299,572 Institutional Group 141,042 165,546 149,599 Other (381,601 ) (221,730 ) (263,942 ) $ 141,567 $ 290,794 $ 185,229 1 No individual client accounted for more than 10 percent of total net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013. The following table presents our company’s total assets on a segment basis at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Global Wealth Management $ 10,519,575 $ 5,816,284 Institutional Group 2,193,781 3,476,592 Other 622,559 225,275 $ 13,335,915 $ 9,518,151 We have operations in the United States, United Kingdom, and Europe. The Company’s foreign operations are conducted through its wholly owned subsidiary, SNEL. Substantially all long-lived assets are located in the United States. Revenues, classified by the major geographic areas in which they are earned for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 United States $ 2,195,538 $ 2,082,876 $ 1,894,300 United Kingdom 125,552 113,943 67,394 Other European 10,504 11,605 11,752 $ 2,331,594 $ 2,208,424 $ 1,973,446

Earnings Per Share ("EPS")

Earnings Per Share ("EPS")	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	NOTE 26 – Earnings Per Share (“EPS”) Basic EPS is computed by dividing earnings available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock that then shared in the earnings of the entity. Diluted earnings per share include dilutive stock options and stock units under the treasury stock method. The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 (in thousands, except per share data) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Income from continuing operations $ 92,336 $ 179,130 $ 172,907 Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax — (3,063 ) (10,894 ) Net income $ 92,336 $ 176,067 $ 162,013 Shares for basic and diluted calculation: Average shares used in basic computation 68,543 66,472 63,568 Dilutive effect of stock options and units (1) 10,011 9,904 9,936 Average shares used in diluted computation 78,554 76,376 73,504 Earnings per basic common share: Income from continuing operations $ 1.35 $ 2.69 $ 2.72 Loss from discontinued operations — (0.04 ) (0.17 ) Earnings per basic common share $ 1.35 $ 2.65 $ 2.55 Earnings per diluted common share: Income from continuing operations $ 1.18 $ 2.35 $ 2.35 Loss from discontinued operations — (0.04 ) (0.15 ) Earnings per basic common share $ 1.18 $ 2.31 $ 2.20 1 Diluted earnings per share is computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of shares of common stock plus the effect of dilutive potential common shares outstanding during the period using the treasury stock method. Diluted earnings per share include stock options and units. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, the anti-dilutive effect from restricted stock units was immaterial.

Shareholders' Equity

Shareholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Shareholders' Equity	NOTE 27 – Shareholders’ Equity Share Repurchase Program We have an ongoing authorization from the Board of Directors to repurchase our common stock in the open market or in negotiated transactions. At December 31, 2015, the maximum number of shares that may yet be purchased under this plan was 5.8 million. The repurchase program has no expiration date. These purchases may be made on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, depending upon market conditions and other factors. Repurchased shares may be used to meet obligations under our employee benefit plans and for general corporate purposes. During the year ended December 31, 2015, we repurchased $ 117.7 Issuance of Common Stock On June 5, 2015, we issued 1.4 million shares related to the purchase of Sterne Agee Group, Inc. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding the acquisition. During the year ended December 31, 2014, we issued 2.6 million shares. During the years ended December 31, 2013, we issued 8.8 million shares, which included the reissuance of 0.5 million shares from treasury. Share issuances during the year ended December 31, 2015, were primarily a result of the vesting and exercise transactions under our incentive stock award plans and shares issued as part of the purchase consideration in our acquisition of Sterne. Share issuances during the year ended December 31, 2014, were primarily a result of the vesting and exercise transactions under our incentive stock award plans and shares issued as part of the purchase consideration in our acquisition of Oriel and Merchant. Share issuances during the year ended December 31, 2013, were primarily a result of the vesting and exercise transactions under our incentive stock award plans and shares issued as part of the purchase consideration in our acquisition of KBW, Inc and ZCM. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our acquisitions. On February 15, 2013, we issued 6.7 million shares related to the purchase of KBW, Inc. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our acquisitions. On November 30, 2013, we issued 0.1 million shares related to the purchase of ZCM. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our acquisitions. On July 31, 2014, we issued 0.3 million shares related to the purchase of Oriel. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our acquisitions. On December 31, 2014, we issued 0.1 million shares related to the purchase of Merchant. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding our acquisitions.

Variable Interest Entities

Variable Interest Entities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Variable Interest Entity Not Primary Beneficiary Disclosures [Abstract]
Variable Interest Entities	NOTE 28 – Variable Interest Entities Our company’s involvement with VIEs is limited to entities used as investment vehicles and private equity funds, the establishment of Stifel Financial Capital Trusts, and our issuance of a convertible promissory note. We have formed several non-consolidated investment funds with third-party investors that are typically organized as limited liability companies (“LLCs”) or limited partnerships. These partnerships and LLCs have assets of $199.3 million at December 31, 2015. For those funds where we act as the general partner, our company’s economic interest is generally limited to management fee arrangements as stipulated by the fund operating agreements. We have generally provided the third-party investors with rights to terminate the funds or to remove us as the general partner. Management fee revenue earned by our company was insignificant during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013. In addition, our direct investment interest in these entities is insignificant at December 31, 2015 and 2014. Thomas Weisel Capital Management LLC, a subsidiary of our company, acts as the general partner of a series of investment funds in venture capital and fund of funds and manages investment funds that are active buyers of secondary interests in private equity funds, as well as portfolios of direct interests in venture-backed companies. These partnerships have combined assets of $271.1 million at December 31, 2015. We hold variable interests in these funds as a result of our company’s rights to receive management fees. Our company’s investment in and additional capital commitments to the private equity funds are also considered variable interests. The additional capital commitments are subject to call at a later date and are limited in amount. Our exposure to loss is limited to our investments in, advances and commitments to, and receivables due from these funds, and that exposure is insignificant at December 31, 2015. Management fee revenue earned by our company was insignificant during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013. For the entities noted above that were determined to be VIEs, we have concluded that we are not the primary beneficiary, and therefore, we are not required to consolidate these entities. Additionally, for certain other entities, we reviewed other relevant accounting guidance, which states the general partner in a limited partnership is presumed to control that limited partnership. The presumption may be overcome if the limited partners have either: (1) the substantive ability to dissolve the limited partnership or otherwise remove the general partner without cause, or (2) substantive participating rights, which provide the limited partners with the ability to effectively participate in significant decisions that would be expected to be made in the ordinary course of the limited partnership’s business and thereby preclude the general partner from exercising unilateral control over the partnership. If the criteria are not met, the consolidation of the partnership or limited liability company is required. Based on our evaluation of these entities, we determined that these entities do not require consolidation. Debenture to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts We have completed private placements of cumulative trust preferred securities through Stifel Financial Capital Trust II, Stifel Financial Capital Trust III, and Stifel Financial Capital Trust IV (collectively, the “Trusts”). The Trusts are non-consolidated wholly owned business trust subsidiaries of our company and were established for the limited purpose of issuing trust securities to third parties and lending the proceeds to our company. The trust preferred securities represent an indirect interest in junior subordinated debentures purchased from our company by the Trusts, and we effectively provide for the full and unconditional guarantee of the securities issued by the Trusts. We make timely payments of interest to the Trusts as required by contractual obligations, which are sufficient to cover payments due on the securities issued by the Trusts, and believe that it is unlikely that any circumstances would occur that would make it necessary for our company to make payments related to these Trusts other than those required under the terms of the debenture agreements and the trust preferred securities agreements. The Trusts were determined to be VIEs because the holders of the equity investment at risk do not have adequate decision-making ability over the Trust’s activities. Our investment in the Trusts is not a variable interest, because equity interests are variable interests only to the extent that the investment is considered to be at risk. Because our investment was funded by the Trusts, it is not considered to be at risk. Interest in FSI Group, LLC (“FSI”) We have provided financing of $18.0 million in the form of a convertible promissory note to FSI, a limited liability company specializing in investing in banks, thrifts, insurance companies, and other financial services firms. In February 2013, the convertible promissory note was amended and restated. The convertible promissory note matures in April 2018; however, FSI has three five-year extension options. The note is convertible at our election into a 49.9% interest in FSI only after the last extension option. The convertible promissory note has a minimum coupon rate equal to 8% per annum plus additional interest related to certain defined cash flows of the business, not to exceed 18% per annum. As we do not hold the power to direct the activities of FSI nor to absorb a majority of the expected losses, or receive a majority of the expected benefits, it was determined that we are not required to consolidate this entity. Our company’s exposure to loss is limited to the carrying value of the note with FSI at December 31, 2015, of $18.0 million, which is included in other assets in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Our company had no liabilities related to this entity at December 31, 2015. We have the discretion to make additional capital contributions. We have not provided financial or other support to FSI that we were not previously contractually required to provide as of December 31, 2015. Our company’s involvement with FSI has not had a material effect on our consolidated financial position, operations, or cash flows.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	NOTE 29 – Subsequent Events We evaluate subsequent events that have occurred after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued. There are two types of subsequent events: (1) recognized, or those that provide additional evidence about conditions that existed at the date of the balance sheet, including the estimates inherent in the process of preparing financial statements, and (2) non-recognized, or those that provide evidence about conditions that did not exist at the date of the balance sheet but arose after that date.

Quarterly Financial Information

Quarterly Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information	NOTE 30 – Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (in thousands, except per share amounts) 1 st 2 nd 3 rd 4 th Year Ended December 31, 2015: Total revenues $ 574,001 $ 607,849 $ 601,371 $ 593,771 Interest expense 13,019 10,098 9,796 12,485 Net revenues 560,982 597,751 591,575 581,286 Total non-interest expenses 490,916 559,680 569,227 570,204 Income from continuing operations before income tax expense 70,066 38,071 22,348 11,082 Provision for income taxes 26,969 17,183 5,169 (90 ) Income from continuing operations 43,097 20,888 17,179 11,172 Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax — — — — Net income $ 43,097 $ 20,888 $ 17,179 $ 11,172 Earnings per basic common share Income from continuing operations $ 0.62 $ 0.31 $ 0.25 $ 0.16 Loss from discontinued operations — — — — Earnings per basic common share $ 0.62 $ 0.31 $ 0.25 $ 0.16 Earnings per diluted common share Income from continuing operations $ 0.56 $ 0.27 $ 0.22 $ 0.14 Loss from discontinued operations — — — — Earnings per diluted common share $ 0.56 $ 0.27 $ 0.22 $ 0.14 Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding: Basic 68,006 68,370 69,633 68,150 Diluted 77,359 77,856 79,759 79,355 (in thousands, except per share amounts) 1 st 2 nd 3 rd 4 th Year Ended December 31, 2014: Total revenues $ 555,377 $ 568,989 $ 534,683 $ 590,636 Interest expense 8,631 8,842 11,228 12,560 Net revenues 546,746 560,147 523,455 578,076 Total non-interest expenses 468,618 482,624 457,689 508,698 Income from continuing operations before income tax expense 78,128 77,523 65,766 69,378 Provision for income taxes 30,155 31,946 25,673 23,890 Income from continuing operations 47,973 45,577 40,093 45,488 Income/(loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (591 ) (1,976 ) (190 ) (306 ) Net income $ 47,382 $ 43,601 $ 39,903 $ 45,182 Earnings per basic common share Income from continuing operations $ 0.73 $ 0.69 $ 0.60 $ 0.67 Loss from discontinued operations (0.01 ) (0.03 ) — — Earnings per basic common share $ 0.72 $ 0.66 $ 0.60 $ 0.67 Earnings per diluted common share Income from continuing operations $ 0.63 $ 0.60 $ 0.52 $ 0.59 Loss from discontinued operations — (0.02 ) — (0.01 ) Earnings per diluted common share $ 0.63 $ 0.58 $ 0.52 $ 0.58 Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding: Basic 66,037 66,302 66,691 66,851 Diluted 75,691 75,641 76,681 77,540

Nature of Operations and Basi38

Nature of Operations and Basis Of Presentation (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Nature Of Operations	Nature of Operations Stifel Financial Corp. (the “Parent”), through its wholly owned subsidiaries, is principally engaged in retail brokerage; securities trading; investment banking; investment advisory; retail, consumer, and commercial banking; and related financial services. We have offices throughout the United States and several European cities. Our major geographic area of concentration is throughout the United States, with a growing presence in the United Kingdom and Europe. Our company’s principal customers are individual investors, corporations, municipalities, and institutions.
Consolidation Policies	Consolidation Policies The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Stifel Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries. We also have investments or interests in other entities for which we must evaluate whether to consolidate by determining whether we have a controlling financial interest or are considered to be the primary beneficiary. In determining whether to consolidate these entities, we evaluate whether the entity is a voting interest entity or a variable interest entity (“VIE”).
Voting Interest Entity	Voting Interest Entity. Voting interest entities are entities that have (i) total equity investment at risk sufficient to fund expected future operations independently, and (ii) equity holders who have the obligation to absorb losses or receive residual returns and the right to make decisions about the entity’s activities. We consolidate voting interest entities when we determine that there is a controlling financial interest, usually ownership of all, or a majority of, the voting interest.
Variable Interest Entity	Variable Interest Entity. VIEs are entities that lack one or more of the characteristics of a voting interest entity. We are required to consolidate certain VIEs in which we have the power to direct the activities of the entity and the obligation to absorb significant losses or receive significant benefits. In other cases, we consolidate VIEs when we are deemed to be the primary beneficiary. The primary beneficiary is defined as the entity that has a variable interest, or a combination of variable interests, that maintains control and receives benefits or will absorb losses that are not pro rata with its ownership interests. The determination as to whether an entity is a VIE is based on the structure and nature of the entity. We also consider other characteristics, such as the ability to influence the decision-making relative to the entity’s activities and how the entity is financed. With the exception of entities eligible for the deferral codified in Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2010-10, “Consolidation: Amendments for Certain Investment Funds” (“ASU 2010-10”) (generally asset managers and investment companies), ASC 810 states that a controlling financial interest in an entity is present when an enterprise has a variable interest, or combination of variable interests, that have both the power to direct the activities of the entity that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and the obligation to absorb losses of the entity or the rights to receive benefits from the entity that could potentially be significant to the entity. Entities meeting the deferral provision defined by ASU 2010-10 are evaluated under the historical VIE guidance. Under the historical guidance, a controlling financial interest in an entity is present when an enterprise has a variable interest, or combination of variable interests, that will absorb a majority of the entity’s expected losses, receive a majority of the entity’s expected residual returns, or both. The enterprise with a controlling financial interest, known as the primary beneficiary, consolidates the VIE. We determine whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE by first performing a qualitative analysis of the VIE’s control structure, expected benefits and losses, and expected residual returns. This analysis includes a review of, among other factors, the VIE’s capital structure, contractual terms, which interests create or absorb benefits or losses, variability, related party relationships, and the design of the VIE. Where a qualitative analysis is not conclusive, we perform a quantitative analysis. We reassess our initial evaluation of an entity as a VIE and our initial determination of whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE upon the occurrence of certain reconsideration events. See Note 28 for additional information on VIEs.

Summary Of Significant Accoun39

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents We consider money market mutual funds and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are not restricted or segregated to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents include money market mutual funds, deposits with banks, certificates of deposit, and federal funds sold. Cash and cash equivalents also include balances that Stifel Bank maintains at the Federal Reserve Bank.
Cash Segregated For Regulatory Purposes	Cash Segregated for Regulatory Purposes Our broker-dealer subsidiaries are subject to Rule 15c3-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which requires our company to maintain cash or qualified securities in a segregated reserve accounts for the exclusive benefit of its clients. In accordance with Rule 15c3-3, our company has portions of its cash segregated for the exclusive benefit of clients at December 31, 2015.
Brokerage Client Receivables, Net	Brokerage Client Receivables, Net Brokerage client receivables include receivables of our company’s broker-dealer subsidiaries, which represent amounts due on cash and margin transactions and are generally collateralized by securities owned by clients. Brokerage client receivables, primarily consisting of floating-rate loans collateralized by customer-owned securities, are charged interest at rates similar to other such loans made throughout the industry. The receivables are reported at their outstanding principal balance net of allowance for doubtful accounts. When a brokerage client receivable is considered to be impaired, the amount of the impairment is generally measured based on the fair value of the securities acting as collateral, which is measured based on current prices from independent sources, such as listed market prices or broker-dealer price quotations. Securities owned by customers, including those that collateralize margin or other similar transactions, are not reflected in the consolidated statements of financial condition.
Securities Borrowed and Securities Loaned	Securities Borrowed and Securities Loaned Securities borrowed require our company to deliver cash to the lender in exchange for securities and are included in receivables from brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations in the consolidated statements of financial condition. For securities loaned, we generally receive collateral in the form of cash in an amount in excess of the market value of securities loaned. Securities loaned are included in payables to brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations in the consolidated statements of financial condition. We monitor the market value of securities borrowed and loaned on a daily basis, with additional collateral obtained or refunded as necessary. Fees received or paid are recorded in interest revenue or interest expense. Substantially all of these transactions are executed under master netting agreements, which gives us right of offset in the event of counterparty default; however, such receivables and payables with the same counterparty are not set-off in the consolidated statements of financial condition.
Securities Purchased Under Agreements to Resell and Repurchase Agreements	Securities Purchased Under Agreements to Resell and Repurchase Agreements Securities purchased under agreements to resell (“resale agreements”) are collateralized financing transactions that are recorded at their contractual amounts plus accrued interest. We obtain control of collateral with a market value equal to or in excess of the principal amount loaned and accrued interest under resale agreements. These agreements are short-term in nature and are collateralized by U.S. government agency securities. We value collateral on a daily basis, with additional collateral obtained when necessary to minimize the risk associated with this activity. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase (“repurchase agreements”) are collateralized financing transactions that are recorded at their contractual amounts plus accrued interest. We make delivery of securities sold under agreements to repurchase and monitor the value of collateral on a daily basis. When necessary, we will deliver additional collateral.
Financial Instruments	Financial Instruments We measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis, including cash equivalents, financial instruments owned, available-for-sale securities, investments, financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, and derivatives. Other than those separately discussed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements, the remaining financial instruments are generally short-term in nature, and their carrying values approximate fair value. The fair value of a financial instrument is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., “the exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. We have categorized our financial instruments measured at fair value into a three-level classification in accordance with Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurement,” Level 1 – Quoted prices (unadjusted) are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities as of the measurement date. A quoted price for an identical asset or liability in an active market provides the most reliable fair value measurement, because it is directly observable to the market. Level 2 – Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets, which are either directly or indirectly observable as of the measurement date. The nature of these financial instruments includes instruments for which quoted prices are available but traded less frequently, derivative instruments whose fair value have been derived using a model where inputs to the model are directly observable in the market, or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data, and instruments that are fair valued using other financial instruments, the parameters of which can be directly observed. Level 3 – Instruments that have little to no pricing observability as of the measurement date. These financial instruments do not have two-way markets and are measured using management’s best estimate of fair value, where the inputs into the determination of fair value require significant management judgment or estimation. Valuation of Financial Instruments When available, we use observable market prices, observable market parameters, or broker or dealer prices (bid and ask prices) to derive the fair value of financial instruments. In the case of financial instruments transacted on recognized exchanges, the observable market prices represent quotations for completed transactions from the exchange on which the financial instrument is principally traded. A substantial percentage of the fair value of our financial instruments owned, available-for-sale securities, investments, and financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, are based on observable market prices, observable market parameters, or derived from broker or dealer prices. The availability of observable market prices and pricing parameters can vary from product to product. Where available, observable market prices and pricing or market parameters in a product may be used to derive a price without requiring significant judgment. In certain markets, observable market prices or market parameters are not available for all products, and fair value is determined using techniques appropriate for each particular product. These techniques involve some degree of judgment. For investments in illiquid or privately held securities that do not have readily determinable fair values, the determination of fair value requires us to estimate the value of the securities using the best information available. Among the factors we consider in determining the fair value of investments are the cost of the investment, terms and liquidity, developments since the acquisition of the investment, the sales price of recently issued securities, the financial condition and operating results of the issuer, earnings trends and consistency of operating cash flows, the long-term business potential of the issuer, the quoted market price of securities with similar quality and yield that are publicly traded, and other factors generally pertinent to the valuation of investments. In instances where a security is subject to transfer restrictions, the value of the security is based primarily on the quoted price of a similar security without restriction but may be reduced by an amount estimated to reflect such restrictions. The fair value of these investments is subject to a high degree of volatility and may be susceptible to significant fluctuation in the near term, and the differences could be material. The degree of judgment used in measuring the fair value of financial instruments generally correlates to the level of pricing observability. Pricing observability is impacted by a number of factors, including the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new to the market and not yet established, and the characteristics specific to the transaction. Financial instruments with readily available active quoted prices for which fair value can be measured from actively quoted prices generally will have a higher degree of pricing observability and a lesser degree of judgment used in measuring fair value. Conversely, financial instruments rarely traded or not quoted will generally have less, or no, pricing observability and a higher degree of judgment used in measuring fair value. See Note 6 for additional information on how we value our financial instruments.
Available-for-Sale and Held-to-Maturity Securities	Available-for-Sale and Held-to-Maturity Securities Securities available for sale include U.S. government agency securities; state and municipal securities; agency, non-agency, and commercial mortgage-backed securities; corporate fixed income securities; and asset-backed securities. Securities held to maturity are recorded at amortized cost based on our company’s positive intent and ability to hold these securities to maturity. Securities held to maturity include agency and commercial mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, consisting of collateralized loan obligation securities and ARS, and corporate fixed income securities. We evaluate all securities in an unrealized loss position quarterly to assess whether the impairment is other-than-temporary on a quarterly basis. Our other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) assessment is a subjective process requiring the use of judgments and assumptions. Accordingly, we consider a number of qualitative and quantitative criteria in our assessment, including the extent and duration of the impairment, recent events specific to the issuer and/or industry to which the issuer belongs, the payment structure of the security, external credit ratings and the failure of the issuer to make scheduled interest or principal payments, the value of underlying collateral, current market conditions, and our company’s ability and intent to hold the investment until its value recovers or the securities mature. We may determine that the decline in fair value of an investment is other-than-temporary if our analysis of these factors indicates that we will not recover our investment in the securities. If we determine that impairment on our debt securities is other-than-temporary and we have made the decision to sell the security or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis, we recognize the entire portion of the impairment in earnings. If we have not made a decision to sell the security and we do not expect that we will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of the amortized cost basis, we recognize only the credit component of OTTI in other income in the consolidated statements of operations. The remaining unrealized loss due to factors other than credit, or the non-credit component, is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss. We determine the credit component based on the difference between the security’s amortized cost basis and the present value of its expected future cash flows, discounted based on the purchase yield. The non-credit component represents the difference between the security’s fair value and the present value of expected future cash flows. We estimate the portion of loss attributable to credit using a discounted cash flow model. Key assumptions used in estimating the expected cash flows include default rates, loss severity, and prepayment rates. Assumptions used can vary widely based on the collateral underlying the securities and are influenced by factors such as collateral type, loan interest rate, geographical location of the borrower, and borrower characteristics. Unrealized gains and losses on our available-for-sale securities are reported, net of taxes, in accumulated other comprehensive income included in shareholders’ equity. Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts are recorded as interest income using the interest method. Realized gains and losses from sales of securities available for sale are determined on a specific identification basis and are included in other revenue in the consolidated statements of operations in the period they are sold.
Loan Classification	Loan Classification We classify loans based on our investment strategy and management’s assessment of our intent and ability to hold loans for the foreseeable future or until maturity. Management’s intent and ability with respect to certain loans may change from time to time depending on a number of factors, including economic, liquidity, and capital conditions. The accounting and measurement framework for loans differs depending on the loan classification. The classification criteria and accounting and measurement framework for bank loans and loans held for sale are described below. Bank Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses Bank loans consist of commercial and residential mortgage loans, home equity loans, stock-secured loans, construction loans, and commercial and industrial and consumer loans originated or acquired by Stifel Bank. Bank loans include those loans that management has the intent and ability to hold and are recorded at outstanding principal adjusted for any charge-offs, allowance for loan losses, deferred origination fees and costs, and purchased discounts. Loan origination costs, net of fees, are deferred and recognized over the contractual life of the loan as an adjustment of yield using the interest method. Bank loans are generally collateralized by real estate, real property, marketable securities, or other assets of the borrower. Interest income is recognized using the effective interest rate method, which is based upon the respective interest rates and the average daily asset balance. Discount accretion is recognized using the effective interest rate method, which is based upon the respective interest rate and expected lives of loans. We regularly review the loan portfolio and have established an allowance for loan losses for inherent losses estimated to have occurred in the loan portfolio through a provision for loan losses charged to other operating expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. In providing for the allowance for loan losses, we consider historical loss experience, the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, estimated value of any underlying collateral, and prevailing economic conditions. This evaluation is inherently subjective, as it requires estimates that are susceptible to significant revision as more information becomes available. Loans Held for Sale Loans that we intend to sell or for which we do not have the ability and intent to hold for the foreseeable future are classified as held for sale. Loans held for sale consist of fixed-rate and adjustable-rate residential real estate mortgage loans intended for sale. Loans held for sale are stated at lower of cost or market value. Declines in market value below cost and any gains or losses on the sale of these assets are recognized in other revenues in the consolidated statements of operations. Market value is determined based on prevailing market prices for loans with similar characteristics or on sale contract prices. Deferred fees and costs related to these loans are not amortized but are recognized as part of the cost basis of the loan at the time it is sold. Because loans held for sale are reported at lower of cost or market value, an allowance for loan losses is not established for loans held for sale.
Impaired Loans	Impaired Loans A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the scheduled payments of principal or interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement will not be collectible. Factors considered in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value, and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. We determine the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of the delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower's prior payment record, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. Once a loan is determined to be impaired, when principal or interest becomes 90 days past due or when collection becomes uncertain, the accrual of interest and amortization of deferred loan origination fees is discontinued (“non-accrual status”) and any accrued and unpaid interest income is reversed. Loans placed on non-accrual status are returned to accrual status when all delinquent principal and interest payments are collected and the collectibility of future principal and interest payments is reasonably assured. Loan losses are charged against the allowance when we believe the uncollectibility of a loan balance is certain. Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance for loan losses. Large groups of smaller balance homogenous loans are collectively evaluated for impairment. Accordingly, we do not separately identify individual consumer and residential loans for impairment measurements. Impairment is measured on a loan-by-loan basis for non-homogeneous loans, and a specific allowance is established for individual loans determined to be impaired. Impairment is measured by comparing the carrying value of the impaired loan to the present value of its expected cash flow discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the loan’s observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent.
Investments	Investments Our broker-dealer subsidiaries report changes in fair value of marketable and non-marketable securities in other income in the consolidated statements of operations. The fair value of marketable investments is generally based on either quoted market or dealer prices. The fair value of non-marketable securities is based on management’s estimate using the best information available, which generally consists of quoted market prices for similar securities and internally developed discounted cash flow models. Investments in the consolidated statements of financial condition contain investments in securities that are marketable and securities that are not readily marketable. These investments are not included in our broker-dealer trading inventory or available-for-sale or held-to-maturity portfolios and represent the acquiring and disposing of debt or equity instruments for our benefit.
Fixed Assets	Fixed Assets Office equipment is depreciated on an accelerated basis over the estimated useful life of the asset of two to seven years. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the estimated useful life of the asset or the term of the lease. Buildings and building improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the asset of three to thirty-nine years. Depreciation expense is recorded in occupancy and equipment rental expense in the consolidated statements of operations. Office equipment, leasehold improvements, and property are stated at cost net of accumulated depreciation and amortization in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Office equipment is reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the cost of acquired businesses in excess of the fair value of the related net assets acquired. We test goodwill for impairment on an annual basis and on an interim basis when certain events or circumstances exist. We test for impairment at the reporting unit level, which is generally at the level of or one level below our company’s business segments. For both the annual and interim tests, we have the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances leads to a determination that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, we determine it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is greater than its carrying amount, then performing the two-step impairment test is not required. However, if we conclude otherwise, we are then required to perform the first step of the two-step impairment test. Goodwill impairment is determined by comparing the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its respective carrying value. If the estimated fair value exceeds the carrying value, goodwill at the reporting unit level is not deemed to be impaired. If the estimated fair value is below carrying value, however, further analysis is required to determine the amount of the impairment. Additionally, if the carrying value of a reporting unit is zero or a negative value and it is determined that it is more likely than not the goodwill is impaired, further analysis is required. The estimated fair values of the reporting units are derived based on valuation techniques we believe market participants would use for each of the reporting units. We have elected July 31 as our annual impairment testing date. Identifiable intangible assets, which are amortized over their estimated useful lives, are tested for potential impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances suggest that the carrying value of an asset or asset group may not be fully recoverable.
Loan And Advances	Loans and Advances We offer transition pay, principally in the form of upfront loans, to financial advisors and certain key revenue producers as part of our company’s overall growth strategy. These loans are generally forgiven by a charge to compensation and benefits over a five- to ten-year period if the individual satisfies certain conditions, usually based on continued employment and certain performance standards. We monitor and compare individual financial advisor production to each loan issued to ensure future recoverability. If the individual leaves before the term of the loan expires or fails to meet certain performance standards, the individual is required to repay the balance. In determining the allowance for doubtful receivables from former employees, management considers the facts and circumstances surrounding each receivable, including the amount of the unforgiven balance, the reasons for the terminated employment relationship, and the former employees’ overall financial situation.
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities	Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities We recognize all of our derivative instruments at fair value as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition. These instruments are recorded in other assets or accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition and in the operating section of the consolidated statements of cash flows as increases or decreases of other assets and accounts payable and accrued expenses. Our company’s policy is not to offset fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments and fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral or the obligation to return cash collateral arising from derivative instruments recognized at fair value executed with the same counterparty under master netting arrangements. The accounting for changes in the fair value (i.e., gains and losses) of a derivative instrument depends on whether it has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship and, further, on the type of hedging relationship. For those derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments under Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging,” For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges (i.e., hedging the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows that is attributable to a particular risk), the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax, and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The remaining gain or loss on the derivative instrument in excess of the cumulative change in the present value of future cash flows of the hedged item, if any, is recognized in current earnings during the period of change. We do not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes and, at December 31, 2015, do not have any derivatives that are not designated in qualifying cash flow hedging relationships. See Note 15 for additional details.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Customer securities transactions are recorded on a settlement date basis, with related commission revenues and expenses recorded on a trade date basis. Commission revenues are recorded as the amount charged to the customer, which, in certain cases, may include varying discounts. Principal securities transactions are recorded on a trade date basis. We typically distribute our proprietary equity research products to our client base of institutional investors at no charge. These proprietary equity research products are accounted for as a cost of doing business. Investment banking revenues, which include underwriting fees, management fees, advisory fees, and sales credits earned in connection with the distribution of the underwritten securities, are recorded when services for the transactions are completed under the terms of each engagement. Expenses associated with such transactions are deferred until the related revenue is recognized or the engagement is otherwise concluded. Investment banking revenues are presented net of related unreimbursed expenses. Expenses related to investment banking deals not completed are recognized as non-interest expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. For the periods presented, there were no significant expenses recognized for incomplete transactions. We have not recognized any incentive income that is subject to contingent repayments. Asset management and service fees are recorded when earned, based on the period-end assets in the accounts, and consist of customer account service fees, per account fees (such as IRA fees), and wrap fees on managed accounts. We earn fees from the investment partnerships that we manage or of which we are a general partner. Such management fees are generally based on the net assets or committed capital of the underlying partnerships. We have agreed, in certain cases, to waive management fees, in lieu of making a cash contribution, in satisfaction of our general partner investment commitments to the investment partnerships. In these cases, we generally recognize our management fee revenues at the time when we are allocated a special profit interest in realized gains from these partnerships.
Direct Financing And Operating Leases	Operating Leases We lease office space and equipment under operating leases. We recognize rent expense related to these operating leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The lease term commences on the earlier of the date when we become legally obligated for the rent payments or the date on which we take possession of the property. For tenant improvement allowances and rent holidays, we record a deferred rent liability in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition and amortize the deferred rent over the lease term as a reduction to occupancy and equipment rental expense in the consolidated statements of operations.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes We compute income taxes using the asset and liability method, under which deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of our company’s assets and liabilities. We establish a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that these items will either expire before we are able to realize their benefits, or that future deductibility is uncertain. We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the consolidated financial statements from such a position are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in provision for income taxes/(benefit) in the consolidated statements of operations. See Note 24 for further information regarding income taxes.
Foreign Currency Translation	Foreign Currency Translation We consolidate our foreign subsidiaries, which have designated their local currency as their functional currency. Assets and liabilities of these foreign subsidiaries are translated at year-end rates of exchange. Revenues and expenses are translated at an average rate for the period. In accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 830, “Foreign Currency Matters,”
Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance	Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance Business Combinations In September 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) No. 2015-16, Business Combinations (Topic 805): "Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments" (“ASU 2015-16”), which eliminates the requirement for an acquirer in a business combination to account for measurement-period adjustments retrospectively. Under this ASU, acquirers must recognize measurement-period adjustments in the period in which they determine the amounts, including the effect on earnings of any amounts they would have recorded in previous periods if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date. This guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. We elected to early adopt this ASU in the third quarter of 2015. The adoption of ASU 2015-16 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value per Share In May 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-07, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent).” The guidance removes the requirement to categorize within the fair value hierarchy all investments for which fair value is measured using the net asset value per share practical expedient. The guidance also removes the requirement to make certain disclosures for all investments that are eligible to be measured at fair value using the net asset value per share practical expedient. Rather, those disclosures are limited to investments for which the entity has elected to measure the fair value using that practical expedient. The guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015 and for interim periods within those years. The guidance shall be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. Early application is permitted. The guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Interest - Imputation of Interest In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, “Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs” (“ASU 2015-03”). The guidance in ASU 2015-03 requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. ASU 2015-03 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted, and a retrospective approach is required. The guidance is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Consolidation In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-02, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis” that amends the criteria for determining whether limited partnerships and similar entities are VIEs, clarifies when a general partner or asset manager should consolidate an entity and eliminates the indefinite deferral of certain aspects of VIE accounting guidance for investments in certain investment funds. Money market funds registered under Rule 2a-7 of the Investment Company Act and similar funds are exempt from consolidation under the new guidance. The new accounting guidance is effective beginning on January 1, 2016. Early adoption is permitted. We elected to early adopt this ASU in 2015. The adoption of ASU 2015-02 did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Repurchase Agreements In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-11, "Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860): Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures," ("ASU 2014-11") amending FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 860, "Transfers and Servicing." The amended guidance changes the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions and repurchase financing arrangements. The guidance also requires new disclosures for certain transfers accounted for as sales and collateral supporting transactions that are accounted for as secured borrowings. ASU 2014-11 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2014, except for the disclosures related to secured borrowings, which are effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2014, and for interim periods beginning after March 15, 2015. The adoption of ASU 2014-11 did not have a material impact on our results of operations or financial position. Revenue Recognition In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)," ("ASU 2014-09") which supersedes current revenue recognition guidance, including most industry-specific guidance. ASU 2014-09 requires a company to recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. The guidance also requires additional disclosures regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized. The FASB has approved a one year deferral of this standard, and this pronouncement is now effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period and is to be applied using one of two retrospective application methods, with early application not permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements. Discontinued Operations In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity,” “Discontinued Operations,”

Discontinued Operations (Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Discontinued Operations And Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Components Of Discontinued Operations	(in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Net revenues $ — $ (121 ) $ 11,794 Restructuring expense — 217 6,881 Operating expenses — 3,924 15,697 Total non-interest expenses — 4,141 22,578 Loss from discontinued operations before income tax expense — (4,262 ) (10,784 ) Income tax expense/(benefit) — (1,199 ) 110 Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax $ — $ (3,063 ) $ (10,894 )

Receivables From And Payables41

Receivables From And Payables To Brokers, Dealers And Clearing Organizations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Due To And From Broker Dealers And Clearing Organizations [Abstract]
Amounts Receivable From Brokers, Dealers, And Clearing Organizations	Amounts receivable from brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations at December 31, 2015 and 2014, included (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Deposits paid for securities borrowed $ 318,105 $ 445,542 Receivables from clearing organizations 260,077 198,079 Securities failed to deliver 23,649 7,453 $ 601,831 $ 651,074
Amounts Payable To Brokers, Dealers, And Clearing Organizations	Amounts payable to brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations at December 31, 2015 and 2014, included (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Deposits received from securities loaned $ 329,670 $ 4,215 Payable to clearing organizations 92,008 2,443 Securities failed to receive 16,353 7,365 $ 438,031 $ 14,023

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Of Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis	Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2015, are presented below (in thousands): December 31, 2015 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 91,268 $ 91,268 $ — $ — Financial instruments owned: U.S. government securities 45,167 45,167 — — U.S. government agency securities 116,949 — 116,949 — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 205,473 — 205,473 — Non-agency 33,319 — 31,843 1,476 Corporate securities: - Fixed income securities 203,910 13,203 190,707 — Equity securities 31,642 29,388 1,635 619 State and municipal securities 112,983 — 112,983 — Total financial instruments owned 749,443 87,758 659,590 2,095 Available-for-sale securities: U.S. government agency securities 1,698 — 1,698 — State and municipal securities 74,167 — 74,167 — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 304,893 — 304,893 — Commercial 11,310 — 11,310 — Non-agency 2,518 — 2,518 — Corporate fixed income securities 319,408 — 319,408 — Asset-backed securities 915,913 — 915,913 — Total available-for-sale securities 1,629,907 — 1,629,907 — Investments: Corporate equity securities 30,737 26,436 — 4,301 Mutual funds 15,493 15,493 — — U.S. government securities 102 102 — — Auction rate securities: Equity securities 55,710 — 5,268 50,442 Municipal securities 1,315 — — 1,315 Other 1 77,660 4,911 2,873 69,876 Total investments 181,017 46,942 8,141 125,934 $ 2,651,635 $ 225,968 $ 2,297,638 $ 128,029 1 Includes $54.5 million of partnership interests, $14.6 million of private company investments, and $2.8 million of private equity and other investments. December 31, 2015 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Liabilities: Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased: U.S. government securities $ 186,030 $ 186,030 $ — $ — U.S. government agency securities — — — — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 50,830 — 50,830 Non-agency — — — — Corporate securities: Fixed income securities 255,700 3,601 252,099 — Equity securities 29,184 22,894 6,290 — State and municipal securities — — — — Total financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased 521,744 212,525 309,219 — Derivative contracts 2 3,591 — 3,591 — $ 525,335 $ 212,525 $ 312,810 $ — 2 Included in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2014, are presented below (in thousands): December 31, 2014 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 122,875 $ 122,875 $ — $ — Financial instruments owned: U.S. government securities 58,992 58,992 — — U.S. government agency securities 101,439 — 101,439 — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 159,057 — 159,057 — Non-agency 13,366 189 12,371 806 Corporate securities: Fixed income securities 245,909 75,236 168,680 1,993 Equity securities 77,548 76,316 88 1,144 State and municipal securities 130,544 — 130,544 — Total financial instruments owned 786,855 210,733 572,179 3,943 Available-for-sale securities: U.S. government agency securities 1,610 — 1,610 — State and municipal securities 74,401 — 74,401 — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 209,206 — 209,206 — Commercial 107,644 — 107,644 — Non-agency 3,137 — 3,137 — Corporate fixed income securities 337,406 50,892 286,514 — Asset-backed securities 780,074 — 736,029 44,045 Total available-for-sale securities 1,513,478 50,892 1,418,541 44,045 Investments: Corporate equity securities 59,203 35,123 24,080 — Mutual funds 18,144 18,144 — — U.S. government securities 6,555 104 6,451 — Auction rate securities: Equity securities 46,197 — — 46,197 Municipal securities 1,326 — — 1,326 Other 1 78,830 1,283 4,557 72,990 Total investments 210,255 54,654 35,088 120,513 $ 2,633,463 $ 439,154 $ 2,025,808 $ 168,501 1 Includes $42.1 million of partnership interests, $16.4 million of private company investments, and $14.3 million of private equity and other investments. December 31, 2014 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Liabilities: Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased: U.S. government securities $ 146,592 $ 146,592 $ — $ — U.S. government agency securities 10,029 — 10,029 — Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 28,067 — 28,067 — Non-agency 4,556 401 4,155 — Corporate securities: Fixed income securities 293,008 17,116 275,892 — Equity securities 105,013 105,013 — — Total financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased 587,265 269,122 318,143 — Derivative contracts 2 5,641 — 5,641 — $ 592,906 $ 269,122 $ 323,784 $ — 2 Included in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition.
Schedule Of Changes In Fair Value Carrying Values Associated With Level 3 Financial Instruments	The following table summarizes the changes in fair value carrying values associated with Level 3 financial instruments during the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 Financial instruments owned Available- for-sale securities Mortgage- Backed Securities – Non-Agency Corporate Fixed Income Securities Equity Securities Asset- Backed Securities Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 806 $ 1,993 $ 1,144 $ 44,045 Unrealized gains/(losses): Included in changes in net assets 2 (241 ) 84 — — Included in OCI 3 — — — 342 Realized gains/(losses) 2 127 53 — (2,136 ) Purchases — 11,643 — — Sales — (13,773 ) (525 ) (42,251 ) Redemptions (332 ) — — — Transfers: Into Level 3 1,116 — — — Out of Level 3 — — — — Net change 670 (1,993 ) (525 ) (44,045 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 1,476 $ — $ 619 $ — Year Ended December 31, 2015 Investments Corporate Equity Securities Auction Rate Securities – Equity Auction Rate Securities – Municipal Other 1 Balance at December 31, 2014 $ — $ 46,197 $ 1,326 $ 72,990 Unrealized gains/(losses): Included in changes in net assets 2 1,410 (413 ) (11 ) 1,241 Included in OCI 3 — — — (1,381 ) Realized gains 2 — — — — Purchases — 15,176 — 26,659 Sales — — — (16,245 ) Redemptions — (5,250 ) — (4,770 ) Transfers: Into Level 3 7,732 — — — Out of Level 3 (4,841 ) (5,268 ) — (8,618 ) Net change 4,301 4,245 (11 ) (3,114 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 4,301 $ 50,442 $ 1,315 $ 69,876 1 Includes partnership interests, private company investments, and private equity investments. 2 Realized and unrealized gains/(losses) related to financial instruments owned and investments are reported in other income in the consolidated statements of operations. 3 Unrealized gains/(losses) related to available-for-sale securities are reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the consolidated statements of financial condition. Year Ended December 31, 2014 Financial instruments owned Available- for-sale securities Mortgage- Backed Securities – Non-Agency Corporate Fixed Income Securities Equity Securities State & Municipal Securities Balance at December 31, 2013 $ — $ 2,039 $ 241 $ 6,200 Unrealized gains/(losses): Included in changes in net assets 2 (127 ) (445 ) (494 ) — Included in OCI 3 — — — 62 Realized gains/(losses) 2 13 (1,320 ) 4,965 — Purchases — 8,549 1,394 — Sales — (5,783 ) (5,205 ) — Redemptions (44 ) (88 ) — — Transfers: Into Level 3 964 — 243 — Out of Level 3 — (959 ) — (6,262 ) Net change 806 (46 ) 903 (6,200 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 806 $ 1,993 $ 1,144 $ — Year Ended December 31, 2014 Investments Asset Backed Securities Auction Rate Securities – Equity Auction Rate Securities – Municipal Other 1 Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 58,078 $ 56,693 $ 10,939 $ 97,768 Unrealized gains/(losses): Included in changes in net assets 2 — 604 688 (18 ) Included in OCI 3 (530 ) — — — Realized gains 2 1,322 — — 3,412 Purchases — 25 1,650 3,630 Sales (4,825 ) (1,725 ) (10,324 ) (25,030 ) Redemptions (10,000 ) (9,400 ) (1,627 ) (4,413 ) Transfers: Into Level 3 — — — 1,524 Out of Level 3 — — — (3,883 ) Net change (14,033 ) (10,496 ) (9,613 ) (24,778 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 44,045 $ 46,197 $ 1,326 $ 72,990 1 Includes partnership interests, private company investments, and private equity investments. 2 Realized and unrealized gains/(losses) related to financial instruments owned and investments are reported in other income in the consolidated statements of operations. 3 Unrealized gains/(losses) related to available-for-sale securities are reported in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the consolidated statements of financial condition.
Quantitative Information Related To The Significant Unobservable Inputs Utilized In Level 3 Recurring Fair Value Measurements	Valuation technique Unobservable input Range Weighted average Investments: Auction rate securities: Equity securities Discounted cash flow Discount rate 2.3% - 13.4% 7.2% Workout period 1 - 3 years 2.3 years Municipal securities Discounted cash flow Discount rate 0.3% - 12.7% 7.7% Workout period 1 - 4 years 2.8 years
Schedule Of Fair Value Of Financial Instruments	The following reflects the fair value of financial instruments as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, whether or not recognized in the consolidated statements of financial condition at fair value (in thousands). December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Carrying Value Estimated Fair Value Carrying Value Estimated Fair Value Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 811,019 $ 811,019 $ 689,782 $ 689,782 Cash segregated for regulatory purposes 227,727 227,727 49,646 49,646 Securities purchased under agreements to resell 160,423 160,423 55,078 55,078 Financial instruments owned 749,443 749,443 786,855 786,855 Available-for-sale securities 1,629,907 1,629,907 1,513,478 1,513,478 Held-to-maturity securities 1,855,399 1,874,998 1,177,565 1,211,976 Loans held for sale 189,921 189,921 121,939 121,939 Bank loans 3,143,515 3,188,402 2,065,420 2,086,864 Investments 181,017 181,017 210,255 210,255 Financial liabilities: Securities sold under agreements to repurchase $ 278,674 $ 278,674 $ 39,180 $ 39,180 Bank deposits 6,638,356 6,627,818 4,790,081 4,246,214 Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased 521,744 521,744 587,265 587,265 Derivative contracts 1 3,591 3,591 5,641 5,641 Borrowings 237,084 237,084 — — Senior notes 750,000 745,999 625,000 638,690 Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts 82,500 72,371 82,500 76,714 1 Included in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition.
Estimated Fair Values Of Financial Instruments Not Measured At Fair Value	December 31, 2015 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial assets: Cash $ 719,751 $ 719,751 $ — $ — Cash segregated for regulatory purposes 227,727 227,727 — — Securities purchased under agreements to resell 160,423 160,423 — — Held-to-maturity securities 1,874,998 — 1,317,582 557,416 Loans held for sale 189,921 — 189,921 — Bank loans 3,188,402 — 3,188,402 — Financial liabilities: Securities sold under agreements to repurchase $ 278,674 $ 278,674 $ — $ — Bank deposits 6,627,818 — 6,627,818 — Borrowings 237,084 — 237,054 — Senior notes 745,999 745,999 — — Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts 72,371 — — 72,371 December 31, 2014 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial assets: Cash $ 566,907 $ 566,907 $ — $ — Cash segregated for regulatory purposes 49,646 49,646 — — Securities purchased under agreements to resell 55,078 44,996 10,082 — Held-to-maturity securities 1,211,976 — 969,913 242,063 Loans held for sale 121,939 — 121,939 — Bank loans 2,086,864 — 2,086,864 — Financial liabilities: Securities sold under agreements to repurchase $ 39,180 $ 39,180 $ — $ — Bank deposits 4,246,214 — 4,246,214 — Borrowings — — — — Senior notes 638,690 638,690 — — Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts 76,714 — — 76,714

Financial Instruments Owned A43

Financial Instruments Owned And Financial Instruments Sold, But Not Yet Purchased (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Trading Securities Balance Sheet Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Components Of Trading Securities Owned And Trading Securities Sold, But Not Yet Purchased	The components of financial instruments owned and financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Financial instruments owned: U.S. government securities $ 45,167 $ 58,992 U.S. government agency securities 116,949 101,439 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 205,473 159,057 Non-agency 33,319 13,366 Corporate securities: Fixed income securities 203,910 245,909 Equity securities 31,642 77,548 State and municipal securities 112,983 130,544 $ 749,443 $ 786,855 Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased: U.S. government securities $ 186,030 $ 146,592 U.S. government agency securities — 10,029 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 50,830 28,067 Non-agency — 4,556 Corporate securities: Fixed income securities 255,700 293,008 Equity securities 29,184 105,013 $ 521,744 $ 587,265

Available-For-Sale And Held-T44

Available-For-Sale And Held-To-Maturity Securities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Investments Debt And Equity Securities [Abstract]
Schedule Of Amortized Cost And Fair Values Of Available For Sale Securities And Held To Maturity Securities	The following tables provide a summary of the amortized cost and fair values of the available-for-sale securities and held-to-maturity securities at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) December 31, 2015 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains 1 Gross Unrealized Losses 1 Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale securities U.S. government agency securities $ 1,700 $ 1 $ (3 ) $ 1,698 State and municipal securities 75,953 28 (1,814 ) 74,167 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency 306,309 125 (1,541 ) 304,893 Commercial 11,177 134 (1 ) 11,310 Non-agency 2,679 2 (163 ) 2,518 Corporate fixed income securities 321,017 743 (2,352 ) 319,408 Asset-backed securities 922,563 774 (7,424 ) 915,913 $ 1,641,398 $ 1,807 $ (13,298 ) $ 1,629,907 Held-to-maturity securities 2 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency $ 1,257,808 $ 23,346 $ (3,105 ) $ 1,278,049 Commercial 59,521 1,832 — 61,353 Non-agency 929 — (15 ) 914 Asset-backed securities 496,996 2,076 (4,139 ) 494,933 Corporate fixed income securities 40,145 — (396 ) 39,749 $ 1,855,399 $ 27,254 $ (7,655 ) $ 1,874,998 December 31, 2014 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gains 1 Gross Unrealized Losses 1 Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale securities U.S. government agency securities $ 1,613 $ 1 $ (4 ) $ 1,610 State and municipal securities 76,518 20 (2,137 ) 74,401 Mortgage-backed securities: - Agency 206,982 3,137 (913 ) 209,206 Commercial 107,100 633 (89 ) 107,644 Non-agency 3,186 5 (54 ) 3,137 Corporate fixed income securities 336,210 2,016 (820 ) 337,406 Asset-backed securities 788,908 1,321 (10,155 ) 780,074 $ 1,520,517 $ 7,133 $ (14,172 ) $ 1,513,478 Held-to-maturity securities 2 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency $ 884,451 $ 32,926 $ (42 ) $ 917,335 Commercial 59,462 2,257 — 61,719 Non-agency 1,081 — (17 ) 1,064 Asset-backed securities 177,335 3,151 (2,645 ) 177,841 Corporate fixed income securities 55,236 4 (1,223 ) 54,017 $ 1,177,565 $ 38,338 $ (3,927 ) $ 1,211,976 1 Unrealized gains/(losses) related to available-for-sale securities are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income. 2 Held-to-maturity securities are carried in the consolidated statements of financial condition at amortized cost, and the changes in the value of these securities, other than impairment charges, are not reported on the consolidated financial statements.
Schedule Of Amortized Cost And Fair Values Of Debt Securities By Contractual Maturity	The table below summarizes the amortized cost and fair values of debt securities by contractual maturity (in thousands) December 31, 2015 Available-for-sale securities Held-to-maturity securities Amortized Cost Estimated Fair Value Amortized Cost Estimated Fair Value Debt securities Within one year $ 9,710 $ 9,723 $ — $ — After one year through three years 88,249 88,426 40,145 39,748 After three years through five years 169,684 168,573 — — After five years through ten years 275,252 271,146 — — After ten years 778,338 773,318 496,996 494,934 Mortgage-backed securities After one year through three years 66 67 — — After five years through ten years 583 614 269,700 269,989 After ten years 319,516 318,040 1,048,558 1,070,327 $ 1,641,398 $ 1,629,907 $ 1,855,399 $ 1,874,998
Contractual Maturities	The maturities of our available-for-sale (fair value) and held-to-maturity (amortized cost) securities at December 31, 2015, are as follows (in thousands) Within 1 Year 1-5 Years 5-10 Years After 10 Years Total Available-for-sale: 1 U.S. government agency securities $ 701 $ 997 $ — $ — $ 1,698 State and municipal securities — — 7,333 66,834 74,167 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency — — 614 304,279 304,893 Commercial — — — 11,310 11,310 Non-agency — 67 — 2,451 2,518 Corporate fixed income securities 9,023 256,001 54,384 — 319,408 Asset-backed securities — — 209,429 706,484 915,913 $ 9,724 $ 257,065 $ 271,760 $ 1,091,358 $ 1,629,907 Held-to-maturity: Mortgage-backed securities: Agency $ — $ — $ 210,179 $ 1,047,629 $ 1,257,808 Commercial — — 59,521 — 59,521 Non-agency — — — 929 929 Asset-backed securities — — — 496,996 496,996 Corporate fixed income securities — 40,145 — — 40,145 $ — $ 40,145 $ 269,700 $ 1,545,554 $ 1,855,399 1 Due to the immaterial amount of income recognized on tax-exempt securities, yields were not calculated on a tax-equivalent basis.
Schedule Of Gross Unrealized Losses And The Estimated Fair Value By Length Of Time	The following table shows the gross unrealized losses and fair value of the Company’s investment securities with unrealized losses, aggregated by investment category and length of time the individual investment securities have been in continuous unrealized loss positions, at December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Less than 12 months 12 months or more Total Gross Unrealized Losses Estimated Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Estimated Fair Value Gross Unrealized Losses Estimated Fair Value Available-for-sale securities U.S. government securities $ (3 ) $ 1,449 $ — $ — $ (3 ) $ 1,449 State and municipal securities (415 ) 26,357 (1,399 ) 38,231 (1,814 ) 64,588 Mortgage-backed securities: Agency (1,165 ) 279,762 (376 ) 8,516 (1,541 ) 288,278 Commercial (1 ) 130 — — (1 ) 130 Non-agency - - (163 ) 2,362 (163 ) 2,362 Corporate fixed income securities (2,352 ) 239,614 — — (2,352 ) 239,614 Asset-backed securities (3,519 ) 600,224 (3,905 ) 136,257 (7,424 ) 736,481 $ (7,455 ) $ 1,147,536 $ (5,843 ) $ 185,366 $ (13,298 ) $ 1,332,902 Held-to-maturity securities Mortgage-backed securities: Agency $ (3,078 ) $ 477,552 $ (27 ) $ 2,156 $ (3,105 ) $ 479,708 Non-agency — — (15 ) 914 (15 ) 914 Asset-backed securities (1,080 ) 258,098 (3,059 ) 68,499 (4,139 ) 326,597 Corporate fixed income securities — — (396 ) 39,748 (396 ) 39,748 $ (4,158 ) $ 735,650 $ (3,497 ) $ 111,317 $ (7,655 ) $ 846,967

Bank Loans (Tables)

Bank Loans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Schedule Of Balance And Associated Percentage Of Each Major Loan Category In Bank Loan Portfolio	December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Balance Percent Balance Percent Securities-based loans $ 1,388,953 43.7 % $ 732,799 34.6 % Commercial and industrial 1,216,656 38.2 896,853 42.4 Consumer 36,846 1.2 25,489 1.2 Residential real estate 429,132 13.5 432,646 20.4 Commercial real estate 92,623 2.9 15,902 0.8 Home equity lines of credit 12,475 0.4 12,945 0.6 Construction and land 3,899 0.1 — — Gross bank loans 3,180,584 100.0 % 2,116,634 100.0 % Unamortized loan discount (5,296 ) (30,533 ) Unamortized loan fees, net of loan fees (1,567 ) (1,631 ) Loans in process (419 ) 1,681 Allowance for loan losses (29,787 ) (20,731 ) Bank loans, net $ 3,143,515 $ 2,065,420
Activity In The Allowance For Loan Losses By Portfolio Segment	Year Ended December 31, 2015 Beginning Balance Provision Charge- offs Recoveries Ending Balance Commercial and industrial $ 16,609 $ 8,139 $ — $ — $ 24,748 Securities based loans 1,099 508 — — 1,607 Consumer 156 (58 ) — 7 105 Residential real estate 787 544 (144 ) 54 1,241 Commercial real estate 232 (30 ) — 62 264 Home equity lines of credit 267 15 — 8 290 Construction & Land — 78 — — 78 Qualitative 1,581 (127 ) — — 1,454 $ 20,731 $ 9,069 $ (144 ) $ 131 $ 29,787 Year Ended December 31, 2014 Beginning Balance Provision Charge- offs Recoveries Ending Balance Commercial and industrial $ 9,832 $ 7,287 $ (510 ) $ — $ 16,609 Securities based loans 893 211 (5 ) — 1,099 Consumer — 172 (16 ) — 156 Residential real estate 408 373 — 6 787 Commercial real estate 198 (23 ) — 57 232 Home equity lines of credit 174 93 — — 267 Construction & Land 12 (12 ) — — — Qualitative 1,151 430 — — 1,581 $ 12,668 $ 8,531 $ (531 ) $ 63 $ 20,731
Recorded Balance Of Loans And Amount Of Allowance Allocated Based Upon Impairment Method By Portfolio Segment	Allowance for Loan Losses Recorded Investment in Loans Individually Evaluated for Impairment Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Total Individually Evaluated for Impairment Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ 24,748 $ 24,748 $ — $ 1,216,656 $ 1,216,656 Securities based loans — 1,607 1,607 — 1,388,953 1,388,953 Consumer 14 91 105 14 36,832 36,846 Residential real estate 24 1,217 1,241 182 428,950 429,132 Commercial real estate — 264 264 — 92,623 92,623 Home equity lines of credit 149 141 290 323 12,152 12,475 Construction & Land — 78 78 — 3,899 3,899 Qualitative — 1,454 1,454 — — — $ 187 $ 29,600 $ 29,787 $ 519 $ 3,180,065 $ 3,180,584 Allowance for Loan Losses Recorded Investment in Loans Individually Evaluated for Impairment Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Total Individually Evaluated for Impairment Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ 16,609 $ 16,609 $ — $ 896,853 $ 896,853 Securities based loans — 1,099 1,099 — 732,799 732,799 Consumer 13 143 156 13 25,476 25,489 Residential real estate 87 700 787 377 432,269 432,646 Commercial real estate 23 209 232 23 15,879 15,902 Home equity lines of credit 149 118 267 323 12,622 12,945 Construction and land — — — — — — Qualitative — 1,581 1,581 — — — $ 272 $ 20,459 $ 20,731 $ 736 $ 2,115,898 $ 2,116,634
Loans That Were Individually Evaluated For Impairment By Portfolio Segment	December 31, 2015 Unpaid Contractual Principal Balance Recorded Investment with No Allowance Recorded Investment with Allowance Total Recorded Investment Related Allowance Average Recorded Investment Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Consumer 944 — 15 15 15 23 Residential real estate 776 524 182 706 24 752 Commercial real estate — — — — — — Home equity lines of credit 342 19 323 342 149 342 Construction and land — — — — — — Total $ 2,062 $ 543 $ 520 $ 1,063 $ 188 $ 1,117 December 31, 2014 Unpaid Contractual Principal Balance Recorded Investment with No Allowance Recorded Investment with Allowance Total Recorded Investment Related Allowance Average Recorded Investment Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ — Consumer 13 — 13 13 13 15 Residential real estate 5,006 3,944 377 4,321 87 4,646 Commercial real estate 228 — 228 228 23 235 Home equity lines of credit 323 — 323 323 149 323 Construction and land — — — — — — Total $ 5,570 $ 3,944 $ 941 $ 4,885 $ 272 $ 5,219
Aging Of The Recorded Investment In Past Due Loans	As of December 31, 2015 30 – 89 Days Past Due 90 or More Days Past Due Total Past Due Current Balance Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — $ 1,216,656 1,216,656 Securities based loans — — — 1,388,953 1,388,953 Consumer 7 7 14 36,832 36,846 Residential real estate 3,310 450 3,760 425,372 429,132 Commercial real estate — — — 92,623 92,623 Home equity lines of credit 323 19 342 12,133 12,475 Construction and land — — — 3,899 3,899 Total $ 3,640 $ 476 $ 4,116 $ 3,176,468 $ 3,180,584 As of December 31, 2015* Non-accrual Restructured Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — Consumer 15 — 15 Residential real estate 380 326 706 Commercial real estate — — — Home equity lines of credit 342 — 342 Construction and land — — — Total $ 737 $ 326 $ 1,063 As of December 31, 2014 30 – 89 Days Past Due 90 or More Days Past Due Total Past Due Current Balance Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — $ 896,853 896,853 Securities based loans — — — 732,799 732,799 Consumer 28 14 42 25,447 25,489 Residential real estate 6,603 4,834 11,437 421,209 432,646 Commercial real estate — — — 15,902 15,902 Home equity lines of credit — — — 12,945 12,945 Construction and land — — — — - Total $ 6,631 $ 4,848 $ 11,479 $ 2,105,155 $ 2,116,634 As of December 31, 2014* Non-accrual Restructured Total Commercial and industrial $ — $ — $ — Consumer 13 — 13 Residential real estate 4,321 — 4,321 Commercial real estate 228 — 228 Home equity lines of credit 323 — 323 Construction and land — — — Total $ 4,885 $ — $ 4,885
Risk Category Of Loan Portfolio	As of December 31, 2015 Pass Special Mention Substandard Doubtful Total Commercial and industrial $ 1,191,030 $ 11,320 $ 14,306 $ — $ 1,216,656 Securities based loans 1,388,939 — 14 — 1,388,953 Consumer 36,846 — — — 36,846 Residential real estate 427,950 1,182 — — 429,132 Commercial real estate 92,623 — — — 92,623 Home equity lines of credit 12,456 — 19 — 12,475 Construction and land 3,899 — — — 3,899 Total $ 3,153,743 $ 12,502 $ 14,339 $ — $ 3,180,584 As of December 31, 2014 Pass Special Mention Substandard Doubtful Total Commercial and industrial $ 896,853 $ — $ — $ — 896,853 Securities based loans 732,799 — — 732,799 Consumer 25,447 28 14 — 25,489 Residential real estate 421,209 6,603 4,834 — 432,646 Commercial real estate 15,902 — — — 15,902 Home equity lines of credit 12,945 — — — 12,945 Construction and land — — — — — Total $ 2,105,155 $ 6,631 $ 4,848 $ — $ 2,116,634

Fixed Assets (Tables)

Fixed Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Summary Of Fixed Assets	December 31, 2015 2014 Furniture and equipment $ 238,075 $ 194,421 Building and leasehold improvements 146,954 124,390 Property on operating leases 21,064 100 406,093 318,911 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (224,127 ) (194,665 ) $ 181,966 $ 124,246

Goodwill And Intangible Assets

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Carrying Amount Of Goodwill And Intangible Assets	The carrying amount of goodwill and intangible assets attributable to each of our reporting segments is presented in the following table (in thousands) December 31, 2014 Net Additions Impairment Losses December 31, 2015 Goodwill Global Wealth Management $ 177,171 $ 118,213 $ — $ 295,384 Institutional Group 617,855 2,363 — 620,218 $ 795,026 $ 120,576 $ — $ 915,602 December 31, 2014 Net Additions Amortization December 31, 2015 Intangible assets Global Wealth Management $ 23,503 $ 12,084 $ (5,560 ) $ 30,027 Institutional Group 31,060 6,953 (4,863 ) 33,150 $ 54,563 $ 19,037 $ (10,423 ) $ 63,177
Intangible Assets Subject To Amortization	Intangible assets subject to amortization as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows (in thousands) December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Customer relationships $ 78,580 $ 37,322 $ 63,661 $ 29,636 Trade name 24,456 6,969 21,423 5,322 Investment banking backlog 7,440 7,388 7,388 7,388 Core deposits 5,447 5,447 5,447 4,657 Non-compete agreements 2,517 255 1,484 120 $ 118,440 $ 57,381 $ 99,403 $ 47,123
Amortization Expense In Future Periods	As of December 31, 2015, we expect amortization expense in future periods to be as follows (in thousands) Fiscal year 2016 $ 7,613 2017 6,988 2018 6,500 2019 5,949 2020 6,027 Thereafter 27,982 $ 61,059

Borrowings (Tables)

Borrowings (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Short Term Debt Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Components Of Borrowings	The following table details the components of borrowings (in thousands) December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 Borrowings on secured lines of credit $ 30,000 $ — Federal Home Loan Bank advances 148,000 — Term loans 59,084 — $ 237,084 $ —

Senior Notes (Tables)

Senior Notes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule Of Corporate Debt	The following table summarizes our senior notes as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 3.50% senior notes, due 2020 1 $ 300,000 $ — 5.375% senior notes, due 2022 2 150,000 150,000 4.250% senior notes, due 2024 3 300,000 300,000 6.70% senior notes, due 2022 4 — 175,000 $ 750,000 $ 625,000 1 In December 2015, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 3.50% senior notes due December 2020. Interest on these senior notes is payable semi-annually in arrears. We may redeem the notes in whole or in part, at our option, at a redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus a “make-whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption. 2 In December 2012, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $150.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.375% senior notes due December 2022. Interest on these senior notes is payable quarterly in arrears. On or after December 31, 2015, we may redeem some or all of the senior notes at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes being redeemed plus accrued interest thereon to the redemption date. 3 In July 2014, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.250% senior notes due July 2024. Interest on these senior notes is payable semi-annually in arrears. We may redeem the notes in whole or in part, at our option, at a redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus a “make-whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption. 4 In January 2012, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $175.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.70% senior notes due January 2022. Interest on these senior notes is payable quarterly in arrears. On January 15, 2015, we redeemed 100% of our company’s outstanding 6.70% senior notes.
Schedule Of Corporate Date Maturity	Our senior notes mature as follows, based upon contractual terms: 2016 $ — 2017 — 2018 — 2019 — 2020 300,000 Thereafter 450,000 $ 750,000

Bank Deposits (Tables)

Bank Deposits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Deposits Liabilities Balance Sheet Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Schedule Of Deposits	Deposits consist of money market and savings accounts, certificates of deposit, and demand deposits. Deposits at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Money market and savings accounts $ 6,429,780 $ 4,600,757 Demand deposits (interest-bearing) 185,275 101,652 Certificates of deposit 15,087 77,197 Demand deposits (non-interest-bearing) 8,214 10,475 6,638,356 $ 4,790,081
Schedule Of Maturities Of Certificates Of Deposit	Scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were as follows (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Certificates of deposit, less than $100: Within one year $ 4,863 $ 26,769 One to three years 2,356 6,874 Three to five years 145 1,268 Over five years — — $ 7,364 $ 34,911 Certificates of deposit, $100 and greater: Within one year $ 5,464 $ 33,784 One to three years 1,975 7,520 Three to five years 284 723 Over five years — 259 7,723 42,286 $ 15,087 $ 77,197

Derivative Instruments And He51

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
General Discussion Of Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities [Abstract]
Schedule Of Notional Values And Fair Values Of Derivative Instruments	The following table provides the notional values and fair values of our derivative instruments as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives Notional Value Balance Sheet Location Positive Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Negative Fair Value Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under Topic 815: Cash flow interest rate contracts $ 179,110 Other assets $ — Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ (3,591 ) December 31, 2014 Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives Notional Value Balance Sheet Location Positive Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Negative Fair Value Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under Topic 815: Cash flow interest rate contracts $ 272,967 Other assets $ — Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ (5,641 )
Schedule Of Derivative Instruments In Consolidated Statements Of Operations	The following table shows the effect of our company’s derivative instruments in the consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effectiveness) Location of Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Location of Loss Recognized in OCI (Ineffectiveness) Loss Recognized Due to Ineffectiveness Cash flow interest rate contracts $ (2,137 ) Interest Expense $ 3,824 None $ — Year Ended December 31, 2014 Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effectiveness) Location of Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Location of Loss Recognized in OCI (Ineffectiveness) Loss Recognized Due to Ineffectiveness Cash flow interest rate contracts $ (2,576 ) Interest expense $ 6,068 None $ — Year Ended December 31, 2013 Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effectiveness) Location of Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Loss Reclassified From OCI Into Income Location of Loss Recognized in OCI (Ineffectiveness) Loss Recognized Due to Ineffectiveness Cash flow interest rate contracts $ 2,644 Interest expense $ 8,593 None $ —

Debentures To Stifel Financia52

Debentures To Stifel Financial Capital Trusts (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Junior Subordinated Debenture Owed To Unconsolidated Subsidiary Trust [Abstract]
Debentures To Stifel Financial Capital Trusts	The following table summarizes our debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Debenture to Stifel Financial Capital Trust II 1 $ 35,000 $ 35,000 Debenture to Stifel Financial Capital Trust III 2 35,000 35,000 Debenture to Stifel Financial Capital Trust IV 3 12,500 12,500 $ 82,500 $ 82,500 1 On August 12, 2005, we completed a private placement of $35.0 million of 6.38% Cumulative Trust Preferred Securities. The trust preferred securities were offered by Stifel Financial Capital Trust II (the “Trust II”), a non-consolidated wholly owned subsidiary of our company. The trust preferred securities mature on September 30, 2035, but may be redeemed by our company, and in turn, the Trust II would call the debenture beginning September 30, 2010. The Trust II requires quarterly distributions of interest to the holders of the trust preferred securities. Distributions will be payable at a floating interest rate equal to three-month LIBOR plus 1.70% per annum. 2 On March 30, 2007, we completed a private placement of $35.0 million of 6.79% Cumulative Trust Preferred Securities. The trust preferred securities were offered by Stifel Financial Capital Trust III (the "Trust III"), a non-consolidated wholly owned subsidiary of our company. The trust preferred securities mature on June 6, 2037, but may be redeemed by our company, and in turn, Trust III would call the debenture beginning June 6, 2012. Trust III requires quarterly distributions of interest to the holders of the trust preferred securities. Distributions will be payable at a floating interest rate equal to three-month LIBOR plus 1.85% per annum. 3 On June 28, 2007, we completed a private placement of $35.0 million of 6.78% Cumulative Trust Preferred Securities. The trust preferred securities were offered by Stifel Financial Capital Trust IV (the “Trust IV”), a non-consolidated wholly owned subsidiary of our company. The trust preferred securities mature on September 6, 2037, but may be redeemed by our company, and in turn, Trust IV would call the debenture beginning September 6, 2012. Trust IV requires quarterly distributions of interest to the holders of the trust preferred securities. Distributions will be payable at a floating interest rate equal to three-month LIBOR plus 1.85% per annum.

Disclosures About Offsetting 53

Disclosures About Offsetting Assets And Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Offsetting [Abstract]
Financial Assets And Derivative Assets That Are Subject to Offset	The following table provides information about financial assets and derivative assets that are subject to offset as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets Gross Amounts Offset in the of Financial Condition Net Amounts Presented in the Statement of Financial Condition Amounts available for offset Available collateral Net Amount As of December 31, 2015: Securities borrowing 1 $ 318,105 $ — $ 318,105 $ (182,399 ) $ (123,309 ) $ 12,397 Reverse repurchase agreements 2 160,423 — $ 160,423 (160,423 ) — $ - $ 478,528 $ — $ 478,528 $ (342,822 ) $ (123,309 ) $ 12,397 As of December 31, 2014: Securities borrowing 1 $ 445,542 $ — $ 445,542 $ — $ (431,301 ) $ 14,241 Reverse repurchase agreements 2 55,078 — 55,078 — (54,955 ) 123 $ 500,620 $ — $ 500,620 $ — $ (486,256 ) $ 14,364 1 Securities borrowing transactions are included in receivables from brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations on the consolidated statements of financial condition. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information on receivables from brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations. 2 Collateral received includes securities received by our company from the counterparty. These securities are not included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless there is an event of default.
Financial Liabilities And Derivative Liabilities That Are Subject To Offset	The following table provides information about financial liabilities and derivative liabilities that are subject to offset as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition Gross Amounts of Recognized Liabilities Gross Amounts Offset in the Statement of Financial Condition Net Amounts Presented in the Statement of Financial Condition Amounts available for offset Collateral Pledged Net Amount As of December 31, 2015: Securities lending 3 $ (329,670 ) $ — $ (329,670 ) $ 182,399 $ 132,784 $ (14,487 ) Repurchase agreements 4 (278,674 ) — (278,674 ) 160,423 118,251 - Cash flow interest rate contracts (3,591 ) — (3,591 ) — 3,591 - $ (611,935 ) $ — $ (611,935 ) $ 342,822 $ 254,626 $ (14,487 ) As of December 31, 2014: Securities lending 3 $ (4,215 ) $ — $ (4,215 ) $ — $ 3,892 $ (323 ) Repurchase agreements 4 (39,180 ) — (39,180 ) — 39,089 (91 ) Cash flow interest rate contracts (5,641 ) — (5,641 ) — 5,641 — $ (49,036 ) $ — $ (49,036 ) $ — $ 48,622 $ (414 ) 3 Securities lending transactions are included in payables to brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations on the consolidated statements of financial condition. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information on payables to brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations. 4 Collateral pledged includes the fair value of securities pledged by our company to the counter party. These securities are included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless we default.

Commitments, Guarantees And Con

Commitments, Guarantees And Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
Future Minimum Commitments Under Non-Cancelable Operating Leases	Future minimum commitments under non-cancelable operating leases at December 31, 2015, are as follows (in thousands) 2016 $ 92,848 2017 81,987 2018 73,844 2019 68,666 2020 54,119 Thereafter 149,195 $ 520,659

Regulatory Capital Requiremen55

Regulatory Capital Requirements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Regulatory Capital Requirements [Abstract]
Schedule Of Total Risk-Based, Tier 1 Risk-Based, And Tier 1 Leverage Ratios	Stifel Financial Corp. – Federal Reserve Capital Amounts December 31, 2015 Actual For Capital Adequacy Purposes To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Common equity tier 1 capital $ 1,572,883 25.4 % $ 278,996 4.5 % $ 402,994 6.5 % Tier 1 capital 1,631,324 26.3 371,995 6.0 495,993 8.0 Total capital 1,661,746 26.8 495,993 8.0 619,992 10.0 Tier 1 leverage 1,631,324 16.6 392,848 4.0 491,060 5.0 Stifel Bank – Federal Reserve Capital Amounts December 31, 2015 Actual For Capital Adequacy Purposes To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Common equity tier 1 capital $ 457,300 13.6 % 150,802 4.5 % 217,825 6.5 % Tier 1 capital 457,300 13.6 201,069 6.0 268,092 8.0 Total capital 487,844 14.6 268,092 8.0 335,115 10.0 Tier 1 leverage 457,300 8.1 226,905 4.0 283,632 5.0

Interest Income And Interest 56

Interest Income And Interest Expense (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Banking And Thrift Interest [Abstract]
Components Of Interest Income And Interest Expense	The components of interest income and interest expense are as follows (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Interest income: Investment securities $ 53,787 $ 71,526 $ 62,155 Bank loans, net of unearned income 79,816 71,167 38,608 Margin balances 22,421 19,095 18,222 Other 23,077 24,181 23,554 $ 179,101 $ 185,969 $ 142,539 Interest expense: Senior notes $ 25,695 $ 26,617 $ 20,648 Bank deposits 7,813 7,926 11,775 Other 11,891 6,718 13,945 $ 45,399 $ 41,261 $ 46,368

Employee Incentive, Deferred 57

Employee Incentive, Deferred Compensation, And Retirement Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Share Based Compensation Allocation And Classification In Financial Statements [Abstract]
Stock Option Activity	Options Weighted- average exercise price Weighted-average remaining contractual term Aggregate intrinsic value Outstanding December 31, 2014 126 $ 31.61 Granted — — Exercised 44 16.48 Forfeited — — Expired — — Outstanding December 31, 2015 82 $ 39.88 1.62 $ 1,156
Unvested Stock Unit Activity	Stock Units Weighted-average grant date fair value Unvested December 31, 2014 11,404 $ 39.70 Granted 3,672 49.99 Vested (2,313 ) 45.64 Cancelled (489 ) 36.61 Unvested December 31, 2015 12,274 $ 41.78

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Components Of Income Tax Expense Benefit Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Provision For Income Taxes/(Benefit)	The provision for income taxes consists of the following (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Current taxes: Federal $ 43,962 $ 100,262 $ 26,695 State 9,672 21,835 9,954 Foreign 1,329 (1,831 ) 365 54,963 120,266 37,014 Deferred taxes: Federal (9,396 ) (275 ) (20,724 ) State 3,056 (8,064 ) (2,000 ) Foreign 608 (263 ) (1,968 ) (5,732 ) (8,602 ) (24,692 ) Provision for income taxes $ 49,231 $ 111,664 $ 12,322
Reconciliation Of The Statutory Federal Income Tax With The Company's Effective Tax Rate	Reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate with our company’s effective income tax rate is as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Statutory rate $ 49,548 $ 101,778 $ 64,831 State income taxes, net of federal income tax 7,908 14,860 11,433 Change in valuation allowance 535 (2,433 ) 1,659 Provision to return 904 (2,956 ) (3,003 ) Investment in subsidiary (4,800 ) — (58,153 ) Change in uncertain tax position (3,903 ) 276 (2,956 ) Non-taxable book gain — — (2,647 ) Revaluation of deferred taxes — — (2,290 ) Other, net (961 ) 139 3,448 $ 49,231 $ 111,664 $ 12,322
Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities	Tax effect of temporary differences and carryforwards that comprise significant portions of deferred tax assets and liabilities (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Deferred compensation $ 173,759 $ 161,972 Net operating loss carryforwards 48,831 50,251 Accrued expenses 65,451 37,673 Unrealized loss on investments 27,769 35,855 Depreciation 10,055 13,306 Receivable reserves 16,343 10,595 Investment and jobs creation credit - 350 Total deferred tax assets 342,208 310,002 Valuation allowance (12,738 ) (7,385 ) 329,470 302,617 Deferred tax liabilities: Goodwill and other intangibles (33,437 ) (24,346 ) Change in accounting method (625 ) (12,270 ) Prepaid expenses (4,211 ) (3,602 ) Other (6,070 ) (4,257 ) (44,343 ) (44,475 ) Net deferred tax asset $ 285,127 $ 258,142
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	The following table summarizes the activity related to our company’s unrecognized tax benefits from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Beginning balance $ 5,510 $ 5,158 $ 1,750 Increase related to prior year tax positions 1,206 627 3,044 Decrease related to prior year tax positions (33 ) (443 ) (40 ) Increase related to current year tax positions - 294 133 Decrease related to settlements with taxing authorities (4,815 ) (126 ) (6,086 ) Decrease related to lapsing of statute of limitations — — (356 ) Increase related to business acquisitions 849 — 6,713 Ending balance $ 2,717 $ 5,510 $ 5,158

Segment Reporting (Tables)

Segment Reporting (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule Of Operating Information, Segment	Information concerning operations in these segments of business for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 is as follows (in thousands) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Net revenues: (1) Global Wealth Management $ 1,377,313 $ 1,232,651 $ 1,117,179 Institutional Group 975,594 997,071 864,371 Other (21,313 ) (21,298 ) (8,104 ) $ 2,331,594 $ 2,208,424 $ 1,973,446 Income/(loss) before income taxes: Global Wealth Management $ 382,126 $ 346,978 $ 299,572 Institutional Group 141,042 165,546 149,599 Other (381,601 ) (221,730 ) (263,942 ) $ 141,567 $ 290,794 $ 185,229 1 No individual client accounted for more than 10 percent of total net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013.
Schedule Of Information Of Total Assets On Segment Basis	The following table presents our company’s total assets on a segment basis at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands) December 31, 2015 2014 Global Wealth Management $ 10,519,575 $ 5,816,284 Institutional Group 2,193,781 3,476,592 Other 622,559 225,275 $ 13,335,915 $ 9,518,151
Schedule Of Net Revenues Earned On Major Geographical Areas	Revenues, classified by the major geographic areas in which they are earned for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 United States $ 2,195,538 $ 2,082,876 $ 1,894,300 United Kingdom 125,552 113,943 67,394 Other European 10,504 11,605 11,752 $ 2,331,594 $ 2,208,424 $ 1,973,446

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Computation Of Basic And Diluted Earnings Per Share	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 (in thousands, except per share data) Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Income from continuing operations $ 92,336 $ 179,130 $ 172,907 Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax — (3,063 ) (10,894 ) Net income $ 92,336 $ 176,067 $ 162,013 Shares for basic and diluted calculation: Average shares used in basic computation 68,543 66,472 63,568 Dilutive effect of stock options and units (1) 10,011 9,904 9,936 Average shares used in diluted computation 78,554 76,376 73,504 Earnings per basic common share: Income from continuing operations $ 1.35 $ 2.69 $ 2.72 Loss from discontinued operations — (0.04 ) (0.17 ) Earnings per basic common share $ 1.35 $ 2.65 $ 2.55 Earnings per diluted common share: Income from continuing operations $ 1.18 $ 2.35 $ 2.35 Loss from discontinued operations — (0.04 ) (0.15 ) Earnings per basic common share $ 1.18 $ 2.31 $ 2.20

Quarterly Financial Informati61

Quarterly Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information	(in thousands, except per share amounts) 1 st 2 nd 3 rd 4 th Year Ended December 31, 2015: Total revenues $ 574,001 $ 607,849 $ 601,371 $ 593,771 Interest expense 13,019 10,098 9,796 12,485 Net revenues 560,982 597,751 591,575 581,286 Total non-interest expenses 490,916 559,680 569,227 570,204 Income from continuing operations before income tax expense 70,066 38,071 22,348 11,082 Provision for income taxes 26,969 17,183 5,169 (90 ) Income from continuing operations 43,097 20,888 17,179 11,172 Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax — — — — Net income $ 43,097 $ 20,888 $ 17,179 $ 11,172 Earnings per basic common share Income from continuing operations $ 0.62 $ 0.31 $ 0.25 $ 0.16 Loss from discontinued operations — — — — Earnings per basic common share $ 0.62 $ 0.31 $ 0.25 $ 0.16 Earnings per diluted common share Income from continuing operations $ 0.56 $ 0.27 $ 0.22 $ 0.14 Loss from discontinued operations — — — — Earnings per diluted common share $ 0.56 $ 0.27 $ 0.22 $ 0.14 Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding: Basic 68,006 68,370 69,633 68,150 Diluted 77,359 77,856 79,759 79,355 (in thousands, except per share amounts) 1 st 2 nd 3 rd 4 th Year Ended December 31, 2014: Total revenues $ 555,377 $ 568,989 $ 534,683 $ 590,636 Interest expense 8,631 8,842 11,228 12,560 Net revenues 546,746 560,147 523,455 578,076 Total non-interest expenses 468,618 482,624 457,689 508,698 Income from continuing operations before income tax expense 78,128 77,523 65,766 69,378 Provision for income taxes 30,155 31,946 25,673 23,890 Income from continuing operations 47,973 45,577 40,093 45,488 Income/(loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (591 ) (1,976 ) (190 ) (306 ) Net income $ 47,382 $ 43,601 $ 39,903 $ 45,182 Earnings per basic common share Income from continuing operations $ 0.73 $ 0.69 $ 0.60 $ 0.67 Loss from discontinued operations (0.01 ) (0.03 ) — — Earnings per basic common share $ 0.72 $ 0.66 $ 0.60 $ 0.67 Earnings per diluted common share Income from continuing operations $ 0.63 $ 0.60 $ 0.52 $ 0.59 Loss from discontinued operations — (0.02 ) — (0.01 ) Earnings per diluted common share $ 0.63 $ 0.58 $ 0.52 $ 0.58 Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding: Basic 66,037 66,302 66,691 66,851 Diluted 75,691 75,641 76,681 77,540

Summary Of Significant Accoun62

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Loan impairment threshold period	90 days
Threshold of reporting unit goodwill carrying value for further analysis	$ 0

Acquisitions (Narrative) (Detai

Acquisitions (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

Oct. 07, 2015

Jun. 05, 2015

Nov. 07, 2014

Jul. 31, 2014

Feb. 15, 2013

Oct. 01, 2011

Mar. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 04, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Apr. 03, 2014

Nov. 30, 2013

Oct. 31, 2013

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Assets acquired including securities-based loans, margin loans, and broker-notes

$ 2,100,000

Goodwill

$ 915,602

$ 795,026

Bargain purchase gain

$ 7,566

Kelwynne, LLC [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Date of acquisition

Oct. 7, 2015

Ownership percentage

40.00%

Barclays’ Wealth and Investment Management, Americas [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Goodwill

32,200

Deferred consideration, recognized as a liability

$ 15,600

Barclays’ Wealth and Investment Management, Americas [Member] | Scenario, Forecast [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Restricted stock units granted, shares

2,000,000

Restricted stock units granted, value

$ 60,000

Sterne Agee Group, Inc. [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Goodwill and intangible assets

$ 90,100

Fair value of awards issued as retention

23,800

Employee retention compensation paid in notes

$ 33,800

Sterne Agee Group, Inc. [Member] | Minimum [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Individual compensation and benefits useful period

5 years

Sterne Agee Group, Inc. [Member] | Maximum [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Individual compensation and benefits useful period

10 years

Merchant Capital LLC [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Goodwill

$ 17,900

1919 Investment Counsel And Trust Company NA [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Goodwill

$ 11,600

Fair value of awards issued as retention

11,200

Employee retention compensation paid in notes

10,800

1919 Investment Counsel And Trust Company NA [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Identifiable intangible assets

$ 6,100

Oriel Securities [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Goodwill

$ 18,200

Fair value of awards issued as retention

6,800

Oriel Securities [Member] | Trade Name [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Identifiable intangible assets

1,900

Oriel Securities [Member] | Non-Compete Agreements [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Identifiable intangible assets

$ 1,400

De La Rosa & Co. [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Goodwill

$ 17,400

De La Rosa & Co. [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Identifiable intangible assets

200

De La Rosa & Co. [Member] | Trade Name [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Identifiable intangible assets

$ 1,800

Acacia Federal Savings Bank [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Loans acquired in acquisition

$ 337,100

Other assets acquired

180,400

Deposits assumed

435,400

Other liabilities assumed

$ 10,000

Bargain purchase gain

$ 7,600

Ziegler Lotsoff Capital Management, LLC [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Goodwill

$ 6,800

Ziegler Lotsoff Capital Management, LLC [Member] | Customer Relationships [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Identifiable intangible assets

3,400

Ziegler Lotsoff Capital Management, LLC [Member] | Trade Name [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Identifiable intangible assets

$ 100

KBW [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Fair value of awards issued as retention

$ 30,600

Stone & Youngberg LLC [Member]

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Consideration to be paid in installments

$ 24,000

Number of years in installment plan

3 years

Period of contingent consideration

5 years

Maximum earn-out

$ 25,000

Liability for earn-out payments

$ 9,300

Discontinued Operations (Detail

Discontinued Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Discontinued Operations And Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Net revenues					$ (121)	$ 11,794
Restructuring expense					217	6,881
Operating expenses					3,924	15,697
Total non-interest expenses					4,141	22,578
Loss from discontinued operations before income tax expense					(4,262)	(10,784)
Income tax expense/(benefit)					(1,199)	110
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	$ (306)	$ (190)	$ (1,976)	$ (591)	$ (3,063)	$ (10,894)

Receivables From And Payables65

Receivables From And Payables To Brokers, Dealers And Clearing Organizations (Amounts Receivable From Brokers, Dealers, And Clearing Organizations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Due To And From Broker Dealers And Clearing Organizations [Abstract]
Deposits paid for securities borrowed	$ 318,105	$ 445,542
Receivables from clearing organizations	260,077	198,079
Securities failed to deliver	23,649	7,453
Receivables from brokers, dealers and clearing organizations, Total	$ 601,831	$ 651,074

Receivables From And Payables66

Receivables From And Payables To Brokers, Dealers And Clearing Organizations (Amounts Payable To Brokers, Dealers, And Clearing Organizations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Due To And From Broker Dealers And Clearing Organizations [Abstract]
Deposits received from securities loaned	$ 329,670	$ 4,215
Payable to clearing organizations	92,008	2,443
Securities failed to receive	16,353	7,365
Payables to broker, dealers and clearing organizations, Total	$ 438,031	$ 14,023

Fair Value Of Financial Instrum

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Commitments Investments In Affiliated And Unaffiliated Partnerships	$ 11.4	$ 11.5
General and limited partnership interests in investment partnerships	52.5	42.1
Direct investments in private equity companies held by private equity funds	17.4	$ 21.2
Fair Value Level Two To Level One Transfers Amount	3.5
Fair Value Level One To Level Two Transfers Amount	9.6
Transfers, Into Level 3, Assets	1.3
Transfers, Out of Level 3, Assets	$ 6.3
Stated interest rate	5.375%
Maturity date	Dec. 31, 2022

Fair Value Of Financial Instr68

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments (Fair Value Of Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 91,268	$ 122,875
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	749,443	786,855
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	1,629,907	1,513,478
Investments	181,017	210,255
Total Assets	2,651,635	2,633,463
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	521,744	587,265
Derivative contracts, Liabilities	3,591	5,641
Total Liabilities	525,335	592,906
U.S. Government Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	45,167	58,992
Investments	102	6,555
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	186,030	146,592
U S Government Corporations And Agencies Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	116,949	101,439
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	1,698	1,610
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value		10,029
Corporate Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	203,910	245,909
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	319,408	337,406
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	255,700	293,008
Corporate Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	31,642	77,548
Investments	30,737	59,203
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	29,184	105,013
U S States And Political Subdivisions
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	112,983	130,544
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	74,167	74,401
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	915,913	780,074
Mutual Funds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	15,493	18,144
Auction Rate Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	55,710	46,197
Auction Rate Municipal Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	1,315	1,326
Other Investment [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	77,660	78,830
Partnership Interest
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	54,500	42,100
Private Company Investments
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	14,600	16,400
Private Equity And Other Investments
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	2,800	14,300
Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	91,268	122,875
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	87,758	210,733
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value		50,892
Investments	46,942	54,654
Total Assets	225,968	439,154
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	212,525	269,122
Total Liabilities	212,525	269,122
Level 1 [Member] | U.S. Government Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	45,167	58,992
Investments	102	104
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	186,030	146,592
Level 1 [Member] | Corporate Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	13,203	75,236
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value		50,892
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	3,601	17,116
Level 1 [Member] | Corporate Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	29,388	76,316
Investments	26,436	35,123
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	22,894	105,013
Level 1 [Member] | Mutual Funds
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	15,493	18,144
Level 1 [Member] | Other Investment [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	4,911	1,283
Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	659,590	572,179
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	1,629,907	1,418,541
Investments	8,141	35,088
Total Assets	2,297,638	2,025,808
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	309,219	318,143
Derivative contracts, Liabilities	3,591	5,641
Total Liabilities	312,810	323,784
Level 2 [Member] | U.S. Government Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments		6,451
Level 2 [Member] | U S Government Corporations And Agencies Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	116,949	101,439
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	1,698	1,610
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value		10,029
Level 2 [Member] | Corporate Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	190,707	168,680
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	319,408	286,514
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	252,099	275,892
Level 2 [Member] | Corporate Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	1,635	88
Investments		24,080
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	6,290
Level 2 [Member] | U S States And Political Subdivisions
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	112,983	130,544
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	74,167	74,401
Level 2 [Member] | Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	915,913	736,029
Level 2 [Member] | Auction Rate Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	5,268
Level 2 [Member] | Other Investment [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	2,873	4,557
Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	2,095	3,943
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value		44,045
Investments	125,934	120,513
Total Assets	128,029	168,501
Level 3 [Member] | Corporate Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value		1,993
Level 3 [Member] | Corporate Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	619	1,144
Investments	4,301
Level 3 [Member] | Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value		44,045
Level 3 [Member] | Auction Rate Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	50,442	46,197
Level 3 [Member] | Auction Rate Municipal Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	1,315	1,326
Level 3 [Member] | Other Investment [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments	69,876	72,990
Mortgage Backed Securities | Agency Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	205,473	159,057
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	304,893	209,206
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	50,830	28,067
Mortgage Backed Securities | Non-Agency [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	33,319	13,366
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	2,518	3,137
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value		4,556
Mortgage Backed Securities | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	11,310	107,644
Mortgage Backed Securities | Level 1 [Member] | Non-Agency [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value		189
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value		401
Mortgage Backed Securities | Level 2 [Member] | Agency Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	205,473	159,057
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	304,893	209,206
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value	50,830	28,067
Mortgage Backed Securities | Level 2 [Member] | Non-Agency [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	31,843	12,371
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	2,518	3,137
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value		4,155
Mortgage Backed Securities | Level 2 [Member] | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value	11,310	107,644
Mortgage Backed Securities | Level 3 [Member] | Non-Agency [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	$ 1,476	$ 806

Fair Value Of Financial Instr69

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments (Schedule Of Changes In Fair Value Carrying Values Associated With Level 3 Financial Instruments) (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]
Transfers, Into Level 3	$ 1,300
Transfers, Out of Level 3	(6,300)
Non-Agency [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	806
Unrealized gains/(losses), Included in changes in net assets	(241)	$ (127)
Realized gains/(losses)	127	13
Redemptions	(332)	(44)
Transfers, Into Level 3	1,116	964
Net change	670	806
Ending Balance	1,476	806
Corporate Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	1,993	2,039
Unrealized gains/(losses), Included in changes in net assets	84	(445)
Realized gains/(losses)	53	(1,320)
Purchases	11,643	8,549
Sales	(13,773)	(5,783)
Redemptions		(88)
Transfers, Out of Level 3		(959)
Net change	(1,993)	(46)
Ending Balance		1,993
Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	1,144	241
Unrealized gains/(losses), Included in changes in net assets		(494)
Realized gains/(losses)		4,965
Purchases		1,394
Sales	(525)	(5,205)
Transfers, Into Level 3		243
Net change	(525)	903
Ending Balance	619	1,144
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	44,045	58,078
Unrealized gains/(losses), Included in OCI, Assets	342	(530)
Realized gains/(losses)	(2,136)	1,322
Sales	(42,251)	(4,825)
Redemptions		(10,000)
Net change	(44,045)	(14,033)
Ending Balance		44,045
Corporate Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Unrealized gains/(losses), Included in changes in net assets	1,410
Transfers, Into Level 3	7,732
Transfers, Out of Level 3	(4,841)
Net change	4,301
Ending Balance	4,301
Equity Auction Rate Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	46,197	56,693
Unrealized gains/(losses), Included in changes in net assets	(413)	604
Purchases	15,176	25
Sales		(1,725)
Redemptions	(5,250)	(9,400)
Transfers, Out of Level 3	(5,268)
Net change	4,245	(10,496)
Ending Balance	50,442	46,197
Municipal Auction Rate Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	1,326	10,939
Unrealized gains/(losses), Included in changes in net assets	(11)	688
Purchases		1,650
Sales		(10,324)
Redemptions		(1,627)
Net change	(11)	(9,613)
Ending Balance	1,315	1,326
Other Investment [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	72,990	97,768
Unrealized gains/(losses), Included in changes in net assets	1,241	(18)
Unrealized gains/(losses), Included in OCI, Assets	(1,381)
Realized gains/(losses)		3,412
Purchases	26,659	3,630
Sales	(16,245)	(25,030)
Redemptions	(4,770)	(4,413)
Transfers, Into Level 3		1,524
Transfers, Out of Level 3	(8,618)	(3,883)
Net change	(3,114)	(24,778)
Ending Balance	$ 69,876	72,990
U S States And Political Subdivisions
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning Balance		6,200
Unrealized gains/(losses), Included in OCI, Assets		62
Transfers, Out of Level 3		(6,262)
Net change		$ (6,200)

Fair Value Of Financial Instr70

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments (Quantitative Information related To The Significant Unobservable Inputs Utilized In Company's Level 3 Recurring Fair Value Measurements) (Details) - Discounted Cash Flow [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Auction Rate Equity Securities [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Discount rate range, low end	2.30%
Discount rate range, high end	13.40%
Workout period range, low end	1 year
Workout period range, high end	3 years
Discount rate, weighted average	7.20%
Weighted average workout period	2 years 3 months 18 days
Auction Rate Municipal Securities [Member]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items]
Discount rate range, low end	0.30%
Discount rate range, high end	12.70%
Workout period range, low end	1 year
Workout period range, high end	4 years
Discount rate, weighted average	7.70%
Weighted average workout period	2 years 9 months 18 days

Fair Value Of Financial Instr71

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments (Schedule Of Fair Value Of Financial Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents		$ 91,268	$ 122,875
Securities purchased under agreements to resell	[1]	160,423	55,078
Financial instruments owned		749,443	786,855
Available-for-sale securities		1,629,907	1,513,478
Held-to-maturity securities	[2]	1,874,998	1,211,976
Investments, at fair value		181,017	210,255
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase	[3]	278,674	39,180
Bank deposits		6,638,356	4,790,081
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value		521,744	587,265
Derivative contracts		3,591	5,641
Borrowings		237,084
Carrying Value [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents		811,019	689,782
Cash segregated for regulatory purposes		227,727	49,646
Securities purchased under agreements to resell		160,423	55,078
Financial instruments owned		749,443	786,855
Available-for-sale securities		1,629,907	1,513,478
Held-to-maturity securities		1,855,399	1,177,565
Loans held for sale		189,921	121,939
Bank loans		3,143,515	2,065,420
Investments, at fair value		181,017	210,255
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		278,674	39,180
Bank deposits		6,638,356	4,790,081
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value		521,744	587,265
Derivative contracts	[4]	3,591	5,641
Borrowings		237,084
Senior notes		750,000	625,000
Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts		82,500	82,500
Estimated Fair Value [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents		811,019	689,782
Cash segregated for regulatory purposes		227,727	49,646
Securities purchased under agreements to resell		160,423	55,078
Financial instruments owned		749,443	786,855
Available-for-sale securities		1,629,907	1,513,478
Held-to-maturity securities		1,874,998	1,211,976
Loans held for sale		189,921	121,939
Bank loans		3,188,402	2,086,864
Investments, at fair value		181,017	210,255
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		278,674	39,180
Bank deposits		6,627,818	4,246,214
Financial instruments sold, but not yet purchased, at fair value		521,744	587,265
Derivative contracts	[4]	3,591	5,641
Borrowings		237,084
Senior notes		745,999	638,690
Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts		$ 72,371	$ 76,714
[1]	Collateral received includes securities received by our company from the counterparty. These securities are not included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless there is an event of default.
[2]	Held-to-maturity securities are carried in the consolidated statements of financial condition at amortized cost, and the changes in the value of these securities, other than impairment charges, are not reported on the consolidated financial statements.
[3]	Collateral pledged includes the fair value of securities pledged by our company to the counter party. These securities are included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless we default.
[4]	Included in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the consolidated statements of financial condition.

Fair Value Of Financial Instr72

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments (Estimated Fair Values Of Financial Instruments Not Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash		$ 91,268	$ 122,875
Securities purchased under agreements to resell	[1]	160,423	55,078
Held-to-maturity securities	[2]	1,874,998	1,211,976
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase	[3]	278,674	39,180
Bank deposits		6,638,356	4,790,081
Borrowings		237,084
Senior notes		750,000	625,000
Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash		91,268	122,875
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash		719,751	566,907
Cash segregated for regulatory purposes		227,727	49,646
Securities purchased under agreements to resell		160,423	55,078
Held-to-maturity securities		1,874,998	1,211,976
Loans held for sale		189,921	121,939
Bank loans		3,188,402	2,086,864
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		278,674	39,180
Bank deposits		6,627,818	4,246,214
Borrowings		237,084
Senior notes		745,999	638,690
Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts		72,371	76,714
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash		719,751	566,907
Cash segregated for regulatory purposes		227,727	49,646
Securities purchased under agreements to resell		160,423	44,996
Securities sold under agreements to repurchase		278,674	39,180
Senior notes		745,999	638,690
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Securities purchased under agreements to resell			10,082
Held-to-maturity securities		1,317,582	969,913
Loans held for sale		189,921	121,939
Bank loans		3,188,402	2,086,864
Bank deposits		6,627,818	4,246,214
Borrowings		237,054
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Held-to-maturity securities		557,416	242,063
Debentures to Stifel Financial Capital Trusts		$ 72,371	$ 76,714
[1]	Collateral received includes securities received by our company from the counterparty. These securities are not included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless there is an event of default.
[2]	Held-to-maturity securities are carried in the consolidated statements of financial condition at amortized cost, and the changes in the value of these securities, other than impairment charges, are not reported on the consolidated financial statements.
[3]	Collateral pledged includes the fair value of securities pledged by our company to the counter party. These securities are included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless we default.

Financial Instruments Owned A73

Financial Instruments Owned And Financial Instruments Sold, But Not Yet Purchased (Components Of Trading Securities Owned And Trading Securities Sold, But Not Yet Purchased) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	$ 749,443	$ 786,855
U S Government Corporations And Agencies Securities
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	116,949	101,439
U.S. Government Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	45,167	58,992
Corporate Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	203,910	245,909
Corporate Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	31,642	77,548
U S States And Political Subdivisions
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	112,983	130,544
Mortgage Backed Securities | Agency Securities
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	205,473	159,057
Mortgage Backed Securities | Non-Agency [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	33,319	13,366
Securities Owned [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	749,443	786,855
Securities Owned [Member] | U S Government Corporations And Agencies Securities
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading securities owned	45,167	58,992
Securities Owned [Member] | U.S. Government Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading securities owned	116,949	101,439
Securities Owned [Member] | Corporate Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Fixed income securities	203,910	245,909
Securities Owned [Member] | Corporate Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Equity securities	31,642	77,548
Securities Owned [Member] | U S States And Political Subdivisions
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
State and municipal securities	112,983	130,544
Securities Owned [Member] | Mortgage Backed Securities | Agency Securities
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading securities owned	205,473	159,057
Securities Owned [Member] | Mortgage Backed Securities | Non-Agency [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading securities owned	33,319	13,366
Securities Sold, But Not yet Purchased [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments owned, at fair value	521,744	587,265
Securities Sold, But Not yet Purchased [Member] | U S Government Corporations And Agencies Securities
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading securities owned	186,030	146,592
Securities Sold, But Not yet Purchased [Member] | U.S. Government Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading securities owned		10,029
Securities Sold, But Not yet Purchased [Member] | Corporate Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Fixed income securities	255,700	293,008
Securities Sold, But Not yet Purchased [Member] | Corporate Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Equity securities	29,184	105,013
Securities Sold, But Not yet Purchased [Member] | Mortgage Backed Securities | Agency Securities
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading securities owned	$ 50,830	28,067
Securities Sold, But Not yet Purchased [Member] | Mortgage Backed Securities | Non-Agency [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Trading securities owned		$ 4,556

Financial Instruments Owned A74

Financial Instruments Owned And Financial Instruments Sold, But Not Yet Purchased (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments pledged as collateral	$ 1,400	$ 1,200
Securities Owned [Member]
Schedule Of Trading Securities And Other Trading Assets [Line Items]
Financial instruments pledged as collateral	$ 508.5	$ 425.1

Available-For-Sale And Held-T75

Available-For-Sale And Held-To-Maturity Securities (Schedule Of Amortized Cost And Fair Values Of The Available For Sale Securities And Held To Maturity Securities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized cost		$ 1,641,398	$ 1,520,517
Available for sale securities, unrealized gains	[1]	1,807	7,133
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1]	(13,298)	(14,172)
Available-for-sale securities		1,629,907	1,513,478
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	1,855,399	1,177,565
Held-to-maturity Securities, Gross unrealized gains	[1],[2]	27,254	38,338
Held-to-maturity Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1],[2]	(7,655)	(3,927)
Held-to-maturity securities, Estimated fair value	[2]	1,874,998	1,211,976
U S Government Corporations And Agencies Securities
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized cost		1,700	1,613
Available for sale securities, unrealized gains	[1]	1	1
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1]	(3)	(4)
Available-for-sale securities		1,698	1,610
U S States And Political Subdivisions
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized cost		75,953	76,518
Available for sale securities, unrealized gains	[1]	28	20
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1]	(1,814)	(2,137)
Available-for-sale securities		74,167	74,401
Corporate Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized cost		321,017	336,210
Available for sale securities, unrealized gains	[1]	743	2,016
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1]	(2,352)	(820)
Available-for-sale securities		319,408	337,406
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	40,145	55,236
Held-to-maturity Securities, Gross unrealized gains	[1],[2]		4
Held-to-maturity Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1],[2]	(396)	(1,223)
Held-to-maturity securities, Estimated fair value	[2]	39,749	54,017
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized cost		922,563	788,908
Available for sale securities, unrealized gains	[1]	774	1,321
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1]	(7,424)	(10,155)
Available-for-sale securities		915,913	780,074
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	496,996	177,335
Held-to-maturity Securities, Gross unrealized gains	[1],[2]	2,076	3,151
Held-to-maturity Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1],[2]	(4,139)	(2,645)
Held-to-maturity securities, Estimated fair value	[2]	494,933	177,841
Mortgage Backed Securities | Agency Securities
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized cost		306,309	206,982
Available for sale securities, unrealized gains	[1]	125	3,137
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1]	(1,541)	(913)
Available-for-sale securities		304,893	209,206
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	1,257,808	884,451
Held-to-maturity Securities, Gross unrealized gains	[1],[2]	23,346	32,926
Held-to-maturity Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1],[2]	(3,105)	(42)
Held-to-maturity securities, Estimated fair value	[2]	1,278,049	917,335
Mortgage Backed Securities | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized cost		11,177	107,100
Available for sale securities, unrealized gains	[1]	134	633
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1]	(1)	(89)
Available-for-sale securities		11,310	107,644
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	59,521	59,462
Held-to-maturity Securities, Gross unrealized gains	[1],[2]	1,832	2,257
Held-to-maturity securities, Estimated fair value	[2]	61,353	61,719
Mortgage Backed Securities | Non-Agency [Member]
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized cost		2,679	3,186
Available for sale securities, unrealized gains	[1]	2	5
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1]	(163)	(54)
Available-for-sale securities		2,518	3,137
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	929	1,081
Held-to-maturity Securities, Gross unrealized losses	[1],[2]	(15)	(17)
Held-to-maturity securities, Estimated fair value	[2]	$ 914	$ 1,064
[1]	Unrealized gains/(losses) related to available-for-sale securities are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income.
[2]	Held-to-maturity securities are carried in the consolidated statements of financial condition at amortized cost, and the changes in the value of these securities, other than impairment charges, are not reported on the consolidated financial statements.

Available-For-Sale And Held-T76

Available-For-Sale And Held-To-Maturity Securities (Narrative) (Details)		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)security	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Other Than Temporary Impairment Credit Losses Recognized In Earnings [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities		$ 641,600,000	$ 300,300,000	$ 197,500,000
Net realized gains resulting from sale of available-for-sale securities		3,200,000	3,700,000	2,000,000
Unrealized gains (losses) recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income	[1],[2]	1,389,000	1,838,000	$ (48,528,000)
Financial instruments pledged as collateral		1,400,000,000	1,200,000,000
Trading securities pledged		$ 1,100,000,000
Number of available for sale securities whose amortized costs exceeded their fair values | security		117
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses		$ 13,298,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses		5,843,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value		$ 1,332,902,000
Percentage of available-for-sale portfolio		81.80%
Held-to-maturity, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions | security		50
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss		$ 7,655,000
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss		3,497,000
Credit-related OTTI		0	0
Gross unrealized losses related to all other securities	[3]	13,298,000	$ 14,172,000
OTTI on all other securities		0
Available-for-sale and Held-to-maturity Securities [Member]
Other Than Temporary Impairment Credit Losses Recognized In Earnings [Line Items]
Gross unrealized losses related to all other securities		$ 21,000,000
[1]	Amounts are net of reclassifications to earnings of realized gains of $2.1 million, $2.3 million, and $1.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively
[2]	Net of taxes of $0.7 million, $2.1 million, and $24.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively
[3]	Unrealized gains/(losses) related to available-for-sale securities are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income.

Available-For-Sale And Held-T77

Available-For-Sale And Held-To-Maturity Securities (Schedule Of Amortized Cost And Fair Values Of Debt Securities By Contractual Maturity) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule Of Debt Securities At Amortized Cost And Fair Value Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, Amortized Cost		$ 1,641,398
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, within one year, Fair Value	[1]	9,724
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, fair value	[1]	271,760
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value	[1]	1,091,358
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, Fair Value	[1]	1,629,907
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, Amortized Cost		269,700
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Amortized Cost		1,545,554
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	1,855,399	$ 1,177,565
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, Fair Value	[2]	1,874,998	$ 1,211,976
Excluding Mortgage Backed Securities
Schedule Of Debt Securities At Amortized Cost And Fair Value Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, within one year, Amortized Cost		9,710
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after one year through three years, Amortized Cost		88,249
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after three year through five years, Amortized Cost		169,684
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, Amortized Cost		275,252
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Amortized Cost		778,338
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, within one year, Fair Value		9,723
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after one year through three years, Fair Value		88,426
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after three year through five years, Fair Value		168,573
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, fair value		271,146
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value		773,318
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after one year through three years, Amortized Cost		40,145
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Amortized Cost		496,996
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after one year through three years, Fair Value		39,748
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value		494,934
Mortgage Backed Securities
Schedule Of Debt Securities At Amortized Cost And Fair Value Basis [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after one year through three years, Amortized Cost		66
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, Amortized Cost		583
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Amortized Cost		319,516
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after one year through three years, Fair Value		67
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, fair value		614
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value		318,040
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, Amortized Cost		269,700
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Amortized Cost		1,048,558
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, Fair Value		269,989
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value		$ 1,070,327
[1]	Due to the immaterial amount of income recognized on tax-exempt securities, yields were not calculated on a tax-equivalent basis.
[2]	Held-to-maturity securities are carried in the consolidated statements of financial condition at amortized cost, and the changes in the value of these securities, other than impairment charges, are not reported on the consolidated financial statements.

Available-For-Sale And Held-T78

Available-For-Sale And Held-To-Maturity Securities (Contractual Maturities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, within one year, Fair Value	[1]	$ 9,724
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after one year through five, Fair Value	[1]	257,065
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, fair value	[1]	271,760
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value	[1]	1,091,358
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, Fair Value	[1]	1,629,907
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after one year through five, Amortized Cost		40,145
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, Amortized Cost		269,700
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Amortized Cost		1,545,554
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	1,855,399	$ 1,177,565
U S Government Corporations And Agencies Securities
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, within one year, Fair Value	[1]	701
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after one year through five, Fair Value	[1]	997
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, Fair Value	[1]	1,698
U S States And Political Subdivisions
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, fair value	[1]	7,333
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value	[1]	66,834
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, Fair Value	[1]	74,167
Corporate Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, within one year, Fair Value	[1]	9,023
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after one year through five, Fair Value	[1]	256,001
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, fair value	[1]	54,384
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, Fair Value	[1]	319,408
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after one year through five, Amortized Cost		40,145
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	40,145	55,236
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, fair value	[1]	209,429
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value	[1]	706,484
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, Fair Value	[1]	915,913
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Amortized Cost		496,996
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	496,996	177,335
Mortgage Backed Securities
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, fair value		614
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value		318,040
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, Amortized Cost		269,700
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Amortized Cost		1,048,558
Mortgage Backed Securities | Agency Securities
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, fair value	[1]	614
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value	[1]	304,279
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, Fair Value	[1]	304,893
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, Amortized Cost		210,179
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Amortized Cost		1,047,629
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	1,257,808	884,451
Mortgage Backed Securities | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value	[1]	11,310
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, Fair Value	[1]	11,310
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after five through ten years, Amortized Cost		59,521
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	59,521	59,462
Mortgage Backed Securities | Non-Agency [Member]
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after one year through five, Fair Value	[1]	67
Availably-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Fair Value	[1]	2,451
Available-for-sale Securities, debt maturities, Fair Value	[1]	2,518
Held-to-maturity Securities, debt maturities, after ten years, Amortized Cost		929
Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized cost	[2]	$ 929	$ 1,081
[1]	Due to the immaterial amount of income recognized on tax-exempt securities, yields were not calculated on a tax-equivalent basis.
[2]	Held-to-maturity securities are carried in the consolidated statements of financial condition at amortized cost, and the changes in the value of these securities, other than impairment charges, are not reported on the consolidated financial statements.

Available-For-Sale And Held-T79

Available-For-Sale And Held-To-Maturity Securities (Schedule Of Gross Unrealized Losses And The Estimated Fair Value By Length Of Time In A Loss Position) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Less than 12 months	$ (7,455)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, Less than 12 months	1,147,536
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, 12 months or more	(5,843)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, 12 months or more	185,366
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Total	(13,298)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	1,332,902
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Loss	(4,158)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	735,650
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss	(3,497)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	111,317
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss, Total	(7,655)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	846,967
U S Government Corporations And Agencies Securities
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Less than 12 months	(3)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, Less than 12 months	1,449
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Total	(3)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	1,449
U S States And Political Subdivisions
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Less than 12 months	(415)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, Less than 12 months	26,357
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, 12 months or more	(1,399)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, 12 months or more	38,231
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Total	(1,814)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	64,588
Corporate Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Less than 12 months	(2,352)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, Less than 12 months	239,614
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Total	(2,352)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	239,614
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss	(396)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	39,748
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss, Total	(396)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	39,748
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Less than 12 months	(3,519)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, Less than 12 months	600,224
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, 12 months or more	(3,905)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, 12 months or more	136,257
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Total	(7,424)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	736,481
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Loss	(1,080)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	258,098
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss	(3,059)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	68,499
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss, Total	(4,139)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	326,597
Mortgage Backed Securities | Agency Securities
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Less than 12 months	(1,165)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, Less than 12 months	279,762
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, 12 months or more	(376)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, 12 months or more	8,516
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Total	(1,541)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	288,278
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Loss	(3,078)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	477,552
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss	(27)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	2,156
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss, Total	(3,105)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	479,708
Mortgage Backed Securities | Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Less than 12 months	(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, Less than 12 months	130
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Total	(1)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	130
Mortgage Backed Securities | Non-Agency [Member]
Schedule Of Available For Sale And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, 12 months or more	(163)
Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated fair value, 12 months or more	2,362
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross unrealized losses, Total	(163)
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	2,362
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss	(15)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value	914
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss, Total	(15)
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value, Total	$ 914

Bank Loans (Schedule Of Balance

Bank Loans (Schedule Of Balance And Associated Percentage Of Each Major Loan Category In Bank Loan Portfolio) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Gross bank loans	$ 3,180,584	$ 2,116,634
Unamortized loan discount	(5,296)	(30,533)
Unamortized loan fees, net of loan fees	(1,567)	(1,631)
Loans in process	(419)	1,681
Allowance for loan losses	(29,787)	(20,731)	$ (12,668)
Bank loans, net	$ 3,143,515	$ 2,065,420
Gross bank loans, Percent	100.00%	100.00%
Securities Based Loans [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Gross bank loans	$ 1,388,953	$ 732,799
Allowance for loan losses	$ (1,607)	$ (1,099)	(893)
Gross bank loans, Percent	43.70%	34.60%
Commercial And Industrial [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Gross bank loans	$ 1,216,656	$ 896,853
Allowance for loan losses	$ (24,748)	$ (16,609)	(9,832)
Gross bank loans, Percent	38.20%	42.40%
Consumer [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Gross bank loans	$ 36,846	$ 25,489
Allowance for loan losses	$ (105)	$ (156)
Gross bank loans, Percent	1.20%	1.20%
Residential Real Estate [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Gross bank loans	$ 429,132	$ 432,646
Allowance for loan losses	$ (1,241)	$ (787)	(408)
Gross bank loans, Percent	13.50%	20.40%
Commercial Real Estate [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Gross bank loans	$ 92,623	$ 15,902
Allowance for loan losses	$ (264)	$ (232)	(198)
Gross bank loans, Percent	2.90%	0.80%
Home Equity Lines Of Credit [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Gross bank loans	$ 12,475	$ 12,945
Allowance for loan losses	$ (290)	$ (267)	(174)
Gross bank loans, Percent	0.40%	0.60%
Construction And Land [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Gross bank loans	$ 3,899
Allowance for loan losses	$ (78)		$ (12)
Gross bank loans, Percent	0.10%

Bank Loans (Narrative) (Details

Bank Loans (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans held for sale, at lower of cost or market	$ 189,921	$ 121,939
Gains (losses) recognized from sale of loans	12,700	7,400	$ 11,300
Nonaccrual loans more than 90 days past due	900	4,900
Troubled debt restructurings	200	1,000
Specific allowance	$ 188	$ 272
Collateralized loan portfolio	97.20%	95.80%
Residential Mortgages [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Gains (losses) recognized from sale of loans	$ 14,700
Reclassification of loans held for sale	227,600
Principal balance of loans sold	184,400
Remaining portion of loans held for sale	26,900
Stifel Bank [Member] | Executive Officers Directors and Their Affiliates [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans outstanding amount	2,000	$ 600
Stifel Financial Corp. [Member] | Executive Officers Directors and Their Affiliates [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans outstanding amount	$ 7,200	$ 5,300

Bank Loans (Activity In The All

Bank Loans (Activity In The Allowance For Loan Losses By Portfolio Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	$ 20,731	$ 12,668
Provision	9,069	8,531
Charge- offs	(144)	(531)
Recoveries	131	63
Ending Balance	29,787	20,731
Commercial And Industrial [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	16,609	9,832
Provision	8,139	7,287
Charge- offs		(510)
Ending Balance	24,748	16,609
Securities Based Loans [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	1,099	893
Provision	508	211
Charge- offs		(5)
Ending Balance	1,607	1,099
Consumer [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	156
Provision	(58)	172
Charge- offs		(16)
Recoveries	7
Ending Balance	105	156
Residential Real Estate [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	787	408
Provision	544	373
Charge- offs	(144)
Recoveries	54	6
Ending Balance	1,241	787
Commercial Real Estate [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	232	198
Provision	(30)	(23)
Recoveries	62	57
Ending Balance	264	232
Home Equity Lines Of Credit [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	267	174
Provision	15	93
Recoveries	8
Ending Balance	290	267
Construction And Land [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance		12
Provision	78	(12)
Ending Balance	78
Qualitative [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	1,581	1,151
Provision	(127)	430
Ending Balance	$ 1,454	$ 1,581

Bank Loans (Recorded Balances O

Bank Loans (Recorded Balances Of Loans and Amount Of Allowance Allocated Based Upon Impairment Method by Portfolio Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Allowance for Loan Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	$ 187	$ 272
Allowance for Loan Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	29,600	20,459
Allowance for Loan Losses, Total	29,787	20,731	$ 12,668
Recorded Investment in Loans, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	519	736
Recorded Investment in Loans, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	3,180,065	2,115,898
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total	3,180,584	2,116,634
Commercial And Industrial [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Allowance for Loan Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	24,748	16,609
Allowance for Loan Losses, Total	24,748	16,609	9,832
Recorded Investment in Loans, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	1,216,656	896,853
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total	1,216,656	896,853
Securities Based Loans [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Allowance for Loan Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	1,607	1,099
Allowance for Loan Losses, Total	1,607	1,099	893
Recorded Investment in Loans, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	1,388,953	732,799
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total	1,388,953	732,799
Consumer [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Allowance for Loan Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	14	13
Allowance for Loan Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	91	143
Allowance for Loan Losses, Total	105	156
Recorded Investment in Loans, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	14	13
Recorded Investment in Loans, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	36,832	25,476
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total	36,846	25,489
Residential Real Estate [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Allowance for Loan Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	24	87
Allowance for Loan Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	1,217	700
Allowance for Loan Losses, Total	1,241	787	408
Recorded Investment in Loans, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	182	377
Recorded Investment in Loans, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	428,950	432,269
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total	429,132	432,646
Commercial Real Estate [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Allowance for Loan Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment		23
Allowance for Loan Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	264	209
Allowance for Loan Losses, Total	264	232	198
Recorded Investment in Loans, Individually Evaluated for Impairment		23
Recorded Investment in Loans, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	92,623	15,879
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total	92,623	15,902
Home Equity Lines Of Credit [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Allowance for Loan Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	149	149
Allowance for Loan Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	141	118
Allowance for Loan Losses, Total	290	267	174
Recorded Investment in Loans, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	323	323
Recorded Investment in Loans, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	12,152	12,622
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total	12,475	12,945
Construction And Land [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Allowance for Loan Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	78
Allowance for Loan Losses, Total	78		12
Recorded Investment in Loans, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	3,899
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total	3,899
Qualitative [Member]
Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses [Line Items]
Allowance for Loan Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment	1,454	1,581
Allowance for Loan Losses, Total	$ 1,454	$ 1,581	$ 1,151

Bank Loans (Loans That Were Ind

Bank Loans (Loans That Were Individually Evaluated For Impairment By Portfolio Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Financing Receivable Impaired [Line Items]
Unpaid Contractual Principal Balance	$ 2,062	$ 5,570
Recorded Investment with No Allowance	543	3,944
Recorded Investment with Allowance	520	941
Total Recorded Investment	1,063	4,885
Related Allowance	188	272
Average Recorded Investment	1,117	5,219
Consumer [Member]
Financing Receivable Impaired [Line Items]
Unpaid Contractual Principal Balance	944	13
Recorded Investment with Allowance	15	13
Total Recorded Investment	15	13
Related Allowance	15	13
Average Recorded Investment	23	15
Residential Real Estate [Member]
Financing Receivable Impaired [Line Items]
Unpaid Contractual Principal Balance	776	5,006
Recorded Investment with No Allowance	524	3,944
Recorded Investment with Allowance	182	377
Total Recorded Investment	706	4,321
Related Allowance	24	87
Average Recorded Investment	752	4,646
Commercial Real Estate [Member]
Financing Receivable Impaired [Line Items]
Unpaid Contractual Principal Balance		228
Recorded Investment with Allowance		228
Total Recorded Investment		228
Related Allowance		23
Average Recorded Investment		235
Home Equity Lines Of Credit [Member]
Financing Receivable Impaired [Line Items]
Unpaid Contractual Principal Balance	342	323
Recorded Investment with No Allowance	19
Recorded Investment with Allowance	323	323
Total Recorded Investment	342	323
Related Allowance	149	149
Average Recorded Investment	$ 342	$ 323

Bank Loans (Aging Of The Record

Bank Loans (Aging Of The Recorded Investment In Past Due Loans) (Details) - USD ($)		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		$ 4,116,000		$ 11,479,000
Current Balance		3,176,468,000		2,105,155,000
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total		3,180,584,000		2,116,634,000
Non-accrual		737,000	[1]	4,885,000	[2]
Restructured	[1]	326,000
Total		1,063,000	[1]	4,885,000	[2]
Loans past due 90 days and still accruing interest		0		0
30 - 89 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		3,640,000		6,631,000
90 or More Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		476,000		4,848,000
Commercial And Industrial [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Current Balance		1,216,656,000		896,853,000
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total		1,216,656,000		896,853,000
Securities Based Loans [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Current Balance		1,388,953,000		732,799,000
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total		1,388,953,000		732,799,000
Consumer [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		14,000		42,000
Current Balance		36,832,000		25,447,000
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total		36,846,000		25,489,000
Non-accrual		15,000	[1]	13,000	[2]
Total		15,000	[1]	13,000	[2]
Consumer [Member] | 30 - 89 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		7,000		28,000
Consumer [Member] | 90 or More Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		7,000		14,000
Residential Real Estate [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		3,760,000		11,437,000
Current Balance		425,372,000		421,209,000
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total		429,132,000		432,646,000
Non-accrual		380,000	[1]	4,321,000	[2]
Restructured	[1]	326,000
Total		706,000	[1]	4,321,000	[2]
Residential Real Estate [Member] | 30 - 89 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		3,310,000		6,603,000
Residential Real Estate [Member] | 90 or More Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		450,000		4,834,000
Commercial Real Estate [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Current Balance		92,623,000		15,902,000
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total		92,623,000		15,902,000
Non-accrual	[2]			228,000
Total	[2]			228,000
Home Equity Lines Of Credit [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		342,000
Current Balance		12,133,000		12,945,000
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total		12,475,000		12,945,000
Non-accrual		342,000	[1]	323,000	[2]
Total		342,000	[1]	$ 323,000	[2]
Home Equity Lines Of Credit [Member] | 30 - 89 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		323,000
Home Equity Lines Of Credit [Member] | 90 or More Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Total Past Due		19,000
Construction And Land [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Past Due [Line Items]
Current Balance		3,899,000
Recorded Investment in Loans, Total		$ 3,899,000
[1]	There were no loans past due 90 days and still accruing interest at December 31, 2015
[2]	There were no loans past due 90 days and still accruing interest at December 31, 2014.

Bank Loans (Risk Category Of Lo

Bank Loans (Risk Category Of Loan Portfolio) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	$ 3,180,584	$ 2,116,634
Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	3,153,743	2,105,155
Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	12,502	6,631
Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	14,339	4,848
Commercial And Industrial [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	1,216,656	896,853
Commercial And Industrial [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	1,191,030	896,853
Commercial And Industrial [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	11,320
Commercial And Industrial [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	14,306
Securities Based Loans [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	1,388,953	732,799
Securities Based Loans [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	1,388,939	732,799
Securities Based Loans [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	14
Consumer [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	36,846	25,489
Consumer [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	36,846	25,447
Consumer [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio		28
Consumer [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio		14
Residential Real Estate [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	429,132	432,646
Residential Real Estate [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	427,950	421,209
Residential Real Estate [Member] | Special Mention [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	1,182	6,603
Residential Real Estate [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio		4,834
Commercial Real Estate [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	92,623	15,902
Commercial Real Estate [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	92,623	15,902
Home Equity Lines Of Credit [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	12,475	12,945
Home Equity Lines Of Credit [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	12,456	$ 12,945
Home Equity Lines Of Credit [Member] | Substandard [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	19
Construction And Land [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	3,899
Construction And Land [Member] | Pass [Member]
Financing Receivable Recorded Investment [Line Items]
Total risk category of loan portfolio	$ 3,899

Fixed Assets (Summary Of Fixed

Fixed Assets (Summary Of Fixed Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Furniture and equipment	$ 238,075	$ 194,421
Building and leasehold improvements	146,954	124,390
Property on operating leases	21,064	100
Total	406,093	318,911
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	(224,127)	(194,665)
Fixed assets, net	$ 181,966	$ 124,246

Fixed Assets (Narrative) (Detai

Fixed Assets (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Depreciation and amortization	$ 36,715	$ 29,280	$ 33,988

Goodwill And Intangible Asset89

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indicators of impairment	$ 0
Amortization of intangible assets		$ 10,423,000	$ 12,366,000	$ 12,131,000
Customer Relationships [Member]
Schedule of Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-average remaining lives of intangible assets		7 years 6 months
Trade Name [Member]
Schedule of Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-average remaining lives of intangible assets		11 years 3 months 18 days
Non-Compete Agreements [Member]
Schedule of Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-average remaining lives of intangible assets		2 years 9 months 18 days

Goodwill And Intangible Asset90

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Carrying Amount Of Goodwill And Intangible Assets) (Details) - USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill, Beginning balance		$ 795,026,000
Goodwill, Net additions		120,576,000
Indicators of impairment	$ 0
Goodwill, Ending balance		915,602,000	$ 795,026,000
Intangible assets, Beginning balance		54,563,000
Intangible assets, Net additions		19,037,000
Intangible assets, Amortization		(10,423,000)	(12,366,000)	$ (12,131,000)
Intangible assets, Ending balance		63,177,000	54,563,000
Global Wealth Management [Member]
Schedule of Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill, Beginning balance		177,171,000
Goodwill, Net additions		118,213,000
Goodwill, Ending balance		295,384,000	177,171,000
Intangible assets, Beginning balance		23,503,000
Intangible assets, Net additions		12,084,000
Intangible assets, Amortization		(5,560,000)
Intangible assets, Ending balance		30,027,000	23,503,000
Institutional Group [Member]
Schedule of Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill, Beginning balance		617,855,000
Goodwill, Net additions		2,363,000
Goodwill, Ending balance		620,218,000	617,855,000
Intangible assets, Beginning balance		31,060,000
Intangible assets, Net additions		6,953,000
Intangible assets, Amortization		(4,863,000)
Intangible assets, Ending balance		$ 33,150,000	$ 31,060,000

Goodwill And Intangible Asset91

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Intangible Assets Subject To Amortization) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying value	$ 118,440	$ 99,403
Accumulated Amortization	57,381	47,123
Customer Relationships [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying value	78,580	63,661
Accumulated Amortization	37,322	29,636
Trade Name [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying value	24,456	21,423
Accumulated Amortization	6,969	5,322
Investment Banking Backlog [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying value	7,440	7,388
Accumulated Amortization	7,388	7,388
Core Deposits [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying value	5,447	5,447
Accumulated Amortization	5,447	4,657
Non-Compete Agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying value	2,517	1,484
Accumulated Amortization	$ 255	$ 120

Goodwill And Intangible Asset92

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Amortization Expense In Future Periods) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
2,016	$ 7,613
2,017	6,988
2,018	6,500
2,019	5,949
2,020	6,027
Thereafter	27,982
Future amortization expense total	$ 61,059

Borrowings - Components of Borr

Borrowings - Components of Borrowings (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Borrowings	$ 237,084
Borrowings on secured lines of credit [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Borrowings	30,000
Federal Home Loan Bank advances [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Borrowings	148,000
Term Loans [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Borrowings	$ 59,084

Borrowings (Details)

Borrowings (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)item
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Uncommitted secured lines of credit	$ 980
Number of banks | item	7
Daily borrowings under our uncommitted secured lines	$ 496.5
Compensating balances	0
Trading securities pledged	1,100
Committed revolving credit facility	100
Outstanding on our revolving credit facility	$ 0
Maturity date	Dec. 31, 2022
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
LIBOR rate	2.00%
Company Owned Securities [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Trading securities pledged	$ 248.5
Federal Home Loan Bank advances [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Weighted average interest rate on borrowings	0.31%
Term Loans [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Maturity date	Jun. 3, 2016
Term Loans [Member] | Minimum [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Interest on restated credit agreement	1.68%
Term Loans [Member] | Maximum [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Interest on restated credit agreement	1.92%

Senior Notes (Schedule Of Corpo

Senior Notes (Schedule Of Corporate Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Jul. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 31, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt		$ 750,000		$ 625,000
Stated interest rate		5.375%
Debt instrument, maturity date		Dec. 31, 2022
Senior notes 3.50% due 2020 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	[1]	$ 300,000
Stated interest rate		3.50%
Due date		2,020
Debt instrument, maturity date		Dec. 31, 2015
Redemption price, percentage of principal amount		100.00%
Senior notes 5.375%, due 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt		$ 150,000	[2]	150,000	[2]		$ 150,000
Stated interest rate		5.375%					5.375%
Due date		2,022
Debt instrument, maturity date		Dec. 31, 2012
Redemption price, percentage of principal amount		100.00%
Senior notes 4.250% due 2024 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt		$ 300,000	[3]	300,000	[3]	$ 300,000
Stated interest rate		4.25%				4.25%
Due date		2,024
Debt instrument, maturity date		Jul. 31, 2014
Redemption price, percentage of principal amount		100.00%
Senior notes 6.70%, due 2022 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt				$ 175,000	[4]			$ 175,000
Stated interest rate		6.70%						6.70%
Due date		2,022
Debt instrument, maturity date		Jan. 31, 2012
Redemption price, percentage of principal amount		100.00%
[1]	In December 2015, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 3.50% senior notes due December 2020. Interest on these senior notes is payable semi-annually in arrears. We may redeem the notes in whole or in part, at our option, at a redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus a “make-whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption.
[2]	In December 2012, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $150.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 5.375% senior notes due December 2022. Interest on these senior notes is payable quarterly in arrears. On or after December 31, 2015, we may redeem some or all of the senior notes at any time at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes being redeemed plus accrued interest thereon to the redemption date.
[3]	In July 2014, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $300.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.250% senior notes due July 2024. Interest on these senior notes is payable semi-annually in arrears. We may redeem the notes in whole or in part, at our option, at a redemption price equal to 100% of their principal amount, plus a “make-whole” premium and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption.
[4]	In January 2012, we sold in a registered underwritten public offering, $175.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.70% senior notes due January 2022. Interest on these senior notes is payable quarterly in arrears. On January 15, 2015, we redeemed 100% of our company’s outstanding 6.70% senior notes.

Senior Notes (Schedule Of Cor96

Senior Notes (Schedule Of Corporate Debt Principal Maturities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Total	$ 750,000	$ 625,000
Non Recourse Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
2,020	300,000
Thereafter	450,000
Long-term Debt, Total	$ 750,000

Bank Deposits (Schedule Of Depo

Bank Deposits (Schedule Of Deposits) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deposits Liabilities Balance Sheet Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Money market and savings accounts	$ 6,429,780	$ 4,600,757
Demand deposits (interest-bearing)	185,275	101,652
Certificates of deposit	15,087	77,197
Demand deposits (non-interest-bearing)	8,214	10,475
Bank deposits	$ 6,638,356	$ 4,790,081
Weighted average interest rate on deposits	0.17%	0.19%

Bank Deposits (Scheduled Maturi

Bank Deposits (Scheduled Maturities Of Certificates Of Deposit) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Scheduled Maturities Of Certificates Of Deposit [Line Items]
Within one year	$ 4,863	$ 26,769
One to three years	2,356	6,874
Three to five years	145	1,268
Certificates of deposit, less than $100	7,364	34,911
Within one year	5,464	33,784
One to three years	1,975	7,520
Three to five years	284	723
Over five years		259
Certificates of deposit, $100 and greater	7,723	42,286
Total certificates of deposit	15,087	77,197
Brokerage Customers Deposits [Member]
Scheduled Maturities Of Certificates Of Deposit [Line Items]
Deposits of related parties	6,600,000	4,700,000
Stifel Nicolaus [Member]
Scheduled Maturities Of Certificates Of Deposit [Line Items]
Interest bearing and time deposits of executive officers, directors, and affiliates	$ 300	$ 300

Derivative Instruments And He99

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities (Schedule Of Notional Values And Fair Values Of Derivative Instruments) (Details) - Cash Flow Interest Rate Contracts [Member] - Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member] - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Value	$ 179,110,000	$ 272,967,000
Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Liability derivatives, Negative fair value	$ (3,591,000)	$ (5,641,000)

Derivative Instruments And H100

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
General Discussion Of Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities [Abstract]
Term of interest rate swap agreements	10 years
Estimated derivatives to be reclassified as increase to interest expense	$ 1.9
Fair value of derivative net liability position	3.6
Derivative counterparty posted collateral against obligation	$ 12.7

Derivative Instruments And H101

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities (Schedule Of Derivative Instruments In Consolidated Statements Of Operations) (Details) - Cash Flow Interest Rate Contracts [Member] - Interest Expense [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Gain /(Loss) recognized in OCI (effectiveness)	$ (2,137)	$ (2,576)	$ 2,644
Loss reclassified from OCI into income	$ 3,824	$ 6,068	$ 8,593

Debentures To Stifel Financi102

Debentures To Stifel Financial Capital Trusts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Jun. 28, 2008	Mar. 30, 2007	Aug. 12, 2005
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debenture to Stifel Financial Capital Trust	$ 82,500		$ 82,500
Stated interest rate	5.375%
Maturity date	Dec. 31, 2022
Stifel Financial Capital Trust II [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debenture to Stifel Financial Capital Trust	$ 35,000	[1]	35,000	[1]			$ 35,000
Stated interest rate	6.38%
Maturity date	Sep. 30, 2035
Earliest call date	Sep. 30, 2010
Interest rate terms, spread over reference rate	1.70%
Reference rate	Three-month LIBOR plus 1.70% per annum
Stifel Financial Capital Trust III [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debenture to Stifel Financial Capital Trust	$ 35,000	[2]	35,000	[2]		$ 35,000
Stated interest rate	6.79%
Maturity date	Jun. 6, 2037
Earliest call date	Jun. 6, 2012
Interest rate terms, spread over reference rate	1.85%
Reference rate	Three-month LIBOR plus 1.85% per annum
Stifel Financial Capital Trust IV [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debenture to Stifel Financial Capital Trust	$ 12,500	[3]	$ 12,500	[3]	$ 35,000
Stated interest rate	6.78%
Maturity date	Sep. 6, 2037
Earliest call date	Sep. 6, 2012
Interest rate terms, spread over reference rate	1.85%
Reference rate	Three-month LIBOR plus 1.85% per annum
[1]	On August 12, 2005, we completed a private placement of $35.0 million of 6.38% Cumulative Trust Preferred Securities. The trust preferred securities were offered by Stifel Financial Capital Trust II (the “Trust II”), a non-consolidated wholly owned subsidiary of our company. The trust preferred securities mature on September 30, 2035, but may be redeemed by our company, and in turn, the Trust II would call the debenture beginning September 30, 2010. The Trust II requires quarterly distributions of interest to the holders of the trust preferred securities. Distributions will be payable at a floating interest rate equal to three-month LIBOR plus 1.70% per annum.
[2]	On March 30, 2007, we completed a private placement of $35.0 million of 6.79% Cumulative Trust Preferred Securities. The trust preferred securities were offered by Stifel Financial Capital Trust III (the "Trust III"), a non-consolidated wholly owned subsidiary of our company. The trust preferred securities mature on June 6, 2037, but may be redeemed by our company, and in turn, Trust III would call the debenture beginning June 6, 2012. Trust III requires quarterly distributions of interest to the holders of the trust preferred securities. Distributions will be payable at a floating interest rate equal to three-month LIBOR plus 1.85% per annum
[3]	On June 28, 2007, we completed a private placement of $35.0 million of 6.78% Cumulative Trust Preferred Securities. The trust preferred securities were offered by Stifel Financial Capital Trust IV (the “Trust IV”), a non-consolidated wholly owned subsidiary of our company. The trust preferred securities mature on September 6, 2037, but may be redeemed by our company, and in turn, Trust IV would call the debenture beginning September 6, 2012. Trust IV requires quarterly distributions of interest to the holders of the trust preferred securities. Distributions will be payable at a floating interest rate equal to three-month LIBOR plus 1.85% per annum

Disclosures About Offsetting103

Disclosures About Offsetting Assets And Liabilities (Financial Assets And Derivative Assets That Are Subject To Offset) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Offsetting [Abstract]
Gross amounts of recognized assets, Securities borrowing	[1]	$ 318,105	$ 445,542
Net amounts presented in the Statement of Financial Condition, Securities borrowing	[1]	318,105	445,542
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Financial instruments, Securities borrowing	[1]	(182,399)
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Collateral received, Securities borrowing	[1]	(123,309)	(431,301)
Securities borrowed, Net amount	[1]	12,397	14,241
Gross amounts of recognized assets, Reverse repurchase agreements	[2]	160,423	55,078
Net amounts presented in the Statement of Financial Condition, Securities purchased under agreements to resell	[2]	160,423	55,078
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Financial instruments, Securities purchased under agreements to resell	[2]	(160,423)
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Collateral received, Securities purchased under agreements to resell	[2]		(54,955)
Securities purchased under agreements to resell, Net amount	[2]		123
Gross amounts of recognized assets		478,528	500,620
Net amounts presented in the Statements of Financial Condition		478,528	500,620
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position		(342,822)
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Collateral received		(123,309)	(486,256)
Net amount		$ 12,397	$ 14,364
[1]	Securities borrowing transactions are included in receivables from brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations on the consolidated statements of financial condition. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information on receivables from brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations.
[2]	Collateral received includes securities received by our company from the counterparty. These securities are not included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless there is an event of default.

Disclosures About Offsetting104

Disclosures About Offsetting Assets And Liabilities (Financial Liabilities And Derivative Liabilities That Are Subject To Offset) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Offsetting [Abstract]
Gross amounts of recognized liabilities, Securities lending	[1]	$ (329,670)	$ (4,215)
Net amounts presented in the Statement of Financial Condition, Securities lending	[1]	(329,670)	(4,215)
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Financial instruments, Securities lending	[1]	182,399
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Collateral pledged, Securities lending	[1]	132,784	3,892
Securities lending, Net amount	[1]	(14,487)	(323)
Gross amounts of recognized liabilities, Securities purchased under agreements to resell	[2]	(278,674)	(39,180)
Net amounts presented in the Statement of Financial Condition, Securities purchased under agreements to resell	[2]	(278,674)	(39,180)
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Financial instruments, Securities purchased under agreements to resell	[2]	160,423
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Collateral pledged, Securities purchased under agreements to resell	[2]	118,251	39,089
Securities purchased under agreements to repurchase, Net amount	[2]		(91)
Gross amount of recognized liabilities, Cash flow interest rate contracts		(3,591)	(5,641)
Net amounts presented in the Statement of Financial Condition, Cash flow interest rate contracts		(3,591)	(5,641)
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Financial instruments, Cash flow interest rate contracts		3,600
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Collateral pledged, Cash flow interest rate contracts		3,591	5,641
Gross amounts of recognized liabilities		(611,935)	(49,036)
Net amounts presented in the Statement of Financial Condition		(611,935)	(49,036)
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Position, Financial instruments		342,822
Gross amounts not offset in the Statement of Financial Condition, Collateral pledged		254,626	48,622
Net amount		$ (14,487)	$ (414)
[1]	Securities lending transactions are included in payables to brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations on the consolidated statements of financial condition. See Note 3 in the notes to consolidated financial statements for additional information on payables to brokers, dealers, and clearing organizations.
[2]	Collateral pledged includes the fair value of securities pledged by our company to the counter party. These securities are included on the consolidated statements of financial condition unless we default.

Commitments, Guarantees, And105

Commitments, Guarantees, And Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Customer-owned securities pledged	$ 278.7	$ 39.2
Minimum margin deposit requirements	27.4
Outstanding committed capital to certain entities	23.8
Rent expense	93.6	$ 78.6	$ 74.2
Business Development Corporations [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Outstanding committed capital to certain entities	12.5
Options Clearing Corporation [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Customer-owned securities pledged	$ 82.2

Commitments, Guarantees, And106

Commitments, Guarantees, And Contingencies (Future Minimum Commitments Under Non-Cancelable Operating Leases) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Loss Contingency [Abstract]
2,016	$ 92,848
2,017	81,987
2,018	73,844
2,019	68,666
2,020	54,119
Thereafter	149,195
Future minimum commitments under non-cancelable operating leases	$ 520,659

Legal Proceedings (Narrative) (

Legal Proceedings (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Bond [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss contingency, damages sought, value	$ 50

Regulatory Capital Requireme108

Regulatory Capital Requirements (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Stifel Financial Corp. [Member]
Compliance With Regulatory Capital Requirements Under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Net capital under the alternative method	$ 1
Aggregate debit balances	2.00%
Our Other Broker-Dealer Subsidiaries
Compliance With Regulatory Capital Requirements Under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Ratio of indebtedness to net capital	15
Stifel Nicolaus [Member]
Compliance With Regulatory Capital Requirements Under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Aggregate debit balances	20.20%
Net capital	$ 310.1
Excess of minimum required net capital	$ 279.3

Regulatory Capital Requireme109

Regulatory Capital Requirements (Schedule Of Total Risk-Based, Tier 1 Risk-Based, And Tier 1 Leverage Ratios) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Stifel Financial Corp. [Member]
Compliance With Regulatory Capital Requirements Under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Common equity tier 1, Actual Amount	$ 1,631,324
Common equity tier 1, Actual Ratio	26.30%
Common equity tier 1, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Amount	$ 371,995
Common equity tier 1, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Ratio	6.00%
Common equity tier 1, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount	$ 495,993
Common equity tier 1, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Ratio	8.00%
Total capital, Actual Amount	$ 1,661,746
Total capital, Actual Ratio	26.80%
Total capital, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Amount	$ 495,993
Total capital, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Ratio	8.00%
Total capital, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount	$ 619,992
Total capital, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Ratio	10.00%
Tier 1 leverage, Actual Amount	$ 1,631,324
Tier 1 leverage, Actual Ratio	16.60%
Tier 1 leverage, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Amount	$ 392,848
Tier 1 leverage, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Ratio	4.00%
Tier 1 leverage, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount	$ 491,060
Tier 1 leverage, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Ratio	5.00%
Stifel Bank [Member]
Compliance With Regulatory Capital Requirements Under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Common equity tier 1, Actual Amount	$ 457,300
Common equity tier 1, Actual Ratio	13.60%
Common equity tier 1, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Amount	$ 201,069
Common equity tier 1, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Ratio	6.00%
Common equity tier 1, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount	$ 268,092
Common equity tier 1, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Ratio	8.00%
Total capital, Actual Amount	$ 487,844
Total capital, Actual Ratio	14.60%
Total capital, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Amount	$ 268,092
Total capital, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Ratio	8.00%
Total capital, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount	$ 335,115
Total capital, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Ratio	10.00%
Tier 1 leverage, Actual Amount	$ 457,300
Tier 1 leverage, Actual Ratio	8.10%
Tier 1 leverage, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Amount	$ 226,905
Tier 1 leverage, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Ratio	4.00%
Tier 1 leverage, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount	$ 283,632
Tier 1 leverage, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Ratio	5.00%
Common Stock [Member] | Stifel Financial Corp. [Member]
Compliance With Regulatory Capital Requirements Under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Common equity tier 1, Actual Amount	$ 1,572,883
Common equity tier 1, Actual Ratio	25.40%
Common equity tier 1, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Amount	$ 278,996
Common equity tier 1, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Ratio	4.50%
Common equity tier 1, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount	$ 402,994
Common equity tier 1, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Ratio	6.50%
Common Stock [Member] | Stifel Bank [Member]
Compliance With Regulatory Capital Requirements Under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Common equity tier 1, Actual Amount	$ 457,300
Common equity tier 1, Actual Ratio	13.60%
Common equity tier 1, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Amount	$ 150,802
Common equity tier 1, For Capital Adequacy Purposes Ratio	4.50%
Common equity tier 1, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Amount	$ 217,825
Common equity tier 1, To Be Well Capitalized Under Prompt Corrective Action Provisions Ratio	6.50%

Interest Income And Interest110

Interest Income And Interest Expense (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
Interest Income Expense Net [Abstract]
Investment securities									$ 53,787	$ 71,526	$ 62,155
Bank loans, net of unearned income									79,816	71,167	38,608
Margin balances									22,421	19,095	18,222
Other									23,077	24,181	23,554
Total interest income									179,101	185,969	142,539
Senior notes									25,695	26,617	20,648
Bank deposits									7,813	7,926	11,775
Other									11,891	6,718	13,945
Total interest expense	$ 12,485	$ 9,796	$ 10,098	$ 13,019	$ 12,560	$ 11,228	$ 8,842	$ 8,631	$ 45,399	$ 41,261	$ 46,368

Employee Incentive, Deferred111

Employee Incentive, Deferred Compensation, And Retirement Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 05, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares authorized to grant			5,400,000
Stock-based compensation			$ 165,641	$ 94,006	$ 137,447
Issuance of common stock for acquisitions			$ 79,747	19,243	265,066
Options granted during the period			0
Total intrinsic value of options exercised		$ 2,800		1,600
Cash proceeds from the exercise of stock options		3,600		300
Tax benefits realized from the exercise of stock options		$ 1,100	$ 600	500
Investments, at fair value			181,017	210,255
Deferred compensation liability			12,400	15,700
Contributions to the Profit Sharing Plan			7,700	4,900	6,400
Incentive Stock Award Plans [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation			142,100	111,600	124,500
Tax benefit related to stock-based compensation recognized in shareholders' equity			$ 14,700	$ 19,900	$ 12,000
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Issuance of common stock for acquisitions	$ 23,800
Total number of stock units outstanding			18,500,000
Unvested stock units outstanding			12,274,000	11,404,000
Unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested options			$ 319,000
Weighted-average period, compensation cost expected to recognized, in years			3 years 3 months 18 days
SWAP Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Elective deferrals vested percentage			100.00%
Percentage of earnings deferred into company stock units			4.00%
Percentage of earnings deferred into company stock units, Company match			25.00%
Percentage of earnings deferred into company stock units, Additional elective deferral			1.00%
Mutual Funds
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of earnings deferred into mutual funds			2.00%
Investments, at fair value			$ 15,500	$ 18,100
Minimum [Member] | Incentive Stock Award Plans [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards vesting period in years			1 year
Minimum [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards vesting period in years			1 year
Minimum [Member] | SWAP Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards vesting period in years			1 year
Minimum [Member] | Deferred Compensation Plans [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards vesting period in years			1 year
Maximum [Member] | Incentive Stock Award Plans [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards vesting period in years			8 years
Maximum [Member] | Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards vesting period in years			8 years
Maximum [Member] | SWAP Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards vesting period in years			8 years
Maximum [Member] | Deferred Compensation Plans [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Awards vesting period in years			8 years

Employee Incentive, Deferred112

Employee Incentive, Deferred Compensation, And Retirement Plans (Stock Option Activity) (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Outstanding Options, Beginning balance | shares	126
Exercised, Options | shares	44
Outstanding Options, Ending balance | shares	82
Outstanding, Weighted-average exercise price, Beginning balance | $ / shares	$ 31.61
Exercised, Weighted-average exercise price | $ / shares	16.48
Outstanding, Weighted-average exercise price, Ending balance | $ / shares	$ 39.88
Outstanding, Weighted-average remaining contractual term	1 year 7 months 13 days
Outstanding, Aggregate intrinsic value | $	$ 1,156

Employee Incentive, Deferred113

Employee Incentive, Deferred Compensation, And Retirement Plans (Schedule Of Unvested Restricted Stock Units Roll Forward) (Details) - Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unvested, Beginning balance | shares	11,404
Granted | shares	3,672
Vested | shares	(2,313)
Cancelled | shares	(489)
Unvested, Ending balance | shares	12,274
Unvested, Weighted-average grant date fair value, Beginning balance | $ / shares	$ 39.70
Granted, Weighted-average grant date fair value | $ / shares	49.99
Vested, Weighted-average grant date fair value | $ / shares	45.64
Cancelled, Weighted-average grant date fair value | $ / shares	36.61
Unvested, Weighted-average grant date fair value, Ending balance | $ / shares	$ 41.78

Off-Balance Sheet Credit Risk (

Off-Balance Sheet Credit Risk (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Off Balance Sheet Risks Disclosure Information [Line Items]
General settlement period of securities transactions	3 days
Fair value of securities accepted as collateral permitted to sell or repledge	$ 2,400	$ 1,200
Customer-owned securities pledged	278.7	39.2
Outstanding commitments to originate loans	130.5	122.8
Letters of credit outstanding	38.7	10.4
Unused Lines Of Credit [Member]
Fair Value Off Balance Sheet Risks Disclosure Information [Line Items]
Unused lines of credit to commercial and consumer borrowers	$ 403.2	$ 358.1

Income Taxes (Provision For Inc

Income Taxes (Provision For Income Taxes/(Benefit)) (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
Components Of Income Tax Expense Benefit Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Current taxes: Federal									$ 43,962	$ 100,262	$ 26,695
Current taxes: State									9,672	21,835	9,954
Current taxes: Foreign									1,329	(1,831)	365
Current taxes: Total									54,963	120,266	37,014
Deferred taxes: Federal									(9,396)	(275)	(20,724)
Deferred taxes: State									3,056	(8,064)	(2,000)
Deferred taxes: Foreign									608	(263)	(1,968)
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total									(5,732)	(8,602)	(24,692)
Provision for income taxes	$ (90)	$ 5,169	$ 17,183	$ 26,969	$ 23,890	$ 25,673	$ 31,946	$ 30,155	$ 49,231	$ 111,664	$ 12,322

Income Taxes (Reconciliation Of

Income Taxes (Reconciliation Of The Statutory Federal Income Tax With The Company's Effective 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
Components Of Income Tax Expense Benefit Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Statutory rate									$ 49,548	$ 101,778	$ 64,831
State income taxes, net of federal income tax									7,908	14,860	11,433
Change in valuation allowance									535	(2,433)	1,659
Provision to return									904	(2,956)	(3,003)
Investment in subsidiary									(4,800)		(58,153)
Change in uncertain tax position									(3,903)	276	(2,956)
Non-taxable book gain											(2,647)
Revaluation of deferred taxes											(2,290)
Other, net									(961)	139	3,448
Provision for income taxes	$ (90)	$ 5,169	$ 17,183	$ 26,969	$ 23,890	$ 25,673	$ 31,946	$ 30,155	$ 49,231	$ 111,664	$ 12,322

Income Taxes (Deferred Tax Asse

Income Taxes (Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Components Of Income Tax Expense Benefit Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Deferred compensation	$ 173,759	$ 161,972
Net operating loss carryforwards	48,831	50,251
Accrued expenses	65,451	37,673
Unrealized loss on investments	27,769	35,855
Depreciation	10,055	13,306
Receivable reserves	16,343	10,595
Investment and jobs creation credit		350
Total deferred tax assets	342,208	310,002
Valuation allowance	(12,738)	(7,385)
Deferred tax assets	329,470	302,617
Goodwill and other intangibles	(33,437)	(24,346)
Change in accounting method	(625)	(12,270)
Prepaid expenses	(4,211)	(3,602)
Other	(6,070)	(4,257)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(44,343)	(44,475)
Net deferred tax asset	$ 285,127	$ 258,142

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Detai

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Components Of Income Tax Expense Benefit Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Net operating loss carryforward	$ 77,400
Valuation allowance increase	5,400
Deferred tax assets, net	285,127	$ 258,142
Current taxes payable	31,300	31,300
Current taxes receivable	1,000	1,000
Unrecognized tax benefits	2,717	5,510	$ 5,158	$ 1,750
Unrecognized tax benefits, accrued interest and penalties	$ 800	$ 1,200

Income Taxes (Unrecognized Tax

Income Taxes (Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Components Of Income Tax Expense Benefit Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Beginning balance	$ 5,510	$ 5,158	$ 1,750
Increase related to prior year tax positions	1,206	627	3,044
Decrease related to prior year tax positions	(33)	(443)	(40)
Increase related to current year tax positions		294	133
Decrease related to settlements with taxing authorities	(4,815)	(126)	(6,086)
Decrease related to lapsing of statute of limitations			(356)
Increase related to business acquisitions	849		6,713
Ending balance	$ 2,717	$ 5,510	$ 5,158

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of Operating Information, Segment) (Details) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)item	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reporting segments | item										3
Net revenues	[1]									$ 2,331,594	$ 2,208,424	$ 1,973,446
Income before income tax expense		$ 11,082	$ 22,348	$ 38,071	$ 70,066	$ 69,378	$ 65,766	$ 77,523	$ 78,128	$ 141,567	$ 290,794	$ 185,229
Net revenues accounted for by individual client, maximum percentage										10.00%	10.00%	10.00%
Global Wealth Management [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of operating segments | item										2
Net revenues	[1]									$ 1,377,313	$ 1,232,651	$ 1,117,179
Income before income tax expense										382,126	346,978	299,572
Institutional Group [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net revenues	[1]									975,594	997,071	864,371
Income before income tax expense										141,042	165,546	149,599
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net revenues	[1]									(21,313)	(21,298)	(8,104)
Income before income tax expense										$ (381,601)	$ (221,730)	$ (263,942)
[1]	No individual client accounted for more than 10 percent of total net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013.

Segment Reporting (Schedule 121

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of Information Of Total Assets On Segment Basis) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 13,335,915	$ 9,518,151
Global Wealth Management [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	10,519,575	5,816,284
Institutional Group [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	2,193,781	3,476,592
Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 622,559	$ 225,275

Segment Reporting (Schedule 122

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of Net Revenues Earned On Major Geographical Areas) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total net revenues	[1]	$ 2,331,594	$ 2,208,424	$ 1,973,446
United States [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total net revenues		2,195,538	2,082,876	1,894,300
United Kingdom [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total net revenues		125,552	113,943	67,394
Other European [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total net revenues		$ 10,504	$ 11,605	$ 11,752
[1]	No individual client accounted for more than 10 percent of total net revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013.

Earnings Per Share (Computation

Earnings Per Share (Computation Of Basic And Diluted Earnings Per Share ) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ 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
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income from continuing operations	$ 11,172	$ 17,179	$ 20,888	$ 43,097	$ 45,488	$ 40,093	$ 45,577	$ 47,973	$ 92,336	$ 179,130	$ 172,907
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax					(306)	(190)	(1,976)	(591)		(3,063)	(10,894)
Net income	$ 11,172	$ 17,179	$ 20,888	$ 43,097	$ 45,182	$ 39,903	$ 43,601	$ 47,382	$ 92,336	$ 176,067	$ 162,013
Average shares used in basic computation	68,150	69,633	68,370	68,006	66,851	66,691	66,302	66,037	68,543	66,472	63,568
Dilutive effect of stock options and units									10,011	9,904	9,936
Average shares used in diluted computation	79,355	79,759	77,856	77,359	77,540	76,681	75,641	75,691	78,554	76,376	73,504
Income from continuing operations	$ 0.16	$ 0.25	$ 0.31	$ 0.62	$ 0.67	$ 0.60	$ 0.69	$ 0.73	$ 1.35	$ 2.69	$ 2.72
Loss from discontinued operations							(0.03)	(0.01)		(0.04)	(0.17)
Earnings per basic common share	0.16	0.25	0.31	0.62	0.67	0.60	0.66	0.72	1.35	2.65	2.55
Income from continuing operations	0.14	0.22	0.27	0.56	0.59	0.52	0.60	0.63	1.18	2.35	2.35
Loss from discontinued operations					(0.01)		(0.02)			(0.04)	(0.15)
Earnings per diluted common share	$ 0.14	$ 0.22	$ 0.27	$ 0.56	$ 0.58	$ 0.52	$ 0.58	$ 0.63	$ 1.18	$ 2.31	$ 2.20

Shareholders' Equity (Details)

Shareholders' Equity (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Jun. 05, 2015	Jul. 31, 2014	Feb. 15, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Acquisition Equity Interests Issued Or Issuable [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized to be repurchased						5,800,000
Purchase of treasury stock						$ 117,752		$ 13,670
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired						2,700,000
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share						$ 43.91
Shares issued during the period							2,600,000	8,800,000
Common stock reissued								500,000
Sterne Agee Group, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition Equity Interests Issued Or Issuable [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period Shares Acquisitions	1,400,000
KBW [Member]
Business Acquisition Equity Interests Issued Or Issuable [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period Shares Acquisitions			6,700,000
Ziegler Lotsoff Capital Management, LLC [Member]
Business Acquisition Equity Interests Issued Or Issuable [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period Shares Acquisitions					100,000
Ouriel Securities [Member]
Business Acquisition Equity Interests Issued Or Issuable [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period Shares Acquisitions		300,000
Merchant Capital LLC [Member]
Business Acquisition Equity Interests Issued Or Issuable [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period Shares Acquisitions				100,000

Variable Interest Entities (Det

Variable Interest Entities (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)item	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Assets in partnership	$ 199,300,000
Convertible promissory note to FSI	$ 18,000,000
Number of extension options | item	3
Extension options, period	5 years
Potential ownership interest upon conversion of notes issued to FSI	49.90%
Convertible promissory note minimum coupon rate	8.00%
Maximum rate of interest related to certain defined cash flows	18.00%
Liabilities related to VIE	$ 10,843,499,000	$ 7,196,113,000
Weisel Capital Management LLC [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Assets in partnership	271,100,000
Stifel Financial Corp. [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Loss exposure	18,000,000
FSI Group, LLC [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Liabilities related to VIE	$ 0

Subsequent Events (Details)

Subsequent Events (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015item
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Number of types of subsequent events	2

Quarterly Financial Informat127

Quarterly Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ 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
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Total revenues	$ 593,771	$ 601,371	$ 607,849	$ 574,001	$ 590,636	$ 534,683	$ 568,989	$ 555,377	$ 2,376,993	$ 2,249,685	$ 2,019,814
Interest expense	12,485	9,796	10,098	13,019	12,560	11,228	8,842	8,631	45,399	41,261	46,368
Net revenues	581,286	591,575	597,751	560,982	578,076	523,455	560,147	546,746
Total non-interest expenses	570,204	569,227	559,680	490,916	508,698	457,689	482,624	468,618	2,190,027	1,917,630	1,788,217
Income from continuing operations before income tax expense	11,082	22,348	38,071	70,066	69,378	65,766	77,523	78,128	141,567	290,794	185,229
Provision for income taxes	(90)	5,169	17,183	26,969	23,890	25,673	31,946	30,155	49,231	111,664	12,322
Income from continuing operations	11,172	17,179	20,888	43,097	45,488	40,093	45,577	47,973	92,336	179,130	172,907
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax					(306)	(190)	(1,976)	(591)		(3,063)	(10,894)
Net income	$ 11,172	$ 17,179	$ 20,888	$ 43,097	$ 45,182	$ 39,903	$ 43,601	$ 47,382	$ 92,336	$ 176,067	$ 162,013
Earnings per basic common share
Income from continuing operations	$ 0.16	$ 0.25	$ 0.31	$ 0.62	$ 0.67	$ 0.60	$ 0.69	$ 0.73	$ 1.35	$ 2.69	$ 2.72
Loss from discontinued operations							(0.03)	(0.01)		(0.04)	(0.17)
Earnings per basic common share	0.16	0.25	0.31	0.62	0.67	0.60	0.66	0.72	1.35	2.65	2.55
Earnings per diluted common share
Income from continuing operations	0.14	0.22	0.27	0.56	0.59	0.52	0.60	0.63	1.18	2.35	2.35
Income from discontinued operations					(0.01)		(0.02)			(0.04)	(0.15)
Earnings per diluted common share	$ 0.14	$ 0.22	$ 0.27	$ 0.56	$ 0.58	$ 0.52	$ 0.58	$ 0.63	$ 1.18	$ 2.31	$ 2.20
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic	68,150	69,633	68,370	68,006	66,851	66,691	66,302	66,037	68,543	66,472	63,568
Diluted	79,355	79,759	77,856	77,359	77,540	76,681	75,641	75,691	78,554	76,376	73,504