Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited (FRFHF) 40-F 9 Mar 20 2019 FY Annual report (Canada) Financial data

DEI

DEI	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019shares
Document Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	FAIRFAX FINANCIAL HOLDINGS LTD/ CAN
Entity Central Index Key	0000915191
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2019
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Document Type	40-F
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2019
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	26,831,069
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets $ in Millions, $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Assets
Insurance contract receivables	$ 5,435	$ 5,110.7
Portfolio investments
Subsidiary cash and short term investments (including restricted cash and cash equivalents - $664.8; December 31, 2018 - $560.9)	4,613	5,114
Investments in associates (fair value $3,357.3; December 31, 2018 – $3,279.1)	4,820	4,863
Assets held for sale	2,785.6	0
Deferred premium acquisition costs	1,344.3	1,127.3
Recoverable from reinsurers (including recoverables on paid losses – $637.3; December 31, 2018 – $651.0)	9,155.8	8,400.9
Deferred income taxes	375.9	497.9
Goodwill and intangible assets	6,194.1	5,676.9
Other assets	6,007.3	4,568.3
Total assets	70,508.5	64,372.1
Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	4,814.1	3,020
Short sale and derivative obligations (including at the holding company – $0.3; December 31, 2018 – $6.6)	205.9	149.5
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale	2,035.1	0
Insurance contract payables	2,591	2,003.1
Insurance contract liabilities	35,722.6	35,353.9
Borrowings	7,232.6	6,480.4
Total liabilities	52,601.3	47,006.9
Equity
Shareholders’ equity attributable to shareholders of Fairfax	14,378.1	13,114.8
Non-controlling interests	3,529.1	4,250.4
Total equity	17,907.2	17,365.2
Equity and liabilities	70,508.5	64,372.1
Common shareholders’ equity
Equity
Equity in stock	13,042.6	11,779.3
Preferred shares
Equity
Equity in stock	1,335.5	1,335.5
Holding company cash and investments
Assets
Holding company cash and investments (including assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations – $5.5; December 31, 2018 – $21.5)	1,098.9	1,557.2
Portfolio investments
Subsidiary cash and short term investments (including restricted cash and cash equivalents - $664.8; December 31, 2018 - $560.9)	183.9	227.7
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations (cost $146.7; December 31, 2018 – $164.8)	5.5	21.5
Portfolio investments	1,098.9	1,557.2
Liabilities
Short sale and derivative obligations (including at the holding company – $0.3; December 31, 2018 – $6.6)	0.3	6.6
Borrowings	4,117.3	3,859.5
Portfolio Investments
Assets
Holding company cash and investments (including assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations – $5.5; December 31, 2018 – $21.5)	38,111.6	37,432.9
Portfolio investments
Subsidiary cash and short term investments (including restricted cash and cash equivalents - $664.8; December 31, 2018 - $560.9)	10,021.3	6,722
Bonds (cost $15,353.9; December 31, 2018 – $19,281.8)	15,618.1	19,256.4
Preferred stocks (cost $241.3; December 31, 2018 – $327.2)	578.2	260.1
Common stocks (cost $5,533.7; December 31, 2018 – $5,014.2)	5,287.6	4,431.4
Investments in associates (fair value $3,357.3; December 31, 2018 – $3,279.1)	3,195.8	3,471.9
Derivatives and other invested assets (cost $1,168.7; December 31, 2018 – $971.3)	759.1	563.6
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations (cost $146.7; December 31, 2018 – $164.8)	146.9	164.6
Portfolio investments	38,111.6	37,432.9
Portfolio Investments | Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa
Assets
Holding company cash and investments (including assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations – $5.5; December 31, 2018 – $21.5)	2,504.6	2,562.9
Portfolio investments
Portfolio investments	2,504.6	2,562.9
Holding Company, Insurance, and Reinsurance Companies
Liabilities
Borrowings	5,156.9	4,855.2
Non-insurance companies
Portfolio investments
Other assets	4,043.8	3,222.6
Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	2,734.1	1,516.1
Borrowings	$ 2,075.7	$ 1,625.2

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Statement [Line Items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	$ 5,774.1	$ 5,703.6
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	691.5	577.1
Fair value of investments in associates	530
Recoverables on paid losses	637.3	651
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	205.9	149.5
Holding company cash and investments
Statement [Line Items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	5.5	21.5
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	0.3	6.6
Portfolio Investments
Statement [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	664.8	560.9
Bonds, at cost	15,353.9	19,281.8
Preferred stocks, at cost	241.3	327.2
Common stocks, at cost	5,533.7	5,014.2
Fair value of investments in associates	3,357.3	3,279.1
Derivatives and other invested assets, at cost	1,168.7	971.3
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations, at cost	$ 146.7	$ 164.8

Consolidated Statements of Earn

Consolidated Statements of Earnings - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Income
Gross premiums written	$ 17,511.2	$ 15,528.3
Net premiums written	13,835.6	12,431
Gross premiums earned	16,611	15,001.4
Premiums ceded to reinsurers	(3,381.3)	(2,935.4)
Net premiums earned	13,229.7	12,066
Interest and dividends	880.2	783.5
Share of profit of associates	169.6	221.1
Net gains on investments	1,716.2	252.9
Other revenue	5,537.1	4,434.2
Income	21,532.8	17,757.7
Expenses
Losses on claims, gross	11,758.9	10,598.6
Losses on claims, ceded to reinsurers	(3,070.8)	(2,775.2)
Losses on claims, net	8,688.1	7,823.4
Operating expenses	2,476.3	2,444.7
Commissions, net	2,206.8	2,051
Interest expense	472	347.1
Other expenses	5,456.9	4,229.4
Expenses	19,300.1	16,895.6
Earnings before income taxes	2,232.7	862.1
Provision for income taxes	261.5	44.2
Net earnings	1,971.2	817.9
Attributable to:
Shareholders of Fairfax	2,004.1	376
Non-controlling interests	(32.9)	441.9
Net earnings	$ 1,971.2	$ 817.9
Net earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 72.80	$ 12.03
Net earnings per diluted share (in dollars per share)	69.79	11.65
Cash dividends paid per share (in dollars per share)	$ 10	$ 10
Shares outstanding (weighted average) (in shares)	26,901,184	27,505,896

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Statement [Line Items]
Net earnings	$ 1,971.2	$ 817.9
Items that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings
Net unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations	101.4	(661.2)
Share of other comprehensive loss of associates, excluding net losses on defined benefit plans	(37.7)	(49.1)
Items that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings	(77.2)	(486.9)
Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to net earnings
Net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans	(69.3)	10.2
Share of net losses on defined benefit plans of associates	(41.3)	(44)
Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to net earnings	(110.6)	(33.8)
Other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes	(187.8)	(520.7)
Comprehensive income	1,783.4	297.2
Attributable to:
Shareholders of Fairfax	1,857.7	65.5
Non-controlling interests	(74.3)	231.7
Comprehensive income	1,783.4	297.2
Income tax on items that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings
Net unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations	(4.3)	2.9
Share of other comprehensive loss of associates, excluding net losses on defined benefit plans	(7.3)	4.6
Income tax on items that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings	(11.6)	7.5
Income tax on items that will not be subsequently reclassified to net earnings
Net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans	29.8	(2)
Share of net losses on defined benefit plans of associates	6.5	5.6
Income tax on items that will not be subsequently reclassified to net earnings	36.3	3.6
Total income tax recovery	24.7	11.1
Canada
Statement [Line Items]
Net earnings	104.1	7.3
Items that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings
Gains (losses) on hedge of net investment	(105.6)	166.3
Europe
Items that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings
Gains (losses) on hedge of net investment	$ (35.3)	$ 57.1

Consolidated Statements of Chan

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Equity issued	Treasury shares at cost	Share- based payments and other reserves	Retained earnings	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	[1]	Equity attributable to shareholders of Fairfax	Non- controlling interests	Multiple voting sharesEquity issued		Common shareholders’ equityEquity issued	Preferred sharesEquity issued	Canada	CanadaAccumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	[1]	CanadaEquity attributable to shareholders of Fairfax	CanadaCommon shareholders’ equityEquity issued	Europe	EuropeAccumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	[1]	EuropeEquity attributable to shareholders of Fairfax	EuropeCommon shareholders’ equityEquity issued	European Run-offAccumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2017	$ 18,412		$ (408.2)	$ 194.5	$ 6,048	$ (264.1)		$ 13,811.1	$ 4,600.9	$ 6,905.4	[2]	$ 12,475.6	$ 1,335.5
Changes in equity [abstract]
Net earnings (loss) for the year	817.9				376			376	441.9			376		$ 7.3
Net unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations	(661.2)					(459)		(459)	(202.2)			(459)
Gains (losses) on hedge of net investment														166.3	$ 166.3		$ 166.3	$ 166.3	$ 57.1	$ 57.1		$ 57.1	$ 57.1
Share of other comprehensive income (loss) of associates, excluding net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans	(49.1)					(42.6)		(42.6)	(6.5)			(42.6)
Net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans	10.2	$ 9.9				9.9		9.9	0.3
Share of net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans of associates	(44)					(42.2)		(42.2)	(1.8)			(42.2)
Issuances for share-based payments	(0.6)		34.7	(35.3)				(0.6)				(0.6)
Purchases and amortization for share-based payments (note 16)	(145.6)		(214)	66.1				(147.9)	2.3			(147.9)
Purchases for cancellation (note 16)	(92.7)				(46.3)			(92.7)		46.4	[2]	(92.7)
Common share dividends	(442.7)				(283.2)			(283.2)	(159.5)			(283.2)
Preferred share dividends	(45.1)				(45.1)			(45.1)				(45.1)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	(5.8)								(5.8)
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)	(212.5)								(212.5)
Other net changes in capitalization (notes 16 and 23)	(399)			(16.4)	(185.2)	9.3		(192.3)	(206.7)			(192.3)
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2018	17,365.2		(587.5)	208.9	5,864.2	(565.3)		13,114.8	4,250.4	6,859	[2]	11,779.3	1,335.5
Changes in equity [abstract]
Common stock, multiple voting shares, value										3.8
Net earnings (loss) for the year	1,971.2				2,004.1			2,004.1	(32.9)			2,004.1		104.1
Net unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations	101.4					118.3		118.3	(16.9)			118.3
Gains (losses) on hedge of net investment														$ (105.6)	$ (105.6)		$ (105.6)	$ (105.6)	$ (35.3)	$ (35.3)		$ (35.3)	$ (35.3)
Share of other comprehensive income (loss) of associates, excluding net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans	(37.7)					(17.6)		(17.6)	(20.1)			(17.6)
Net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans	(69.3)	$ (69.4)				(69.4)		(69.4)	0.1
Share of net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans of associates	(41.3)					(36.8)		(36.8)	(4.5)			(36.8)
Issuances for share-based payments	(5.1)		30.8	(35.6)				(4.8)	(0.3)			(4.8)
Purchases and amortization for share-based payments (note 16)	(19)		(104.4)	80.1				(24.3)	5.3			(24.3)
Purchases for cancellation (note 16)	(118)				(56.2)			(118)		61.8	[2]	(118)
Common share dividends	(453.8)				(278)			(278)	(175.8)			(278)
Preferred share dividends	(45.8)				(45.8)			(45.8)				(45.8)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	121.7								121.7
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)	(466.2)								(466.2)
Other net changes in capitalization (notes 16 and 23)	(255.2)			(14.4)	(109.1)			(123.5)	(131.7)			(123.5)
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2019	$ 17,907.2		$ (661.1)	$ 239	$ 7,379.2	$ (711.7)		$ 14,378.1	$ 3,529.1	6,797.2	[2]	$ 13,042.6	$ 1,335.5											$ (127.5)
Changes in equity [abstract]
Common stock, multiple voting shares, value										$ 3.8
[1]	Accumulated other comprehensive loss at December 31, 2019 of $711.7 included European Run-off's loss of $127.5 related primarily to net unrealized foreign currency translation losses (note 23).
[2]	Includes multiple voting shares with a carrying value of $3.8 at January 1, 2018, December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2019.

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Operating activities
Net earnings	$ 1,971.2	$ 817.9
Depreciation, amortization and impairment charges	611.5	350.9
Net bond discount amortization	(116.3)	(141)
Amortization of share-based payment awards	80.1	66.1
Share of profit of associates	(169.6)	(221.1)
Deferred income taxes	83.8	(105)
Net gains on investments	(1,691)	(248.7)
Net increase in fair value of investment property	(25.2)	(24.4)
Net purchases of securities classified at FVTPL	(366.7)	(2,749.3)
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	23.7	58.9
Changes in operating assets and liabilities	953.9	271.4
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities	1,355.4	(1,924.3)
Investing activities
Sales of investments in associates	323.8	444.8
Purchases of investments in associates	(772.1)	(535.8)
Net purchases of investment property	(184.4)	(141.7)
Net purchases of premises and equipment and intangible assets	(319.6)	(236.5)
Purchases of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired	(210.1)	(163.1)
Sale of subsidiary, net of cash divested	0	71.4
Deconsolidation of subsidiary	(41.6)	(67.7)
Cash used in investing activities	(1,204)	(628.6)
Financing activities
Decrease in restricted cash related to financing activities	0	150.5
Purchases for treasury	(104.4)	(214)
Purchases for cancellation	(118)	(92.7)
Common share dividends	(278)	(283.2)
Preferred share dividends	(45.8)	(45.1)
Issuances to non-controlling interests, net of issuance costs	44.7	103.1
Purchases of non-controlling interests	(151.4)	(382)
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests	(197.7)	(159.5)
Cash used in financing activities	(837.4)	(676.1)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(686)	(3,229)
Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of year	4,536.9	7,935
Foreign currency translation	12.4	(169.1)
Cash and cash equivalents – end of year	3,863.3	4,536.9
Holding Company, Insurance, and Reinsurance Companies
Financing activities
Proceeds, net of issuance costs	456.5	1,490.7
Repayments	(326.7)	(1,246.5)
Net borrowings from (repayments to) revolving credit facility and short term loans	132.1	(42.2)
Principal payments on lease liabilities	(59.9)	0
Non-insurance companies
Operating activities
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	23.7	58.9
Financing activities
Proceeds, net of issuance costs	302.7	664
Repayments	(308.5)	(660.6)
Net borrowings from (repayments to) revolving credit facility and short term loans		41.4
Principal payments on lease liabilities	$ (166.1)	$ 0

Business Operations

Business Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Corporate Information And Statement Of IFRS Compliance [Abstract]
Business Operations	Business Operations Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited (“the company” or “Fairfax”) is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and the associated investment management. The holding company is federally incorporated and domiciled in Ontario, Canada.

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Corporate Information And Statement Of IFRS Compliance [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The company's consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019 are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”). The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for derivative financial instruments, investment property and fair value through profit and loss (“FVTPL”) financial assets and liabilities that have been measured at fair value, and non-current assets and disposal groups held for sale that have been measured at the lower of carrying value and fair value less costs to sell. The consolidated balance sheets of the company are presented on a non-classified basis. Assets expected to be realized and liabilities expected to be settled within the company's normal operating cycle of one year are considered current, including the following balances: cash, short term investments, insurance contract receivables, assets held for sale, deferred premium acquisition costs, short sale and derivative obligations, liabilities associated with assets held for sale and insurance contract payables. The following balances are considered non-current: deferred income taxes and goodwill and intangible assets. All other balances are comprised of current and non-current amounts. The holding company has significant liquid resources that are generally not restricted by insurance regulators. The subsidiary insurance and reinsurance companies are often subject to a wide variety of insurance and other laws and regulations that vary by jurisdiction and are intended to protect policyholders rather than investors. These laws and regulations may limit the ability of the insurance and reinsurance companies to pay dividends or make distributions to parent companies. The company's consolidated balance sheet and consolidated statement of cash flows therefore make a distinction in classification between the holding company and the insurance and reinsurance companies for cash and investments to provide additional insight into the company's liquidity, financial leverage and capital structure. These consolidated financial statements were approved for issue by the company’s Board of Directors on March 6, 2020 .

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Corporate Information And Statement Of IFRS Compliance [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies The principal accounting policies applied to the presentation of these consolidated financial statements and the methods of computation have been consistently applied to all periods presented unless otherwise stated, and are as set out below. Consolidation Subsidiaries - The company's consolidated financial statements include the assets, liabilities, equity, income, expenses and cash flows of the holding company and its subsidiaries. A subsidiary is an entity that the company controls. The company controls an entity when it has power over the entity, is exposed to, or has rights to, variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the entity. Assessment of control is based on the substance of the relationship between the company and the entity and includes consideration of both existing voting rights and, if applicable, potential voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible. The operating results of subsidiaries acquired are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date control is acquired, which is typically the acquisition date. The operating results of subsidiaries that are divested during the year are included up to the date control ceased and any difference between the fair value of the consideration received and the carrying value of a divested subsidiary is recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings. The consolidated financial statements were prepared as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 based on individual holding companies' and subsidiaries' financial statements at those dates. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been aligned with those of the company where necessary. The company's significant operating subsidiaries are identified in note 29. Non-controlling interests - Subsequent to initial recognition in a business combination, the carrying value of non-controlling interests is adjusted for the non-controlling interest's share of changes in the subsidiary's net earnings and capital. Effects of transactions with non-controlling interests are recorded in equity if there is no change in control. Business combinations Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting whereby the consideration transferred is measured at fair value at the date of acquisition. This consideration may include cash paid and the fair value at the date of exchange of assets given, liabilities assumed and equity instruments issued by the company or its subsidiaries. Directly attributable acquisition-related costs are recorded in operating expenses as incurred. At the date of acquisition, the company recognizes the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in the acquired business. The identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed are initially recognized at fair value. For each business combination the company determines whether to initially record non-controlling interest at fair value or as the proportionate share of the identifiable net assets of the acquired subsidiary. If the consideration transferred is less than the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired, the excess is recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings. An existing equity interest in an acquired subsidiary is remeasured to fair value at the date of the business combination with any gain or loss recognized in net gains (losses) on investments in the consolidated statement of earnings. Goodwill and intangible assets Goodwill - Goodwill is recorded as the excess of consideration transferred over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired in a business combination, less accumulated impairment charges, and is allocated to the cash-generating units expected to benefit from the acquisition for the purpose of impairment testing. Goodwill is assessed annually for impairment or more frequently if there are indicators of impairment by comparing the carrying value of a cash-generating unit inclusive of its allocated goodwill to its recoverable amount, with any goodwill impairment measured as the excess of the carrying amount over the recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recorded in operating expenses or other expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings. Goodwill is derecognized on disposal of a cash-generating unit to which goodwill was previously allocated. Intangible assets - Intangible assets are comprised primarily of customer and broker relationships, brand names, Lloyd's participation rights, computer software (including enterprise systems) and other acquired identifiable non-monetary assets without physical form. Intangible assets are initially recognized at cost, or at fair value when acquired through a business combination. Intangible assets with a finite life are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortization and impairment, where amortization is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life, and carrying value is re-assessed when there are indicators of impairment. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are not subject to amortization and are assessed annually for impairment or more frequently if there are indicators of impairment. When the carrying value of an intangible asset exceeds its recoverable amount, an impairment loss is recorded in operating expenses or other expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings. The estimated useful lives of the company's intangible assets are as follows: Customer and broker relationships 8 to 20 years Brand names and Lloyd's participation rights Indefinite Computer software 3 to 15 years Brand names and Lloyd's participation rights are considered to be indefinite-lived based on their strength, history and expected future use. Investments in associates Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method and are comprised of investments in corporations, limited partnerships and trusts where the company has the ability to exercise significant influence but not control. An investment in associate is initially recognized at cost and adjusted thereafter for the post-acquisition change in the company's share of net assets of the associate. The company's share of profit (loss) and share of other comprehensive income (loss) of associates are reported in the corresponding lines in the consolidated statement of earnings and consolidated statement of comprehensive income, respectively. An existing equity interest in an acquired associate is remeasured to fair value at the date significant influence is obtained and included in the carrying value of the associate. The fair value of associates is estimated at each reporting date using valuation techniques consistent with those applied to the company's other investments in equity instruments. See "Determination of fair value" under the heading of "Investments" in this note for further details. If there is objective evidence that the carrying value of an associate is impaired, it is written down to its recoverable amount, being the higher of the associate's fair value and value-in-use. The unrealized impairment loss is recognized in share of profit (loss) of associates in the consolidated statement of earnings. An impairment loss is reversed in future periods if the circumstances that led to the impairment no longer exist. The reversal is limited to restoring the carrying value to what it would have been had no impairment loss been recognized in prior periods. Upon loss of significant influence, any retained equity interest classified as a financial asset is remeasured to fair value and all amounts previously recognized in other comprehensive income are reclassified to the consolidated statement of earnings. Gains and losses on loss of significant influence or disposition of an associate are recognized in net gains (losses) on investments in the consolidated statement of earnings. Investments in joint ventures Investments in joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method (as described in the preceding paragraphs) and are comprised of investments in corporations and limited partnerships where the company has joint control together with one or more third parties by contractual agreement. Joint control requires the unanimous consent of all parties sharing control to make decisions regarding the joint venture's relevant activities. When a subsidiary constituting a business is contributed to a joint venture, any gain or loss on derecognition of the subsidiary, including recycling of applicable amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income and remeasurement to fair value of any retained interest in the subsidiary, is recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings. Investments in joint ventures and all related activity are presented with investments in associates in these consolidated financial statements. Consolidated statement of cash flows The company's consolidated statement of cash flows is prepared in accordance with the indirect method, classifying cash flows by operating, investing and financing activities. Cash and cash equivalents - Cash and cash equivalents consist of holding company, subsidiary and Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa cash on hand, demand deposits with banks and other short term highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less when purchased, and exclude cash and short term highly liquid investments that are restricted. Investments Investments include cash and cash equivalents, short term investments, bonds, equity instruments, investments in associates, derivatives, short sales and other invested assets (primarily investment property). Management determines the appropriate classifications of investments at their acquisition date. Classification - Short term investments, bonds, preferred stocks, common stocks, short sales and derivatives are classified at FVTPL. The company manages these investments on a fair value basis, using fair value information to assess investment performance and to make investment decisions. The company has not elected to irrevocably designate any of its common stocks or preferred stocks at fair value through other comprehensive income. The company classifies its short term investments and bonds based on both the company’s business model for managing those financial assets and their contractual cash flow characteristics. While the contractual cash flows of certain of the company’s short term investments and bonds are solely principal and interest, those investments are neither held for the purpose of collecting contractual cash flows nor held both for collecting contractual cash flows and for sale. The collection of contractual cash flows is incidental to the company’s business model of maximizing total investment return on a fair value basis. Recognition and measurement - The company recognizes purchases and sales of investments on the trade date, the date on which the company commits to purchase or sell the investment. Transactions pending settlement are reflected on the consolidated balance sheet in other assets or in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Investments classified at FVTPL are initially recognized at fair value with transaction costs recorded as investment expenses (a component of interest and dividends) in the consolidated statement of earnings. Subsequent to initial recognition, investments classified at FVTPL are measured at fair value with changes in fair value reported in the consolidated statement of earnings as income, comprised of interest and dividends and net gains (losses) on investments. Interest and dividends represent interest income on short term investments and bonds calculated using the effective interest method, and dividends received on holdings of common stocks and preferred stocks, net of investment expenses. All other changes in fair value are reported in net gains (losses) on investments in the consolidated statement of earnings. For short term investments and bonds, the sum of their interest income and net gains (losses) on investments is equal to their total change in fair value for the reporting period. For investments classified at FVTPL, the company further disaggregates net gains (losses) on investments into realized and unrealized components in note 5. Where a financial instrument continues to be held by the company at the end of a reporting period, changes in the fair value of that instrument during the reporting period, excluding those changes reported as interest and dividends, are presented in net change in unrealized gains (losses). On disposition or as a result of a change in accounting for that financial instrument, its inception-to-date net gain (loss), excluding those changes previously reported as interest and dividends, is presented as net realized gains (losses). The cumulative unrealized net gain (loss) recognized in prior periods on that financial instrument is then reversed in net change in unrealized gains (losses). The sum of the inception-to-date gain (loss) and the cumulative reversal of prior period unrealized gains (losses) equals that financial instrument’s net gain (loss) on investment for the current reporting period as presented in the consolidated statement of earnings. Interest and dividends and net gains (losses) on investments are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statement of cash flows. Derecognition - An investment is derecognized when the rights to receive cash flows from the investment have expired or have been transferred and when the company has transferred substantially the risks and rewards of ownership. Short term investments - Highly liquid debt instruments with maturity dates between three months and twelve months when purchased are classified as short term investments. Bonds - Debt instruments with maturity dates greater than twelve months when purchased, or illiquid debt instruments with maturity dates of less than twelve months when purchased, are classified as bonds. Derivatives - Derivatives may include interest rate, credit default, currency and total return swaps, futures, forwards, warrants and consumer price index linked ("CPI-linked") and option contracts, all of which derive their value primarily from changes in underlying interest rates, foreign exchange rates, credit ratings, commodity values, inflation indexes or equity instruments. A derivative contract may be traded on an exchange or over-the-counter (“OTC”). Exchange-traded derivatives are standardized and include futures and certain warrants and option contracts. OTC derivative contracts are individually negotiated between contracting parties and may include the company's forwards, CPI-linked derivatives and total return swaps. The company uses derivatives principally to mitigate financial risks arising from its investment holdings and reinsurance recoverables, and monitors its derivatives for effectiveness in achieving their risk management objectives. The fair value of derivatives in a gain position are presented on the consolidated balance sheet in holding company cash and investments, and in portfolio investments as derivatives and other invested assets and as a component of Fairfax Africa's portfolio investments. The fair value of derivatives in a loss position and short sales are presented on the consolidated balance sheet in short sale and derivative obligations. The initial premium paid for a derivative contract, if any, is recorded as a derivative asset and subsequently adjusted for changes in the fair value of the contract at each reporting date. Changes in the fair value of derivatives and short sales are recorded as net gains (losses) on investments in the consolidated statement of earnings. Cash received from counterparties as collateral for derivative contracts is recognized on the consolidated balance sheet in holding company cash and investments or subsidiary cash and short term investments, and a corresponding liability is recognized in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Securities received from counterparties as collateral are not recorded as assets. Cash and securities delivered to counterparties as collateral for derivative contracts continue to be reflected as assets on the consolidated balance sheet in holding company cash and investments or in portfolio investments as assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations. The portion of the collateral related to changes in fair value of derivative contracts may be repledged by the counterparties holding the collateral. Short sales - Short sales represent obligations to deliver securities which were not owned at the time of sale and are classified as financial liabilities at FVTPL. Such transactions are typically undertaken in anticipation of a decline in the market value of a security or for risk management purposes. Determination of fair value - Fair values for substantially all of the company's financial instruments are measured using market or income approaches. Considerable judgment may be required in interpreting market data used to develop estimates of fair value. Accordingly, actual values realized in future market transactions may differ from the estimates presented in these consolidated financial statements. The use of different market assumptions and/or valuation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair values. The fair values of financial instruments are based on bid prices for financial assets and ask prices for financial liabilities. The company categorizes its fair value measurements using a three-level fair value hierarchy in accordance with IFRS as described below: Level 1 - Inputs represent unadjusted quoted prices for identical instruments exchanged in active markets. The fair values of the majority of the company's common stocks, equity call options, certain warrants and securities sold short are based on published quotes in active markets. Level 2 - Inputs include directly or indirectly observable inputs (other than Level 1 inputs) such as quoted prices for similar financial instruments exchanged in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar financial instruments exchanged in inactive markets and other market observable inputs. The fair value of the vast majority of the company's investments in bonds are priced based on information provided by independent pricing service providers while much of the remainder, along with most derivative contracts (including total return swaps, U.S. treasury bond forward contracts and certain warrants) are based primarily on non-binding third party broker-dealer quotes that are prepared using Level 2 inputs. Where third party broker-dealer quotes are used, typically one quote is obtained from a broker-dealer with particular expertise in the instrument being priced. Preferred stocks are priced using a combination of independent pricing service providers and internal valuation models that rely on directly or indirectly observable inputs. The fair values of investments in certain limited partnerships classified as common stocks on the consolidated balance sheet are based on the net asset values received from the general partner, adjusted for liquidity as required and are classified as Level 2 when they may be liquidated or redeemed within three months or less of providing notice to the general partner. All other such investments in limited partnerships are classified as Level 3. Level 3 - Inputs include unobservable inputs that require management to use its own assumptions regarding unobservable inputs as there is little, if any, market activity in these instruments or related observable inputs that can be corroborated at the measurement date. CPI-linked derivatives are classified as Level 3 and valued using broker-dealer quotes which management has determined utilize market observable inputs except for the inflation volatility input which is not market observable. Transfers between fair value hierarchy levels are considered effective from the beginning of the annual reporting period in which the transfer is identified. Valuation techniques used by the company's independent pricing service providers and third party broker-dealers include use of prices from similar instruments where observable market prices exist, discounted cash flow analysis, option pricing models, and other valuation techniques commonly used by market participants. The company assesses the reasonableness of pricing received from these third party sources by comparing the fair values received to recent transaction prices for similar assets where available, to industry accepted discounted cash flow models (that incorporate estimates of the amount and timing of future cash flows and market observable inputs such as credit spreads and discount rates) and to option pricing models (that incorporate market observable inputs including the quoted price, volatility and dividend yield of the underlying security and the risk free rate). Fair values of CPI-linked derivative contracts received from third party broker-dealers are assessed by comparing the fair values to recent market transactions where available and values determined using third party pricing software based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model for European-style options that incorporate market observable and unobservable inputs such as the current value of the relevant CPI underlying the derivative, the inflation swap rate, nominal swap rate and inflation volatility. The fair values of CPI-linked derivative contracts are sensitive to assumptions such as market expectations of future rates of inflation and related inflation volatilities. The company employs specialist personnel for the valuation of its investment portfolio. Detailed valuations are prepared for those financial instruments that are priced internally, while external pricing received from independent pricing service providers and third party broker-dealers are evaluated by the company for reasonableness. The company's Chief Financial Officer oversees the valuation function and regularly reviews valuation processes and results, including at each quarterly reporting period. Significant valuation matters, particularly those requiring extensive judgment, are communicated to the company's Audit Committee. Foreign currency translation Functional and presentation currency - The consolidated financial statements are presented in U.S. dollars which is the holding company's functional currency and the presentation currency of the consolidated group. Foreign currency transactions - Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currencies of the holding company and its subsidiaries using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings. Non-monetary items carried at cost are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary items carried at fair value are translated using the exchange rate at the date the fair value is determined. Translation of foreign subsidiaries - The functional currency of some of the company's subsidiaries (principally in Canada, the United Kingdom, India and other parts of Asia) differ from the consolidated group's U.S. dollar presentation currency. Assets and liabilities of these foreign subsidiaries (including goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on their acquisition, where applicable) are translated on consolidation using exchange rates at the balance sheet date. Income and expenses are translated at average exchange rates for the period. The net unrealized gain or loss resulting from this translation is recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income, and recycled to the consolidated statement of earnings upon loss of control of a foreign subsidiary. Hedging At the inception of a hedge transaction the company documents the economic relationship between the hedged item and hedging instrument, and its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge. Net investment hedge - The company has designated the principal amount of its Canadian dollar denominated borrowings as a hedge of its net investment in its Canadian subsidiaries with a Canadian dollar functional currency, and has designated the principal amount of its euro denominated borrowings as a hedge of its net investment in its European operations with a euro functional currency. Unrealized gains or losses relating to the effective portions of the hedges are initially recognized in other comprehensive income, and recycled from accumulated other comprehensive income to the consolidated statement of earnings upon disposal of an investment in a hedged foreign subsidiary or associate. Gains and losses relating to any ineffective portion of the hedges are recorded in net gains (losses) on investments in the consolidated statement of earnings. Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net earnings (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) and includes all changes in total equity during a reporting period, except for those resulting from investments by owners or distributions to owners. Unrealized foreign currency translation amounts arising from the translation of foreign subsidiaries and associates and the effective portion of changes in the fair value of hedging instruments on hedges of net investments in foreign subsidiaries and associates are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until recycled to the consolidated statement of earnings on disposal of an investment in a foreign subsidiary or associate. Actuarial gains and losses and changes in asset limitation amounts on defined benefit pension and post retirement plans are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) and included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) without recycling to the consolidated statement of earnings. Upon settlement of the defined benefit plan or disposal of the related subsidiary or associate, those amounts are reclassified directly to retained earnings. Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes, is included on the consolidated balance sheet as a component of common shareholders' equity. Insurance contracts Insurance contracts are those contracts that have significant insurance risk at the inception of the contract. Insurance risk arises when the company agrees to compensate a policyholder if a specified uncertain future event adversely affects the policyholder, with the possibility of paying (including variability in timing of payments) significantly more in a scenario where the insured event occurs than when it does not occur. Contracts not meeting the definition of an insurance contract under IFRS are classified as investment contracts, derivative contracts or service contracts, as appropriate. Revenue recognition - Premiums written are deferred as unearned premiums and recognized as premiums earned, net of premiums ceded, over the coverage terms of the underlying policies in accordance with the level of protection provided. Certain reinsurance premiums are estimated at the individual contract level, based on historical patterns and experience from the ceding companies for contracts where reports from ceding companies for the period are not contractually due until after the balance sheet date. The cost of reinsurance purchased by the company (premiums ceded) is included in recoverable from reinsurers and is amortized over the contract period in proportion to the amount of insurance protection provided. Unearned premium represents the portion of premiums written relating to periods of insurance and reinsurance coverage subsequent to the balance sheet date. Impairment losses on insurance premiums receivable are included in operating expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings. Deferred premium acquisition costs - Certain costs of acquiring insurance contracts, consisting of broker commissions and premium taxes, are deferred and charged to earnings as the related premiums are earned. Deferred premium acquisition costs are limited to their estimated realizable value based on the related unearned premium, which considers anticipated losses and loss adjustment expenses and estimated remaining costs of servicing the business based on historical experience. The ultimate recoverability of deferred premium acquisition costs is determined without regard to investment income. Broker commissions are included in commissions, net, in the consolidated statement of earnings. Premium taxes and impairment losses on deferred premium acquisition costs are included in operating expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings. Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses - The company is required by applicable insurance laws, regulations and Canadian accepted actuarial practice to establish reserves for payment of losses and loss adjustment expenses that arise from the company's general insurance and reinsurance products and its run-off operations. These reserves are based on assumptions that represent the best estimates of possible outcomes aimed at evaluating the expected ultimate cost to settle unpaid claims that occurred on or before the balance sheet date. The company establishes its reserves by product line, type and extent of coverage and year of occurrence. Loss reserves fall into two categories: reserves for reported losses (case reserves) and reserves for incurred but not reported (“IBNR”) losses. Those reserves include amounts for loss adjustment expenses, such as the estimated legal and other expenses expected to be incurred to finalize the settlement of the losses. Losses and loss adjustment expenses are charged to losses on claims, gross, in the consolidated statement of earnings. The company's reserves for reported losses and loss adjustment expenses are based on estimates of future payments to settle reported general insurance and reinsurance claims and claims from its run-off operations. Case reserve estimates are based on the facts available at the time the reserves are established and for reinsurance, based on reports and individual case reserve estimates received from ceding companies. The company establishes these reserves on an undiscounted basis to recognize the estimated costs of bringing pending claims to final settlement, taking into account inflation, as well as other factors that can influence the amount of reserves required, some of which are subjective and some of which are dependent on future events. In determining the level of reserves, the company considers historical trends and patterns of loss payments, pending levels of unpaid claims and types of coverage. In addition, court decisions, economic conditions and public attitudes may affect the ultimate cost of settlement and, as a result, the company's estimation of reserves. Between the reporting and final settlement of a claim, circumstances may change, which would result in changes to established reserves. Items such as changes in law and interpretations of relevant case law, results of litigation, changes in medical costs, as well as costs of vehicle and building repair materials and labour rates can substantially impact ultimate settlement costs. Accordingly, the company regularly reviews and re-evaluates case reserves. Any resulting adjustments are included in the current period consolidated statement of earnings in losses on claims, gross, and in losses on claims, ceded to reinsurers, as applicable. Amounts ultimately paid for losses and loss adjustment expenses can vary significantly from the level of reserves originally set or currently recorded. The company also establishes reserves for IBNR claims on an undiscounted basis to recognize the estimated final settlement cost for loss events which have already occurred but which have not yet been reported. Historical information and statistical models, based on product line, type and extent of coverage, as well as reported claims trends, severities and frequencies, exposure growth and other factors are relied upon to estimate IBNR reserves. These estimates are revised as additional information becomes available and as claims are actually reported and paid. Estimation techniques - Provisions for losses and loss adjustment expenses and provisions for unearned premiums are determined based upon previous claims exp

Critical Accounting Estimates a

Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of changes in accounting policies, accounting estimates and errors [Abstract]
Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments	Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments In the preparation of the company's consolidated financial statements, management has made a number of critical accounting estimates and judgments as described below, and in certain notes to the consolidated financial statements: determination of fair value for financial instruments in note 5; carrying value of associates in note 6; carrying value of goodwill and intangibles in note 12; and contingencies in note 20. Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses Provisions for losses and loss adjustment expenses are estimated based on Canadian accepted actuarial practices, which are designed to ensure the company establishes an appropriate reserve on the consolidated balance sheet to cover insured losses and related claims expenses for both reported claims and incurred but not reported (IBNR) claims as of each balance sheet date. The assumptions underlying the estimation of provisions for losses and loss adjustment expenses are regularly reviewed and updated by the company to reflect recent and emerging trends in experience and changes in the risk profile of the business. The estimation techniques employed by the company in determining provisions for losses and loss adjustment expenses and the inherent uncertainties associated with insurance contracts are described in the "Insurance contracts" section of note 3 and the “Underwriting Risk” section of note 24 while the historic development of the company's insurance liabilities are presented in note 8. Recoverability of deferred income tax assets Management exercises judgment in assessing recent and expected profitability of operating companies and their ability to realize recorded income tax assets. The company reviews its deferred income tax assets quarterly, taking into consideration the availability of sufficient current and projected taxable profits, reversals of taxable temporary differences and tax planning strategies. Details of deferred income tax assets are presented in note 18. Business combinations Accounting for business combinations requires estimates of fair value for the consideration transferred, assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The company uses all available information, including third party valuations and appraisals where appropriate, to determine these fair values. Changes in estimates of fair value due to additional information related to facts and circumstances that existed at the acquisition date would impact the amount of goodwill (or gain on bargain purchase) recognized. The company has up to one year from the acquisition date to finalize its determination of fair values for a business combination if needed. Details of business combinations are presented in note 23. Determination of recoverable amounts for goodwill, indefinite-lived intangible assets and investments in associates Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are assessed annually for impairment, or more frequently if there are indicators of impairment, by comparing the carrying value of the cash-generating unit (“CGU”) or group of CGUs to which these assets are allocated to their recoverable amounts. Investments in associates are assessed for impairment by comparing the carrying value of an associate to its recoverable amount. The company typically uses discounted cash flows to estimate the recoverable amount of a CGU or group of CGUs to which goodwill or indefinite-lived intangible assets have been allocated, and to estimate the recoverable amount of an associate that is based on a value-in-use model. Significant judgements and assumptions are required to determine the discounted cash flows, including discount rates, long term growth rates and working capital requirements, and also (i) for goodwill, premiums, investment returns, revenues and expenses, (ii) for indefinite-lived intangible assets, revenues and royalty rates, and (iii) for investments in associates, annual capital expenditures, cash taxes payable and valuations of pension funding liabilities, if any, on a going concern basis. Discounted cash flows are subject to sensitivity analysis given the variability of future-oriented financial information. Details of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, including the results of annual impairment tests, are presented in note 12. Details of investments in associates and any impairment losses recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings are presented in note 6. Determination of significant influence, joint control and control The determination of whether an investment is an associate, a joint arrangement or a subsidiary requires consideration of all facts and circumstances, and typically begins with an analysis of the company's proportion of the investee's voting rights. Judgment may be required to determine the existence of significant influence, joint control or control when it involves elements such as contractual arrangements between shareholders, currently exercisable potential voting rights through warrants or convertible instruments, significant shareholdings relative to other third party shareholders, and regulatory restrictions on board representation, voting rights, or relevant activities of the investee. De facto control over an investee without holding the majority of its voting rights may occur due to dispersion of third party shareholdings and other factors. Conversely, having significant influence over an investee when holding the majority of its voting rights may occur due to regulatory and other restrictions that limit the application of voting and other rights. The company's investments in associates and joint ventures are presented in note 6, business combinations are presented in note 23 and subsidiaries are presented in note 29.

Cash and Investments

Cash and Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Investments and Cash1 [Abstract]
Cash and Investments	Cash and Investments Presented in the table below are holding company cash and investments and portfolio investments, net of short sale and derivative obligations, all of which are classified at FVTPL except for investments in associates and other invested assets. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Holding company Cash and cash equivalents (1) 183.9 227.7 Short term investments 128.3 19.8 Bonds 395.9 503.4 Preferred stocks 4.7 4.5 Common stocks (2) 296.9 704.7 Derivatives (note 7) 83.7 75.6 1,093.4 1,535.7 Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations: Short term investments 2.8 13.7 Bonds 2.7 7.8 5.5 21.5 Holding company cash and investments as presented on the consolidated balance sheet 1,098.9 1,557.2 Short sale and derivative obligations (note 7) (0.3 ) (6.6 ) 1,098.6 1,550.6 Portfolio investments Cash and cash equivalents (1) 3,954.5 4,583.7 Short term investments 6,066.8 2,138.3 Bonds 15,618.1 19,256.4 Preferred stocks 578.2 260.1 Common stocks (2) 5,287.6 4,431.4 Investments in associates (note 6) 3,195.8 3,471.9 Derivatives (note 7) 202.7 229.8 Other invested assets (3) 556.4 333.8 35,460.1 34,705.4 Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations: Cash and cash equivalents (1) — 3.0 Short term investments 72.4 36.8 Bonds 74.5 124.8 146.9 164.6 Fairfax India cash, portfolio investments and associates: Cash and cash equivalents (1) 104.7 67.7 Bonds 124.1 576.4 Common stocks 359.7 158.5 Investments in associates (note 6) 1,391.3 1,103.0 1,979.8 1,905.6 Fairfax Africa cash, portfolio investments and associates: Cash and cash equivalents (1) 86.2 231.9 Short term investments 104.0 38.7 Bonds 100.1 92.7 Common stocks — 3.9 Investments in associates (note 6) 232.9 288.1 Derivatives (note 7) 1.6 2.0 524.8 657.3 Portfolio investments as presented on the consolidated balance sheet 38,111.6 37,432.9 Short sale and derivative obligations (note 7) (205.6 ) (142.9 ) 37,906.0 37,290.0 Total investments, net of short sale and derivative obligations 39,004.6 38,840.6 (1) Includes aggregate restricted cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2019 of $691.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $577.1 ). See note 27. (2) Includes aggregate investments in limited partnerships and other funds with carrying values at December 31, 2019 of $2,056.8 and $175.6 ( December 31, 2018 - $2,055.8 and $150.3 ). (3) Comprised primarily of investment property. Restricted cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2019 of $691.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $577.1 ) was comprised primarily of amounts required to be maintained on deposit with various regulatory authorities to support the operations of the insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries, and excluded European Run-off's amounts that were included in assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019. Refer to note 27 for details of restricted cash and cash equivalents presented on the consolidated balance sheet. The company's subsidiaries have pledged cash and investments, inclusive of trust funds and regulatory deposits, as security for their own obligations to pay claims or make premium payments (these pledges are either direct or to support letters of credit). In order to write insurance business in certain jurisdictions (primarily U.S. states) the company's subsidiaries must deposit funds with local insurance regulatory authorities to provide security for future claims payments as ultimate protection for the policyholder. Additionally, some of the company's subsidiaries provide reinsurance to primary insurers, for which funds must be posted as security for losses that have been incurred but not yet paid. These pledges are in the normal course of business and are generally released when the payment obligation is fulfilled. The table that follows summarizes assets pledged to third parties by the nature of the pledge requirement (excluding assets pledged in favour of Lloyd's (note 20), for short sale and derivative obligations and for certain intercompany reinsurance arrangements). Pledged assets primarily consist of cash and cash equivalents, short term investments and bonds within portfolio investments on the consolidated balance sheet. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Regulatory deposits (1) 4,667.4 4,503.3 Security for reinsurance and other (1) 1,106.7 1,200.3 5,774.1 5,703.6 (1) Excludes European Run-off's regulatory deposits of $71.7 and security for reinsurance and other of $65.5 at December 31, 2019 that were included in assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet (note 23). Fixed Income Maturity Profile Bonds are summarized by their earliest contractual maturity date in the table below. Actual maturities may differ from maturities shown below due to the existence of call and put features. At December 31, 2019 bonds containing call, put and both call and put features represented $3,415.4 , $2.6 and $952.7 respectively ( December 31, 2018 - $3,123.1 , $49.1 and $242.9 ) of the total fair value of bonds. The table below does not reflect the impact of U.S. treasury bond forward contracts with a notional amount at December 31, 2019 of $846.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $471.9 ) that reduce the company's exposure to interest rate risk (described in note 7). The decrease in the company's holdings of bonds due in 1 year or less and due after 1 year through 5 years was primarily due to net sales and maturities of short-dated U.S. treasury bonds and Canadian government bonds for net proceeds of $4,601.5 and $344.5 , the settlement of bonds issued by EXCO Resources Inc. and Sanmar Chemicals Group (both described in note 6) and the reclassification of bonds at European Run-off to assets held for sale (note 23), partially offset by net purchases of high quality U.S. corporate bonds of $545.1 and purchases of other corporate bonds. Proceeds from net sales of short-dated U.S. treasury bonds were primarily reinvested into U.S. treasury and corporate and other short-term investments. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Amortized cost (1) Fair value (1) Amortized cost (1) Fair value (1) Due in 1 year or less 8,158.1 8,206.3 9,610.5 9,606.5 Due after 1 year through 5 years 5,872.8 5,980.8 9,112.7 9,174.4 Due after 5 years through 10 years 1,227.6 1,242.3 808.4 802.7 Due after 10 years 784.9 886.0 956.9 977.9 16,043.4 16,315.4 20,488.5 20,561.5 Pre-tax effective interest rate 3.6 % 3.5 % (1) Includes bonds held by the holding company, Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa. Fair Value Disclosures The company’s use of quoted market prices (Level 1), valuation models with significant observable market information as inputs (Level 2) and valuation models with significant unobservable information as inputs (Level 3) in the valuation of securities and derivative contracts by type of issuer was as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Quoted prices (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Total fair Quoted prices (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Total fair Cash and cash equivalents (1) 4,329.3 — — 4,329.3 5,114.0 — — 5,114.0 Short term investments: Canadian government 373.9 — — 373.9 198.9 — — 198.9 Canadian provincials 755.3 — — 755.3 171.6 — — 171.6 U.S. treasury 3,154.4 — — 3,154.4 758.5 — — 758.5 Other government 220.6 155.2 — 375.8 692.4 122.3 — 814.7 Corporate and other — 1,714.9 — 1,714.9 — 303.6 — 303.6 4,504.2 1,870.1 — 6,374.3 1,821.4 425.9 — 2,247.3 Bonds: Canadian government — 664.4 — 664.4 — 964.7 — 964.7 Canadian provincials — 2.9 — 2.9 — 51.9 — 51.9 U.S. treasury — 5,610.8 — 5,610.8 — 10,464.0 — 10,464.0 U.S. states and municipalities — 216.5 — 216.5 — 363.2 — 363.2 Other government — 1,656.0 — 1,656.0 — 1,593.3 — 1,593.3 Corporate and other — 6,744.7 1,420.1 8,164.8 — 5,131.5 1,992.9 7,124.4 — 14,895.3 1,420.1 16,315.4 — 18,568.6 1,992.9 20,561.5 Preferred stocks: Canadian — 8.4 82.5 90.9 — 7.8 160.5 168.3 U.S. — — 5.0 5.0 — — 5.0 5.0 Other (2) 5.3 — 481.7 487.0 1.1 — 90.2 91.3 5.3 8.4 569.2 582.9 1.1 7.8 255.7 264.6 Common stocks: Canadian 577.9 103.7 114.8 796.4 669.6 96.0 107.7 873.3 U.S. 360.6 33.2 1,029.3 1,423.1 302.0 48.6 1,073.2 1,423.8 Other (3) 2,289.5 397.8 1,037.4 3,724.7 1,056.7 476.9 1,467.8 3,001.4 3,228.0 534.7 2,181.5 5,944.2 2,028.3 621.5 2,648.7 5,298.5 Derivatives and other invested assets — 80.1 764.3 844.4 — 164.3 476.9 641.2 Short sale and derivative obligations (note 7) — (205.9 ) — (205.9 ) — (149.3 ) (0.2 ) (149.5 ) Holding company cash and investments and portfolio investments measured at fair value 12,066.8 17,182.7 4,935.1 34,184.6 8,964.8 19,638.8 5,374.0 33,977.6 35.3 % 50.3 % 14.4 % 100.0 % 26.4 % 57.8 % 15.8 % 100.0 % Investments in associates (note 6) (4) 1,982.9 19.4 4,034.2 6,036.5 2,344.9 36.9 2,841.3 5,223.1 (1) Includes restricted cash and cash equivalents of $691.5 at December 31, 2019 ( December 31, 2018 - $577.1 ). See note 27. (2) Primarily comprised of the company's investment in compulsory convertible preferred shares of Go Digit Infoworks Services Limited ("Digit"). The company also holds a 49.0% equity interest in Digit as described in note 6. (3) Includes other funds invested principally in fixed income securities with a carrying value at December 31, 2019 of $175.6 ( December 31, 2018 - $150.3 ) that are excluded when measuring the company's equity and equity-related exposure. (4) The carrying value of investments in associates is determined using the equity method of accounting so fair value is presented separately in the table above. During 2019 and 2018 there were no significant transfers of financial instruments between Level 1 and Level 2 and there were no significant transfers of financial instruments in or out of Level 3 as a result of changes in the observability of valuation inputs except as described in the following table which summarizes changes in Level 3 financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis. 2019 Limited partnerships and other (1) Private placement debt securities Derivatives and other invested assets Private company preferred Common shares Private equity funds (1) Total Balance - January 1 1,810.7 1,992.9 476.7 255.7 668.0 170.0 5,374.0 Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in the consolidated statement of earnings 136.0 (159.8 ) 195.9 374.3 132.0 29.9 708.3 Purchases 196.6 424.5 195.3 49.0 25.5 — 890.9 Sales and distributions (251.9 ) (806.6 ) (109.2 ) (108.7 ) (45.4 ) (67.4 ) (1,389.2 ) Transfer out of category (39.0 ) — — — (574.3 ) (2) — (613.3 ) Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations included in other comprehensive income 6.8 23.3 5.8 (1.1 ) (0.2 ) (3.3 ) 31.3 Assets held for sale (note 23) (12.5 ) (54.2 ) (0.2 ) — — — (66.9 ) Balance - December 31 1,846.7 1,420.1 764.3 569.2 205.6 129.2 4,935.1 2018 Limited partnerships and other (1) Private placement debt securities Derivatives and other invested assets Private company preferred Common shares Private equity funds (1) Total Balance - January 1 1,598.7 1,941.1 177.6 283.2 202.2 170.5 4,373.3 Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in the consolidated statement of earnings 155.7 (78.4 ) (44.5 ) (46.0 ) (24.0 ) 10.9 (26.3 ) Purchases 383.1 458.7 362.1 47.7 7.5 2.6 1,261.7 Sales and distributions (316.3 ) (266.3 ) (0.5 ) (24.4 ) (3.5 ) (5.8 ) (616.8 ) Transfer into category — — — — 491.4 (2) — 491.4 Unrealized foreign currency translation losses on foreign operations included in other comprehensive income (10.5 ) (62.2 ) (18.0 ) (4.8 ) (5.6 ) (8.2 ) (109.3 ) Balance - December 31 1,810.7 1,992.9 476.7 255.7 668.0 170.0 5,374.0 (1) Included in common stocks in the fair value hierarchy table presented on the previous page and in holding company cash and investments or common stocks on the consolidated balance sheets. (2) During 2019 the company's investment in ICICI Lombard common stock was transferred from Level 3 to Level 1 as the Indian regulatory selling restriction placed on the company's holdings was removed. Accordingly, the company ceased applying a discount for lack of marketability (an unobservable key valuation input) to the traded market price of those holdings, which had previously been transferred from Level 1 to Level 3 during 2018 . Subsequently during 2019 the company sold its remaining 9.9% equity interest in ICICI Lombard . The table below presents the valuation techniques and unobservable inputs used to estimate fair values for the company's significant Level 3 financial assets at December 31, 2019 : Asset class Carrying value Valuation technique Significant unobservable input Input range used Effect on estimated fair value if input value is increased (a) Low High Limited partnerships and other (b)(1) 1,846.7 Net asset value Net asset value N/A N/A Increase Private placement debt securities (c)(2) 1,051.0 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 1.4 % 19.4 % Decrease Private placement debt securities (c)(3) 232.0 Market approach Recent transaction price N/A N/A Increase Derivatives and other invested assets: Investment property (e)(4) 480.5 Income capitalization approach and/or sales comparison approach Terminal capitalization rate 6.8 % 7.5 % Decrease Discount rate 7.3 % 9.0 % Decrease Market rent growth rate 3.0 % 3.0 % Increase Warrants (e)(5) 199.5 Option pricing model Equity volatility 21.3 % 41.0 % Increase CPI-linked derivatives (e)(6) 6.7 Option pricing model Inflation volatility 0.0 % 3.9 % Increase Private company preferred shares (d)(7) 481.7 Market approach Transaction price N/A N/A Increase Discount for lack of marketability 4.5 % 4.5 % Decrease Private company preferred shares (d)(8) 68.6 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 3.6 % 3.6 % Decrease Common shares (b)(9) 76.0 Market comparable Book value multiple 1.4 1.4 Increase Private equity funds (b)(1) 65.4 Net asset value Net asset value N/A N/A Increase Private equity funds (b)(9) 63.8 Market comparable Price/Earnings multiple 10.0 10.0 Increase Other 363.2 Various Various N/A N/A N/A Total 4,935.1 (a) Decreasing the input value would have the opposite effect on the estimated fair value. (b) Included in holding company cash and investments or common stocks on the consolidated balance sheet. (c) Included in holding company cash and investments or bonds on the consolidated balance sheet. (d) Included in preferred stocks on the consolidated balance sheet. (e) Included in holding company cash and investments or derivatives and other invested assets on the consolidated balance sheet. (1) Valued primarily based on net asset value statements provided by third party fund managers and general partners. The fair values in those statements are determined using quoted prices of the underlying assets, and to a lesser extent, observable inputs where available and unobservable inputs, in conjunction with industry accepted valuation models, where required. In some instances, such investments are classified as Level 3 if they require at least three months' notice to liquidate or redeem. Reasonably possible alternative assumptions have not been applied to the estimated fair value of these investments due to their diverse nature and resulting dispersion of prices. At December 31, 2019 limited partnerships and other consisted of 49 investments, the largest being $482.3 . (2) Valued using industry accepted discounted cash flow models that incorporate market unobservable credit spreads of the issuers. At December 31, 2019 this asset class consisted of 16 investments, the largest being $442.1 . By increasing (decreasing) the credit spreads within a reasonably possible range, the fair value of these private placement debt securities would decrease by $14.3 (increase by $14.4 ). (3) At December 31, 2019 this asset class consisted of 6 investments, the largest being $108.1 . (4) Valued by third party appraisers using industry accepted income capitalization and/or sales comparison methodologies that incorporate market unobservable capitalization rates, discount rates and market rent growth rates. (5) Valued using industry accepted option pricing models that incorporate market unobservable long-dated equity volatilities. A higher equity volatility generally results in a higher fair value due to the higher probability of obtaining a greater return from the warrant. (6) Valued based on broker-dealer quotes which utilize market observable inputs except for inflation volatility which is market unobservable. (7) A discount for lack of marketability is applied to the transaction price of preferred shares that the company is restricted from converting into common shares for a specified period, and is determined using an industry accepted option pricing model that incorporates market unobservable long-dated equity volatilities. A higher (lower) equity volatility generally results in a higher (lower) option value and a lower (higher) fair value of the preferred shares. (8) Valued using industry accepted discounted cash flow models that incorporate market unobservable credit spreads of the preferred shares. (9) Fair values are determined by reference to various valuation measures for comparable companies and transactions, including relevant valuation multiples. In some instances, such investments are classified as Level 3 because the valuation multiples applied by the company were adjusted for differences in attributes between the investment and the underlying companies or transactions from which the valuation multiples were derived. Investment Income An analysis of investment income for the years ended December 31 follows: Interest and dividends and share of profit of associates 2019 2018 Interest income: Cash and short term investments 156.5 158.1 Bonds 618.0 555.0 Derivatives and other invested assets 51.8 30.8 826.3 743.9 Dividends: Preferred stocks 11.2 11.0 Common stocks 82.5 70.5 93.7 81.5 Investment expenses (39.8 ) (41.9 ) Interest and dividends 880.2 783.5 Share of profit of associates (1) 169.6 221.1 (1) Includes impairment charges recorded on investments in associates during 2019 of $211.2 ( 2018 - $57.3 ). See note 6. Net gains (losses) on investments 2019 2018 Net realized gains (losses) Net change in unrealized gains (losses) Net gains Net realized gains (losses) Net change in unrealized gains (losses) Net gains Bonds (59.6 ) (1)(2) 258.1 (1)(2) 198.5 126.2 (335.9 ) (209.7 ) Preferred stocks (23.4 ) 397.3 (3) 373.9 (21.9 ) (10.7 ) (32.6 ) Common stocks 548.0 (4) 377.9 (4) 925.9 196.4 (581.1 ) (384.7 ) 465.0 1,033.3 1,498.3 300.7 (927.7 ) (627.0 ) Derivatives: Equity and equity index total return swaps - short positions 48.2 (5) (93.2 ) (45.0 ) (46.8 ) (5) 8.6 (38.2 ) Equity total return swaps - long positions (34.5 ) (5) 55.0 20.5 (37.2 ) (5) (49.1 ) (86.3 ) Equity warrant forward contracts 83.8 (6) (38.4 ) (6) 45.4 75.4 (6) 38.5 (6) 113.9 Equity warrants and call options (4.7 ) 128.6 123.9 (15.1 ) (54.8 ) (69.9 ) CPI-linked derivatives (14.1 ) 1.8 (12.3 ) — (6.7 ) (6.7 ) U.S. treasury bond forwards (119.3 ) 32.6 (86.7 ) 49.6 (2.9 ) 46.7 Other 9.9 (6) (111.3 ) (6) (101.4 ) 0.1 19.8 (6) 19.9 (30.7 ) (24.9 ) (55.6 ) 26.0 (46.6 ) (20.6 ) Foreign currency net gains (losses) on: Investing activities (17.3 ) (50.7 ) (68.0 ) (7) (43.1 ) (128.2 ) (171.3 ) (7) Underwriting activities 5.6 — 5.6 31.6 — 31.6 Foreign currency contracts 8.3 (9.6 ) (1.3 ) (21.5 ) 29.4 7.9 (3.4 ) (60.3 ) (63.7 ) (33.0 ) (98.8 ) (131.8 ) Gain on disposition of associates 10.9 (8) — 10.9 138.9 (11) — 138.9 Gain on deconsolidation of subsidiary 171.3 (9) — 171.3 889.9 (12) — 889.9 Other 20.3 134.7 (10) 155.0 (0.1 ) 3.6 3.5 Net gains (losses) on investments 633.4 1,082.8 1,716.2 1,322.4 (1,069.5 ) 252.9 (1) On June 28, 2019 EXCO emerged from bankruptcy protection and settled the company's holdings of EXCO bonds with common shares (note 6), resulting in the company recording a net loss on investment of $179.3 (realized losses of $296.3, of which $117.0 was recorded as unrealized losses in prior years). (2) On December 21, 2019 Fairfax India's holdings of Sanmar Chemicals Group ("Sanmar") bonds with a principal amount of $300.0 were settled for net cash proceeds of $425.5 (30.3 billion Indian rupees) including accrued interest, resulting in the company recording a net gain on investment of $48.8 (realized gains of $156.5, of which $107.7 was recorded as unrealized gains in prior years). See note 6. (3) On December 23, 2019 Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited ("Digit") entered into definitive agreements whereby its general insurance subsidiary Go Digit Insurance Limited ("Digit Insurance") subsequently issued approximately $91 (6.5 billion Indian rupees) of new equity shares primarily to three Indian investors. This transaction valued Digit Insurance at approximately $858 (61.2 billion Indian rupees) and resulted in the company recording net unrealized gains on investments of $350.9 on its investment in Digit compulsory convertible preferred shares. The company also holds a 49.0% equity interest in Digit as described in note 6. (4) During 2019 the company sold its 9.9% equity interest in ICICI Lombard for gross proceeds of $729.0 and recognized a net gain on investment of $240.0 (realized gains of $311.2, of which $71.2 was recorded as unrealized gains in prior years), primarily related to the removal of the discount for lack of marketability previously applied by the company to the traded market price of its ICICI Lombard common stock. (5) Amounts recorded in net realized gains (losses) include net gains (losses) on total return swaps where the counterparties are required to cash-settle monthly or quarterly the market value movement since the previous reset date notwithstanding that the total return swap positions remain open subsequent to the cash settlement. (6) Includes the Seaspan forward commitment contracts to invest in Seaspan Tranche 2 debentures and warrants in 2019 and also the equity warrant forward contract to invest in Seaspan $8.05 warrants in 2018. See note 6. (7) Foreign currency net losses on investing activities during 2019 primarily related to U.S. dollar denominated investments held by subsidiaries with a Canadian dollar or British pound functional currency as the U.S. dollar weakened relative to those currencies. Foreign currency net losses on investing activities during 2018 primarily reflected strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Indian rupee and the euro. (8) On April 18, 2019 Brit acquired the 50.0% equity interest in Ambridge Partners LLC ("Ambridge Partners") that it did not already own for $46.6 , remeasured its existing equity interest to fair value for a gain of $10.4 , and commenced consolidating Ambridge Partners. (9) On May 17, 2019 the company deconsolidated Grivalia Properties upon its merger into Eurobank and recognized a non-cash gain of $171.3 . See note 23. (10) During 2019 it was determined that the company will receive additional consideration of $33.9 pursuant to its sale of First Capital in 2017. See note 20. (11) During 2018 the company sold its equity accounted investments in Arbor Memorial Services Inc. and an insurance brokerage for net proceeds of $179.2 (Cdn $235.4 ) and $58.8 (Cdn $76.3 ) and recorded net realized gains of $111.8 and $17.6 (Cdn $22.7 ) respectively. (12) During 2018 Thomas Cook India entered into a joint strategic agreement with the founder of Quess that resulted in Quess becoming a joint venture of Thomas Cook India whereas it was previously a consolidated subsidiary. Accordingly, the company remeasured the carrying value of Quess to its fair value of $1,109.5, recognized a non-cash gain of $889.9 and commenced applying the equity method of accounting. See note 23.

Investments in Associates

Investments in Associates	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Interests In Other Entities [Abstract]
Investments in Associates	Investments in Associates The company's investments in associates are as follows: December 31, 2019 Year ended December 31, 2019 Carrying value Ownership (a)(e) Fair (b)(e) Associates and joint ventures (e) Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa associates (c) Total Share of profit (loss) Insurance and reinsurance: Eurolife ERB Insurance Group Holdings S.A. ("Eurolife") 50.0 % 403.1 303.9 (d) — 303.9 154.8 Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam Insurance Joint Stock Corporation (“BIC Insurance”) 35.0 % 45.2 48.6 — 48.6 2.7 Thai Re Public Company Limited ("Thai Re") (1) 47.1 % 43.3 43.3 — 43.3 (15.0 ) Singapore Reinsurance Corporation Limited ("Singapore Re") 27.8 % 35.6 39.2 — 39.2 3.2 Falcon Insurance PLC ("Falcon Thailand") 41.2 % 10.4 10.4 — 10.4 0.5 Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited ("Digit") (2) 49.0 % 122.3 — — — (7.6 ) Other (3) — 46.6 46.7 — 46.7 7.9 706.5 492.1 — 492.1 146.5 Non-insurance: India Bangalore International Airport Limited ("Bangalore Airport") (14) 54.0 % 1,429.8 — 689.3 689.3 30.8 Quess Corp Limited ("Quess") (6)(7) 33.2 % 332.1 704.1 (d) — 704.1 (183.2 ) IIFL Finance Limited (“IIFL Finance”) (10) 35.4 % 221.4 56.4 167.2 223.6 198.9 Sanmar Chemicals Group ("Sanmar") (11) 42.9 % 412.9 — 178.7 178.7 — CSB Bank Limited ("CSB Bank") (12) 49.7 % 229.3 — 157.8 157.8 (4.0 ) IIFL Securities Limited ("IIFL Securities") (7)(10) 35.4 % 65.0 30.8 90.3 121.1 1.6 Seven Islands Shipping Limited ("Seven Islands") (13) 48.5 % 88.8 — 84.7 84.7 3.0 Other — 24.3 8.8 23.3 32.1 (0.3 ) 2,803.6 800.1 1,391.3 2,191.4 46.8 Africa Atlas Mara Limited ("Atlas Mara") 42.4 % 78.1 — 82.3 82.3 (54.0 ) AFGRI Holdings Proprietary Limited ("AFGRI") 62.8 % 141.0 — 79.6 79.6 19.5 Other (15) — 66.3 — 71.0 71.0 (6.6 ) 285.4 — 232.9 232.9 (41.1 ) Agriculture Astarta Holding N.V. ("Astarta") (7) 27.4 % 28.9 115.5 — 115.5 (19.1 ) Farmers Edge Inc. ("Farmers Edge") 50.4 % 43.8 41.0 — 41.0 (39.9 ) 72.7 156.5 — 156.5 (59.0 ) Real estate KWF Real Estate Ventures Limited Partnerships ("KWF LPs") (4) — 99.0 99.0 (d) — 99.0 49.8 Other (5) — 80.8 74.7 — 74.7 (5.8 ) 179.8 173.7 — 173.7 44.0 Other Seaspan Corporation ("Seaspan") (8) 32.5 % 994.5 626.9 — 626.9 83.8 EXCO Resources Inc. ("EXCO") (9) 43.3 % 238.2 243.2 — 243.2 21.6 Resolute Forest Products Inc. ("Resolute") (7) 27.7 % 104.0 207.5 — 207.5 (4.9 ) APR Energy plc ("APR Energy") 53.4 % 266.2 189.3 (d) — 189.3 (57.0 ) Peak Achievement Athletics ("Peak Achievement") 42.6 % 163.9 104.4 (d) — 104.4 (5.1 ) Partnerships, trusts and other — 221.7 202.1 — 202.1 (6.0 ) 1,988.5 1,573.4 — 1,573.4 32.4 5,330.0 2,703.7 1,624.2 4,327.9 23.1 Investments in associates 6,036.5 3,195.8 1,624.2 4,820.0 169.6 As presented on the consolidated balance sheet: Investments in associates 3,357.3 3,195.8 Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa investments in associates 2,679.2 1,624.2 6,036.5 4,820.0 December 31, 2018 Year ended December 31, 2018 Carrying value Ownership (a) Fair value (b) Associates and joint ventures Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa associates (c) Total Share of profit (loss) Insurance and reinsurance: Eurolife ERB Insurance Group Holdings S.A. ("Eurolife") 50.0 % 287.7 175.2 (d) — 175.2 18.1 Gulf Insurance Company ("Gulf Insurance") 43.3 % 211.5 174.2 — 174.2 7.3 Thai Re Public Company Limited ("Thai Re") 47.1 % 53.1 53.1 — 53.1 (52.4 ) Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam Insurance Joint Stock Corporation (“BIC Insurance”) 35.0 % 46.0 47.1 — 47.1 0.7 Singapore Reinsurance Corporation Limited ("Singapore Re") 27.8 % 34.5 36.5 — 36.5 0.6 Falcon Insurance PLC ("Falcon Thailand") 41.2 % 9.3 9.3 — 9.3 — Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited ("Digit") 49.0 % 3.4 3.4 — 3.4 (6.8 ) Other — 55.2 55.2 — 55.2 2.8 700.7 554.0 — 554.0 (29.7 ) Non-insurance: India Quess Corp Limited ("Quess") 48.8 % 672.5 1,044.6 (d) — 1,044.6 8.4 Bangalore International Airport Limited ("Bangalore Airport") 54.0 % 704.1 — 674.4 674.4 51.1 IIFL Holdings Limited (“IIFL Holdings”) 35.4 % 818.3 106.2 317.2 423.4 45.3 CSB Bank Limited ("CSB Bank") 36.4 % 93.1 — 93.1 93.1 — Other — 233.2 6.6 18.3 24.9 (1.0 ) 2,521.2 1,157.4 1,103.0 2,260.4 103.8 Africa Atlas Mara Limited ("Atlas Mara") 42.4 % 119.1 — 195.6 195.6 30.8 AFGRI Holdings Propriety Limited ("AFGRI") 60.0 % 149.9 — 57.1 57.1 (13.2 ) Other 35.3 — 35.4 35.4 — 304.3 — 288.1 288.1 17.6 Agriculture Astarta Holding N.V. ("Astarta") 28.2 % 43.1 116.9 — 116.9 (16.3 ) Farmers Edge Inc. ("Farmers Edge") 49.2 % 66.6 66.9 — 66.9 (32.7 ) 109.7 183.8 — 183.8 (49.0 ) Real estate KWF Real Estate Ventures Limited Partnerships ("KWF LPs") — 246.7 247.3 (d) — 247.3 118.6 Other — 116.7 105.7 — 105.7 (2.8 ) 363.4 353.0 — 353.0 115.8 Other Resolute Forest Products Inc. ("Resolute") 33.6 % 240.8 299.8 — 299.8 74.4 APR Energy plc (‘‘APR Energy’’) 67.8 % 303.6 298.4 (d) — 298.4 (10.3 ) Seaspan Corporation ("Seaspan") 21.8 % 300.8 276.8 — 276.8 8.8 Peak Achievement Athletics ("Peak Achievement") 42.6 % 153.5 128.6 (d) — 128.6 (15.1 ) Arbor Memorial Services Inc. ("Arbor Memorial") — — — — — 10.8 Partnerships, trusts and other — 225.1 220.1 — 220.1 (6.0 ) 1,223.8 1,223.7 — 1,223.7 62.6 4,522.4 2,917.9 1,391.1 4,309.0 250.8 Investments in associates 5,223.1 3,471.9 1,391.1 4,863.0 221.1 As presented on the consolidated balance sheet: Investments in associates 3,279.1 3,471.9 Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa investments in associates 1,944.0 1,391.1 5,223.1 4,863.0 (a) Ownership percentages include the effects of financial instruments that are considered in-substance equity. (b) See note 5 for fair value hierarchy information. (c) Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa's associates are domiciled in India and Africa respectively. (d) These investments are joint ventures. (e) Excludes European Run-off's investments in associates and joint ventures with a carrying value of $368.8 and a fair value of $430.5 that were included in assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 and principally comprised of investments in Gulf Insurance, Seaspan, APR Energy and Resolute. See note 23. Insurance and reinsurance associates (1) During 2019 the carrying value of the company's investment in Thai Re exceeded its fair value as determined by the market price of Thai Re shares. The company performed a value-in-use analysis to establish the recoverable amount of its investment in Thai Re and recognized a non-cash impairment charge of $7.5 in share of profit of associates in the consolidated statement of earnings. (2) On December 23, 2019 Digit entered into definitive agreements whereby its general insurance subsidiary Digit Insurance subsequently issued approximately $91 ( 6.5 billion Indian rupees) of new equity shares primarily to three Indian investors. This transaction valued Digit Insurance at approximately $858 ( 61.2 billion Indian rupees) and valued the company's 49.0% equity interest in Digit at $122.3 at December 31, 2019 . The company's 49.0% equity interest in Digit is comprised of a 45.3% interest in Digit common shares and a 3.7% interest through Digit compulsory convertible preferred shares that are considered in-substance equity. Foreign direct ownership in the insurance sector in India is limited to 49.0% and as a result the remainder of the company's investment in Digit compulsory convertible preferred shares are recorded at FVTPL as described in note 5. (3) On April 18, 2019 Brit acquired the 50.0% equity interest in Ambridge Partners that it did not already own for $46.6 , remeasured its existing equity interest to fair value for a gain of $10.4 , and commenced consolidating Ambridge Partners. Non-insurance associates (4) The KWF LPs are partnerships formed between the company and Kennedy-Wilson Holdings, Inc. and its affiliates ("Kennedy Wilson") to invest in U.S. and international real estate. The company participates as a limited partner in the KWF LPs with interests ranging from approximately 50% to 90% . Kennedy Wilson is the general partner and holds the remaining limited partnership interest in each of the KWF LPs. During 2019 the company recorded share of profit of a KWF LP of $57.0 ( €53.6 ) related to the sale of investment property in Dublin, Ireland. The KWF LP was subsequently liquidated and its carrying value reduced to nil when the company received final cash distributions of $169.4 ( €150.0 ). (5) On May 17, 2019 the company deconsolidated Grivalia Properties, which included Grivalia Properties' investments in associates with a carrying value of $68.5 . See note 23. (6) On December 9, 2019 Thomas Cook India completed a non-cash spin-off of its 48.6% equity interest in Quess Corp Limited ("Quess") as a return of capital to its shareholders. This resulted in the company receiving a direct 31.8% joint venture interest in Quess as a transfer between companies under common control, with the company's carrying value of Quess remaining unchanged and subject to impairment testing as described in footnote 7 below. Prior to the spin-off Thomas Cook India recorded the Quess shares to be transferred to its minority shareholders at fair value and recognized a non-cash impairment loss of $190.6, which is included in share of profit of associates in the consolidated statement of earnings and fully attributed to non-controlling interests. (7) At December 31, 2019 certain of the company's associates had carrying values that exceeded their fair values as determined by the market prices of their shares. For each such associate, the company performed a value-in-use analysis based on multi-year free cash flow projections and concluded that no impairment was required as the recoverable amount exceeded carrying value. Key assumptions for each value-in-use analysis are set out in the table below: Associate or joint venture Fair value Carrying value Source of free cash flow projections Discount rate (a) Long term growth rate (b) Summary of other assumptions Quess 332.1 704.1 Quess management 12.8 % 6.0 % Annual capital expenditures reverting to lower historical levels, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and reduced cash taxes payable in the next eight years through utilization of existing tax incentives. Resolute 104.0 207.5 Internal estimates consistent with third party analyst reports 10.3 % 1.5 % Valuation of pension funding liability on a going concern basis, annual capital expenditures reverting to lower historical levels, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and no significant cash taxes payable in the next five years through utilization of existing tax losses. IIFL Securities 65.0 121.1 IIFL Securities management 12.3 % 6.0 % Annual capital expenditures normalizing to levels that are comparable to non-capital intensive service-based peers and working capital requirements comparable to industry peers. Astarta (c) 28.9 115.5 Internal estimates consistent with third party analyst reports 12.7 % 3.0 % Annual capital expenditures consistent with external analyst estimates, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and cash taxes payable at the Ukraine corporate income tax rate for subsidiaries that have not elected to pay the fixed agricultural tax. 530.0 1,148.2 (a) The discount rate is representative of the cost of capital of industry peers. (b) The long term growth rate is consistent with growth expectations for the industry and the economies in which each associate or joint venture operates. (c) The company recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $10.1 on its investment in Astarta during 2019. At December 31, 2019 a value-in-use analysis concluded that no further impairment charge was required. (8) On January 15, 2019 the company fulfilled its commitment to Seaspan Corporation ("Seaspan") to purchase Tranche 2 warrants and debentures for aggregate cash consideration of $250.0 . The Tranche 2 warrants were then immediately exercised to acquire 38.5 million Seaspan Class A common shares for an additional $250.0 . On derecognition of its forward commitments to invest in the Tranche 2 warrants and debentures, the company recorded a net gain on investment of $63.5 (realized gains of $107.6 , of which $44.1 was recorded as unrealized gains in 2018), primarily related to the appreciation of Seaspan's Class A common share price over the commitment period. The total cost of the company's investment in Seaspan is set out in the following table: Financial instruments acquired Date Total investment Tranche 1 debentures and warrants February 14, 2018 250.0 Class A common shares and $8.05 warrants through early exercise of Tranche 1 warrants July 16, 2018 250.0 Tranche 2 debentures and warrants January 15, 2019 250.0 Class A common shares through early exercise of Tranche 2 warrants January 15, 2019 250.0 1,000.0 During 2019 the company recorded share of profit of Seaspan of $83.8 , principally reflecting Seaspan's gain of $227.0 related to the modification of charter arrangements with one of its largest customers. (9) On June 28, 2019 EXCO Resources Inc. ("EXCO") emerged from bankruptcy protection and settled the company's investment in EXCO bonds with newly issued common shares that had a fair value of $220.9 and represented a 42.8% equity interest in EXCO. The company derecognized its EXCO bonds and recorded a net loss on investment of $179.3 (realized losses of $296.3 , of which $117.0 was recorded as unrealized losses in prior years), and applied the equity method of accounting to its investment in EXCO common shares. Fairfax India (10) On May 31, 2019 IIFL Holdings Limited ("IIFL Holdings") spun off its wholly-owned subsidiary IIFL Securities Limited ("IIFL Securities", comprised of investment brokerage, distribution and investment banking businesses) and its 53.3% equity interest in its subsidiary IIFL Wealth Management Limited ("IIFL Wealth", comprised of wealth and asset management businesses) in a non-cash transaction. IIFL Holdings was renamed IIFL Finance Limited ("IIFL Finance", comprised of loans and mortgages businesses) and continues to be publicly listed. The company recorded share of profit of IIFL Holdings of $172.9 , reflecting its share of a gain at IIFL Holdings from the spin-offs, and recorded its initial investments in IIFL Wealth and IIFL Securities at their fair values of $255.6 and $121.9 . Subsequently, the company applied the equity method of accounting to its 35.4% equity interest in each of IIFL Finance and IIFL Securities, and recorded its 19.0% equity interest in IIFL Wealth at FVTPL. The shares of IIFL Wealth and IIFL Securities were listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange and National Stock Exchange of India in September 2019. (11) On December 21, 2019 Fairfax India's holdings of Sanmar Chemicals Group ("Sanmar") bonds with a principal amount of $300.0 were settled for net cash proceeds of $425.5 (30.3 billion Indian rupees) including accrued interest, resulting in the company recording a net gain on investment of $48.8 (realized gains of $156.5, of which $107.7 was recorded as unrealized gains in prior years). Fairfax India reinvested $198.0 (14.1 billion Indian rupees) of the net cash proceeds to increase its equity interest in Sanmar from 30.0% to 42.9% . (12) During 2019 Fairfax India increased its equity interest in CSB Bank Limited ("CSB Bank", formerly The Catholic Syrian Bank Limited) to 49.7% for cash consideration of $81.0 (5.6 billion Indian rupees) . The company continues to apply the equity method of accounting to its investment in CSB Bank primarily because of extensive government regulation of the banking sector in India, including restricted board representation and shareholders being limited to 26.0% of available voting rights. CSB Bank, established in 1920, is headquartered in Thrissur, India, offering banking services through branches and automated teller machines across India. In December 2019 CSB Bank became publicly listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange and National Stock Exchange of India. (13) During 2019 Fairfax India acquired a 48.5% equity interest in Seven Islands Shipping Limited ("Seven Islands") for $83.8 (5.8 billion Indian rupees). Seven Islands is a private shipping company headquartered in Mumbai, India that transports liquid cargo along the Indian coast and in international waters. (14) The fair value and carrying value of the company's investment in Bangalore Airport increased to $1,429.8 and $689.3 at December 31, 2019 from $704.1 and $674.4 at December 31, 2018. The increase in fair value was primarily due to Bangalore Airport's finalization of plans for a third terminal expansion and the development of its monetizable land, which increased the free cash flow projections (a significant unobservable input) used in the company's determination of Bangalore Airport's fair value. At December 31, 2019 the company's 54.0% equity interest in Bangalore Airport was held through its 33.8% ownership interest in Fairfax India. Fairfax Africa (15) On January 4, 2019 Fairfax Africa acquired de facto control of Consolidated Infrastructure Group Limited ("CIG") and commenced consolidating CIG, which included CIG's investments in associates with a fair value of $42.8 . See note 23. Changes in the carrying value of investments in associates for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 Associates Joint ventures Fairfax India associates Fairfax Africa associates Total Balance - January 1 1,465.6 2,006.3 1,103.0 288.1 4,863.0 Share of pre-tax comprehensive income (loss): Share of profit (loss) 111.6 131.1 179.2 (41.1 ) 380.8 Impairment (1) (20.6 ) (190.6 ) — — (211.2 ) Share of other comprehensive income (loss), excluding losses on defined benefit plans 26.2 (3.8 ) (0.7 ) (51.6 ) (29.9 ) Share of losses on defined benefit plans (42.3 ) (0.2 ) (5.5 ) — (48.0 ) 74.9 (63.5 ) 173.0 (92.7 ) 91.7 Dividends and distributions received (160.7 ) (245.0 ) (288.8 ) — (694.5 ) Purchases and acquisitions 677.2 71.6 441.0 45.1 1,234.9 Divestitures and other net changes in capitalization (2) (0.5 ) (221.0 ) (9.7 ) (7.4 ) (238.6 ) Reclassifications (3) (36.7 ) — — — (36.7 ) Assets held for sale (note 23) (316.8 ) (52.0 ) — — (368.8 ) Foreign exchange effect 9.2 (12.8 ) (27.2 ) (0.2 ) (31.0 ) Balance - December 31 1,712.2 1,483.6 1,391.3 232.9 4,820.0 2018 Associates Joint ventures Fairfax India associates Fairfax Africa associates Total Balance - January 1 1,437.0 1,050.0 949.5 219.8 3,656.3 Share of pre-tax comprehensive income (loss): Share of profit 64.6 112.4 83.7 17.7 278.4 Impairment (1) (57.3 ) — — — (57.3 ) Share of other comprehensive income (loss), excluding losses on defined benefit plans (23.9 ) (18.5 ) 0.5 (13.0 ) (54.9 ) Share of losses on defined benefit plans (49.4 ) (0.2 ) — — (49.6 ) (66.0 ) 93.7 84.2 4.7 116.6 Dividends and distributions received (74.2 ) (220.5 ) (6.2 ) — (300.9 ) Purchases and acquisitions 321.7 80.6 155.9 63.3 621.5 Divestitures and other net changes in capitalization (2) (139.0 ) (16.8 ) — 0.3 (155.5 ) Reclassifications (3) — 1,103.6 — — 1,103.6 Foreign exchange effect (13.9 ) (84.3 ) (80.4 ) — (178.6 ) Balance - December 31 1,465.6 2,006.3 1,103.0 288.1 4,863.0 (1) Included in share of profit of associates in the consolidated statement of earnings. (2) Primarily reflects the deconsolidation of Grivalia Properties in 2019 and Quess in 2018 and their respective investments in associates of $68.5 and $12.8 . See note 23. (3) Primarily reflects Brit's consolidation of Ambridge Partners in 2019 and the deconsolidation of Quess (note 23) and Grivalia Properties' consolidation of a former joint venture in 2018. Subsequent to December 31, 2019 Sale of APR Energy plc to Seaspan Corporation On February 27, 2020 Seaspan Corporation ("Seaspan") completed a reorganization pursuant to which Atlas Corp. ("Atlas"), a newly created holding company, became its parent. Shareholders of Seaspan, including the company, exchanged their Seaspan shares for Atlas shares with no change in ownership percentage. Additionally, on February 28, 2020, Atlas acquired all issued and outstanding shares of APR Energy plc ("APR Energy") from the company and other shareholders in an all-stock transaction for approximately $406 . The company's consolidated financial reporting in the first quarter of 2020 will derecognize its investment in APR Energy and will apply the equity method of accounting to its investment in Atlas. Sale of minority interest in Anchorage Infrastructure Investments Holdings Limited On December 16, 2019 Fairfax India entered into an agreement to sell an approximate 12% equity interest on a fully-diluted basis of its wholly-owned subsidiary Anchorage Infrastructure Investments Holdings Limited ("Anchorage") for gross proceeds of approximately $133 (9.5 billion Indian rupees). Fairfax India formed Anchorage in 2019 to act as its primary holding company for investments in the airport sector of India. Pursuant to the agreement Fairfax India will transfer approximately 44% of its 54.0% equity interest in Bangalore International Airport Limited ("Bangalore Airport") to Anchorage. Closing of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including various third-party consents, and is expected to be completed in the first half of 2020.

Short Sales and Derivatives

Short Sales and Derivatives	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of notes and other explanatory information [Abstract]
Short Sales and Derivatives	Short Sales and Derivatives The following table summarizes the company’s derivative financial instruments: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Notional amount Cost Fair value Notional Cost Fair value Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities Equity contracts: Equity total return swaps – short positions 369.8 — — 84.6 414.4 — 22.3 13.4 Equity total return swaps – long positions 406.3 — 11.1 3.0 390.3 — 4.8 51.7 Equity warrants and call options (1) 528.1 114.8 200.3 — 652.9 123.7 79.8 — Equity warrant forward contracts (2) — — — — 316.6 — 38.4 — CPI-linked derivative contracts 99,804.7 614.9 6.7 — 114,426.4 668.9 24.9 — U.S. treasury bond forward contracts 846.5 — 3.9 1.7 471.9 — — 30.4 Foreign currency forward and swap contracts (3) — 1.8 55.3 114.5 — — 71.3 53.7 Foreign currency options — 102.7 8.2 — — 48.3 44.9 — Other derivative contracts (2) — 3.4 2.5 2.1 — — 21.0 0.3 Total 288.0 205.9 307.4 149.5 (1) Includes the company's investment in Seaspan $8.05 warrants with a fair value at December 31, 2019 of $164.8 ( December 31, 2018 - $47.3 ). See note 6. (2) Includes the forward commitment to invest in Seaspan Tranche 2 debentures and warrants at December 31, 2018. See note 6. (3) During 2019 the company consolidated AGT (note 23) which included AGT's foreign currency swap liabilities with a fair value of $53.3 at December 31, 2019. The company is exposed to significant market risk (comprised of foreign currency risk, interest rate risk and other price risk) through its investing activities. Derivative contracts entered into by the company, with limited exceptions, are considered investments or economic hedges and are not designated as hedges for financial reporting. Equity contracts The company holds short equity total return swaps for investment purposes with an original notional amount at December 31, 2019 of $194.4 ( December 31, 2018 - $276.5 ). These contracts provide a return which is inverse to changes in the fair values of the underlying individual equities. During 2019 the company received net cash of $ 48.2 ( 2018 - paid net cash of $ 46.8 ) in connection with the closures and reset provisions of its short equity total return swaps (excluding the impact of collateral requirements). During 2019 the company closed out $89.9 notional amount of short equity total return swaps and recognized net gains on investments of $30.3 (realized losses of $7.9, of which $38.2 was recognized as unrealized losses in prior years). During 2018 the company closed out $565.8 notional amount of short equity and equity index total return swaps and recognized net losses on investments of $11.4 (realized losses of $248.2 of which $236.8 was recognized as unrealized losses in prior years). The company holds long equity total return swaps on individual equities for investment purposes with an original notional amount at December 31, 2019 of $501.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $501.5 ). These contracts provide a return which is directly correlated to changes in the fair values of the underlying individual equities. During 2019 the company paid net cash of $34.5 ( 2018 - $37.2 ) in connection with the closures and reset provisions of its long equity total return swaps (excluding the impact of collateral requirements). During 2019 the company did not initiate or close out any long equity total return swaps. During 2018 the company closed out $452.9 notional amount of long equity total return swaps and recognized a net gain on investment of $19.5 (realized gain of $16.5 of which $3.0 was recognized as unrealized losses in prior years). At December 31, 2019 the fair value of collateral deposited for the benefit of derivative counterparties included in holding company cash and investments and in assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations was $152.4 ( December 31, 2018 - $186.1 ), comprised of collateral of $70.3 ( December 31, 2018 - $126.1 ) required to be deposited to enter into such derivative contracts (principally related to total return swaps), and collateral of $82.1 ( December 31, 2018 - $60.0 ) securing amounts owed to counterparties in respect of fair value changes since the most recent reset date. CPI-linked derivative contracts The company holds derivative contracts referenced to consumer price indexes (“CPI”) in the geographic regions in which it operates to serve as an economic hedge against the potential adverse financial impact on the company of decreasing price levels. At December 31, 2019 these contracts have a remaining weighted average life of 2.8 years ( December 31, 2018 - 3.6 years) and notional amounts and fair values as shown in the table below. In the event of a sale, expiration or early settlement of a contract, the company would receive the fair value of that contract on the date of the transaction. The company's maximum potential loss on a contract is limited to the original cost of that contract. The CPI-linked derivative contracts are summarized as follows: December 31, 2019 Floor rate (1) Average life (in years) Notional amount Weighted Index value at period end Cost Cost in bps (3) Fair value (2) Fair value in bps (3) Unrealized gain (loss) Underlying CPI index Contract (2) U.S. dollars (2) United States 0.0 % 2.7 44,775.0 44,775.0 231.35 256.97 277.5 62.0 1.6 0.4 (275.9 ) United States 0.5 % 4.8 12,600.0 12,600.0 238.30 256.97 39.7 31.5 4.4 3.5 (35.3 ) European Union 0.0 % 2.2 32,525.0 36,509.3 96.57 105.13 263.6 72.2 0.6 0.2 (263.0 ) United Kingdom 0.0 % 2.9 1,800.0 2,384.5 243.79 291.90 13.4 56.2 — — (13.4 ) France 0.0 % 3.1 3,150.0 3,535.9 99.27 104.39 20.7 58.5 0.1 0.3 (20.6 ) 2.8 99,804.7 614.9 6.7 (608.2 ) December 31, 2018 Floor rate (1) Average life (in years) Notional amount Weighted Index value at period end Cost Cost in bps (3) Fair value Fair value in bps (3) Unrealized gain (loss) Underlying CPI index Contract U.S. dollars United States 0.0 % 3.7 46,725.0 46,725.0 231.39 251.23 286.7 61.4 8.0 1.7 (278.7 ) United States 0.5 % 5.8 12,600.0 12,600.0 238.30 251.23 39.4 31.3 15.1 12.0 (24.3 ) European Union 0.0 % 3.0 41,375.0 47,297.6 96.09 104.10 299.3 63.3 1.5 0.3 (297.8 ) United Kingdom 0.0 % 3.9 3,300.0 4,202.9 243.82 285.60 22.8 54.2 — — (22.8 ) France 0.0 % 4.1 3,150.0 3,600.9 99.27 103.16 20.7 57.5 0.3 0.8 (20.4 ) 3.6 114,426.4 668.9 24.9 (644.0 ) (1) Contracts with a floor rate of 0.0% provide a payout at maturity if there is cumulative deflation over the life of the contract. Contracts with a floor rate of 0.5% provide a payout at maturity based on an equivalent weighted average strike price of 250.49 if cumulative inflation averages less than 0.5% per year over the life of the contract. At December 31, 2019 the equivalent weighted average strike price for the United States 0.5% CPI-linked derivative contracts was 244.63 (December 31, 2018 - 243.41). (2) Excludes European Run-off's contracts with a notional amount of $12,054.3 and a fair value of $0.2 referenced to CPI in the United States, European Union and United Kingdom that were included in assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 . See note 23. (3) Expressed as a percentage of the notional amount. During 2019 the company recorded net losses of $12.3 ( 2018 - net losses of $6.7 ) on its CPI-linked derivative contracts and did not enter into any new contracts. During 2019 certain CPI-linked derivative contracts with a notional amount of $1,800.3 referenced to CPI in the United States, European Union and United Kingdom matured. U.S. treasury bond forward contracts To reduce its exposure to interest rate risk (primarily exposure to long dated U.S. treasury bonds, U.S. corporate bonds and U.S. state and municipal bonds held in its fixed income portfolio), the company held forward contracts to sell long dated U.S. treasury bonds with a notional amount of $846.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $471.9 ). These contracts have an average term to maturity of less than three months, and may be renewed at market rates. During 2019 the company recorded net losses of $86.7 ( 2018 - net gains of $46.7 ) on its U.S. treasury bond forward contracts. Foreign currency forward contracts Long and short foreign currency forward contracts, primarily denominated in the euro, the British pound sterling and the Canadian dollar, are used to manage certain foreign currency exposures arising from foreign currency denominated transactions. These contracts have an average term to maturity of less than one year and may be renewed at market rates. Counterparty collateral The company endeavours to limit counterparty risk through diligent selection of counterparties to its derivative contracts and through the terms of negotiated agreements. The fair value of collateral deposited for the benefit of the company at December 31, 2019 consisted of cash of $5.3 and government securities of $10.8 ( December 31, 2018 - $1.1 and $18.3 ). The cash is recorded on the consolidated balance sheet in subsidiary cash and short term investments with a corresponding liability recorded in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The company had not exercised its right to sell or repledge collateral at December 31, 2019 . The company's exposure to counterparty risk and the management thereof are discussed in note 24. Hedge of net investment in Canadian subsidiaries At December 31, 2019 the company had designated the carrying value of Cdn $2,796.1 principal amount of its Canadian dollar denominated unsecured senior notes with a fair value of $2,270.0 ( December 31, 2018 - principal amount of Cdn $2,691.5 with a fair value of $2,028.4 ) as a hedge of a portion of its net investment in subsidiaries with a Canadian dollar functional currency. During 2019 the company recognized pre-tax losses of $105.6 ( 2018 - pre-tax gains of $166.3 ) related to exchange rate movements on the Canadian dollar denominated unsecured senior notes in gains (losses) on hedge of net investment in Canadian subsidiaries in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. Hedge of net investment in European operations At December 31, 2019 the company had designated the carrying value of €277.0 principal amount of its euro denominated unsecured senior notes with a fair value of $ 336.2 ( December 31, 2018 - principal amount of €750.0 with a fair value of $854.5 ) as a hedge of its net investment in European operations with a euro functional currency. The decrease in principal amount of euro denominated unsecured senior notes designated as a hedging instrument during 2019 was due to the deconsolidation of Grivalia Properties (note 23) which reduced the company's net investment in European operations with a euro functional currency. During 2019 the company recognized pre-tax losses of $35.3 ( 2018 - pre-tax gains of $57.1 ) related to exchange rate movements on the euro denominated unsecured senior notes in gains (losses) on hedge of net investment in European operations in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

Insurance Contract Liabilities

Insurance Contract Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Insurance Contracts [Abstract]
Insurance Contract Liabilities	Insurance Contract Liabilities December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Gross Ceded Net Gross Ceded Net Provision for unearned premiums 7,222.4 1,583.7 5,638.7 6,272.2 1,290.8 4,981.4 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 28,500.2 6,934.8 21,565.4 29,081.7 6,459.1 22,622.6 Total insurance contract liabilities 35,722.6 8,518.5 27,204.1 35,353.9 7,749.9 27,604.0 Current 15,023.9 3,715.8 11,308.1 14,086.5 3,489.5 10,597.0 Non-current 20,698.7 4,802.7 15,896.0 21,267.4 4,260.4 17,007.0 35,722.6 8,518.5 27,204.1 35,353.9 7,749.9 27,604.0 At December 31, 2019 the company's net provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses of $21,565.4 ( December 31, 2018 - $22,622.6 ) was comprised of case reserves of $9,061.1 and IBNR of $12,504.3 ( December 31, 2018 - $9,409.3 and $13,213.3 ). Excluded from those balances are European Run-off's net provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses at December 31, 2019 of $1,590.2 , comprised of case reserves of $793.4 and IBNR of $796.8 . See note 23. Provision for unearned premiums Changes in the provision for unearned premiums for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Provision for unearned premiums – January 1 6,272.2 5,951.7 Gross premiums written 17,511.2 15,528.3 Less: gross premiums earned (16,611.0 ) (15,001.4 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 53.6 5.9 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) (6.0 ) — Foreign exchange effect and other 2.4 (212.3 ) Provision for unearned premiums - December 31 7,222.4 6,272.2 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses Changes in the provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses – January 1 29,081.7 28,610.8 Decrease in estimated losses and expenses for claims occurring in the prior years (166.5 ) (462.7 ) Losses and expenses for claims occurring in the current year (1) 11,927.5 11,165.8 Paid on claims occurring during: the current year (2,830.3 ) (2,474.6 ) the prior years (7,733.7 ) (7,566.3 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries and reinsurance transactions (2) 44.0 564.6 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) (1,830.8 ) — Foreign exchange effect and other 8.3 (755.9 ) Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses – December 31 28,500.2 29,081.7 (1) Includes in 2019 the first quarter 2019 reinsurance transaction and excludes in 2018 the gain of $103.7 related to the Part VII transfer component of the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions, both of which are described in the paragraphs below. (2) Includes in 2018 gross insurance contract liabilities assumed of $553.2 related to the Part VII transfer component of the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions described in the second paragraph below. Effective January 1, 2019 Run-off Syndicate 3500 reinsured a portfolio of business predominantly comprised of casualty (principally employers' liability and public liability), professional indemnity, property, marine and aviation exposures relating to accident years 2018 and prior (the " first quarter 2019 reinsurance transaction "). Pursuant to this transaction Run-off Syndicate 3500 assumed $556.8 of net insurance contract liabilities for consideration of $561.5 . Effective October 1, 2018 a portfolio of business comprised of direct UK employers’ liability and public liability policies written by a UK insurer relating to accident years 2001 and prior was transferred to RiverStone (UK) through a Part VII transfer under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended. Also effective October 1, 2018 certain latent claims related to policies issued by the same UK insurer relating to accident years 2002 through 2014 were reinsured by RiverStone (UK). The combination of these two transactions (collectively the "RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions") resulted in RiverStone (UK) assuming $566.8 of net insurance contract liabilities in exchange for cash consideration of $670.5. Run-off results in 2018 reflected the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions as follows: net premiums earned and losses on claims of $37.5 were recorded for the reinsurance component of this transaction; the difference between the cash consideration of $633.0 received for the Part VII transfer and the net insurance contract liabilities assumed of $529.3 decreased losses on claims by $103.7; and operating expenses included a profit commission payable to the UK insurer of $18.8 for these transactions. Subsequent to December 31, 2019 Effective January 31, 2020 a portfolio of business predominantly comprised of U.S. asbestos, pollution and other hazards ("APH") exposures relating to accident years 2001 and prior was transferred to RiverStone (UK) through a Part VII transfer under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended. Pursuant to this transaction RiverStone (UK) assumed net insurance contract liabilities of $134.2 for cash consideration of $143.4. Effective January 1, 2020 Run-off Syndicate 3500 reinsured a portfolio of business predominantly comprised of property, liability and marine exposures relating to accident years 2019 and prior. Pursuant to this transaction Run-off Syndicate 3500 assumed net insurance contract liabilities of $154.6 for consideration of $155.6. Development of insurance losses, gross The development of insurance liabilities illustrates the estimation uncertainty associated with these liabilities and provides a measure of the company's ability to estimate the ultimate value of claims. The loss development table below shows the provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses at the end of each calendar year, the cumulative payments made in respect of those reserves in subsequent years and the re-estimated amount of each calendar year's provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses as at December 31, 2019 . Calendar year 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 16,049.3 17,232.2 19,648.8 19,212.8 17,749.1 19,816.4 19,481.8 28,610.8 29,081.7 28,500.2 Less: CTR Life (1) 25.3 24.2 20.6 17.9 15.2 14.2 12.8 8.7 8.0 7.0 16,024.0 17,208.0 19,628.2 19,194.9 17,733.9 19,802.2 19,469.0 28,602.1 29,073.7 28,493.2 Cumulative payments as of: One year later 3,355.9 3,627.6 4,323.5 4,081.1 3,801.6 4,441.4 4,608.0 7,564.0 7,732.0 Two years later 5,441.4 6,076.7 7,153.1 6,787.6 6,364.5 7,283.6 7,631.4 12,081.3 Three years later 7,063.1 7,920.3 9,148.0 8,775.5 8,172.7 9,466.5 9,655.9 Four years later 8,333.3 9,333.4 10,702.8 10,212.4 9,561.8 10,914.2 Five years later 9,327.0 10,458.7 11,783.3 11,354.4 10,496.4 Six years later 10,202.6 11,263.6 12,729.6 12,123.4 Seven years later 10,823.4 12,030.0 13,335.1 Eight years later 11,442.7 12,558.1 Nine years later 11,853.3 Reserves re-estimated as of: One year later 15,893.8 17,316.4 19,021.2 18,375.6 16,696.4 19,169.3 19,343.1 27,580.6 28,974.3 Two years later 15,959.7 17,013.6 18,529.4 17,475.0 16,269.2 18,973.6 18,804.8 27,565.9 Three years later 15,705.6 16,721.0 17,820.5 17,307.9 16,114.0 18,502.5 18,752.8 Four years later 15,430.4 16,233.9 17,735.5 17,287.2 15,938.9 18,469.1 Five years later 15,036.2 16,269.6 17,830.5 17,203.5 16,049.6 Six years later 15,099.0 16,331.8 17,791.8 17,340.1 Seven years later 15,252.1 16,340.6 17,931.9 Eight years later 15,279.7 16,535.1 Nine years later 15,447.7 Favourable development 576.3 672.9 1,696.3 1,854.8 1,684.3 1,333.1 716.2 1,036.2 99.4 Favourable development comprised of: Effect of foreign currency translation 239.4 240.8 559.4 471.1 255.3 (216.2 ) (190.8 ) 428.0 (66.6 ) Favourable loss reserve development 336.9 432.1 1,136.9 1,383.7 1,429.0 1,549.3 907.0 608.2 166.0 576.3 672.9 1,696.3 1,854.8 1,684.3 1,333.1 716.2 1,036.2 99.4 (1) Guaranteed minimum death benefit retrocessional business written by Compagnie Transcontinentale de Réassurance ("CTR Life"), a wholly owned subsidiary of the company that was transferred to Wentworth and placed into run-off in 2002. The effect of foreign currency translation in the table above primarily arose on translation to U.S. dollars of loss reserves of subsidiaries with functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar. The company's exposure to foreign currency risk and the management thereof are discussed in note 24. Loss reserve development in the table above excludes the loss reserve development of a subsidiary in the year it is acquired whereas the consolidated statement of earnings includes the loss reserve development of a subsidiary from its acquisition date. Favourable loss reserve development in calendar year 2019 of $166.0 in the table above was principally comprised of favourable loss emergence on accident years 2012 to 2016, partially offset by adverse development primarily related to asbestos and other latent claims liabilities. Development of losses and loss adjustment expenses for asbestos A number of the company's subsidiaries wrote general liability policies and reinsurance prior to their acquisition by the company under which policyholders continue to present asbestos-related injury claims. Substantially all of these claims are presented under policies written many years ago and reside primarily within the run-off group. There is a great deal of uncertainty surrounding these types of claims, which affects the ability of insurers and reinsurers to estimate the ultimate amount of unpaid claims and related settlement expenses. The majority of these claims differ from most other types of claims because there is inconsistent precedent, if any at all, to determine what, if any, coverage exists or which, if any, policy years and insurers or reinsurers may be liable. These uncertainties are exacerbated by judicial and legislative interpretations of coverage that in some cases have eroded the clear and express intent of the parties to the insurance contracts, and in others have expanded theories of liability. The following is an analysis of the changes which have occurred in the company's provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses related to U.S. asbestos exposure on a gross and net basis for the years ended December 31: 2019 2018 Gross Net Gross Net Provision for asbestos claims and loss adjustment expenses - January 1 1,217.9 995.3 1,292.1 1,033.3 Losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred 135.4 114.8 138.6 114.3 Losses and loss adjustment expenses paid (164.0 ) (138.4 ) (233.2 ) (170.1 ) Provisions for asbestos claims assumed during the year, at December 31 (1) — — 20.4 17.8 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) (114.7 ) (111.2 ) — — Provision for asbestos claims and loss adjustment expenses - December 31 1,074.6 860.5 1,217.9 995.3 (1) Comprised primarily of the reinsurance component of the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions. Fair Value The estimated fair value of the company's insurance and reinsurance contracts is as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Fair value Carrying value Fair value Carrying value Insurance contracts 35,248.0 35,722.6 34,560.2 35,353.9 Ceded reinsurance contracts 8,049.4 8,518.5 7,276.2 7,749.9 The fair value of insurance contracts is comprised of the fair value of both unpaid claims liabilities and unearned premiums. The fair value of ceded reinsurance contracts is comprised of the fair value of reinsurers' share of unpaid claims liabilities and unearned premiums. Both reflect the time value of money through discounting, whereas the carrying values (including the reinsurers' share thereof) do not. The calculation of the fair value of unearned premiums includes acquisition expenses to reflect the deferral of these expenses at the inception of the insurance contract. The estimated fair value of insurance and ceded reinsurance contracts is determined by projecting the expected future cash flows of the contracts, selecting the appropriate interest rates, and applying the resulting discount factors to the expected future cash flows. The difference between the sum of the undiscounted expected future cash flows and the sum of the discounted expected future cash flows represents the time value of money. A margin for risk and uncertainty is added to the discounted cash flows to reflect the volatility of the lines of business written, quantity of reinsurance purchased, credit quality of reinsurers and the possibility of future changes in interest rates. The table that follows illustrates the potential impact of interest rate fluctuations on the fair value of the company's insurance and reinsurance contracts: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Change in interest rates Fair value of insurance contracts Fair value of reinsurance contracts Fair value of insurance contracts Fair value of reinsurance contracts 100 basis point increase 34,240.4 7,836.5 33,539.0 7,074.1 100 basis point decrease 36,343.0 8,285.1 35,686.3 7,494.8 Insurance Contract Receivables and Payables Insurance contract receivables were comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Insurance premiums receivable 3,325.0 2,949.8 Reinsurance premiums receivable 1,176.0 1,082.1 Funds withheld receivable 753.7 800.9 Other 211.0 307.5 Provision for uncollectible receivables (30.7 ) (29.6 ) 5,435.0 5,110.7 Current 4,921.5 4,467.1 Non-current 513.5 643.6 5,435.0 5,110.7 Changes in insurance premiums receivable and reinsurance premiums receivable for the years ended December 31 were as follows: Insurance premiums receivable Reinsurance premiums receivable 2019 2018 2019 2018 Balance – January 1 2,949.8 2,752.3 1,082.1 1,086.4 Gross premiums written 13,167.8 11,895.0 4,343.4 3,633.3 Premiums collected (11,516.3 ) (10,344.5 ) (3,288.5 ) (2,772.1 ) Amounts due to brokers and agents (1,284.5 ) (1,220.4 ) (917.2 ) (842.7 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 17.1 4.0 — — Assets held for sale (note 23) (1.7 ) — (22.6 ) — Recovery (impairments) (1.3 ) (1.3 ) 0.3 (1.7 ) Foreign exchange effect and other (5.9 ) (135.3 ) (21.5 ) (21.1 ) Balance – December 31 3,325.0 2,949.8 1,176.0 1,082.1 Insurance contract payables were comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Payable to reinsurers 1,469.4 1,122.2 Ceded deferred premium acquisition costs 373.2 254.8 Funds withheld payable to reinsurers 239.1 128.5 Amounts payable to agents and brokers 101.8 93.8 Accrued commissions 95.5 87.3 Accrued premium taxes 82.7 74.6 Other insurance contract payables 229.3 241.9 2,591.0 2,003.1 Current 2,315.4 1,514.2 Non-current 275.6 488.9 2,591.0 2,003.1

Reinsurance

Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Insurance Contracts [Abstract]
Reinsurance	Reinsurance Reinsurers’ share of insurance contract liabilities was comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Gross recoverable from reinsurers Provision for uncollectible reinsurance (1) Recoverable from reinsurers Gross recoverable from reinsurers Provision for uncollectible reinsurance (1) Recoverable from reinsurers Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 6,956.7 (21.9 ) 6,934.8 6,482.3 (23.2 ) 6,459.1 Reinsurers’ share of paid losses 776.9 (139.6 ) 637.3 792.6 (141.6 ) 651.0 Provision for unearned premiums 1,583.7 — 1,583.7 1,290.8 — 1,290.8 9,317.3 (161.5 ) 9,155.8 8,565.7 (164.8 ) 8,400.9 Current 4,314.8 4,121.2 Non-current 4,841.0 4,279.7 9,155.8 8,400.9 (1) Management of credit risk associated with reinsurance recoverables is discussed in note 24. Changes in reinsurers' share of paid losses, unpaid losses and unearned premiums, and the provision for uncollectible reinsurance for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 Paid losses Unpaid losses Unearned Provision for uncollectible reinsurance Recoverable from reinsurers Balance – January 1 792.6 6,482.3 1,290.8 (164.8 ) 8,400.9 Reinsurers’ share of losses paid to insureds 2,299.4 (2,299.4 ) — — — Reinsurance recoveries received (2,277.0 ) — — — (2,277.0 ) Reinsurers’ share of unpaid losses and premiums earned — 3,069.6 (3,381.3 ) — (311.7 ) Premiums ceded to reinsurers — — 3,675.6 — 3,675.6 Change in provision, recovery or write-off of impaired balances (20.6 ) — — 3.4 (17.2 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) and reinsurance transactions 0.2 8.7 2.9 — 11.8 Assets held for sale (note 23) (19.4 ) (241.0 ) — 0.4 (260.0 ) Foreign exchange effect and other 1.7 (63.5 ) (4.3 ) (0.5 ) (66.6 ) Balance – December 31 776.9 6,956.7 1,583.7 (161.5 ) 9,155.8 2018 Paid losses Unpaid losses Unearned Provision for uncollectible reinsurance Recoverable from reinsurers Balance – January 1 593.7 6,216.2 1,169.0 (166.4 ) 7,812.5 Reinsurers’ share of losses paid to insureds 2,233.3 (2,233.3 ) — — — Reinsurance recoveries received (2,012.6 ) — — — (2,012.6 ) Reinsurers’ share of unpaid losses and premiums earned — 2,774.4 (2,935.4 ) — (161.0 ) Premiums ceded to reinsurers — — 3,097.3 — 3,097.3 Change in provision, recovery or write-off of impaired balances (5.5 ) (2.5 ) — (0.2 ) (8.2 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) and reinsurance transactions (1) 0.1 30.1 4.2 — 34.4 Foreign exchange effect and other (16.4 ) (302.6 ) (44.3 ) 1.8 (361.5 ) Balance – December 31 792.6 6,482.3 1,290.8 (164.8 ) 8,400.9 (1) Includes recoverable from reinsurers of $23.9 related to the Part VII transfer component of the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions (note 8). Commission income earned on premiums ceded to reinsurers in 2019 of $652.3 ( 2018 - $567.4 ) is included in commissions, net in the consolidated statement of earnings.

Insurance Contract Receivables

Insurance Contract Receivables and Payables	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Insurance Contracts [Abstract]
Insurance Contract Receivables and Payables	Insurance Contract Liabilities December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Gross Ceded Net Gross Ceded Net Provision for unearned premiums 7,222.4 1,583.7 5,638.7 6,272.2 1,290.8 4,981.4 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 28,500.2 6,934.8 21,565.4 29,081.7 6,459.1 22,622.6 Total insurance contract liabilities 35,722.6 8,518.5 27,204.1 35,353.9 7,749.9 27,604.0 Current 15,023.9 3,715.8 11,308.1 14,086.5 3,489.5 10,597.0 Non-current 20,698.7 4,802.7 15,896.0 21,267.4 4,260.4 17,007.0 35,722.6 8,518.5 27,204.1 35,353.9 7,749.9 27,604.0 At December 31, 2019 the company's net provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses of $21,565.4 ( December 31, 2018 - $22,622.6 ) was comprised of case reserves of $9,061.1 and IBNR of $12,504.3 ( December 31, 2018 - $9,409.3 and $13,213.3 ). Excluded from those balances are European Run-off's net provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses at December 31, 2019 of $1,590.2 , comprised of case reserves of $793.4 and IBNR of $796.8 . See note 23. Provision for unearned premiums Changes in the provision for unearned premiums for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Provision for unearned premiums – January 1 6,272.2 5,951.7 Gross premiums written 17,511.2 15,528.3 Less: gross premiums earned (16,611.0 ) (15,001.4 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 53.6 5.9 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) (6.0 ) — Foreign exchange effect and other 2.4 (212.3 ) Provision for unearned premiums - December 31 7,222.4 6,272.2 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses Changes in the provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses – January 1 29,081.7 28,610.8 Decrease in estimated losses and expenses for claims occurring in the prior years (166.5 ) (462.7 ) Losses and expenses for claims occurring in the current year (1) 11,927.5 11,165.8 Paid on claims occurring during: the current year (2,830.3 ) (2,474.6 ) the prior years (7,733.7 ) (7,566.3 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries and reinsurance transactions (2) 44.0 564.6 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) (1,830.8 ) — Foreign exchange effect and other 8.3 (755.9 ) Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses – December 31 28,500.2 29,081.7 (1) Includes in 2019 the first quarter 2019 reinsurance transaction and excludes in 2018 the gain of $103.7 related to the Part VII transfer component of the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions, both of which are described in the paragraphs below. (2) Includes in 2018 gross insurance contract liabilities assumed of $553.2 related to the Part VII transfer component of the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions described in the second paragraph below. Effective January 1, 2019 Run-off Syndicate 3500 reinsured a portfolio of business predominantly comprised of casualty (principally employers' liability and public liability), professional indemnity, property, marine and aviation exposures relating to accident years 2018 and prior (the " first quarter 2019 reinsurance transaction "). Pursuant to this transaction Run-off Syndicate 3500 assumed $556.8 of net insurance contract liabilities for consideration of $561.5 . Effective October 1, 2018 a portfolio of business comprised of direct UK employers’ liability and public liability policies written by a UK insurer relating to accident years 2001 and prior was transferred to RiverStone (UK) through a Part VII transfer under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended. Also effective October 1, 2018 certain latent claims related to policies issued by the same UK insurer relating to accident years 2002 through 2014 were reinsured by RiverStone (UK). The combination of these two transactions (collectively the "RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions") resulted in RiverStone (UK) assuming $566.8 of net insurance contract liabilities in exchange for cash consideration of $670.5. Run-off results in 2018 reflected the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions as follows: net premiums earned and losses on claims of $37.5 were recorded for the reinsurance component of this transaction; the difference between the cash consideration of $633.0 received for the Part VII transfer and the net insurance contract liabilities assumed of $529.3 decreased losses on claims by $103.7; and operating expenses included a profit commission payable to the UK insurer of $18.8 for these transactions. Subsequent to December 31, 2019 Effective January 31, 2020 a portfolio of business predominantly comprised of U.S. asbestos, pollution and other hazards ("APH") exposures relating to accident years 2001 and prior was transferred to RiverStone (UK) through a Part VII transfer under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended. Pursuant to this transaction RiverStone (UK) assumed net insurance contract liabilities of $134.2 for cash consideration of $143.4. Effective January 1, 2020 Run-off Syndicate 3500 reinsured a portfolio of business predominantly comprised of property, liability and marine exposures relating to accident years 2019 and prior. Pursuant to this transaction Run-off Syndicate 3500 assumed net insurance contract liabilities of $154.6 for consideration of $155.6. Development of insurance losses, gross The development of insurance liabilities illustrates the estimation uncertainty associated with these liabilities and provides a measure of the company's ability to estimate the ultimate value of claims. The loss development table below shows the provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses at the end of each calendar year, the cumulative payments made in respect of those reserves in subsequent years and the re-estimated amount of each calendar year's provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses as at December 31, 2019 . Calendar year 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 16,049.3 17,232.2 19,648.8 19,212.8 17,749.1 19,816.4 19,481.8 28,610.8 29,081.7 28,500.2 Less: CTR Life (1) 25.3 24.2 20.6 17.9 15.2 14.2 12.8 8.7 8.0 7.0 16,024.0 17,208.0 19,628.2 19,194.9 17,733.9 19,802.2 19,469.0 28,602.1 29,073.7 28,493.2 Cumulative payments as of: One year later 3,355.9 3,627.6 4,323.5 4,081.1 3,801.6 4,441.4 4,608.0 7,564.0 7,732.0 Two years later 5,441.4 6,076.7 7,153.1 6,787.6 6,364.5 7,283.6 7,631.4 12,081.3 Three years later 7,063.1 7,920.3 9,148.0 8,775.5 8,172.7 9,466.5 9,655.9 Four years later 8,333.3 9,333.4 10,702.8 10,212.4 9,561.8 10,914.2 Five years later 9,327.0 10,458.7 11,783.3 11,354.4 10,496.4 Six years later 10,202.6 11,263.6 12,729.6 12,123.4 Seven years later 10,823.4 12,030.0 13,335.1 Eight years later 11,442.7 12,558.1 Nine years later 11,853.3 Reserves re-estimated as of: One year later 15,893.8 17,316.4 19,021.2 18,375.6 16,696.4 19,169.3 19,343.1 27,580.6 28,974.3 Two years later 15,959.7 17,013.6 18,529.4 17,475.0 16,269.2 18,973.6 18,804.8 27,565.9 Three years later 15,705.6 16,721.0 17,820.5 17,307.9 16,114.0 18,502.5 18,752.8 Four years later 15,430.4 16,233.9 17,735.5 17,287.2 15,938.9 18,469.1 Five years later 15,036.2 16,269.6 17,830.5 17,203.5 16,049.6 Six years later 15,099.0 16,331.8 17,791.8 17,340.1 Seven years later 15,252.1 16,340.6 17,931.9 Eight years later 15,279.7 16,535.1 Nine years later 15,447.7 Favourable development 576.3 672.9 1,696.3 1,854.8 1,684.3 1,333.1 716.2 1,036.2 99.4 Favourable development comprised of: Effect of foreign currency translation 239.4 240.8 559.4 471.1 255.3 (216.2 ) (190.8 ) 428.0 (66.6 ) Favourable loss reserve development 336.9 432.1 1,136.9 1,383.7 1,429.0 1,549.3 907.0 608.2 166.0 576.3 672.9 1,696.3 1,854.8 1,684.3 1,333.1 716.2 1,036.2 99.4 (1) Guaranteed minimum death benefit retrocessional business written by Compagnie Transcontinentale de Réassurance ("CTR Life"), a wholly owned subsidiary of the company that was transferred to Wentworth and placed into run-off in 2002. The effect of foreign currency translation in the table above primarily arose on translation to U.S. dollars of loss reserves of subsidiaries with functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar. The company's exposure to foreign currency risk and the management thereof are discussed in note 24. Loss reserve development in the table above excludes the loss reserve development of a subsidiary in the year it is acquired whereas the consolidated statement of earnings includes the loss reserve development of a subsidiary from its acquisition date. Favourable loss reserve development in calendar year 2019 of $166.0 in the table above was principally comprised of favourable loss emergence on accident years 2012 to 2016, partially offset by adverse development primarily related to asbestos and other latent claims liabilities. Development of losses and loss adjustment expenses for asbestos A number of the company's subsidiaries wrote general liability policies and reinsurance prior to their acquisition by the company under which policyholders continue to present asbestos-related injury claims. Substantially all of these claims are presented under policies written many years ago and reside primarily within the run-off group. There is a great deal of uncertainty surrounding these types of claims, which affects the ability of insurers and reinsurers to estimate the ultimate amount of unpaid claims and related settlement expenses. The majority of these claims differ from most other types of claims because there is inconsistent precedent, if any at all, to determine what, if any, coverage exists or which, if any, policy years and insurers or reinsurers may be liable. These uncertainties are exacerbated by judicial and legislative interpretations of coverage that in some cases have eroded the clear and express intent of the parties to the insurance contracts, and in others have expanded theories of liability. The following is an analysis of the changes which have occurred in the company's provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses related to U.S. asbestos exposure on a gross and net basis for the years ended December 31: 2019 2018 Gross Net Gross Net Provision for asbestos claims and loss adjustment expenses - January 1 1,217.9 995.3 1,292.1 1,033.3 Losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred 135.4 114.8 138.6 114.3 Losses and loss adjustment expenses paid (164.0 ) (138.4 ) (233.2 ) (170.1 ) Provisions for asbestos claims assumed during the year, at December 31 (1) — — 20.4 17.8 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) (114.7 ) (111.2 ) — — Provision for asbestos claims and loss adjustment expenses - December 31 1,074.6 860.5 1,217.9 995.3 (1) Comprised primarily of the reinsurance component of the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions. Fair Value The estimated fair value of the company's insurance and reinsurance contracts is as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Fair value Carrying value Fair value Carrying value Insurance contracts 35,248.0 35,722.6 34,560.2 35,353.9 Ceded reinsurance contracts 8,049.4 8,518.5 7,276.2 7,749.9 The fair value of insurance contracts is comprised of the fair value of both unpaid claims liabilities and unearned premiums. The fair value of ceded reinsurance contracts is comprised of the fair value of reinsurers' share of unpaid claims liabilities and unearned premiums. Both reflect the time value of money through discounting, whereas the carrying values (including the reinsurers' share thereof) do not. The calculation of the fair value of unearned premiums includes acquisition expenses to reflect the deferral of these expenses at the inception of the insurance contract. The estimated fair value of insurance and ceded reinsurance contracts is determined by projecting the expected future cash flows of the contracts, selecting the appropriate interest rates, and applying the resulting discount factors to the expected future cash flows. The difference between the sum of the undiscounted expected future cash flows and the sum of the discounted expected future cash flows represents the time value of money. A margin for risk and uncertainty is added to the discounted cash flows to reflect the volatility of the lines of business written, quantity of reinsurance purchased, credit quality of reinsurers and the possibility of future changes in interest rates. The table that follows illustrates the potential impact of interest rate fluctuations on the fair value of the company's insurance and reinsurance contracts: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Change in interest rates Fair value of insurance contracts Fair value of reinsurance contracts Fair value of insurance contracts Fair value of reinsurance contracts 100 basis point increase 34,240.4 7,836.5 33,539.0 7,074.1 100 basis point decrease 36,343.0 8,285.1 35,686.3 7,494.8 Insurance Contract Receivables and Payables Insurance contract receivables were comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Insurance premiums receivable 3,325.0 2,949.8 Reinsurance premiums receivable 1,176.0 1,082.1 Funds withheld receivable 753.7 800.9 Other 211.0 307.5 Provision for uncollectible receivables (30.7 ) (29.6 ) 5,435.0 5,110.7 Current 4,921.5 4,467.1 Non-current 513.5 643.6 5,435.0 5,110.7 Changes in insurance premiums receivable and reinsurance premiums receivable for the years ended December 31 were as follows: Insurance premiums receivable Reinsurance premiums receivable 2019 2018 2019 2018 Balance – January 1 2,949.8 2,752.3 1,082.1 1,086.4 Gross premiums written 13,167.8 11,895.0 4,343.4 3,633.3 Premiums collected (11,516.3 ) (10,344.5 ) (3,288.5 ) (2,772.1 ) Amounts due to brokers and agents (1,284.5 ) (1,220.4 ) (917.2 ) (842.7 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 17.1 4.0 — — Assets held for sale (note 23) (1.7 ) — (22.6 ) — Recovery (impairments) (1.3 ) (1.3 ) 0.3 (1.7 ) Foreign exchange effect and other (5.9 ) (135.3 ) (21.5 ) (21.1 ) Balance – December 31 3,325.0 2,949.8 1,176.0 1,082.1 Insurance contract payables were comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Payable to reinsurers 1,469.4 1,122.2 Ceded deferred premium acquisition costs 373.2 254.8 Funds withheld payable to reinsurers 239.1 128.5 Amounts payable to agents and brokers 101.8 93.8 Accrued commissions 95.5 87.3 Accrued premium taxes 82.7 74.6 Other insurance contract payables 229.3 241.9 2,591.0 2,003.1 Current 2,315.4 1,514.2 Non-current 275.6 488.9 2,591.0 2,003.1

Deferred Premium Acquisition Co

Deferred Premium Acquisition Costs	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Insurance Contracts [Abstract]
Deferred Premium Acquisition Costs	Deferred Premium Acquisition Costs Changes in deferred premium acquisition costs for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Balance – January 1 1,127.3 927.5 Premium acquisition costs deferred 3,271.4 3,012.1 Amortization (3,068.2 ) (2,812.5 ) Assets held for sale (note 23) (1.7 ) — Foreign exchange effect and other 15.5 0.2 Balance – December 31 1,344.3 1,127.3

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and intangible assets were comprised as follows: Goodwill Intangible assets Total Lloyd's participation rights (1) Customer Brand names (1) Computer software and other (1) Balance - January 1, 2019 2,702.7 503.2 932.8 1,096.8 441.4 5,676.9 Additions 316.2 — 134.9 34.8 218.6 704.5 Disposals — — — — (1.3 ) (1.3 ) Amortization — — (105.5 ) — (117.6 ) (223.1 ) Impairments (2) (43.9 ) — — — (2.9 ) (46.8 ) Foreign exchange effect and other 22.3 — 7.6 49.5 4.5 83.9 Balance - December 31, 2019 2,997.3 503.2 969.8 1,181.1 542.7 6,194.1 Gross carrying amount 3,043.9 503.2 1,391.4 1,181.1 1,071.2 7,190.8 Accumulated amortization — — (421.9 ) — (512.6 ) (934.5 ) Accumulated impairment (46.6 ) — 0.3 — (15.9 ) (62.2 ) 2,997.3 503.2 969.8 1,181.1 542.7 6,194.1 Goodwill Intangible assets Total Lloyd's participation rights (1) Customer Brand names (1) Computer software and other (1) Balance - January 1, 2018 2,904.7 507.9 1,047.8 1,171.4 440.7 6,072.5 Additions 136.4 — 11.2 11.9 134.9 294.4 Disposals (227.1 ) — (8.2 ) (8.5 ) (4.1 ) (247.9 ) Amortization — — (99.3 ) — (96.3 ) (195.6 ) Impairments (2.6 ) (4.3 ) (0.2 ) — (1.2 ) (8.3 ) Foreign exchange effect and other (108.7 ) (0.4 ) (18.5 ) (78.0 ) (32.6 ) (238.2 ) Balance - December 31, 2018 2,702.7 503.2 932.8 1,096.8 441.4 5,676.9 Gross carrying amount 2,712.3 507.5 1,247.0 1,096.8 852.8 6,416.4 Accumulated amortization — — (314.0 ) — (398.6 ) (712.6 ) Accumulated impairment (9.6 ) (4.3 ) (0.2 ) — (12.8 ) (26.9 ) 2,702.7 503.2 932.8 1,096.8 441.4 5,676.9 (1) Indefinite-lived intangible assets not subject to amortization had an aggregate carrying value at December 31, 2019 of $1,790.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $1,700.5 ). (2) Non-cash impairment charges recorded in other expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings by the non-insurance companies and principally attributable to non-controlling interests. Goodwill and intangible assets were allocated to the company's cash-generating units (“CGUs”) as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Goodwill Intangible assets Total Goodwill Intangible assets Total Allied World 938.8 659.2 1,598.0 937.9 710.0 1,647.9 Recipe 279.3 1,035.5 1,314.8 261.8 984.9 1,246.7 Brit 200.2 594.2 794.4 154.3 561.1 715.4 Zenith National 317.6 99.3 416.9 317.6 107.2 424.8 Crum & Forster 188.2 111.7 299.9 185.9 108.3 294.2 Boat Rocker 93.8 154.1 247.9 61.7 62.2 123.9 AGT (1) 174.7 58.9 233.6 — — — Thomas Cook India 150.6 55.8 206.4 133.4 52.7 186.1 Northbridge 92.5 90.9 183.4 87.8 76.6 164.4 Odyssey Group 119.7 62.8 182.5 119.7 57.7 177.4 AMAG Insurance 43.7 102.3 146.0 42.2 101.5 143.7 All other (2) 398.2 172.1 570.3 400.4 152.0 552.4 2,997.3 3,196.8 6,194.1 2,702.7 2,974.2 5,676.9 (1) AGT was acquired on April 17, 2019 as described in note 23. (2) Comprised primarily of balances related to Dexterra, Fairchem, Mosaic Capital, Sterling Resorts, CIG, U.S. Run-off and Pethealth. At December 31, 2019 goodwill and intangible assets were comprised primarily of amounts arising on the acquisitions of AGT during 2019, Allied World during 2017, St-Hubert and Original Joe's (both by Recipe) during 2016, Recipe and Brit during 2015, Thomas Cook India during 2012, and Zenith National during 2010. Impairment tests for goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets were completed during 2019 and it was concluded that no significant impairments had occurred . When testing for impairment, the recoverable amount of each CGU or group of CGUs was based on the higher of (i) fair value less costs of disposal, determined using market prices inclusive of a control premium, or discounted cash flow models, and (ii) value-in-use, determined using discounted cash flow models. In preparing discounted cash flow models, cash flow projections covering a five year period were derived from financial budgets approved by management. Cash flows beyond the five year period were extrapolated using estimated growth rates which do not exceed the long term average historic growth rate for the business in which each CGU operates. A number of other assumptions and estimates including premiums, investment returns, revenues, expenses, royalty rates and working capital requirements were required to be incorporated into the discounted cash flow models. The forecasts were based on best estimates of future premiums or revenues and operating expenses using historical trends, general geographical market conditions, industry trends and forecasts and other available information. These assumptions and estimates were reviewed by the applicable CGU's management and by Fairfax's management. The cash flow forecasts were adjusted by applying appropriate discount rates within a range of 6.8% to 12.8% for insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries, and 8.4% to 15.2% for non-insurance subsidiaries. A long term investment return of 5.0% was applied to the investment portfolios of insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries. The long term growth rates used to extrapolate cash flows beyond five years for the majority of the CGUs ranged from 2.5% to 3.0% .

Other Assets

Other Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]
Other Assets	Other Assets Other assets were comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Premises and equipment 367.8 1,319.9 1,687.7 374.8 867.7 1,242.5 Right-of-use assets (notes 3 and 22) 385.4 635.2 1,020.6 — — — Inventories — 694.5 694.5 — 455.5 455.5 Other revenue receivables — 583.5 583.5 — 390.9 390.9 Finance lease receivables (notes 3 and 22) 8.8 367.1 375.9 — — — Prepaid expenses 113.2 168.9 282.1 89.9 117.3 207.2 Accrued interest and dividends 195.7 10.8 206.5 162.0 11.2 173.2 Income taxes refundable 126.3 42.7 169.0 123.0 29.3 152.3 Sales tax and other taxes receivable 22.3 102.6 124.9 24.8 68.9 93.7 Prepaid losses on claims 114.4 — 114.4 98.9 — 98.9 Deferred compensation plans 87.4 — 87.4 80.5 — 80.5 Pension surplus (note 21) 51.9 — 51.9 64.0 — 64.0 Non-insurance companies' investment property (note 23) — — — — 1,157.9 1,157.9 Other 490.3 118.6 608.9 327.8 123.9 451.7 1,963.5 4,043.8 6,007.3 1,345.7 3,222.6 4,568.3 Current 789.7 1,668.1 2,457.8 614.5 947.8 1,562.3 Non-current 1,173.8 2,375.7 3,549.5 731.2 2,274.8 3,006.0 1,963.5 4,043.8 6,007.3 1,345.7 3,222.6 4,568.3

Accounts Payable and Accrued Li

Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities	Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities were comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Lease liabilities (notes 3 and 22) 434.3 1,062.1 1,496.4 — — — Payables related to cost of sales — 778.4 778.4 — 616.8 616.8 Salaries and employee benefit liabilities 354.9 79.7 434.6 315.1 61.2 376.3 Deferred gift card, hospitality and other revenue 21.2 351.6 372.8 24.7 336.4 361.1 Pension and post retirement liabilities (note 21) 338.8 21.8 360.6 232.0 21.1 253.1 Amounts withheld and accrued taxes 314.7 31.5 346.2 269.8 29.5 299.3 Advances and deposits from customers — 109.6 109.6 — 55.9 55.9 Income taxes payable 47.5 30.9 78.4 58.2 21.9 80.1 Accrued legal and professional fees 57.3 11.4 68.7 61.1 10.7 71.8 Accrued interest expense 64.9 2.2 67.1 63.2 3.0 66.2 Accrued rent, storage and facilities costs 16.4 8.8 25.2 26.9 103.7 130.6 Amounts payable for securities purchased but not yet settled 6.2 — 6.2 19.2 29.8 49.0 Administrative and other 423.8 246.1 669.9 433.7 226.1 659.8 2,080.0 2,734.1 4,814.1 1,503.9 1,516.1 3,020.0 Current 869.9 1,594.1 2,464.0 870.4 1,173.6 2,044.0 Non-current 1,210.1 1,140.0 2,350.1 633.5 342.5 976.0 2,080.0 2,734.1 4,814.1 1,503.9 1,516.1 3,020.0

Borrowings

Borrowings	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Borrowings [abstract]
Borrowings	Borrowings December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Principal Carrying value (a) Fair value (b) Principal Carrying value (a) Fair value (b) Borrowings - holding company Fairfax unsecured notes: 6.40% due May 25, 2021 (Cdn$400.0) (d)(1) — — — 289.6 288.7 310.2 5.84% due October 14, 2022 (Cdn$450.0) (d) 343.9 345.9 373.8 326.5 329.2 352.9 4.50% due March 22, 2023 (Cdn$400.0) 308.5 307.0 326.0 292.9 290.9 301.7 4.142% due February 7, 2024 (3) 85.0 85.0 85.1 — — — 4.875% due August 13, 2024 (d) 282.5 280.0 300.8 282.5 279.5 288.2 4.95% due March 3, 2025 (Cdn$350.0) (d) 269.9 267.1 293.1 256.3 252.9 267.2 8.30% due April 15, 2026 (e) 91.8 91.6 116.1 91.8 91.6 109.5 4.70% due December 16, 2026 (Cdn$450.0) 347.0 345.1 370.0 329.5 327.2 334.3 4.25% due December 6, 2027 (Cdn$650.0) 501.3 499.3 515.7 475.9 473.7 462.1 2.75% due March 29, 2028 ( € 750.0) 841.9 827.0 910.2 857.4 840.7 854.5 4.85% due April 17, 2028 600.0 595.2 648.9 600.0 594.6 576.3 4.23% due June 14, 2029 (Cdn$500.0) (2) 385.6 383.6 391.4 — — — 7.75% due July 15, 2037 91.3 90.5 113.8 91.3 90.5 106.7 4,148.7 4,117.3 4,444.9 3,893.7 3,859.5 3,963.6 Borrowings - insurance and reinsurance companies Odyssey Group floating rate unsecured senior notes due 2021 90.0 90.0 92.5 90.0 89.9 92.4 Allied World 4.35% senior notes due October 29, 2025 500.0 506.1 524.1 500.0 507.2 490.4 Allied World revolving credit facility and other borrowings 39.4 43.0 46.4 39.6 43.5 43.2 Zenith National 8.55% debentures due August 1, 2028 (d) 38.5 38.3 38.3 38.5 38.2 38.2 Brit 6.625% subordinated notes due December 9, 2030 (£135.0) 178.8 180.8 181.2 171.9 176.1 174.3 Brit floating rate revolving credit facility (4) 140.0 140.0 140.0 7.9 7.9 7.9 Advent floating rate unsecured senior notes due 2026 (d)(f) — — — 46.0 45.0 46.0 Advent floating rate subordinated notes due June 3, 2035 (d)(f) — — — 47.7 46.5 44.7 First Mercury trust preferred securities due 2036 and 2037 41.4 41.4 41.3 41.4 41.4 41.4 1,028.1 1,039.6 1,063.8 983.0 995.7 978.5 Borrowings - non-insurance companies (c) Fairfax India floating rate term loans (5) 550.0 547.2 550.0 550.0 547.2 550.0 Fairfax India subsidiary borrowings 155.1 155.1 155.1 183.8 183.8 183.8 AGT credit facilities, senior notes and loans (note 23) (6) 435.7 432.8 433.1 — — — Recipe term loans and credit facilities 413.5 410.7 410.8 328.0 326.9 326.9 Boat Rocker demand loans and revolving credit facilities 147.6 147.6 147.5 80.3 80.3 80.3 Fairfax Africa subsidiary borrowings (7) 102.4 102.4 102.4 — — — Fairfax Africa credit facility — — — 30.0 29.5 29.5 Grivalia Properties term loans and revolving facility (note 23) — — — 254.2 254.2 254.2 Loans and revolving credit facilities primarily at floating rates 279.9 279.9 277.7 203.4 203.3 203.3 2,084.2 2,075.7 2,076.6 1,629.7 1,625.2 1,628.0 Total debt 7,261.0 7,232.6 7,585.3 6,506.4 6,480.4 6,570.1 (a) Principal net of unamortized issue costs and discounts (premiums). (b) Based principally on quoted market prices with the remainder based on discounted cash flow models using market observable inputs (Levels 1 and 2 respectively in the fair value hierarchy). (c) These borrowings are non-recourse to the holding company. (d) Issuer may redeem any time at prices specified in the instrument's offering document. (e) Not redeemable prior to the contractual maturity date. (f) European Run-off's borrowings at December 31, 2019 with a carrying value of $91.4 are presented as liabilities associated with assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet. See note 23. During 2019 the company and its subsidiaries completed the following debt transactions: (1) On July 15, 2019 the company redeemed its remaining Cdn $395.6 principal amount of 6.40% unsecured senior notes due May 25, 2021 for cash consideration of $329.1 (Cdn $429.0 ) including accrued interest, and recognized a loss on repurchase of long term debt of $23.7 (Cdn $30.7 ). (2) On June 14, 2019 the company completed an offering of Cdn $500.0 principal amount of 4.23% unsecured senior notes due June 14, 2029 at an issue price of 99.952 for net proceeds after discount, commissions and expenses of $371.5 (Cdn $497.3 ). Commissions and expenses of $1.9 (Cdn $2.5 ) were included in the carrying value of the notes. On July 15, 2019 the company designated these senior notes as a hedge of a portion of its net investment in Canadian subsidiaries. (3) On February 7, 2019 the company completed an offering of $85.0 principal amount of 4.142% unsecured senior notes due February 7, 2024 at an issue price of 100.0 for net proceeds of $85.0 . Commissions and expenses of $0.6 were reimbursed to the company by the sole purchaser of the notes. (4) During 2019 Brit borrowed an additional $132.1 on its revolving credit facility. (5) On June 28, 2019 Fairfax India extended its $550.0 principal amount floating rate term loan for one year (with a one year extension option) and entered into a $50.0 revolving credit facility that was not borrowed on at December 31, 2019. (6) On April 17, 2019 the company consolidated AGT's borrowings (note 23) which primarily included a Cdn $525.0 floating rate secured senior credit facility maturing on March 16, 2020. At December 31, 2019 there was $386.9 (Cdn $501.7 ) borrowed on this credit facility. Subsequent to December 31, 2019 the credit facility was renewed and matures on March 15, 2021. (7) On January 4, 2019 Fairfax Africa consolidated CIG's borrowings which primarily included floating rate unsecured senior notes due 2020, trade finance and overdraft facilities. Refer to note 23 for details of the acquisition of CIG. Changes in the carrying values of borrowings for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Holding company Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Holding company Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Balance – January 1 3,859.5 995.7 1,625.2 6,480.4 3,475.1 1,373.0 1,566.0 6,414.1 Cash inflows from issuances 456.5 — 302.7 759.2 1,490.7 — 664.0 2,154.7 Cash outflows from repayments (326.5 ) (0.2 ) (308.5 ) (635.2 ) (928.8 ) (317.7 ) (660.6 ) (1,907.1 ) Net cash inflows (outflows) from credit facilities and short term loans — 132.1 (16.9 ) 115.2 — (42.2 ) 41.4 (0.8 ) Non-cash changes: Acquisitions (note 23) — — 687.7 687.7 — — 218.1 218.1 Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23) — — (246.2 ) (246.2 ) — — (141.6 ) (141.6 ) Loss on redemption 23.7 — — 23.7 58.9 — — 58.9 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) — (91.4 ) — (91.4 ) — — — — Foreign exchange effect and other 104.1 3.4 31.7 139.2 (236.4 ) (17.4 ) (62.1 ) (315.9 ) Balance – December 31 4,117.3 1,039.6 2,075.7 7,232.6 3,859.5 995.7 1,625.2 6,480.4 Principal repayments on borrowings are due as follows: 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Thereafter Total Holding company — — 343.9 308.5 367.5 3,128.8 4,148.7 Insurance and reinsurance companies 140.0 90.0 — — — 798.1 1,028.1 Non-insurance companies 1,304.9 100.8 291.9 75.8 39.0 271.8 2,084.2 Total 1,444.9 190.8 635.8 384.3 406.5 4,198.7 7,261.0 Interest Expense Interest expense was comprised of interest expense on borrowings of $ 404.2 and interest expense on accretion of lease liabilities of $ 67.8 (2018 - $ 347.1 and nil ). The adoption of IFRS 16 is described in note 3. Credit Facility - Holding company During 2018 the company extended the term of its $2.0 billion unsecured revolving credit facility with a syndicate of lenders by one year to December 21, 2022. The principal financial covenants of the credit facility require the company to maintain a ratio of consolidated debt to consolidated capitalization not exceeding 0.35 :1 and consolidated shareholders’ equity attributable to shareholders of Fairfax of not less than $9.5 billion . At December 31, 2019 there were no amounts borrowed on the credit facility and the company was in compliance with its financial covenants, with a consolidated debt to consolidated capitalization ratio of 0.26 :1 and consolidated shareholders’ equity attributable to shareholders of Fairfax of $14.4 billion , both calculated as defined in the financial covenants. Subsequent to December 31, 2019 the company borrowed $300.0 on the credit facility.

Total Equity

Total Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Share Capital, Reserves And Other Equity Interest [Abstract]
Total Equity	Total Equity Equity attributable to shareholders of Fairfax Authorized capital The authorized share capital of the company consists of an unlimited number of preferred shares issuable in series, an unlimited number of multiple voting shares (cumulatively carrying 41.8% voting power) and an unlimited number of subordinate voting shares carrying one vote per share. Issued capital Issued capital at December 31, 2019 was comprised of 1,548,000 multiple voting shares and 27,467,964 subordinate voting shares without par value prior to deducting 1,385,665 subordinate voting shares reserved in treasury for share-based payment awards ( December 31, 2018 - 1,548,000 , 27,717,325 and 1,228,148 respectively). The multiple voting shares are not traded. Common stock The number of shares outstanding was as follows: 2019 2018 Subordinate voting shares – January 1 26,489,177 27,002,303 Purchases for cancellation (249,361 ) (187,476 ) Treasury shares acquired (229,189 ) (415,538 ) Treasury shares reissued 71,672 89,888 Subordinate voting shares – December 31 26,082,299 26,489,177 Multiple voting shares – beginning and end of year 1,548,000 1,548,000 Interest in multiple and subordinate voting shares held through ownership interest in shareholder – beginning and end of year (799,230 ) (799,230 ) Common stock effectively outstanding – December 31 26,831,069 27,237,947 During 2019 the company purchased for cancellation 249,361 subordinate voting shares ( 2018 - 187,476 ) under the terms of its normal course issuer bids at a cost of $118.0 ( 2018 - $92.7 ), of which $56.2 ( 2018 - $46.3 ) was charged to retained earnings. Subsequent to December 31, 2019 and up to March 5, 2020 the company purchased for cancellation 23,568 subordinate voting shares under the terms of its normal course issuer bid at a cost of $10.0 . During 2019 the company purchased for treasury 229,189 subordinate voting shares at a cost of $104.4 ( 2018 - 415,538 subordinate voting shares at a cost of $214.0 ) on the open market for use in its share-based payment awards. Subsequent to December 31, 2019 and up to March 5, 2020 the company purchased for treasury 22,693 subordinate voting shares at a cost of $9.8 on the open market for use in its share-based payment awards. During 2019 the company granted long term incentive options, becoming exercisable only after 15 years , at the exercise price of Cdn $650.00 per share to 24 of its employees on an aggregate of 103,079 previously issued subordinate voting shares of the company purchased on the open market. Dividends paid by the company on its outstanding multiple voting and subordinate voting shares were as follows: Date of declaration Date of record Date of payment Dividend per share Total cash payment January 3, 2020 January 17, 2020 January 28, 2020 $10.00 $275.7 January 3, 2019 January 18, 2019 January 28, 2019 $10.00 $278.0 January 3, 2018 January 18, 2018 January 25, 2018 $10.00 $283.2 Preferred stock The terms of the company's cumulative five-year rate reset preferred shares at December 31, 2019 were as follows: Next possible redemption and conversion date (1)(2) Number of shares outstanding (3) Carrying value (3) Stated capital (3) Liquidation preference per share Fixed dividend rate per annum Floating dividend rate per annum (4) Series C December 31, 2024 7,515,642 $ 170.8 Cdn $ 187.9 Cdn $ 25.00 4.71 % — Series D December 31, 2024 2,484,358 $ 56.4 Cdn $ 62.1 Cdn $ 25.00 — 4.80 % Series E March 31, 2020 3,967,134 $ 90.8 Cdn $ 99.2 Cdn $ 25.00 2.91 % — Series F March 31, 2020 3,572,044 $ 81.8 Cdn $ 89.3 Cdn $ 25.00 — 3.81 % Series G September 30, 2020 7,432,952 $ 175.3 Cdn $ 185.8 Cdn $ 25.00 3.32 % — Series H September 30, 2020 2,567,048 $ 60.6 Cdn $ 64.2 Cdn $ 25.00 — 4.21 % Series I December 31, 2020 10,465,553 $ 251.6 Cdn $ 261.6 Cdn $ 25.00 3.71 % — Series J December 31, 2020 1,534,447 $ 36.9 Cdn $ 38.4 Cdn $ 25.00 — 4.50 % Series K March 31, 2022 9,500,000 $ 231.7 Cdn $ 237.5 Cdn $ 25.00 4.67 % — Series M March 31, 2020 9,200,000 $ 179.6 Cdn $ 230.0 Cdn $ 25.00 4.75 % — $ 1,335.5 Cdn $ 1,456.0 (1) Fixed and floating rate cumulative preferred shares are redeemable by the company at each stated redemption date and on each subsequent five-year anniversary date at Cdn $25.00 per share. (2) Holders of Series C, Series E, Series G, Series I, Series K and Series M fixed rate cumulative preferred shares will have the option to convert their shares into Series D, Series F, Series H, Series J, Series L and Series N floating rate cumulative preferred shares respectively, at the specified conversion dates, and on each subsequent five-year anniversary date. Holders of Series D, Series F, Series H and Series J floating rate cumulative preferred shares will have the option to convert their shares into Series C, Series E, Series G and Series I fixed rate cumulative preferred shares respectively, at the specified conversion dates, and on each subsequent five-year anniversary date. (3) For each series of preferred shares, the number of shares outstanding, carrying value and stated capital have remained consistent at January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2019 except for the net conversion of 1,499,258 Series D floating rate cumulative preferred shares with aggregate carrying value of $34.1 and stated capital of Cdn $37.5 into an equal number of Series C fixed rate cumulative preferred shares on December 31, 2019. (4) The Series D, Series F, Series H, and Series J preferred shares, and the Series L and Series N preferred shares (of which none are currently issued), have a floating dividend rate equal to the three-month Government of Canada treasury bill yield plus 3.15% , 2.16% , 2.56% , 2.85% , 3.51% and 3.98% respectively, with rate resets at the end of each calendar quarter. During 2019 the company paid preferred share dividends of $45.8 ( 2018 - $45.1 ). Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to shareholders of Fairfax was comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Pre-tax (Provision for) recovery of income tax After-tax Pre-tax Recovery of income tax After-tax Items that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings Currency translation account (423.4 ) 1.4 (422.0 ) (405.1 ) 5.7 (399.4 ) Share of accumulated other comprehensive loss of associates, excluding share of net losses on defined benefit plans of associates (79.3 ) (2.4 ) (81.7 ) (68.2 ) 4.1 (64.1 ) (502.7 ) (1.0 ) (503.7 ) (473.3 ) 9.8 (463.5 ) Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to net earnings Net losses on defined benefit plans (147.7 ) 36.2 (111.5 ) (49.2 ) 7.1 (42.1 ) Share of net losses on defined benefit plans of associates (120.9 ) 15.1 (105.8 ) (78.0 ) 9.0 (69.0 ) Other (0.8 ) 10.1 9.3 (0.8 ) 10.1 9.3 (269.4 ) 61.4 (208.0 ) (128.0 ) 26.2 (101.8 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to shareholders of Fairfax (772.1 ) 60.4 (711.7 ) (601.3 ) 36.0 (565.3 ) Non-controlling interests Details of non-controlling interests as at and for the years ended December 31 were as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Net earnings (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests Subsidiary Domicile Minority voting percentage Carrying value Minority voting percentage Carrying value 2019 2018 Allied World (1) Bermuda 29.9 % 1,256.3 32.2 % 1,196.6 88.1 6.1 Fairfax India (2) Canada 6.2 % 1,117.2 6.2 % 1,095.4 59.0 81.9 Recipe (3) Canada 38.4 % 437.5 43.1 % 494.3 28.5 33.6 Brit (4) U.K. 10.7 % 197.4 11.1 % 181.9 15.8 (1.7 ) Fairfax Africa (5) Canada 1.5 % 195.6 1.7 % 267.2 (41.4 ) (1.6 ) Thomas Cook India (6) India 33.1 % 93.8 33.1 % 434.5 (186.2 ) 283.4 Grivalia Properties (7) Greece — — 47.3 % 473.1 8.5 28.6 All other (8) — — 231.3 — 107.4 (5.2 ) 11.6 3,529.1 4,250.4 (32.9 ) 441.9 (1) On April 29, 2019 Allied World paid a dividend of $126.4 (April 30, 2018 - $61.3 ) to its minority shareholders (OMERS, AIMCo and others). On November 30, 2019 the company made a capital contribution of $320.8 to Allied World which increased its ownership interest to 70.1% from 67.8% . During 2019 Allied World redomesticated from Switzerland to Bermuda. (2) Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests of Fairfax India in 2019 primarily reflected the non-controlling interests' 66.2% share of Fairfax India's share of a spin-off gain at IIFL Holdings on May 31, 2019 (note 6). (3) The decrease in the carrying value of Recipe's non-controlling interests at December 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 primarily reflected Recipe's purchase of its common shares for cancellation ( $85.3 ) and the company's purchase of multiple voting shares from Recipe's non-controlling interests ( $20.2 ), partially offset by the non-controlling interests' share of Recipe's net earnings ( $28.5 ). (4) On April 29, 2019 Brit paid a dividend of $20.6 to its minority shareholder (OMERS). During 2019 Brit received capital contributions from the company of $70.6 primarily to support its underwriting plans. Subsequent to these transactions, the company’s ownership interest in Brit increased to 89.3% from 88.9% at December 31 , 2018. (5) The decrease in the carrying value of Fairfax Africa's non-controlling interests at December 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 primarily reflected net losses at CIG and share of loss of Atlas Mara (note 6), partially offset by the consolidation of CIG (note 23). (6) The decrease in carrying value of Thomas Cook India's non-controlling interests at December 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 and the net loss attributable to non-controlling interests during 2019 primarily reflected Thomas Cook India's spin-off of its investment in Quess to its shareholders (note 6). Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests during 2018 primarily reflected the non-controlling interests' 33.0% share of a non-cash remeasurement gain ( $889.9 ) related to the deconsolidation of Quess (note 23). (7) On May 17, 2019 the company deconsolidated Grivalia Properties upon the merger of Grivalia Properties into Eurobank (note 23). (8) The increase in carrying value at December 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 primarily related to the acquisition of AGT (note 23) and acquisitions by Boat Rocker. Minority voting percentages in the table above are consistent with equity interests in each subsidiary at December 31, 2019 except for Fairfax India, Recipe, and Fairfax Africa whose minority equity interests were 66.2% , 52.1% , and 38.0% respectively ( December 31, 2018 - 66.3% , 56.3% , 41.3% ). Other net changes in capitalization The impact on retained earnings and non-controlling interests of certain capital transactions and changes in ownership interests of the company's consolidated subsidiaries for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 are included in other net changes in capitalization in the consolidated statement of changes in equity as shown in the table below. See note 23 and under the heading "Non-controlling interests" earlier in this note for details of those transactions. 2019 2018 Retained earnings Non-controlling interests Retained earnings Non-controlling interests Thomas Cook India's spin-off of its investment in Quess — (147.2 ) — — Purchase of multiple voting shares from Recipe's non-controlling interests and Recipe's share repurchases (15.5 ) (105.5 ) — — Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa share repurchases 1.7 (31.8 ) — — Dividends paid to co-investors in Allied World and Brit (104.1 ) 104.1 (86.5 ) 86.5 Boat Rocker issuance of preferred shares — 20.0 — — Additional investments in Brit — — (63.9 ) (233.5 ) Recipe's acquisition of The Keg — — (9.3 ) (79.1 ) Fairfax Africa secondary public offering — — 3.9 86.6 Other 8.8 28.7 (29.4 ) (67.2 ) As presented in other net changes in capitalization in the consolidated statement of changes in equity (109.1 ) (131.7 ) (185.2 ) (206.7 )

Earnings per Share

Earnings per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Earnings per share [abstract]
Earnings per Share	Earnings per Share Net earnings per share is calculated using the weighted average common shares outstanding as follows: 2019 2018 Net earnings attributable to shareholders of Fairfax 2,004.1 376.0 Preferred share dividends (45.8 ) (45.1 ) Net earnings attributable to common shareholders – basic and diluted 1,958.3 330.9 Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic 26,901,184 27,505,896 Share-based payment awards 1,159,352 890,985 Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted 28,060,536 28,396,881 Net earnings per common share – basic $72.80 $12.03 Net earnings per common share – diluted $69.79 $11.65

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The company’s provision for income taxes for the years ended December 31 were comprised as follows: 2019 2018 Current income tax: Current year expense 175.0 144.1 Adjustments to prior years’ income taxes 2.7 5.1 177.7 149.2 Deferred income tax: Origination and reversal of temporary differences 87.5 (108.1 ) Adjustments to prior years' deferred income taxes (17.1 ) (1.6 ) Other 13.4 4.7 83.8 (105.0 ) Provision for income taxes 261.5 44.2 A significant portion of the company's earnings or losses before income taxes may be earned or incurred outside of Canada. The statutory income tax rates for jurisdictions outside of Canada generally differs from the Canadian statutory income tax rate, and may be significantly higher or lower. The company’s earnings (loss) before income taxes by jurisdiction and the associated provision for (recovery of) income taxes for the years ended December 31 are summarized in the following table: 2019 2018 Canada (1) U.S. (2) U.K. (3) Other (4) Total Canada (1) U.S. (2) U.K. (3) Other (4) Total Earnings (loss) before income taxes 183.4 848.0 244.7 956.6 2,232.7 54.7 (78.2 ) (115.4 ) 1,001.0 862.1 Provision for (recovery of) income taxes 79.3 23.5 24.0 134.7 261.5 47.4 (27.2 ) (24.0 ) 48.0 44.2 Net earnings (loss) 104.1 824.5 220.7 821.9 1,971.2 7.3 (51.0 ) (91.4 ) 953.0 817.9 (1) Includes Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa. (2) Principally comprised of Crum & Forster, Zenith National, Odyssey Group (notwithstanding that certain operations of Odyssey Group conduct business outside of the U.S.), U.S. Run-off and other associated holding company results. (3) Principally comprised of Brit, European Run-off and other associated holding company results. (4) Includes companies in India, Asia and Europe (excluding the U.K.), and Allied World (the majority of Allied World's net earnings (loss) is sourced from its Bermuda operations notwithstanding certain of its operations conduct business in the U.S. and the U.K.). Increased pre-tax profitability in Canada, the U.S. and the U.K. in 2019 compared to 2018 primarily reflected improvements in investment performance. Decreased pre-tax profitability in Other in 2019 compared to 2018 primarily reflected the gain on deconsolidation of Quess in 2018, partially offset by improvements in investment performance. Reconciliations of the provision for income taxes calculated at the Canadian statutory income tax rate to the provision for income taxes at the effective tax rate in the consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31 are summarized in the following table: 2019 2018 Canadian statutory income tax rate 26.5 % 26.5 % Provision for income taxes at the Canadian statutory income tax rate 591.7 228.5 Non-taxable investment income (56.6 ) (289.7 ) Tax rate differential on income and losses outside Canada (209.5 ) (36.4 ) Change in unrecorded tax benefit of losses and temporary differences (90.7 ) 81.6 Change in tax rate for deferred income taxes 0.5 4.3 Provision (recovery) relating to prior years (14.4 ) 3.5 Foreign exchange effect (3.7 ) 27.4 Other including permanent differences 44.2 25.0 Provision for income taxes 261.5 44.2 Non-taxable investment income of $56.6 in 2019 and $289.7 in 2018 were principally comprised of dividend income, non-taxable interest income, the 50% of net capital gains which are not taxable in Canada and share of profit of associates in certain jurisdictions. Also included in 2018 was an income tax rate benefit of $235.8 related to the non-cash gain on deconsolidation of Quess, reflecting the preferential treatment of long term capital gains in India. The tax rate differential on income and losses outside Canada of $209.5 in 2019 principally related to income taxed at lower rates in the U.S. and Barbados, and at Fairfax India, Brit, and Allied World. The tax rate differential on income and losses outside Canada of $36.4 in 2018 principally related to income taxed at lower rates at Allied World, certain subsidiaries of Fairfax India and in Barbados. The change in unrecorded tax benefit of losses and temporary differences of an income tax rate benefit of $90.7 in 2019 ( 2018 - income tax rate expense of $81.6 ) principally reflected the recognition of U.S. foreign tax credit carryforwards of $104.0 (2018 - nil ) that are expected to be utilized prior to expiration without incurring an equal amount of base erosion anti-abuse tax ("BEAT"), partially offset by deferred tax assets in Canada of $13.8 ( 2018 - $63.3 ) that were not recorded, as it was not considered probable that those losses could be utilized. Other including permanent differences of $44.2 in 2019 included $13.4 related to a non-cash goodwill impairment charge recorded by Fairfax India. Other including permanent differences of $25.0 in 2018 primarily reflected BEAT of $17.9 . Income taxes refundable and payable were as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Income taxes refundable 169.0 152.3 Income taxes payable (78.4 ) (80.1 ) Net income taxes refundable 90.6 72.2 Changes in net income taxes refundable during the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Balance - January 1 72.2 51.4 Amounts recorded in the consolidated statements of earnings (177.7 ) (149.2 ) Payments made during the year 178.9 229.9 Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 6.7 7.3 Assets held for sale (note 23) (17.1 ) — Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) 29.6 — Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23) — (71.3 ) Foreign exchange effect and other (2.0 ) 4.1 Balance - December 31 90.6 72.2 Changes in the net deferred income tax asset during the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 Operating and capital losses Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses Provision for unearned premiums Deferred premium acquisition costs Intangible assets Investments Tax credits Other Total Balance - January 1 107.4 134.7 96.8 (81.1 ) (419.6 ) 314.9 118.9 225.9 497.9 Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings (11.7 ) 8.8 23.1 (16.0 ) 28.3 (181.0 ) 92.5 (27.8 ) (83.8 ) Amounts recorded in total equity 2.5 — — — — (11.4 ) — 35.3 26.4 Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 22.9 — — — (29.5 ) — — (58.3 ) (64.9 ) Assets held for sale (note 23) — — — — — 0.8 — (3.0 ) (2.2 ) Foreign exchange effect and other (1.9 ) 1.8 — 0.2 (7.4 ) 4.7 (0.4 ) 5.5 2.5 Balance - December 31 119.2 145.3 119.9 (96.9 ) (428.2 ) 128.0 211.0 177.6 375.9 2018 Operating and capital losses Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses Provision for unearned premiums Deferred premium acquisition costs Intangible assets Investments Tax credits Other Total Balance - January 1 187.7 131.3 91.9 (66.7 ) (443.5 ) 177.5 118.1 184.5 380.8 Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings (67.6 ) 5.3 5.5 (15.6 ) 11.2 128.8 1.1 36.3 105.0 Amounts recorded in total equity 5.0 — — — — 7.6 — 13.9 26.5 Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 1.4 — (0.8 ) 1.4 (4.7 ) — — 9.1 6.4 Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23) (6.1 ) — — — 4.2 — — (15.3 ) (17.2 ) Foreign exchange effect and other (13.0 ) (1.9 ) 0.2 (0.2 ) 13.2 1.0 (0.3 ) (2.6 ) (3.6 ) Balance - December 31 107.4 134.7 96.8 (81.1 ) (419.6 ) 314.9 118.9 225.9 497.9 Management expects that the deferred income tax asset will be realized in the normal course of operations. The most significant temporary differences included in the deferred income tax asset at December 31, 2019 related to tax credits, provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses, investments, provision for unearned premiums, and operating and capital losses, partially offset by a deferred income tax liability related to intangible assets. The temporary differences related to investments are primarily due to net unrealized investment losses in the U.S. In these consolidated financial statements, investment gains and losses are primarily recognized on a mark-to-market basis but are only recognized for income tax when realized (particularly in the U.S. and several other jurisdictions). The provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses is recorded on an undiscounted basis in these consolidated financial statements but is recorded on a discounted basis in certain jurisdictions for income tax, resulting in temporary differences. Deferred taxes on intangible assets primarily relate to intangible assets recognized on acquisitions (principally Allied World, Recipe and Brit) that are typically not deductible in the determination of income taxes payable. The deferred income tax asset related to operating and capital losses arises primarily at Northbridge, AGT and Fairfax Latam. Tax credits are primarily in the U.S. and relate to foreign taxes paid that will reduce U.S. taxes payable in the future. Other deferred taxes include temporary differences related to pensions and premises and equipment. Management conducts ongoing reviews of the recoverability of the deferred income tax asset and adjusts, as necessary, to reflect its anticipated realization. At December 31, 2019 deferred income tax assets of $814.7 ( December 31, 2018 - $857.8 ) related principally to operating and capital losses and U.S. foreign tax credits that have not been recorded. The losses for which deferred income tax assets have not been recorded are comprised of losses in Canada of $1,863.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $1,570.1 ), losses in Europe of $495.8 ( December 31, 2018 - $613.4 ), losses in the U.S. of $46.1 ( December 31, 2018 - $45.9 ), losses at Allied World of $359.4 across various jurisdictions ( December 31, 2018 - $363.5 ) and U.S. foreign tax credits of $55.0 ( December 31, 2018 - $159.0 ). The losses in Canada expire between 2026 and 2039. The losses and foreign tax credits in the U.S. expire between 2020 and 2032. Substantially all of the losses in Europe do not have an expiry date. Allied World's losses are primarily in the U.K. and Asia, with no expiry date, while the remainder expire between 2022 and 2037. Deferred income tax has not been recognized for the withholding tax and other taxes that could be payable on the unremitted earnings of certain subsidiaries. Unremitted earnings amounted to approximately $3.5 billion at December 31, 2019 ( December 31, 2018 - $3.2 billion ) and are not likely to be repatriated in the foreseeable future.

Statutory Requirements

Statutory Requirements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Statutory Requirements [Abstract]
Statutory Requirements	Statutory Requirements The retained earnings of the company are largely represented by retained earnings at the company's insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries. Those subsidiaries are subject to certain requirements and restrictions under their respective insurance company Acts including minimum capital requirements and dividend restrictions. The company's capital requirements and management thereof are discussed in note 24. The company's share of dividends paid in 2019 by the insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries, which are eliminated on consolidation, was $282.3 ( 2018 - $415.2 ). Based on the surplus and net earnings (loss) of the primary insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries as at and for the year ended December 31, 2019 , the maximum dividend capacity available in 2020 at each of those subsidiaries, payable to all shareholders (including non-controlling interests) is as follows: December 31, 2019 Allied World 798.7 Odyssey Group 347.6 Crum & Forster (1) 140.6 Brit 138.8 Northbridge (1) 132.6 Zenith National 66.9 1,625.2 (1) Subject to prior regulatory approval. When determining the amount of dividends to be paid from its insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries, the company considers regulatory capital requirements, and also rating agency capital tests, future capital levels required to support growth and tax planning matters, among other factors. In addition, the co-investors in Allied World and Brit have a dividend in priority to the company.

Contingencies and Commitments

Contingencies and Commitments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Other Provisions, Contingent Liabilities And Contingent Assets [Abstract]
Contingencies and Commitments	Contingencies and Commitments Lawsuits On July 26, 2006 Fairfax filed a lawsuit seeking $6 billion in damages from a number of defendants who, the complaint (as subsequently amended) alleges, participated in a stock market manipulation scheme involving Fairfax shares. The complaint, filed in Superior Court, Morris County, New Jersey, alleges violations of various state laws, including the New Jersey Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, pursuant to which treble damages may be available. On September 12, 2012, before trial, and consequently without having heard or made any determination on the facts, the Court dismissed the lawsuit on legal grounds. In October 2012 Fairfax filed an appeal of this dismissal, as it believes that the legal basis for the dismissal is incorrect. On April 27, 2017, the appeals court issued a decision reinstating certain claims but affirming the dismissal of the major portion of the claims. On July 10, 2017, Fairfax filed with the New Jersey Supreme Court a petition for certification of the appeal court’s decision. On October 20, 2017, that petition was denied by the court. The case allowed then moved ahead to a trial, which took place in September and October 2018. Prior to the trial, Fairfax agreed, in exchange for the receipt of a payment of $20.0 , to resolve its claims against Morgan Keegan & Company, Incorporated; that payment was received in September 2018. At the trial, the jury awarded Fairfax and its Crum & Forster subsidiary damages of $10.9 against Exis Capital Management and related Exis companies, Adam Sender and Andrew Heller, including punitive damages of $3.0 against Exis, $2.25 against Mr. Sender and $0.25 against Mr. Heller, although the court subsequently relieved Messrs. Sender and Heller of any liability for damages. Fairfax intends to appeal this relief to Messrs. Sender and Heller, and to continue to pursue its remaining claims against other defendants in the lawsuit by way of appeals against previous court decisions. The ultimate outcome of any litigation is uncertain. The financial effects, if any, of this lawsuit cannot be practicably determined at this time, and the company’s consolidated financial statements include no anticipated recovery from the lawsuit, except for the receipt of the $20.0 payment in 2018 as described above. Other Subsidiaries of the company, in the ordinary course of their business, are defendants in several damage suits and have been named as third parties in other suits. The uninsured exposure to the company is not considered to be material to the company's financial position, financial performance or cash flows. Odyssey Group, Brit and Allied World (“the Lloyd's participants”) underwrite in the Lloyd's of London insurance market through their participation in certain Lloyd's syndicates. The Lloyd's participants have pledged cash and cash equivalents of $232.2 and securities with a fair value of $1,264.9 at December 31, 2019 as capital to support those underwriting activities. Additionally, Advent and Riverstone (UK) have pledged cash and cash equivalents of $9.2 and securities with a fair value of $175.5 at December 31, 2019 which are included in assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet. Pledged securities primarily consist of bonds and equity investments presented within portfolio investments on the consolidated balance sheet. The Lloyd's participants have the ability to substitute other securities for these pledged securities, subject to certain admissibility criteria. The Lloyd's participants' liability in respect of assets pledged as capital is limited to the aggregate amount of the pledged assets and their obligation to support these liabilities will continue until such liabilities are settled or are reinsured by a third party approved by Lloyd's. The company believes that the syndicates for which the Lloyd's participants are capital providers maintain sufficient liquidity and financial resources to support their ultimate liabilities and does not anticipate that the pledged assets will be utilized. The company's maximum capital commitments for potential investments in common stocks, limited partnerships, associates and joint ventures at December 31, 2019 was $988.5 . Pursuant to the sale of the company's 97.7% interest in First Capital Insurance Limited ("First Capital") to Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company Limited of Tokyo, Japan (“Mitsui Sumitomo”) on December 28, 2017, the company agreed to guarantee the sufficiency of First Capital's loss reserves as at the sale date and will receive (return) sale consideration equal to any favourable (adverse) development on these loss reserves as of December 31, 2023. During 2019 pursuant to an actuarial report independent of both Fairfax and Mitsui Sumitomo the company estimated it will receive additional sale consideration of $33.9 as a result of favourable loss reserve development, which was recorded as net gains on investment in the consolidated statement of earnings.

Pensions and Post Retirement Be

Pensions and Post Retirement Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Pension And Post Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Pensions and Post Retirement Benefits	Pensions and Post Retirement Benefits The funded status of the company's defined benefit pension and post retirement plans at December 31 were as follows: Defined benefit pension plans Defined benefit post retirement plans 2019 2018 2019 2018 Benefit obligation (789.4 ) (803.7 ) (125.4 ) (112.3 ) Fair value of plan assets 605.8 726.9 — — Funded status of plans - deficit (183.6 ) (76.8 ) (125.4 ) (112.3 ) Impact of asset ceiling 0.3 — — — Net accrued liability (1) (183.3 ) (76.8 ) (125.4 ) (112.3 ) Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations: Discount rate 3.0 % 3.6 % 3.3 % 4.2 % Rate of compensation increase 2.6 % 2.7 % 3.6 % 3.6 % Health care cost trend — — 4.5 % 4.6 % (1) The defined benefit pension plan net accrued liability at December 31, 2019 of $183.3 ( December 31, 2018 - $76.8 ) was comprised of pension surpluses of $51.9 and pension deficits of $235.2 ( December 31, 2018 - $64.0 and $140.8 ). See notes 13 and 14. Pension and post retirement benefit expenses recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Defined benefit pension plan expense 18.8 26.8 Defined contribution pension plan expense 53.1 50.3 Defined benefit post retirement plan expense 8.4 9.7 80.3 86.8 Pre-tax actuarial net gains (losses) recognized in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the years ended December 31 were comprised as follows: 2019 2018 Defined benefit pension plans Actuarial net gains (losses) on plan assets and change in asset ceiling 18.8 (69.2 ) Actuarial net gains (losses) on benefit obligations (109.9 ) 74.1 (91.1 ) 4.9 Defined benefit post retirement plans - actuarial net gains (losses) on benefit obligations (8.0 ) 7.3 (99.1 ) 12.2 During 2019 the company contributed $36.8 ( 2018 - $28.8 ) to its defined benefit pension and post retirement plans, and expects to contribute $19.3 in 2020 .

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Leases1 [Abstract]
Leases	Leases Changes in the company's right-of-use assets for the year ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Balance - January 1 418.9 632.5 1,051.4 Additions 59.9 73.2 133.1 Disposals (8.3 ) (1.6 ) (9.9 ) Depreciation (1) (69.3 ) (109.4 ) (178.7 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 4.4 16.2 20.6 Assets held for sale (note 23) (22.9 ) — (22.9 ) Foreign exchange effect and other 2.7 24.3 27.0 Balance - December 31 (note 13) 385.4 635.2 1,020.6 (1) Recorded in operating expenses and other expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings. The maturity profile of the company’s lease liabilities was as follows: December 31, 2019 Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Less than one year 78.0 209.4 287.4 One to two years 72.0 193.1 265.1 Two to three years 63.2 163.8 227.0 Three to four years 54.7 136.5 191.2 Four to five years 48.8 115.6 164.4 More than five years 240.8 428.5 669.3 Undiscounted lease liabilities 557.5 1,246.9 1,804.4 Lease liabilities - discounted (note 14) 434.3 1,062.1 1,496.4 Weighted average incremental borrowing rate 4.6 % 4.6 % 4.6 % During 2019 the company recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings interest expense of $ 67.8 on lease liabilities (note 15) and short-term and low value lease costs of $ 78.0 (note 26). The maturity profile of the company’s finance lease receivables was as follows: December 31, 2019 Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Less than one year 1.7 72.0 73.7 One to two years 1.7 66.9 68.6 Two to three years 1.8 59.3 61.1 Three to four years 1.6 49.6 51.2 Four to five years 0.7 41.4 42.1 More than five years 4.0 130.2 134.2 Undiscounted finance lease receivables 11.5 419.4 430.9 Unearned finance income 2.7 52.3 55.0 Finance lease receivables (note 13) 8.8 367.1 375.9 During 2019 the company recognized interest revenue on finance lease receivables of $ 14.7 in other revenue in the consolidated statement of earnings.

Acquisitions and Divestitures

Acquisitions and Divestitures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Business Combinations1 [Abstract]
Acquisitions and Divestitures	Acquisitions and Divestitures Subsequent to December 31, 2019 Contribution of European Run-off to a joint venture On December 20, 2019 the company entered into an agreement to contribute its wholly owned European Run-off group ("European Run-off") to RiverStone Barbados Limited (“RiverStone Barbados”), a newly created entity to be jointly managed with OMERS, the pension plan for municipal employees in the province of Ontario. Pursuant to the agreement, OMERS will subscribe for a 40.0% equity interest in RiverStone Barbados for cash consideration of approximately $597 . At the closing date the company will deconsolidate European Run-off from the Run-off reporting segment and apply the equity method of accounting to its joint venture interest in RiverStone Barbados. The company will have the option to purchase OMERS' interest in RiverStone Barbados at certain dates commencing in 2023. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close in the first half of 2020. Assets held for sale and liabilities associated with assets held for sale as presented on the company's consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 were comprised of the assets and liabilities of European Run-off as follows : European Run-off Intercompany reinsurance (1) Consolidation adjustments (1) As presented on the consolidated balance sheet Assets held for sale: Insurance contract receivables 53.1 8.2 — 61.3 Portfolio investments (2) 2,688.7 — (313.4 ) 2,375.3 Deferred premium acquisition costs 1.9 (0.2 ) — 1.7 Recoverable from reinsurers 642.0 (382.0 ) — 260.0 Deferred income taxes 2.2 — — 2.2 Other assets 351.2 — (266.1 ) 85.1 3,739.1 (374.0 ) (579.5 ) 2,785.6 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 77.6 — (10.5 ) 67.1 Short sale and derivative obligations 2.0 — — 2.0 Insurance contract payables 49.5 (11.7 ) — 37.8 Insurance contract liabilities 2,340.7 (503.9 ) — 1,836.8 Borrowings - insurance and reinsurance companies 91.4 — — 91.4 2,561.2 (515.6 ) (10.5 ) 2,035.1 (1) Primarily reflects reinsurance with Wentworth and investments in Fairfax subsidiaries. (2) Includes cash and cash equivalents of $ 283.7 . See note 27. Year ended December 31, 2019 Acquisition of Universalna On November 5, 2019 the company transferred its investment in ARX Insurance (described below) into Limited Liability Company FFH Ukraine Holdings ("Fairfax Ukraine"), a newly formed subsidiary. On November 6, 2019 Fairfax Ukraine completed the acquisition of Private Joint Stock Company Insurance Company Universalna ("Universalna"), a property and casualty insurance company in Ukraine. Purchase consideration for Universalna was comprised of cash of $4.6 and the transfer of a 30.0% equity interest in Fairfax Ukraine to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The assets, liabilities and results of operations of Fairfax Ukraine were consolidated in the Insurance and Reinsurance - Other reporting segment. Merger of Grivalia Properties REIC and Eurobank Ergasias S.A. On May 17, 2019 Grivalia Properties REIC ("Grivalia Properties") merged into Eurobank Ergasias S.A. (“Eurobank”), as a result of which shareholders of Grivalia Properties, including the company, received 15.8 newly issued Eurobank shares in exchange for each share of Grivalia Properties. Accordingly, the company deconsolidated Grivalia Properties from the Non-insurance companies reporting segment, recognized a non-cash gain of $171.3 and reduced non-controlling interests by $466.2. In connection with the merger, Grivalia Properties had paid a pre-merger capital dividend of €0.42 per share on February 5, 2019. The company owned approximately 53% of Grivalia Properties and 18% of Eurobank prior to the merger, and owned 32.4% of Eurobank upon completion of the merger. The company continues to account for its investment in Eurobank as a common stock at FVTPL due to regulatory restrictions on the company's ability to affect the relevant activities of Eurobank. Eurobank is a financial services provider in Greece and is listed on the Athens Stock Exchange. Privatization of AGT Food and Ingredients Inc. On April 17, 2019 AGT Food & Ingredients Inc. (“AGT”) completed a management-led privatization for Cdn$18.00 per common share. The buying group, comprised of the company, AGT management and other co-investors, acquired through a newly formed subsidiary of the company ("Purchase Co.") all AGT common shares not already owned by the buying group for cash consideration of $226.5 (Cdn$301.8), resulting in the company acquiring a 69.9% controlling equity interest in AGT upon closing and effectively settling the company’s pre-existing interests in AGT's preferred shares and warrants at fair value. Contemporaneously with the acquisition of AGT, Purchase Co. acquired the company's preferred shares and the remaining common shares of AGT held by the buying group in exchange for its own common shares which diluted the company’s interest in AGT to 59.6%, with AGT management and other co-investors owning the remainder. Purchase Co. and AGT subsequently amalgamated and the amalgamated entity was renamed AGT. The company holds warrants that, if exercised, would increase its equity interest in AGT to approximately 80%. The preferred shares were subsequently canceled and the warrants are eliminated on consolidation of AGT. The assets, liabilities and results of operations of AGT were consolidated in the Non-insurance companies reporting segment. AGT is a supplier of pulses, staple foods and food ingredients. Acquisition of AXA operations in Ukraine On February 14, 2019 the company completed the acquisition of the insurance operations of AXA in Ukraine (subsequently renamed ARX Insurance Company ("ARX Insurance")) for purchase consideration of $17.4. The assets, liabilities and results of operations of ARX Insurance were consolidated in the Insurance and Reinsurance - Other reporting segment. Additional investment in Consolidated Infrastructure Group On January 4, 2019 Fairfax Africa acquired an additional 41.2% equity interest in Consolidated Infrastructure Group ("CIG") for $44.9 (628.3 million South African rand) which increased its total equity interest in CIG to 49.1%. Fairfax Africa has de facto control of CIG as its largest shareholder, and as an owner of currently exercisable CIG convertible debentures that would provide majority voting control if converted. CIG is a pan-African engineering infrastructure company listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The assets, liabilities and results of operations of CIG were consolidated in the Non-insurance companies reporting segment. The determination of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in connection with the acquisitions described above is currently underway and will be finalized within twelve months of the respective acquisition dates. Provisionally recorded amounts primarily include intangible assets, deferred income taxes, and goodwill. AGT Other (1) Acquisition date April 17, 2019 Throughout 2019 Percentage of common shares acquired 69.9 % Assets: Insurance contract receivables — 16.9 Portfolio investments 113.0 (2) 220.3 (2) Recoverable from reinsurers — 17.6 Deferred income taxes — 0.8 Goodwill and intangible assets 240.9 (3) 285.4 (4) Other assets 878.9 (5) 328.4 1,232.8 869.4 Liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 161.9 282.6 Short sale and derivative obligations 50.3 — Insurance contract payables — 8.3 Insurance contract liabilities — 93.2 Deferred income taxes 42.9 18.1 Borrowings - non-insurance companies 535.9 148.5 791.0 550.7 Settlement of pre-existing interests 114.3 (6) — Non-controlling interests 98.5 (7) 36.7 (7) Purchase consideration 229.0 281.2 Excess of fair value of net assets acquired over purchase consideration — 0.8 1,232.8 869.4 (1) Comprised primarily of the acquisitions of Universalna and ARX Insurance, the consolidation of CIG by Fairfax Africa, the consolidation of Ambridge Partners by Brit (note 6) and incremental acquisitions by Boat Rocker and Thomas Cook India. (2) Includes subsidiary cash and cash equivalents at AGT of $111.5 and at other subsidiaries of $144.5 . (3) Comprised of goodwill of $175.5 and intangible assets of $65.4 (primarily brand names of $34.7 and customer relationships of $16.9 ). (4) Comprised of goodwill of $146.1 and intangible assets of $139.3 (primarily customer relationships of $42.6 at Brit and $46.0 at Boat Rocker). (5) Primarily comprised of premises and equipment of $442.6 (principally vehicles and heavy machinery of $200.4 and buildings of $108.3 ), accounts receivable of $198.1 and inventory of $148.3 . (6) Comprised of the company's pre-existing investments in AGT preferred shares of $108.6 and AGT warrants of $5.7 which were considered settled at fair value on the acquisition date. (7) Non-controlling interest was measured at fair value at AGT and as the proportionate share of the identifiable net assets acquired at other subsidiaries. Year ended December 31, 2018 Reorganization of ownership interests in Sporting Life Inc. and Golf Town Limited On August 31, 2018 the company, together with the respective non-controlling interests, contributed 100% of the ownership interests in Sporting Life and Golf Town to a new holding company. Subsequent to the reorganization, the company held a controlling 65.1% ownership interest in each of Sporting Life and Golf Town through the new holding company. Additional investments in Brit Limited On July 5, 2018 Brit used the proceeds from a $264.6 capital contribution from the company to purchase an 11.2% ownership interest from its minority shareholder (OMERS) for $251.8 and to pay an accrued dividend of $12.8 on the shares purchased. Subsequent to this transaction, the company's ownership interest in Brit was 88.0% . On December 14, 2018 the company increased its ownership interest in Brit to 88.9% through a capital contribution of $126.0 to support Brit's 2019 underwriting plans. Additional investment in Fairfax Africa Holdings Corporation On June 18, 2018 Fairfax Africa completed a bought deal secondary public offering of 12,300,000 subordinate voting shares at a price of $12.25 per share, which raised gross proceeds of $150.7 (net proceeds of $148.3 after commissions and expenses). The company acquired 4,100,000 subordinate voting shares for $50.2 through the public offering, and an additional 645,421 subordinate voting shares for $7.6 through open market purchases. These transactions collectively decreased the company's ownership interest and voting interest in Fairfax Africa from 64.2% and 98.8% at December 31, 2017 to 59.2% and 98.3% at December 31, 2018 respectively, and resulted in an increase in non-controlling interests of $86.6 and a dilution gain of $3.9 , which are included in other net changes in capitalization in the consolidated statement of changes in equity. Acquisition of Toys "R" Us (Canada) Ltd. On May 31, 2018 the company acquired a 100% equity interest in Toys "R" Us (Canada) Ltd. ("Toys "R" Us Canada") from Toys “R” Us - Delaware, Inc. for cash consideration of $41.1 (Cdn$53.3) and an additional investment of $193.7 (Cdn$251.3) that Toys "R" Us Canada used to repay its debtor in possession financing loan. Toys "R" Us Canada is a specialty retailer of toys and baby products with 82 stores across Canada . The assets, liabilities and results of operations of Toys "R" Us Canada were consolidated in the Non-insurance companies reporting segment. Receipt of Fairfax India Performance Fee Pursuant to the company's investment advisory agreement with Fairfax India, on March 9, 2018 the company received a performance fee of $114.4 for the period January 30, 2015 to December 31, 2017 in the form of 7,663,685 newly issued Fairfax India subordinate voting shares, which increased the company's equity interest in Fairfax India to 33.6% from 30.2% at December 31, 2017. Acquisition of certain businesses of Carillion Canada Inc. On March 7, 2018 the company acquired the services business carried on in Canada by Carillion Canada Inc. and certain affiliates thereof relating to facilities management of airports, commercial and retail properties, defense facilities, select healthcare facilities and on behalf of oil, gas and mining clients. The acquired business was subsequently renamed Dexterra Integrated Facilities Management (“Dexterra”). Dexterra is an infrastructure services company that provides asset management and operations solutions to industries and governments. The assets, liabilities and results of operations of Dexterra were consolidated in the Non-insurance companies reporting segment. Deconsolidation of Quess Corp Limited On March 1, 2018 Thomas Cook India entered into a strategic joint venture agreement with the founder of Quess Corp Limited ("Quess") that resulted in Quess becoming a joint venture of Thomas Cook India whereas it was previously a consolidated subsidiary. Accordingly, the company remeasured the carrying value of Quess to its fair value of $1,109.5, recognized a non-cash gain of $889.9 and commenced applying the equity method of accounting. The deconsolidation of Quess from the Non-insurance companies reporting segment reduced non-controlling interests by $212.5 which was included in deconsolidation of subsidiary in the consolidated statement of changes in equity. On December 9, 2019 Thomas Cook India completed a non-cash spin-off of Quess and recorded a non-cash impairment loss of $190.6 . See note 6. Sale of Keg Restaurants Ltd. to Recipe Unlimited Corporation (formerly Cara Operations Limited) On February 22, 2018 the company completed the sale of its 51.0% ownership interest in The Keg to Recipe for consideration of $74.6 (Cdn $94.7 ), comprised of cash of $7.9 (Cdn $10.0 ) and 3,400,000 Recipe subordinate voting shares. The other shareholders of The Keg sold their 49.0% ownership interest to Recipe for $82.7 (Cdn $105.0 ), comprised of cash of $74.8 (Cdn $95.0 ) and 401,284 Recipe subordinate voting shares. The transaction increased the company's equity interest in Recipe to 43.2% from 40.2% at December 31, 2017. The company recorded the sale of its ownership interest in The Keg to Recipe as a business combination between entities under common control using predecessor values whereby the company's carrying values for the assets and liabilities of The Keg at the date of the transaction were added to those of Recipe's, with no change to the company's consolidated financial statements. Recipe's acquisition of the remaining 49.0% ownership interest in The Keg was recorded as an equity transaction, with the excess of consideration paid over the carrying value of non-controlling interests in The Keg included in other net changes in capitalization in the consolidated statement of changes in equity. During 2019 Recipe estimated that it may be required to pay an additional $15.4 (Cdn$20.0) of cash consideration to the other former shareholders of The Keg pursuant to the achievement of certain financial objectives within the first three years subsequent to closing. Acquisition of AIG operations in Uruguay On January 31, 2018 the company completed the acquisition of the insurance operations of AIG in Uruguay (subsequently renamed SBI Seguros Uruguay S.A. ("SouthBridge Uruguay")) for cash consideration of $5.9 . The assets, liabilities and results of operations of SouthBridge Uruguay were consolidated in the Insurance and Reinsurance - Other reporting segment. Toys "R" Us Canada Other (1) Acquisition date May 31, 2018 Throughout 2018 Percentage of common shares acquired 100.0 % Assets: Insurance contract receivables — 4.1 Portfolio investments 9.1 (2) 30.5 Recoverable from reinsurers — 10.0 Deferred income taxes 11.3 1.6 Goodwill and intangible assets (3) 16.8 193.7 Other assets 415.8 130.5 453.0 370.4 Liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 166.4 105.0 Deferred income taxes 12.4 1.8 Insurance contract payables — 2.6 Insurance contract liabilities — 13.9 Borrowings - non-insurance companies 195.9 23.3 374.7 146.6 Non-controlling interests — 4.0 Purchase consideration 41.1 218.4 Excess of fair value of net assets acquired over purchase consideration 37.2 1.4 453.0 370.4 (1) Comprised primarily of the acquisitions of Dexterra and SouthBridge Uruguay, and incremental acquisitions by Boat Rocker, Recipe and Pethealth. (2) Comprised of subsidiary cash and cash equivalent s . (3) Comprised of goodwill of $140.5 and intangible assets of $70.0 (primarily customer relationships of $21.5 , brand names of $15.3 and media content and non-compete agreements at Boat Rocker of $12.1 ).

Financial Risk Management

Financial Risk Management	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [abstract]
Financial Risk Management	Financial Risk Management Overview The primary goals of the company's financial risk management are to ensure that the outcomes of activities involving elements of risk are consistent with the company's objectives and risk tolerance, while maintaining an appropriate balance between risk and reward and protecting the company's consolidated balance sheet from events that have the potential to materially impair its financial strength. The company's exposure to potential loss from its insurance and reinsurance operations and investment activities primarily relates to underwriting risk, credit risk, liquidity risk and various market risks. Balancing risk and reward is achieved through identifying risk appropriately, aligning risk tolerances with business strategy, diversifying risk, pricing appropriately for risk, mitigating risk through preventive controls and transferring risk to third parties. There were no significant changes in the types of the company's risk exposures or the processes used by the company for managing those risk exposures at December 31, 2019 compared to those identified at December 31, 2018 , except as discussed below. Financial risk management objectives are achieved through a two tiered system, with detailed risk management processes and procedures at the company's primary operating subsidiaries and its investment management subsidiary combined with the analysis of the company-wide aggregation and accumulation of risks at the holding company. In addition, although the company and its operating subsidiaries each have an officer with designated responsibility for risk management, the company regards each Chief Executive Officer as the chief risk officer of his or her company; each Chief Executive Officer is the individual ultimately responsible for risk management for his or her company and its subsidiaries. The company's Chief Operating Officer reports on risk considerations to the company's Executive Committee and provides a quarterly report on key risk exposures to the company's Board of Directors. The Executive Committee, in consultation with the Chief Operating Officer, approves certain policies for overall risk management, as well as policies addressing specific areas such as investments, underwriting, catastrophe risk and reinsurance. The company's Investment Committee approves policies for the management of market risk (including currency risk, interest rate risk and other price risk) and the use of derivative and non-derivative financial instruments, and monitors to ensure compliance with relevant regulatory guidelines and requirements. A discussion of the company's risks and the management of those risks is an agenda item for every regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors. Underwriting Risk Underwriting risk is the risk that the total cost of claims, claims adjustment expenses, commissions and premium acquisition costs will exceed premiums received and can arise as a result of numerous factors, including pricing risk, reserving risk and catastrophe risk. There were no significant changes to the company's exposure to underwriting risk or the framework used to monitor, evaluate and manage underwriting risk at December 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 . Principal lines of business The company's principal insurance and reinsurance lines of business and the significant insurance risks inherent therein are as follows: • Property, which insures against losses to property from (among other things) fire, explosion, natural perils (for example, earthquake, windstorm and flood), terrorism and engineering problems (for example, boiler explosion, machinery breakdown and construction defects). Specific types of property risks underwritten by the company include automobile, commercial and personal property and crop; • Casualty, which insures against accidents (including workers' compensation and automobile) and also includes employers' liability, accident and health, medical malpractice, professional liability and umbrella coverage; and • Specialty, which insures against marine, aerospace and surety risk, and other various risks and liabilities that are not identified above. An analysis of net premiums earned by line of business is included in note 25. The table that follows shows the company's concentration of insurance risk by region and line of business based on gross premiums written prior to giving effect to ceded reinsurance premiums. The company's exposure to general insurance risk varies by geographic region and may change over time. Premiums ceded to reinsurers (including retrocessions) in 2019 by line of business was comprised of property of $1,471.5 ( 2018 - $1,267.2 ), casualty of $1,842.9 ( 2018 - $1,443.4 ) and specialty of $361.2 ( 2018 - $386.7 ). Canada United States Asia (1) International (2) Total For the years ended December 31 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Property 853.5 732.6 3,087.9 2,704.3 710.4 634.5 1,669.4 1,495.8 6,321.2 5,567.2 Casualty 805.4 695.4 6,903.4 6,082.3 411.6 384.5 1,424.6 1,210.8 9,545.0 8,373.0 Specialty 177.6 164.6 597.7 619.8 237.6 215.3 632.1 588.4 1,645.0 1,588.1 Total 1,836.5 1,592.6 10,589.0 9,406.4 1,359.6 1,234.3 3,726.1 3,295.0 17,511.2 15,528.3 Insurance 1,724.5 1,492.5 8,389.9 7,439.7 676.1 692.4 2,377.3 2,270.4 13,167.8 11,895.0 Reinsurance 112.0 100.1 2,199.1 1,966.7 683.5 541.9 1,348.8 1,024.6 4,343.4 3,633.3 1,836.5 1,592.6 10,589.0 9,406.4 1,359.6 1,234.3 3,726.1 3,295.0 17,511.2 15,528.3 (1) The Asia geographic segment is primarily comprised of countries located throughout Asia, including China, Japan, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand, and the Middle East. (2) The International geographic segment is primarily comprised of countries located in South America, Europe and Africa. Pricing risk Pricing risk arises because actual claims experience may differ adversely from the assumptions used in pricing insurance risk. Historically, the underwriting results of the property and casualty industry have fluctuated significantly due to the cyclicality of the insurance market. Market cycles are affected by the frequency and severity of losses, levels of capacity and demand, general economic conditions and competition on rates and terms of coverage. The operating companies focus on profitable underwriting using a combination of experienced underwriting and actuarial staff, pricing models and price adequacy monitoring tools. Reserving risk Reserving risk arises because actual claims experience may differ adversely from the assumptions used in setting reserves, in large part due to the length of time between the occurrence of a loss, the reporting of the loss to the insurer and the ultimate resolution of the claim. The degree of uncertainty will vary by line of business according to the characteristics of the insured risks, with the ultimate cost of a claim determined by the actual insured loss suffered by the policyholder. Claims provisions reflect expectations of the ultimate cost of resolution and administration of claims based on an assessment of facts and circumstances then known, a review of historical settlement patterns, estimates of trends in claims severities and frequencies, developing case law and other factors. The time required to learn of and settle claims is often referred to as the “tail” and is an important consideration in establishing the company's reserves. Short-tail claims are those for which losses are normally reported soon after the incident and are generally settled within months following the reported incident. This would include, for example, most property, automobile and marine and aerospace damage. Long-tail claims are considered by the company to be those that often take three years or more to develop and settle, such as asbestos, environmental pollution, workers' compensation and product liability. Information concerning the loss event and ultimate cost of a long-tail claim may not be readily available, making the reserving analysis of long-tail lines of business more difficult and subject to greater uncertainties than for short-tail lines of business. In the extreme cases of long-tail claims like those involving asbestos and environmental pollution, it may take upwards of 40 years to settle. The company employs specialized techniques to determine such provisions using the extensive knowledge of both internal and external asbestos and environmental pollution experts and legal advisors. The establishment of provisions for losses and loss adjustment expenses is an inherently uncertain process that can be affected by internal factors such as: the risk in estimating loss development patterns based on historical data that may not be representative of future loss payment patterns; assumptions built on industry loss ratios or industry benchmark development patterns that may not reflect actual experience; the intrinsic risk as to the homogeneity of the underlying data used in carrying out the reserve analyses; and external factors such as trends relating to jury awards; economic inflation; medical cost inflation; worldwide economic conditions; tort reforms; court interpretations of coverage; the regulatory environment; underlying policy pricing; claims handling procedures; inclusion of exposures not contemplated at the time of policy inception; and significant changes in severity or frequency of losses relative to historical trends. Due to the amount of time between the occurrence of a loss, the actual reporting of the loss and the ultimate settlement of the claim, provisions may ultimately develop differently from the actuarial assumptions made when initially estimating the provision for losses. The diversity of insurance risk within the company's portfolio of issued policies makes it difficult to predict whether material prior year reserve development will occur and, if it does occur, the location and the timing of such an occurrence. Catastrophe risk Catastrophe risk arises from exposure to large losses caused by man-made or natural catastrophes that could result in significant underwriting losses. As the company does not establish reserves for catastrophes in advance of the occurrence of such events, these events may cause volatility in the levels of incurred losses and reserves, subject to the effects of reinsurance recoveries. This volatility may also be contingent upon political and legal developments after the occurrence of the event. The company evaluates potential catastrophic events and assesses the probability of occurrence and magnitude of these events predominantly through probable maximum loss ("PML") modeling techniques and through the aggregation of limits exposed. A wide range of events are simulated using the company's proprietary and commercial models, including single large events and multiple events spanning the numerous geographic regions in which the company assumes insurance risk. Each operating company has developed and applies strict underwriting guidelines for the amount of catastrophe exposure it may assume as a standalone entity for any one risk and location, and those guidelines are regularly monitored and updated. Operating companies also manage catastrophe exposure by diversifying risk across geographic regions, catastrophe types and other lines of business, factoring in levels of reinsurance protection, adjusting the amount of business written based on capital levels and adhering to risk tolerance guidelines. The company's head office aggregates catastrophe exposure company-wide and continually monitors the group's aggregate exposure. Independent exposure limits for each entity in the group are aggregated to produce an exposure limit for the group as there is presently no model capable of simultaneously projecting the magnitude and probability of loss in all geographic regions in which the company operates. Currently the company's objective is to limit its company-wide catastrophe loss exposure such that one year's aggregate pre-tax net catastrophe losses would not exceed one year's normalized net earnings before income taxes. The company takes a long term view and generally considers a 15% return on common shareholders' equity, adjusted to a pre-tax basis, to be representative of one year's normalized net earnings. The modeled probability of aggregate catastrophe losses in any one year exceeding this amount is generally more than once in every 250 years. Management of underwriting risk To manage exposure to underwriting risk, and the pricing, reserving and catastrophe risks contained therein, operating companies have established limits for underwriting authority and requirements for specific approvals of transactions involving new products or transactions involving existing products which exceed certain limits of size or complexity. The company's objective of operating with a prudent and stable underwriting philosophy with sound reserving is also achieved through establishment of goals, delegation of authorities, financial monitoring, underwriting reviews and remedial actions to facilitate continuous improvement. The company's provision for claims is reviewed separately by, and must be acceptable to, internal actuaries at each operating company and the company's Chief Actuary. Additionally, independent actuaries are periodically engaged to review an operating company's reserves or reserves for certain lines of business. The company purchases reinsurance protection for risks assumed when it is considered prudent and cost effective to do so at the operating companies for specific exposures and, if needed, at the holding company for aggregate exposures. Steps are taken to actively reduce the volume of insurance and reinsurance underwritten on particular types of risks when the company desires to reduce its direct exposure due to inadequate pricing. As part of its overall risk management strategy, the company cedes insurance risk through proportional, non-proportional and facultative reinsurance treaties. With proportional reinsurance, the reinsurer shares a pro rata portion of the company's losses and premium, whereas with non-proportional reinsurance, the reinsurer assumes payment of the company's loss above a specified retention, subject to a limit. Facultative reinsurance is the reinsurance of individual risks as agreed by the company and the reinsurer. The company follows a policy of underwriting and reinsuring contracts of insurance and reinsurance which, depending on the type of contract, generally limits the liability of an operating company on any policy to a maximum amount on any one loss. Reinsurance decisions are made by operating companies to reduce and spread the risk of loss on insurance and reinsurance written, to limit multiple claims arising from a single occurrence and to protect capital resources. The amount of reinsurance purchased can vary among operating companies depending on the lines of business written, their respective capital resources and prevailing or expected market conditions. Reinsurance is generally placed on an excess of loss basis and written in several layers, the purpose of which is to limit the amount of one risk to a maximum amount acceptable to the company and to protect from losses on multiple risks arising from a single occurrence. This type of reinsurance includes what is generally referred to as catastrophe reinsurance. The company's reinsurance does not, however, relieve the company of its primary obligation to the policyholder. The majority of reinsurance contracts purchased by the company provide coverage for a one year term and are negotiated annually. The ability of the company to obtain reinsurance on terms and prices consistent with historical results reflects, among other factors, recent loss experience of the company and of the industry in general. The effects of low interest rates, increased catastrophes and rising claims costs are currently elevating reinsurance pricing, which has affected the company's reinsurance cost for loss affected business and retroactive reinsurance. Notwithstanding the significant current period catastrophe losses suffered by the industry in 2017 and 2018, capital adequacy within the reinsurance market remains strong and alternative forms of reinsurance capacity continue to be available. As a result, reinsurance pricing of loss affected business has increased while non-loss affected property has increased to a lesser extent. The company remains opportunistic in its use of reinsurance, balancing capital requirements and the cost of reinsurance. Credit Risk Credit risk is the risk of loss resulting from the failure of a counterparty to honour its financial obligations to the company. Credit risk arises predominantly on cash and short term investments, investments in debt instruments, insurance contract receivables, recoverable from reinsurers and receivable from counterparties to derivative contracts (primarily foreign currency forward contracts, total return swaps and CPI-linked derivatives). There were no significant changes to the company's exposure to credit risk (except as set out in the discussion which follows) or the framework used to monitor, evaluate and manage credit risk at December 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 . The company's gross credit risk exposure (without consideration of amounts held by the company as collateral) was comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Cash and short term investments 10,703.6 7,361.3 Investments in debt instruments: U.S. sovereign government (1) 5,610.8 10,464.0 Other sovereign government rated AA/Aa or higher (1)(2) 1,090.4 1,368.1 All other sovereign government (3) 1,230.0 1,189.9 Canadian provincials 2.9 51.9 U.S. states and municipalities 216.5 363.2 Corporate and other 8,164.8 7,124.4 Receivable from counterparties to derivative contracts 85.2 168.2 Insurance contract receivables 5,435.0 5,110.7 Recoverable from reinsurers 9,155.8 8,400.9 Other assets 1,645.0 1,253.3 Total gross credit risk exposure 43,340.0 42,855.9 (1) Representing together 17.2% of the company's total investment portfolio at December 31, 2019 ( December 31, 2018 - 30.5% ) and considered by the company to have nominal credit risk. (2) Comprised primarily of bonds issued by the governments of Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia with fair values at December 31, 2019 of $664.4 , $105.9 , $99.4 and $89.0 respectively ( December 31, 2018 - $964.7 , $86.4 , $54.4 and $93.6 ). (3) Comprised primarily of bonds issued by the governments of India, Spain and Poland with fair values at December 31, 2019 of $519.0 , $218.2 and $149.6 respectively ( December 31, 2018 - $527.5 , $210.6 and $127.4 ). The company had income taxes refundable of $169.0 at December 31, 2019 ( December 31, 2018 - $152.3 ) that are considered to have nominal credit risk and are not included in the table above. Cash and short term investments The company's cash and short term investments (including those of the holding company) are primarily held at major financial institutions in the jurisdictions in which the company operates. At December 31, 2019 , 83.5% of these balances were held in Canadian and U.S. financial institutions, 11.0% in European financial institutions and 5.5% in other foreign financial institutions ( December 31, 2018 - 79.5% , 13.0% and 7.5% respectively). The company monitors risks associated with cash and short term investments by regularly reviewing the financial strength and creditworthiness of these financial institutions and more frequently during periods of economic volatility. From these reviews, the company may transfer balances from financial institutions where it perceives heightened credit risk to others considered to be more stable. Investments in debt instruments The company's risk management strategy for debt instruments is to invest primarily in those of high credit quality issuers and to limit the amount of credit exposure to any one corporate issuer. Management considers high quality debt instruments to be those with a S&P or Moody's issuer credit rating of BBB/Baa or higher. While the company reviews third party credit ratings, it also performs its own analysis and does not delegate the credit decision to rating agencies. The company endeavours to limit credit exposure by monitoring fixed income portfolio limits on individual corporate issuers and on credit quality and may, from time to time, initiate positions in certain types of derivatives to further mitigate credit risk exposure. The composition of the company's investments in debt instruments classified according to the higher of each security's respective S&P and Moody's issuer credit rating is presented in the table that follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Issuer Credit Rating Amortized cost Fair value % Amortized cost Fair value % AAA/Aaa 6,795.2 6,820.4 41.8 11,931.0 11,920.5 58.1 AA/Aa 870.0 881.8 5.4 1,107.6 1,115.3 5.4 A/A 2,979.4 3,008.0 18.4 2,214.0 2,184.7 10.6 BBB/Baa 3,059.6 3,206.2 19.7 2,583.1 2,641.8 12.8 BB/Ba 121.9 135.0 0.8 125.0 131.8 0.6 B/B 59.9 61.6 0.4 87.8 79.7 0.4 Lower than B/B 31.6 16.4 0.1 27.6 27.5 0.1 Unrated (1) 2,125.8 2,186.0 13.4 2,412.4 2,460.2 12.0 Total 16,043.4 16,315.4 100.0 20,488.5 20,561.5 100.0 (1) Comprised primarily of the fair value of the company's investments in Seaspan Corporation of $483.4 ( December 31, 2018 - $242.9 ), Blackberry Limited of $442.1 ( December 31, 2018 - $512.4 ), Chorus Aviation Inc. of $155.8 ( December 31, 2018 - $138.6 ), EXCO Resources, Inc. of nil ( December 31, 2018 - $ 504.6 ) and Sanmar Chemicals Group of nil ( December 31, 2018 - $392.8 ). At December 31, 2019 , 85.3% (December 31, 2018 - 86.9%) of the fixed income portfolio's carrying value was rated investment grade or better, with 47.2% (December 31, 2018 - 63.5%) rated AA or better (primarily consisting of government bonds). The decrease in the fair value of bonds rated AAA/Aaa primarily reflected net sales and maturities of short-dated U.S. treasury bonds and Canadian government bonds for net proceeds of $4,601.5 and $344.5 , and the reclassification of bonds at European Run-off to assets held for sale. The increase in bonds rated A/A and BBB/Baa was primarily due to net purchases of high quality U.S. corporate bonds of $664.5 and $708.3 , partially offset by the reclassification of bonds at European Run-off to assets held for sale. The decrease in unrated bonds was primarily due to the settlement of bonds issued by EXCO Resources, Inc. and Sanmar Chemicals Group (note 6), partially offset by net purchases of unrated private placement corporate bonds of $492.4 . At December 31, 2019 holdings of bonds in the ten issuers to which the company had the greatest exposure (excluding U.S., Canadian, U.K. and German sovereign government bonds) totaled $3,201.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $3,079.6 ), which represented approximately 8.2% ( December 31, 2018 - 7.9% ) of the total investment portfolio. Exposure to the largest single issuer of corporate bonds at December 31, 2019 was $483.4 ( December 31, 2018 - $512.4 ), which represented approximately 1.2% ( December 31, 2018 - 1.3% ) of the total investment portfolio. Counterparties to derivative contracts Counterparty risk arises from the company's derivative contracts primarily in three ways: first, a counterparty may be unable to honour its obligation under a derivative contract and have insufficient collateral pledged in favour of the company to support that obligation; second, collateral deposited by the company to a counterparty as a prerequisite for entering into certain derivative contracts (also known as initial margin) may be at risk should the counterparty face financial difficulty; and third, excess collateral pledged in favour of a counterparty may be at risk should the counterparty face financial difficulty (counterparties may hold excess collateral as a result of the timing of the settlement of the amount of collateral required to be pledged based on the fair value of a derivative contract). The company endeavours to limit counterparty risk through diligent selection of counterparties to its derivative contracts and through the terms of negotiated agreements. Pursuant to these agreements, counterparties are contractually required to deposit eligible collateral in collateral accounts (subject to certain minimum thresholds) for the benefit of the company based on the daily fair value of the derivative contracts. The company's exposure to risk associated with providing initial margin is mitigated where possible through the use of segregated third party custodian accounts that only permit counterparties to take control of the collateral in the event of default by the company. Agreements negotiated with counterparties provide for a single net settlement of all financial instruments covered by the agreement in the event of default by the counterparty, thereby permitting obligations owed by the company to a counterparty to be offset against amounts receivable by the company from that counterparty (the “net settlement arrangements”). The following table sets out the company's counterparty risk assuming all derivative counterparties are simultaneously in default: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Total derivative assets (1) 85.2 168.2 Obligations that may be offset under net settlement arrangements (19.2 ) (83.4 ) Fair value of collateral deposited for the benefit of the company (2) (14.2 ) (17.9 ) Excess collateral pledged by the company in favour of counterparties 1.9 26.1 Initial margin not held in segregated third party custodian accounts — 2.0 Net derivative counterparty exposure after net settlement and collateral arrangements 53.7 95.0 (1) Excludes equity warrants, equity warrant forward contracts, equity call options and other derivatives which are not subject to counterparty risk. (2) Excludes excess collateral pledged by counterparties of $1.9 at December 31, 2019 ( December 31, 2018 - $1.5 ). Collateral deposited for the benefit of the company at December 31, 2019 consisted of cash of $5.3 and government securities of $10.8 ( December 31, 2018 - $1.1 and $18.3 ). The company had not exercised its right to sell or repledge collateral at December 31, 2019 . Recoverable from reinsurers Credit risk on the company's recoverable from reinsurers balance existed at December 31, 2019 to the extent that any reinsurer may be unable or unwilling to reimburse the company under the terms of the relevant reinsurance arrangements. The company is also exposed to the credit risk assumed in fronting arrangements and to potential reinsurance capacity constraints. The company regularly assesses the creditworthiness of reinsurers with whom it transacts business. Internal guidelines generally require reinsurers to have strong A.M. Best ratings and to maintain capital and surplus in excess of $500.0 . Where contractually provided for, the company has collateral for outstanding balances in the form of cash, letters of credit, guarantees or assets held in trust accounts. This collateral may be drawn on when amounts remain unpaid beyond contractually specified time periods for each individual reinsurer. The company’s reinsurance security staff conduct ongoing detailed assessments of current and potential reinsurers, perform annual reviews of impaired reinsurers, and provide recommendations for uncollectible reinsurance provisions for the group. The reinsurance security staff also collect and maintain individual and group reinsurance exposures across the group. Most of the reinsurance balances for reinsurers rated B++ or lower were inherited by the company on acquisition of a subsidiary. The company’s single largest recoverable from reinsurer (Munich Reinsurance Company) represented 6.4% of shareholders’ equity attributable to shareholders of Fairfax at December 31, 2019 ( December 31, 2018 - 6.7% ) and is rated A+ by A.M. Best. The company's gross exposure to credit risk from its reinsurers increased at December 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 , primarily reflecting an increase in reinsurance recoverables at Allied World (due to higher business volume and increased use of reinsurance) and Fairfax Latam (primarily reflecting losses ceded to reinsurers related to the Chilean Riots). Changes that occurred in the provision for uncollectible reinsurance during the year are disclosed in note 9. The following table presents the gross recoverable from reinsurers classified according to the financial strength ratings of the reinsurers. Pools and associations are generally government or similar insurance funds with limited credit risk. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 A.M. Best Rating (or S&P equivalent) Gross recoverable from reinsurers Outstanding balances for which security is held Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers Gross recoverable from reinsurers Outstanding balances for which security is held Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers A++ 357.1 28.8 328.3 369.8 28.9 340.9 A+ 5,005.9 351.9 4,654.0 4,225.2 264.8 3,960.4 A 2,567.7 106.0 2,461.7 2,255.2 85.5 2,169.7 A- 217.7 9.7 208.0 247.9 9.6 238.3 B++ 18.1 1.2 16.9 32.4 10.5 21.9 B+ 3.9 0.4 3.5 1.5 0.3 1.2 B or lower 11.0 1.4 9.6 10.3 1.8 8.5 Not rated 941.1 524.3 416.8 1,139.6 673.4 466.2 Pools and associations 194.8 6.5 188.3 283.8 3.7 280.1 9,317.3 1,030.2 8,287.1 8,565.7 1,078.5 7,487.2 Provision for uncollectible reinsurance (161.5 ) (161.5 ) (164.8 ) (164.8 ) Recoverable from reinsurers 9,155.8 8,125.6 8,400.9 7,322.4 Liquidity Risk Liquidity risk is the potential for loss if the company is unable to meet financial commitments in a timely manner at reasonable cost as they fall due. The company's policy is to ensure that sufficient liquid assets are available to meet financial commitments, including liabilities to policyholders and debt holders, dividends on preferred shares and investment commitments. Cash flow analysis is performed regularly at both the holding company and operating companies to ensure that future cash needs are met or exceeded by cash flows generated by operating companies. The holding company's known significant commitments for 2020 consist of payment of a common share dividend of $275.7 ($10.00 per common share, paid in January 2020), interest and corporate overhead expenses, preferred share dividends, income tax payments, potential payments on amounts borrowed from the revolving credit facility and other investment related activities. The company believes that holding company cash and investments, net of holding company short sale and derivative obligations, at December 31, 2019 of $1,098.6 provides adequate liquidity to meet the holding company’s known commitments in 2020. The holding company expects to continue to receive investment management and administration fees and dividends from its insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries, and investment income on its holdings of cash and investments. To further augment its liquidity, the holding company can borrow from the $2.0 billion unsecured revolving credit facility as described in note 15. Subsequent to December 31, 2019 the company borrowed $300.0 on the credit facility. The liquidity requirements of the insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries principally relate to liabilities associated with underwriting, operating expenses, the payment of dividends to the holding company, contributions to their subsidiaries, payment of principal and interest on their outstanding debt obligations, income tax payments, investment commitments and certain derivative obligations (described below). Liabilities associated with underwriting include the payment of claims and direct commissions. Historically, the insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries have used cash inflows from operating activities (primarily the collection of premiums and reinsurance commissions) and investment activities (primarily repayments of principal on debt investments, sales of investment securities and investment income) to fund their liquidity requirements. The insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries may also receive cash inflows from financing activities (primarily distributions received from their subsidiaries). The company's insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries, and the holding company at a consolidated level, focus on the stress that could be placed on liquidity requirements as a result of severe disruption or volatility in the capital markets or extreme catastrophe activity, or a combination of both. The insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries maintain investment strategies intended to provide adequate funds to pay claims or withstand disruption or volatility in the capital markets without forced sales of inve

Segmented Information

Segmented Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Operating Segments [Abstract]
Segmented Information	Segmented Information The company identifies its operating segments by operating company, consistent with its management structure. Certain of the operating segments have been aggregated into reporting segments that are categorized by type of business as described below. The accounting policies of the reporting segments are the same as those described in note 3. Prices for inter-segment transactions are set at arm's length. Geographic premiums are determined by the domicile of the operating companies and where the primary underlying insurance risk resides. Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge - A national commercial property and casualty insurer in Canada providing property and casualty insurance products through its Northbridge Insurance and Federated subsidiaries. Odyssey Group - A U.S.-based reinsurer that provides a full range of property and casualty products worldwide, and that underwrites specialty insurance, primarily in the U.S. and in the U.K., both directly and through the Lloyd's market in London. Crum & Forster - A national commercial property and casualty insurer in the U.S. that principally underwrites specialty coverages. Zenith National - An insurer primarily engaged in workers' compensation business in the U.S. Brit - A market-leading global Lloyd's of London specialty insurer and reinsurer. Allied World - A global property, casualty and specialty insurer and reinsurer with a presence at Lloyd's. Fairfax Asia - This reporting segment includes the company's operations that underwrite insurance and reinsurance coverages in Hong Kong (Falcon), Malaysia (Pacific Insurance), Indonesia (AMAG Insurance) and Sri Lanka (Fairfirst Insurance). Fairfax Asia also includes the company's equity accounted interests in Vietnam-based BIC Insurance ( 35.0% ) and Thailand-based Falcon Thailand ( 41.2% ). Insurance and Reinsurance - Other - This reporting segment is comprised of Group Re, Bryte Insurance, Advent, Fairfax Latin America and Fairfax Central and Eastern Europe ("Fairfax CEE"). Group Re primarily constitutes the participation of the company's Barbados based reinsurance subsidiaries CRC Re, Wentworth and Connemara (established in 2019) in the reinsurance of Fairfax’s subsidiaries by quota share or through participation in those subsidiaries’ third party reinsurance programs on the same terms as third party reinsurers. Group Re also writes third party business. Bryte Insurance is an established property and casualty insurer in South Africa and Botswana. Advent is a specialty property reinsurance and insurance company that operated through Syndicate 780 at Lloyd’s. During 2018 Advent transferred certain classes of its business to Brit, Allied World and Newline with the remainder of Advent Syndicate 780 placed into run-off. Advent is reported in the Run-off reporting segment effective January 1, 2019. Fairfax Latin America is comprised of Fairfax Brasil, which writes commercial property and casualty insurance in Brazil, and Fairfax Latam, consisting of property and casualty insurance operations in Argentina, Chile, Colombia and Uruguay. Fairfax CEE is comprised of Polish Re, which writes reinsurance in Central and Eastern Europe, Colonnade Insurance, a Luxembourg property and casualty insurer with branches in each of the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, Bulgaria and Romania and an insurance subsidiary in Ukraine, and Fairfax Ukraine which comprises ARX Insurance (acquired February 14, 2019) and Universalna (acquired November 6, 2019), both property and casualty insurers in Ukraine. Run-off This reporting segment is comprised of European Run-off, which principally consists of RiverStone (UK), Advent (effective January 1, 2019), Syndicate 3500 at Lloyd's (managed by RiverStone Managing Agency Limited) and TIG Insurance (Barbados) Limited, and U.S. Run-off, which includes TIG Insurance Company. On December 20, 2019 the company entered into an agreement to contribute European Run-off to a joint venture with OMERS, resulting in the assets and liabilities of European Run-off being classified as held for sale on the company's consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 (note 23). Non-insurance companies This reporting segment is comprised as follows: Restaurants and retail - Comprised of Recipe and its subsidiaries The Keg, St-Hubert, Pickle Barrel and Original Joe's, Toys "R" Us Canada (acquired on May 31, 2018), Praktiker, Golf Town, Sporting Life, Kitchen Stuff Plus and William Ashley. Fairfax India - Comprised of Fairfax India and its subsidiaries NCML, Fairchem and Saurashtra Freight. Thomas Cook India - Comprised of Thomas Cook India and its subsidiaries Sterling Resorts and Quess (deconsolidated on March 1, 2018). Other - Comprised primarily of AGT (acquired on April 17, 2019), Dexterra (acquired on March 7, 2018), Grivalia Properties (deconsolidated on May 17, 2019), Fairfax Africa and its subsidiary CIG (consolidated January 4, 2019), Mosaic Capital , Boat Rocker, Pethealth and Rouge Media. Corporate and Other Corporate and Other includes the parent entity (Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited), its subsidiary intermediate holding companies and Hamblin Watsa, an investment management company. Sources of Earnings by Reporting Segment Sources of earnings by reporting segment for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge Odyssey Group Crum & Forster Zenith National Brit Allied World Fairfax Asia Other Operating companies Run-off Non-insurance companies Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Gross premiums written External 1,513.6 3,742.8 2,805.0 732.7 2,245.4 3,809.3 439.3 1,616.7 16,904.8 606.4 — — — 17,511.2 Intercompany 7.9 73.2 22.8 — 48.1 51.0 (1.0 ) 94.2 296.2 3.2 — — (299.4 ) — 1,521.5 3,816.0 2,827.8 732.7 2,293.5 3,860.3 438.3 1,710.9 17,201.0 609.6 — — (299.4 ) 17,511.2 Net premiums written 1,350.3 3,393.8 2,331.5 720.8 1,656.2 2,428.9 231.2 1,148.4 13,261.1 574.5 — — — 13,835.6 Net premiums earned External 1,247.3 3,162.2 2,234.4 737.3 1,608.1 2,345.9 228.2 981.3 12,544.7 685.0 — — — 13,229.7 Intercompany (7.0 ) 17.0 (40.6 ) (2.3 ) 33.8 (10.5 ) (13.0 ) 65.5 42.9 (42.9 ) — — — — 1,240.3 3,179.2 2,193.8 735.0 1,641.9 2,335.4 215.2 1,046.8 12,587.6 642.1 — — — 13,229.7 Underwriting expenses (1) (1,193.6 ) (3,089.3 ) (2,142.0 ) (626.2 ) (1,590.8 ) (2,277.7 ) (208.8 ) (1,064.7 ) (12,193.1 ) (906.3 ) — — — (13,099.4 ) Underwriting profit (loss) 46.7 89.9 51.8 108.8 51.1 57.7 6.4 (17.9 ) 394.5 (264.2 ) — — — 130.3 Interest income 65.9 189.5 93.6 36.7 82.0 165.6 16.9 66.8 717.0 60.5 24.5 33.7 (9.4 ) 826.3 Dividends 10.4 17.5 7.0 4.0 3.0 16.7 8.6 3.6 70.8 9.5 11.8 1.6 — 93.7 Investment expenses (11.3 ) (31.1 ) (14.7 ) (7.6 ) (11.5 ) (33.4 ) (7.8 ) (13.4 ) (130.8 ) (14.2 ) (89.0 ) (2.4 ) 196.6 (39.8 ) Interest and dividends 65.0 175.9 85.9 33.1 73.5 148.9 17.7 57.0 657.0 55.8 (52.7 ) 32.9 187.2 880.2 Share of profit (loss) of associates 1.1 55.1 19.1 (16.4 ) (2.4 ) 13.3 (0.1 ) (13.7 ) 56.0 (6.3 ) (45.2 ) 165.1 — 169.6 Other Revenue — — — — — — — — — — 5,537.1 — — 5,537.1 Expenses — — — — — — — — — — (5,441.6 ) — 8.4 (5,433.2 ) — — — — — — — — — — 95.5 — 8.4 103.9 Operating income (loss) 112.8 320.9 156.8 125.5 122.2 219.9 24.0 25.4 1,107.5 (214.7 ) (2.4 ) 198.0 195.6 1,284.0 Net gains on investments 0.5 149.5 75.2 22.5 62.1 210.2 632.3 106.2 1,258.5 168.2 72.6 216.9 — 1,716.2 Loss on repurchase of long term debt (note 15) — — — — — — — — — — — (23.7 ) — (23.7 ) Interest expense (1.5 ) (7.8 ) (5.3 ) (3.9 ) (19.1 ) (29.1 ) (0.4 ) (1.9 ) (69.0 ) (7.0 ) (184.9 ) (212.1 ) 1.0 (472.0 ) Corporate overhead (5.7 ) (10.7 ) (20.5 ) (8.5 ) (9.2 ) (59.7 ) (9.8 ) (0.6 ) (124.7 ) 0.4 — 49.1 (196.6 ) (271.8 ) Pre-tax income (loss) 106.1 451.9 206.2 135.6 156.0 341.3 646.1 129.1 2,172.3 (53.1 ) (114.7 ) 228.2 — 2,232.7 Provision for income taxes (261.5 ) Net earnings 1,971.2 Attributable to: Shareholders of Fairfax 2,004.1 Non-controlling interests (32.9 ) 1,971.2 (1) Underwriting expenses for the year ended December 31, 2019 were comprised as shown below. Accident year underwriting expenses exclude the impact of favourable or adverse prior year claims reserve development. Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge Odyssey Group Crum & Forster Zenith National Brit Allied World Fairfax Asia Other Operating companies Loss & LAE - accident year 851.9 2,383.6 1,387.4 423.4 961.0 1,585.8 151.3 678.8 8,423.2 Commissions 204.1 629.9 350.8 80.1 444.6 256.2 29.1 187.5 2,182.3 Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses 204.7 305.4 410.0 204.8 231.7 403.7 56.7 250.4 2,067.4 Underwriting expenses - accident year 1,260.7 3,318.9 2,148.2 708.3 1,637.3 2,245.7 237.1 1,116.7 12,672.9 Net (favourable) adverse claims reserve development (67.1 ) (229.6 ) (6.2 ) (82.1 ) (46.5 ) 32.0 (28.3 ) (52.0 ) (479.8 ) Underwriting expenses - calendar year 1,193.6 3,089.3 2,142.0 626.2 1,590.8 2,277.7 208.8 1,064.7 12,193.1 2018 Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge Odyssey Group Crum & Forster Zenith National Brit Allied World Fairfax Asia Other Operating companies Run-off Non-insurance companies Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Gross premiums written External 1,316.0 3,269.4 2,305.7 800.3 2,221.3 3,355.2 384.5 1,725.2 15,377.6 150.7 — — — 15,528.3 Intercompany 6.0 59.2 57.4 — 17.8 13.7 1.1 67.7 222.9 268.2 — — (491.1 ) — 1,322.0 3,328.6 2,363.1 800.3 2,239.1 3,368.9 385.6 1,792.9 15,600.5 418.9 — — (491.1 ) 15,528.3 Net premiums written 1,173.6 2,897.8 1,977.8 789.2 1,494.2 2,368.8 191.9 1,124.2 12,017.5 413.5 — — — 12,431.0 Net premiums earned External 1,125.4 2,736.4 1,939.6 806.6 1,645.8 2,318.3 195.6 1,141.2 11,908.9 157.1 — — — 12,066.0 Intercompany (6.2 ) 19.0 21.3 (2.3 ) (166.1 ) (31.5 ) (6.1 ) (75.6 ) (247.5 ) 247.5 — — — — 1,119.2 2,755.4 1,960.9 804.3 1,479.7 2,286.8 189.5 1,065.6 11,661.4 404.6 — — — 12,066.0 Underwriting expenses (1) (1,072.2 ) (2,574.3 ) (1,928.3 ) (664.1 ) (1,556.7 ) (2,243.9 ) (189.1 ) (1,114.5 ) (11,343.1 ) (647.0 ) — — — (11,990.1 ) Underwriting profit (loss) 47.0 181.1 32.6 140.2 (77.0 ) 42.9 0.4 (48.9 ) 318.3 (242.4 ) — — — 75.9 Interest income 72.2 155.5 73.2 36.9 64.5 140.6 16.4 61.7 621.0 45.3 43.4 39.8 (5.6 ) 743.9 Dividends 10.2 15.6 4.9 3.5 3.6 11.3 7.8 3.5 60.4 9.8 10.0 1.3 — 81.5 Investment expenses (15.4 ) (31.2 ) (13.5 ) (8.1 ) (12.8 ) (34.7 ) (3.1 ) (18.5 ) (137.3 ) (11.4 ) (40.6 ) (3.3 ) 150.7 (41.9 ) Interest and dividends 67.0 139.9 64.6 32.3 55.3 117.2 21.1 46.7 544.1 43.7 12.8 37.8 145.1 783.5 Share of profit (loss) of associates 6.3 65.8 4.1 4.4 5.3 (3.8 ) (5.1 ) 16.7 93.7 0.8 109.4 17.2 — 221.1 Other Revenue — — — — — — — — — — 4,434.2 — — 4,434.2 Expenses — — — — — — — — — — (4,176.1 ) — 5.6 (4,170.5 ) — — — — — — — — — — 258.1 — 5.6 263.7 Operating income (loss) 120.3 386.8 101.3 176.9 (16.4 ) 156.3 16.4 14.5 956.1 (197.9 ) 380.3 55.0 150.7 1,344.2 Net gains (losses) on investments (55.6 ) (111.4 ) (144.2 ) (57.6 ) (63.1 ) (66.9 ) (71.7 ) 45.8 (524.7 ) (107.6 ) 900.4 (15.2 ) — 252.9 Loss on repurchase of long term debt (note 15) — — — — — — — — — — — (58.9 ) — (58.9 ) Interest expense — (4.1 ) (2.2 ) (3.3 ) (14.2 ) (26.2 ) — (5.6 ) (55.6 ) — (94.1 ) (197.4 ) — (347.1 ) Corporate overhead (6.6 ) (23.3 ) (24.1 ) (8.2 ) (14.0 ) (67.6 ) (10.3 ) (21.9 ) (176.0 ) — — (2.3 ) (150.7 ) (329.0 ) Pre-tax income (loss) 58.1 248.0 (69.2 ) 107.8 (107.7 ) (4.4 ) (65.6 ) 32.8 199.8 (305.5 ) 1,186.6 (218.8 ) — 862.1 Provision for income taxes (44.2 ) Net earnings 817.9 Attributable to: Shareholders of Fairfax 376.0 Non-controlling interests 441.9 817.9 (1) Underwriting expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018 were comprised as shown below. Accident year underwriting expenses exclude the impact of favourable or adverse prior year claims reserve development. Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge Odyssey Group Crum & Forster Zenith National Brit Allied World Fairfax Other Operating companies Loss & LAE - accident year 802.7 2,061.5 1,244.7 453.4 982.6 1,739.9 138.0 687.4 8,110.2 Commissions 184.5 588.7 304.2 84.2 456.8 207.8 19.9 177.6 2,023.7 Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses 191.7 269.8 383.3 211.8 216.6 392.8 55.6 276.6 1,998.2 Underwriting expenses - accident year 1,178.9 2,920.0 1,932.2 749.4 1,656.0 2,340.5 213.5 1,141.6 12,132.1 Net favourable claims reserve development (106.7 ) (345.7 ) (3.9 ) (85.3 ) (99.3 ) (96.6 ) (24.4 ) (27.1 ) (789.0 ) Underwriting expenses - calendar year 1,072.2 2,574.3 1,928.3 664.1 1,556.7 2,243.9 189.1 1,114.5 11,343.1 Investments in Associates, Additions to Goodwill, Segment Assets and Segment Liabilities Investments in associates, segment assets and segment liabilities at December 31, and additions to goodwill for the years then ended, by reporting segment were as follows: Investments in associates Additions to goodwill Segment assets Segment liabilities 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge 195.4 136.9 — — 4,654.4 4,205.7 3,085.0 2,706.0 Odyssey Group 641.6 443.2 — — 13,489.0 12,077.8 8,710.8 7,887.7 Crum & Forster 265.4 260.6 0.5 — 6,803.3 6,217.4 4,995.4 4,617.9 Zenith National 133.2 149.3 — — 2,504.8 2,543.0 1,527.7 1,612.8 Brit 270.0 266.9 45.9 — 8,106.8 7,543.4 6,329.2 5,947.6 Allied World 373.3 310.0 — — 15,596.0 14,530.7 11,499.3 10,911.7 Fairfax Asia 92.1 91.6 — (0.3 ) 2,231.5 1,813.4 805.1 692.4 Other 114.8 115.9 3.9 3.7 4,520.1 4,353.4 3,442.5 3,285.9 Operating companies 2,085.8 1,774.4 50.3 3.4 57,905.9 53,284.8 40,395.0 37,662.0 Run-off 142.0 (1) 273.4 3.8 — 6,372.6 (2) 5,529.1 4,530.2 (2) 3,934.3 Non-insurance companies 1,663.0 2,523.3 262.1 133.0 9,210.5 9,424.7 5,181.9 3,361.2 Corporate and Other and eliminations and adjustments 929.2 291.9 — — (2,980.5 ) (3,866.5 ) 2,494.2 2,049.4 Consolidated 4,820.0 4,863.0 316.2 136.4 70,508.5 64,372.1 52,601.3 47,006.9 (1) Excludes European Run-off's investments in associates and joint ventures with a carrying value of $368.8 and a fair value of $430.5 that were included in assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 and principally comprised of investments in Gulf Insurance, Seaspan, APR Energy and Resolute. (2) Includes European Run-off's assets and liabilities that were included in assets held for sale and liabilities associated with assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 . See note 23. Product Line Net premiums earned by product line for the years ended December 31 were as follows: Property Casualty Specialty Total 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Net premiums earned - Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge 538.0 490.3 581.4 523.2 120.9 105.7 1,240.3 1,119.2 Odyssey Group 1,598.8 1,398.3 1,288.2 1,099.2 292.2 257.9 3,179.2 2,755.4 Crum & Forster 293.8 253.9 1,771.6 1,623.6 128.4 83.4 2,193.8 1,960.9 Zenith National 39.1 35.5 695.9 768.8 — — 735.0 804.3 Brit 494.3 490.7 844.3 618.5 303.3 370.5 1,641.9 1,479.7 Allied World 832.1 794.5 1,394.1 1,362.4 109.2 129.9 2,335.4 2,286.8 Fairfax Asia 74.7 75.7 113.7 93.0 26.8 20.8 215.2 189.5 Other 601.2 564.9 305.8 308.5 139.8 192.2 1,046.8 1,065.6 Operating companies 4,472.0 4,103.8 6,995.0 6,397.2 1,120.6 1,160.4 12,587.6 11,661.4 Run-off 103.8 — 379.2 389.1 159.1 15.5 642.1 404.6 Consolidated net premiums earned 4,575.8 4,103.8 7,374.2 6,786.3 1,279.7 1,175.9 13,229.7 12,066.0 Interest and dividends 880.2 783.5 Share of profit of associates 169.6 221.1 Net gains on investments 1,716.2 252.9 Other revenue (Non-insurance companies) 5,537.1 4,434.2 Consolidated income 21,532.8 17,757.7 Allocation of net premiums earned 34.6 % 34.0 % 55.7 % 56.3 % 9.7 % 9.7 % 100.0 % 100.0 % Geographic Region Net premiums earned by geographic region for the years ended December 31 were as follows: Canada United States Asia (1) International (2) Total 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Net premiums earned - Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge 1,223.8 1,108.2 16.5 11.0 — — — — 1,240.3 1,119.2 Odyssey Group 80.8 70.2 2,126.5 1,858.0 377.1 319.8 594.8 507.4 3,179.2 2,755.4 Crum & Forster — — 2,191.7 1,958.0 — — 2.1 2.9 2,193.8 1,960.9 Zenith National — — 735.0 804.3 — — — — 735.0 804.3 Brit 107.0 95.3 1,119.5 1,073.7 48.9 57.9 366.5 252.8 1,641.9 1,479.7 Allied World 34.7 28.2 1,710.2 1,671.9 239.7 254.9 350.8 331.8 2,335.4 2,286.8 Fairfax Asia — — — — 215.2 189.5 — — 215.2 189.5 Other — 5.0 31.1 83.6 111.1 94.9 904.6 882.1 1,046.8 1,065.6 Operating companies 1,446.3 1,306.9 7,930.5 7,460.5 992.0 917.0 2,218.8 1,977.0 12,587.6 11,661.4 Run-off 5.8 — 29.8 6.3 0.5 — 606.0 398.3 642.1 404.6 Consolidated net premiums earned 1,452.1 1,306.9 7,960.3 7,466.8 992.5 917.0 2,824.8 2,375.3 13,229.7 12,066.0 Interest and dividends 880.2 783.5 Share of profit of associates 169.6 221.1 Net gains on investments 1,716.2 252.9 Other revenue (Non-insurance companies) 5,537.1 4,434.2 Consolidated income 21,532.8 17,757.7 Allocation of net premiums earned 11.0 % 10.8 % 60.1 % 61.9 % 7.5 % 7.6 % 21.4 % 19.7 % 100.0 % 100.0 % (1) The Asia geographic segment is primarily comprised of countries located throughout Asia, including China, Japan, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand, and the Middle East. (2) The International geographic segment is primarily comprised of countries located in South America, Europe and Africa. Revenue and expenses of the non-insurance companies were comprised as follows for the years ended December 31: Restaurants and retail Fairfax India (1) Thomas Cook India (2) Other Total 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Revenue 2,120.6 2,013.4 410.7 430.3 1,087.4 1,202.4 1,918.4 788.1 5,537.1 4,434.2 Expenses (2,049.5 ) (1,890.7 ) (401.8 ) (403.3 ) (1,081.3 ) (1,184.1 ) (1,909.0 ) (698.0 ) (5,441.6 ) (4,176.1 ) Pre-tax income before interest expense and other (3) 71.1 122.7 8.9 27.0 6.1 18.3 9.4 90.1 95.5 258.1 (1) These results differ from those published by Fairfax India due to Fairfax India's application of investment entity accounting under IFRS. (2) These results differ from those published by Thomas Cook India primarily due to differences between IFRS and Ind AS, and acquisition accounting adjustments. (3) Excludes interest and dividends, share of profit (loss) of associates and net gains (losses) on investments.

Expenses

Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Analysis of income and expense [abstract]
Expenses	Expenses Losses on claims, net, operating expenses and other expenses for the years ended December 31 were comprised as follows: 2019 2018 Insurance and reinsurance companies (1) Non-insurance companies (2) Total Insurance and reinsurance companies (1) Non-insurance companies (2) Total Losses and loss adjustment expenses 8,401.5 — 8,401.5 7,545.9 — 7,545.9 Non-insurance companies' cost of sales — 3,474.1 3,474.1 — 2,653.2 2,653.2 Wages and salaries 1,263.2 801.4 2,064.6 1,241.2 688.5 1,929.7 Depreciation, amortization and impairment charges (3) 233.8 377.7 611.5 184.6 166.3 350.9 Employee benefits 326.7 121.8 448.5 309.5 103.3 412.8 Premium taxes 223.9 — 223.9 210.9 — 210.9 Information technology costs 163.1 29.9 193.0 155.9 24.5 180.4 Audit, legal and tax professional fees 137.0 52.3 189.3 136.4 40.2 176.6 Non-insurance companies' marketing costs — 108.5 108.5 — 102.7 102.7 Share-based payments to directors and employees 89.1 13.4 102.5 78.4 11.2 89.6 Short-term and low value lease costs (3) 17.5 60.5 78.0 — — — Loss on repurchase of long term debt (note 15) (2) — 23.7 23.7 — 58.9 58.9 Restructuring costs 3.8 3.2 7.0 25.9 9.5 35.4 Operating lease costs (3) — — — 93.5 159.6 253.1 Administrative expense and other 304.8 390.4 695.2 285.9 211.5 497.4 11,164.4 5,456.9 16,621.3 10,268.1 4,229.4 14,497.5 (1) Total expense of the insurance and reinsurance companies is comprised of losses on claims, net and operating expenses as presented in the consolidated statement of earnings. (2) Other expenses as presented in the consolidated statement of earnings is comprised of cost of sales and operating expenses of the non-insurance companies, and loss on repurchase of long term debt of the holding company. (3) Reflects the adoption of IFRS 16 as described in note 3. Leases are presented in note 22.

Supplementary Cash Flow Informa

Supplementary Cash Flow Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Cash Flow Statement [Abstract]
Supplementary Cash Flow Information	Supplementary Cash Flow Information Cash, cash equivalents and bank overdrafts as presented in the consolidated statements of cash flows excludes restricted cash and cash equivalents that are amounts primarily required to be maintained on deposit with various regulatory authorities to support the operations of the insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries. Cash equivalents are comprised of treasury bills and other eligible bills. December 31, 2019 Unrestricted cash and cash equivalents included in the consolidated statement of cash flows Restricted cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents included on the consolidated balance sheet Cash Cash equivalents Total Cash Cash equivalents Total Cash Cash equivalents Total Holding company cash and investments 98.8 84.5 183.3 0.6 — 0.6 99.4 84.5 183.9 Subsidiary cash and short term investments 1,934.7 1,355.0 3,289.7 469.4 195.4 664.8 2,404.1 1,550.4 3,954.5 Fairfax India 67.0 19.1 86.1 18.6 — 18.6 85.6 19.1 104.7 Fairfax Africa 77.9 0.8 78.7 7.5 — 7.5 85.4 0.8 86.2 Assets held for sale (note 23) 160.5 65.0 1.0 225.5 54.0 4.2 58.2 214.5 69.2 283.7 2,338.9 1,524.4 3,863.3 550.1 199.6 749.7 2,889.0 1,724.0 4,613.0 December 31, 2018 Unrestricted cash and cash equivalents included in the consolidated statement of cash flows Restricted cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents included on the consolidated balance sheet Cash Cash equivalents Total Cash Cash equivalents Total Cash Cash equivalents Total Holding company cash and investments 131.0 96.1 227.1 0.6 — 0.6 131.6 96.1 227.7 Subsidiary cash and short term investments 2,300.1 1,722.7 4,022.8 359.7 201.2 560.9 2,659.8 1,923.9 4,583.7 Subsidiary assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations — 3.0 3.0 — — — — 3.0 3.0 Fairfax India 25.0 27.1 52.1 15.6 — 15.6 40.6 27.1 67.7 Fairfax Africa 77.4 154.5 231.9 — — — 77.4 154.5 231.9 2,533.5 2,003.4 4,536.9 375.9 201.2 577.1 2,909.4 2,204.6 5,114.0 Details of certain cash flows included in the consolidated statement of cash flows for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Net (purchases) sales of securities classified at FVTPL Short term investments (4,646.5 ) 8,033.8 Bonds 3,618.7 (10,743.0 ) Preferred stocks (52.4 ) (25.6 ) Common stocks 898.3 82.3 Derivatives and short sales (184.8 ) (96.8 ) (366.7 ) (2,749.3 ) Changes in operating assets and liabilities Net decrease (increase) in restricted cash and cash equivalents (170.3 ) 102.9 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 1,171.5 1,200.6 Provision for unearned premiums 893.9 521.9 Insurance contract receivables (382.5 ) (555.6 ) Insurance contract payables 616.5 246.6 Recoverable from reinsurers (1,093.8 ) (954.5 ) Other receivables 211.8 (211.6 ) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 3.8 225.3 Other (297.0 ) (304.2 ) 953.9 271.4 Net interest and dividends received Interest and dividends received 819.2 764.0 Interest paid on borrowings (319.6 ) (285.5 ) Interest paid on lease liabilities (1) (60.4 ) — 439.2 478.5 Net income taxes paid (178.9 ) (229.9 ) (1) Reflects the adoption of IFRS 16 as described in note 3.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Related Party [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions Compensation for the company's key management team for the years ended December 31 determined in accordance with the company's IFRS accounting policies was as follows: 2019 2018 Salaries and other short-term employee benefits 9.8 9.3 Share-based payments 5.1 3.6 14.9 12.9 Compensation for the company's Board of Directors for the years ended December 31 was as follows: 2019 2018 Retainers and fees 1.1 0.9 Share-based payments 0.2 0.3 1.3 1.2 During 2019 the company recorded a performance fee receivable of $47.8 pursuant to its investment advisory agreement with Fairfax India whereby the company will receive a performance fee if the increase in Fairfax India's book value per share (common shareholders' equity divided by the number of common shares effectively outstanding) exceeds a specified threshold over the period from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2020. Settlement of the performance fee is expected to be in the first quarter of 2021 by way of Fairfax India subordinate voting shares. The calculation of the performance fee was reassessed and adjusted during 2019 to reflect the company's receipt of a performance fee of $114.4 on March 9, 2018, settled by way of newly issued Fairfax India subordinate voting shares as described in note 23. On February 28, 2020 Seaspan Corporation completed a reorganization pursuant to which its newly created holding company acquired all issued and outstanding shares of APR Energy plc from the company and other shareholders as described in note 6.

Subsidiaries

Subsidiaries	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Interests In Other Entities [Abstract]
Subsidiaries	Subsidiaries During 2019 the company acquired AGT, ARX Insurance and Universalna, consolidated CIG and deconsolidated Grivalia Properties as described in note 23. The company has wholly-owned subsidiaries not presented in the tables below that are intermediate holding companies of investments in subsidiaries and intercompany balances, all of which are eliminated on consolidation. December 31, 2019 Domicile Fairfax's ownership (100% other than as shown below) Insurance and reinsurance Northbridge Financial Corporation (Northbridge) Canada Odyssey Group Holdings, Inc. (Odyssey Group), which consists of: United States Hudson Insurance Company (Hudson Insurance) United States Newline Holdings UK Limited (Newline) United Kingdom Crum & Forster Holdings Corp. (Crum & Forster) United States Zenith National Insurance Corp. (Zenith National) United States Brit Limited (Brit) United Kingdom 89.3% Allied World Assurance Company Holdings, Ltd (Allied World) Bermuda 70.1% Fairfax Central and Eastern Europe, which consists of: Polskie Towarzystwo Reasekuracji Spólka Akcyjna (Polish Re) Poland Colonnade Insurance S.A. (Colonnade Insurance) Luxembourg FFH Ukraine Holdings (Fairfax Ukraine), which consists of: Ukraine 70.0% ARX Insurance Company (ARX Insurance) Ukraine Private Joint Stock Company Insurance Company Universalna (Universalna) Ukraine Fairfax Latin America, which consists of: Fairfax Brasil Seguros Corporativos S.A. (Fairfax Brasil) Brazil La Meridional Compañía Argentina de Seguros S.A. (La Meridional Argentina) Argentina SBS Seguros Colombia S.A. (SouthBridge Colombia) Colombia SBI Seguros Uruguay S.A. (SouthBridge Uruguay) Uruguay Southbridge Compañía de Seguros Generales S.A. (SouthBridge Chile) Chile Bryte Insurance Company Ltd (Bryte Insurance) South Africa Group Re, which underwrites business in: CRC Reinsurance Limited (CRC Re) Barbados Wentworth Insurance Company Ltd. (Wentworth) Barbados Connemara Reinsurance Company Ltd. (Connemara) Barbados Fairfax Asia, which consists of: Falcon Insurance Company (Hong Kong) Limited (Falcon) Hong Kong The Pacific Insurance Berhad (Pacific Insurance) Malaysia 85.0% PT Asuransi Multi Artha Guna Tbk (AMAG Insurance) Indonesia 80.0% Fairfirst Insurance Limited (Fairfirst Insurance) Sri Lanka 78.0% Run-off U.S. Run-off, which consists of: TIG Insurance Company (TIG Insurance) United States European Run-off, which consists of (1) : RiverStone Insurance (UK) Limited (RiverStone (UK)) United Kingdom RiverStone Managing Agency Limited United Kingdom Advent Capital (Holdings) Ltd. (Advent) (2) United Kingdom TIG Insurance (Barbados) Company Barbados Investment management Hamblin Watsa Investment Counsel Ltd. (Hamblin Watsa) Canada (1) Classified as held for sale at December 31, 2019 as described in note 23. (2) Transferred to the Run-off reporting segment effective January 1, 2019 as described in note 25. December 31, 2019 Domicile Fairfax's ownership Primary business Non-insurance companies Restaurants and retail Recipe Unlimited Corporation (Recipe), which owns: Canada 47.9 % (1) Franchisor, owner and operator of restaurants 100.0% of Keg Restaurants Ltd. (The Keg) Canada 47.9 % Owner and operator of premium dining restaurants 100.0% of Groupe St-Hubert Inc. (St-Hubert) Canada 47.9 % Full-service restaurant operator and a fully integrated food manufacturer 89.2% of Original Joe's Franchise Group Inc. (Original Joe's) Canada 42.7 % Multi-brand restaurant owner and operator 100.0% of Pickle Barrel Holdings Limited (Pickle Barrel) Canada 47.9 % Owner and operator of restaurants and catering business Praktiker Hellas Commercial Societe Anonyme (Praktiker) Greece 100.0 % Retailer of home improvement goods Toys "R" Us (Canada) Ltd. (Toys "R" Us Canada) Canada 100.0 % Retailer of toys and baby products Sporting Life Group Limited, which owns: Canada 65.1 % Invests in retail businesses 100.0% of Sporting Life Inc. (Sporting Life) Canada 65.1 % Retailer of sporting goods and sports apparel 100.0% of Golf Town Limited (Golf Town) Canada 65.1 % Retailer of golf equipment, consumables, athletic apparel and accessories Kitchen Stuff Plus, Inc. (Kitchen Stuff Plus) Canada 55.0 % Retailer of housewares and home decor William Ashley China Corporation (William Ashley) Canada 100.0 % Retailer of tableware and gifts Fairfax India Fairfax India Holdings Corporation (Fairfax India), which owns: Canada 33.8 % (1) Invests in public and private Indian businesses 89.5% of National Collateral Management Services Limited (NCML) India 30.3 % Provider of agricultural commodities storage 48.8% of Fairchem Speciality Limited (Fairchem) India 16.5 % Manufacturer, supplier and exporter of aroma chemicals 51.0% of Saurashtra Freight Private Limited (Saurashtra Freight) India 17.2 % Container freight station operator Thomas Cook India Thomas Cook (India) Limited (Thomas Cook India), which owns: India 66.9 % Provider of integrated travel and travel-related financial services 100.0% of Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited (Sterling Resorts) India 66.9 % Owner and operator of holiday resorts Other Fairfax Africa Holdings Corporation (Fairfax Africa), which owns: Canada 62.0 % (1) Invests in public and private African businesses 49.3% of Consolidated Infrastructure Group (CIG) South Africa 30.6 % (2) Developer and operator of engineering infrastructure AGT Food and Ingredients Inc. (AGT) Canada 59.6 % Originator, processor and distributor of value-added pulses and staple foods. Dexterra Integrated Facilities Management (Dexterra) Canada 100.0 % Infrastructure services to industries and government Boat Rocker Media Inc. (Boat Rocker) Canada 59.1 % Development, production, marketing and distribution of television programs Mosaic Capital Corporation (Mosaic Capital) Canada — (3) Invests in private Canadian businesses Pethealth Inc. (Pethealth) Canada 100.0 % Pet medical insurance and database services Rouge Media Group Inc. (Rouge Media) Canada 65.0 % Media and marketing solutions (1) The company owns multiple voting shares and subordinate voting shares of Recipe, Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa that give it voting rights of 61.6% , 93.8% and 98.5% respectively. (2) The company's consolidated ownership of CIG is 31.2% inclusive of a 0.6% ownership interest held by Bryte Insurance. (3) The company owns Mosaic Capital warrants that represent a substantive potential voting interest of approximately 62% .

Summary of Significant Accoun_2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Corporate Information And Statement Of IFRS Compliance [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The company's consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2019 are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”). The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for derivative financial instruments, investment property and fair value through profit and loss (“FVTPL”) financial assets and liabilities that have been measured at fair value, and non-current assets and disposal groups held for sale that have been measured at the lower of carrying value and fair value less costs to sell. The consolidated balance sheets of the company are presented on a non-classified basis. Assets expected to be realized and liabilities expected to be settled within the company's normal operating cycle of one year are considered current, including the following balances: cash, short term investments, insurance contract receivables, assets held for sale, deferred premium acquisition costs, short sale and derivative obligations, liabilities associated with assets held for sale and insurance contract payables. The following balances are considered non-current: deferred income taxes and goodwill and intangible assets. All other balances are comprised of current and non-current amounts. The holding company has significant liquid resources that are generally not restricted by insurance regulators. The subsidiary insurance and reinsurance companies are often subject to a wide variety of insurance and other laws and regulations that vary by jurisdiction and are intended to protect policyholders rather than investors. These laws and regulations may limit the ability of the insurance and reinsurance companies to pay dividends or make distributions to parent companies. The company's consolidated balance sheet and consolidated statement of cash flows therefore make a distinction in classification between the holding company and the insurance and reinsurance companies for cash and investments to provide additional insight into the company's liquidity, financial leverage and capital structure. These consolidated financial statements were approved for issue by the company’s Board of Directors on March 6, 2020 .
Consolidation	Consolidation Subsidiaries - The company's consolidated financial statements include the assets, liabilities, equity, income, expenses and cash flows of the holding company and its subsidiaries. A subsidiary is an entity that the company controls. The company controls an entity when it has power over the entity, is exposed to, or has rights to, variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the entity. Assessment of control is based on the substance of the relationship between the company and the entity and includes consideration of both existing voting rights and, if applicable, potential voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible. The operating results of subsidiaries acquired are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date control is acquired, which is typically the acquisition date. The operating results of subsidiaries that are divested during the year are included up to the date control ceased and any difference between the fair value of the consideration received and the carrying value of a divested subsidiary is recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings. The consolidated financial statements were prepared as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 based on individual holding companies' and subsidiaries' financial statements at those dates. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been aligned with those of the company where necessary. The company's significant operating subsidiaries are identified in note 29. Non-controlling interests - Subsequent to initial recognition in a business combination, the carrying value of non-controlling interests is adjusted for the non-controlling interest's share of changes in the subsidiary's net earnings and capital. Effects of transactions with non-controlling interests are recorded in equity if there is no change in control.
Business combinations	Business combinations Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting whereby the consideration transferred is measured at fair value at the date of acquisition. This consideration may include cash paid and the fair value at the date of exchange of assets given, liabilities assumed and equity instruments issued by the company or its subsidiaries. Directly attributable acquisition-related costs are recorded in operating expenses as incurred. At the date of acquisition, the company recognizes the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in the acquired business. The identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed are initially recognized at fair value. For each business combination the company determines whether to initially record non-controlling interest at fair value or as the proportionate share of the identifiable net assets of the acquired subsidiary. If the consideration transferred is less than the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired, the excess is recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings. An existing equity interest in an acquired subsidiary is remeasured to fair value at the date of the business combination with any gain or loss recognized in net gains (losses) on investments in the consolidated statement of earnings.
Goodwill and intangible assets	Goodwill and intangible assets Goodwill - Goodwill is recorded as the excess of consideration transferred over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired in a business combination, less accumulated impairment charges, and is allocated to the cash-generating units expected to benefit from the acquisition for the purpose of impairment testing. Goodwill is assessed annually for impairment or more frequently if there are indicators of impairment by comparing the carrying value of a cash-generating unit inclusive of its allocated goodwill to its recoverable amount, with any goodwill impairment measured as the excess of the carrying amount over the recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recorded in operating expenses or other expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings. Goodwill is derecognized on disposal of a cash-generating unit to which goodwill was previously allocated. Intangible assets - Intangible assets are comprised primarily of customer and broker relationships, brand names, Lloyd's participation rights, computer software (including enterprise systems) and other acquired identifiable non-monetary assets without physical form. Intangible assets are initially recognized at cost, or at fair value when acquired through a business combination. Intangible assets with a finite life are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortization and impairment, where amortization is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life, and carrying value is re-assessed when there are indicators of impairment. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are not subject to amortization and are assessed annually for impairment or more frequently if there are indicators of impairment. When the carrying value of an intangible asset exceeds its recoverable amount, an impairment loss is recorded in operating expenses or other expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings. The estimated useful lives of the company's intangible assets are as follows: Customer and broker relationships 8 to 20 years Brand names and Lloyd's participation rights Indefinite Computer software 3 to 15 years Brand names and Lloyd's participation rights are considered to be indefinite-lived based on their strength, history and expected future use.
Investment in associates	Investments in associates Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method and are comprised of investments in corporations, limited partnerships and trusts where the company has the ability to exercise significant influence but not control. An investment in associate is initially recognized at cost and adjusted thereafter for the post-acquisition change in the company's share of net assets of the associate. The company's share of profit (loss) and share of other comprehensive income (loss) of associates are reported in the corresponding lines in the consolidated statement of earnings and consolidated statement of comprehensive income, respectively. An existing equity interest in an acquired associate is remeasured to fair value at the date significant influence is obtained and included in the carrying value of the associate. The fair value of associates is estimated at each reporting date using valuation techniques consistent with those applied to the company's other investments in equity instruments. See "Determination of fair value" under the heading of "Investments" in this note for further details. If there is objective evidence that the carrying value of an associate is impaired, it is written down to its recoverable amount, being the higher of the associate's fair value and value-in-use. The unrealized impairment loss is recognized in share of profit (loss) of associates in the consolidated statement of earnings. An impairment loss is reversed in future periods if the circumstances that led to the impairment no longer exist. The reversal is limited to restoring the carrying value to what it would have been had no impairment loss been recognized in prior periods. Upon loss of significant influence, any retained equity interest classified as a financial asset is remeasured to fair value and all amounts previously recognized in other comprehensive income are reclassified to the consolidated statement of earnings. Gains and losses on loss of significant influence or disposition of an associate are recognized in net gains (losses) on investments in the consolidated statement of earnings.
Investments in joint ventures	Investments in joint ventures Investments in joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method (as described in the preceding paragraphs) and are comprised of investments in corporations and limited partnerships where the company has joint control together with one or more third parties by contractual agreement. Joint control requires the unanimous consent of all parties sharing control to make decisions regarding the joint venture's relevant activities. When a subsidiary constituting a business is contributed to a joint venture, any gain or loss on derecognition of the subsidiary, including recycling of applicable amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income and remeasurement to fair value of any retained interest in the subsidiary, is recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings. Investments in joint ventures and all related activity are presented with investments in associates in these consolidated financial statements.
Consolidated statement of cash flows	Consolidated statement of cash flows The company's consolidated statement of cash flows is prepared in accordance with the indirect method, classifying cash flows by operating, investing and financing activities. Cash and cash equivalents - Cash and cash equivalents consist of holding company, subsidiary and Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa cash on hand, demand deposits with banks and other short term highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less when purchased, and exclude cash and short term highly liquid investments that are restricted.
Investments	Investments Investments include cash and cash equivalents, short term investments, bonds, equity instruments, investments in associates, derivatives, short sales and other invested assets (primarily investment property). Management determines the appropriate classifications of investments at their acquisition date. Classification - Short term investments, bonds, preferred stocks, common stocks, short sales and derivatives are classified at FVTPL. The company manages these investments on a fair value basis, using fair value information to assess investment performance and to make investment decisions. The company has not elected to irrevocably designate any of its common stocks or preferred stocks at fair value through other comprehensive income. The company classifies its short term investments and bonds based on both the company’s business model for managing those financial assets and their contractual cash flow characteristics. While the contractual cash flows of certain of the company’s short term investments and bonds are solely principal and interest, those investments are neither held for the purpose of collecting contractual cash flows nor held both for collecting contractual cash flows and for sale. The collection of contractual cash flows is incidental to the company’s business model of maximizing total investment return on a fair value basis. Recognition and measurement - The company recognizes purchases and sales of investments on the trade date, the date on which the company commits to purchase or sell the investment. Transactions pending settlement are reflected on the consolidated balance sheet in other assets or in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Investments classified at FVTPL are initially recognized at fair value with transaction costs recorded as investment expenses (a component of interest and dividends) in the consolidated statement of earnings. Subsequent to initial recognition, investments classified at FVTPL are measured at fair value with changes in fair value reported in the consolidated statement of earnings as income, comprised of interest and dividends and net gains (losses) on investments. Interest and dividends represent interest income on short term investments and bonds calculated using the effective interest method, and dividends received on holdings of common stocks and preferred stocks, net of investment expenses. All other changes in fair value are reported in net gains (losses) on investments in the consolidated statement of earnings. For short term investments and bonds, the sum of their interest income and net gains (losses) on investments is equal to their total change in fair value for the reporting period. For investments classified at FVTPL, the company further disaggregates net gains (losses) on investments into realized and unrealized components in note 5. Where a financial instrument continues to be held by the company at the end of a reporting period, changes in the fair value of that instrument during the reporting period, excluding those changes reported as interest and dividends, are presented in net change in unrealized gains (losses). On disposition or as a result of a change in accounting for that financial instrument, its inception-to-date net gain (loss), excluding those changes previously reported as interest and dividends, is presented as net realized gains (losses). The cumulative unrealized net gain (loss) recognized in prior periods on that financial instrument is then reversed in net change in unrealized gains (losses). The sum of the inception-to-date gain (loss) and the cumulative reversal of prior period unrealized gains (losses) equals that financial instrument’s net gain (loss) on investment for the current reporting period as presented in the consolidated statement of earnings. Interest and dividends and net gains (losses) on investments are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statement of cash flows. Derecognition - An investment is derecognized when the rights to receive cash flows from the investment have expired or have been transferred and when the company has transferred substantially the risks and rewards of ownership. Short term investments - Highly liquid debt instruments with maturity dates between three months and twelve months when purchased are classified as short term investments. Bonds - Debt instruments with maturity dates greater than twelve months when purchased, or illiquid debt instruments with maturity dates of less than twelve months when purchased, are classified as bonds. Derivatives - Derivatives may include interest rate, credit default, currency and total return swaps, futures, forwards, warrants and consumer price index linked ("CPI-linked") and option contracts, all of which derive their value primarily from changes in underlying interest rates, foreign exchange rates, credit ratings, commodity values, inflation indexes or equity instruments. A derivative contract may be traded on an exchange or over-the-counter (“OTC”). Exchange-traded derivatives are standardized and include futures and certain warrants and option contracts. OTC derivative contracts are individually negotiated between contracting parties and may include the company's forwards, CPI-linked derivatives and total return swaps. The company uses derivatives principally to mitigate financial risks arising from its investment holdings and reinsurance recoverables, and monitors its derivatives for effectiveness in achieving their risk management objectives. The fair value of derivatives in a gain position are presented on the consolidated balance sheet in holding company cash and investments, and in portfolio investments as derivatives and other invested assets and as a component of Fairfax Africa's portfolio investments. The fair value of derivatives in a loss position and short sales are presented on the consolidated balance sheet in short sale and derivative obligations. The initial premium paid for a derivative contract, if any, is recorded as a derivative asset and subsequently adjusted for changes in the fair value of the contract at each reporting date. Changes in the fair value of derivatives and short sales are recorded as net gains (losses) on investments in the consolidated statement of earnings. Cash received from counterparties as collateral for derivative contracts is recognized on the consolidated balance sheet in holding company cash and investments or subsidiary cash and short term investments, and a corresponding liability is recognized in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Securities received from counterparties as collateral are not recorded as assets. Cash and securities delivered to counterparties as collateral for derivative contracts continue to be reflected as assets on the consolidated balance sheet in holding company cash and investments or in portfolio investments as assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations. The portion of the collateral related to changes in fair value of derivative contracts may be repledged by the counterparties holding the collateral. Short sales - Short sales represent obligations to deliver securities which were not owned at the time of sale and are classified as financial liabilities at FVTPL. Such transactions are typically undertaken in anticipation of a decline in the market value of a security or for risk management purposes. Determination of fair value - Fair values for substantially all of the company's financial instruments are measured using market or income approaches. Considerable judgment may be required in interpreting market data used to develop estimates of fair value. Accordingly, actual values realized in future market transactions may differ from the estimates presented in these consolidated financial statements. The use of different market assumptions and/or valuation methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair values. The fair values of financial instruments are based on bid prices for financial assets and ask prices for financial liabilities. The company categorizes its fair value measurements using a three-level fair value hierarchy in accordance with IFRS as described below: Level 1 - Inputs represent unadjusted quoted prices for identical instruments exchanged in active markets. The fair values of the majority of the company's common stocks, equity call options, certain warrants and securities sold short are based on published quotes in active markets. Level 2 - Inputs include directly or indirectly observable inputs (other than Level 1 inputs) such as quoted prices for similar financial instruments exchanged in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar financial instruments exchanged in inactive markets and other market observable inputs. The fair value of the vast majority of the company's investments in bonds are priced based on information provided by independent pricing service providers while much of the remainder, along with most derivative contracts (including total return swaps, U.S. treasury bond forward contracts and certain warrants) are based primarily on non-binding third party broker-dealer quotes that are prepared using Level 2 inputs. Where third party broker-dealer quotes are used, typically one quote is obtained from a broker-dealer with particular expertise in the instrument being priced. Preferred stocks are priced using a combination of independent pricing service providers and internal valuation models that rely on directly or indirectly observable inputs. The fair values of investments in certain limited partnerships classified as common stocks on the consolidated balance sheet are based on the net asset values received from the general partner, adjusted for liquidity as required and are classified as Level 2 when they may be liquidated or redeemed within three months or less of providing notice to the general partner. All other such investments in limited partnerships are classified as Level 3. Level 3 - Inputs include unobservable inputs that require management to use its own assumptions regarding unobservable inputs as there is little, if any, market activity in these instruments or related observable inputs that can be corroborated at the measurement date. CPI-linked derivatives are classified as Level 3 and valued using broker-dealer quotes which management has determined utilize market observable inputs except for the inflation volatility input which is not market observable. Transfers between fair value hierarchy levels are considered effective from the beginning of the annual reporting period in which the transfer is identified. Valuation techniques used by the company's independent pricing service providers and third party broker-dealers include use of prices from similar instruments where observable market prices exist, discounted cash flow analysis, option pricing models, and other valuation techniques commonly used by market participants. The company assesses the reasonableness of pricing received from these third party sources by comparing the fair values received to recent transaction prices for similar assets where available, to industry accepted discounted cash flow models (that incorporate estimates of the amount and timing of future cash flows and market observable inputs such as credit spreads and discount rates) and to option pricing models (that incorporate market observable inputs including the quoted price, volatility and dividend yield of the underlying security and the risk free rate). Fair values of CPI-linked derivative contracts received from third party broker-dealers are assessed by comparing the fair values to recent market transactions where available and values determined using third party pricing software based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model for European-style options that incorporate market observable and unobservable inputs such as the current value of the relevant CPI underlying the derivative, the inflation swap rate, nominal swap rate and inflation volatility. The fair values of CPI-linked derivative contracts are sensitive to assumptions such as market expectations of future rates of inflation and related inflation volatilities. The company employs specialist personnel for the valuation of its investment portfolio. Detailed valuations are prepared for those financial instruments that are priced internally, while external pricing received from independent pricing service providers and third party broker-dealers are evaluated by the company for reasonableness. The company's Chief Financial Officer oversees the valuation function and regularly reviews valuation processes and results, including at each quarterly reporting period. Significant valuation matters, particularly those requiring extensive judgment, are communicated to the company's Audit Committee.
Foreign currency translation	Foreign currency translation Functional and presentation currency - The consolidated financial statements are presented in U.S. dollars which is the holding company's functional currency and the presentation currency of the consolidated group. Foreign currency transactions - Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currencies of the holding company and its subsidiaries using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings. Non-monetary items carried at cost are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary items carried at fair value are translated using the exchange rate at the date the fair value is determined. Translation of foreign subsidiaries - The functional currency of some of the company's subsidiaries (principally in Canada, the United Kingdom, India and other parts of Asia) differ from the consolidated group's U.S. dollar presentation currency. Assets and liabilities of these foreign subsidiaries (including goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on their acquisition, where applicable) are translated on consolidation using exchange rates at the balance sheet date. Income and expenses are translated at average exchange rates for the period. The net unrealized gain or loss resulting from this translation is recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income, and recycled to the consolidated statement of earnings upon loss of control of a foreign subsidiary.
Hedging	Hedging At the inception of a hedge transaction the company documents the economic relationship between the hedged item and hedging instrument, and its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge. Net investment hedge - The company has designated the principal amount of its Canadian dollar denominated borrowings as a hedge of its net investment in its Canadian subsidiaries with a Canadian dollar functional currency, and has designated the principal amount of its euro denominated borrowings as a hedge of its net investment in its European operations with a euro functional currency. Unrealized gains or losses relating to the effective portions of the hedges are initially recognized in other comprehensive income, and recycled from accumulated other comprehensive income to the consolidated statement of earnings upon disposal of an investment in a hedged foreign subsidiary or associate. Gains and losses relating to any ineffective portion of the hedges are recorded in net gains (losses) on investments in the consolidated statement of earnings.
Comprehensive income (loss)	Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive income (loss) consists of net earnings (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) and includes all changes in total equity during a reporting period, except for those resulting from investments by owners or distributions to owners. Unrealized foreign currency translation amounts arising from the translation of foreign subsidiaries and associates and the effective portion of changes in the fair value of hedging instruments on hedges of net investments in foreign subsidiaries and associates are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until recycled to the consolidated statement of earnings on disposal of an investment in a foreign subsidiary or associate. Actuarial gains and losses and changes in asset limitation amounts on defined benefit pension and post retirement plans are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) and included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) without recycling to the consolidated statement of earnings. Upon settlement of the defined benefit plan or disposal of the related subsidiary or associate, those amounts are reclassified directly to retained earnings. Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes, is included on the consolidated balance sheet as a component of common shareholders' equity.
Insurance contracts	Insurance contracts Insurance contracts are those contracts that have significant insurance risk at the inception of the contract. Insurance risk arises when the company agrees to compensate a policyholder if a specified uncertain future event adversely affects the policyholder, with the possibility of paying (including variability in timing of payments) significantly more in a scenario where the insured event occurs than when it does not occur. Contracts not meeting the definition of an insurance contract under IFRS are classified as investment contracts, derivative contracts or service contracts, as appropriate. Revenue recognition - Premiums written are deferred as unearned premiums and recognized as premiums earned, net of premiums ceded, over the coverage terms of the underlying policies in accordance with the level of protection provided. Certain reinsurance premiums are estimated at the individual contract level, based on historical patterns and experience from the ceding companies for contracts where reports from ceding companies for the period are not contractually due until after the balance sheet date. The cost of reinsurance purchased by the company (premiums ceded) is included in recoverable from reinsurers and is amortized over the contract period in proportion to the amount of insurance protection provided. Unearned premium represents the portion of premiums written relating to periods of insurance and reinsurance coverage subsequent to the balance sheet date. Impairment losses on insurance premiums receivable are included in operating expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings. Deferred premium acquisition costs - Certain costs of acquiring insurance contracts, consisting of broker commissions and premium taxes, are deferred and charged to earnings as the related premiums are earned. Deferred premium acquisition costs are limited to their estimated realizable value based on the related unearned premium, which considers anticipated losses and loss adjustment expenses and estimated remaining costs of servicing the business based on historical experience. The ultimate recoverability of deferred premium acquisition costs is determined without regard to investment income. Broker commissions are included in commissions, net, in the consolidated statement of earnings. Premium taxes and impairment losses on deferred premium acquisition costs are included in operating expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings. Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses - The company is required by applicable insurance laws, regulations and Canadian accepted actuarial practice to establish reserves for payment of losses and loss adjustment expenses that arise from the company's general insurance and reinsurance products and its run-off operations. These reserves are based on assumptions that represent the best estimates of possible outcomes aimed at evaluating the expected ultimate cost to settle unpaid claims that occurred on or before the balance sheet date. The company establishes its reserves by product line, type and extent of coverage and year of occurrence. Loss reserves fall into two categories: reserves for reported losses (case reserves) and reserves for incurred but not reported (“IBNR”) losses. Those reserves include amounts for loss adjustment expenses, such as the estimated legal and other expenses expected to be incurred to finalize the settlement of the losses. Losses and loss adjustment expenses are charged to losses on claims, gross, in the consolidated statement of earnings. The company's reserves for reported losses and loss adjustment expenses are based on estimates of future payments to settle reported general insurance and reinsurance claims and claims from its run-off operations. Case reserve estimates are based on the facts available at the time the reserves are established and for reinsurance, based on reports and individual case reserve estimates received from ceding companies. The company establishes these reserves on an undiscounted basis to recognize the estimated costs of bringing pending claims to final settlement, taking into account inflation, as well as other factors that can influence the amount of reserves required, some of which are subjective and some of which are dependent on future events. In determining the level of reserves, the company considers historical trends and patterns of loss payments, pending levels of unpaid claims and types of coverage. In addition, court decisions, economic conditions and public attitudes may affect the ultimate cost of settlement and, as a result, the company's estimation of reserves. Between the reporting and final settlement of a claim, circumstances may change, which would result in changes to established reserves. Items such as changes in law and interpretations of relevant case law, results of litigation, changes in medical costs, as well as costs of vehicle and building repair materials and labour rates can substantially impact ultimate settlement costs. Accordingly, the company regularly reviews and re-evaluates case reserves. Any resulting adjustments are included in the current period consolidated statement of earnings in losses on claims, gross, and in losses on claims, ceded to reinsurers, as applicable. Amounts ultimately paid for losses and loss adjustment expenses can vary significantly from the level of reserves originally set or currently recorded. The company also establishes reserves for IBNR claims on an undiscounted basis to recognize the estimated final settlement cost for loss events which have already occurred but which have not yet been reported. Historical information and statistical models, based on product line, type and extent of coverage, as well as reported claims trends, severities and frequencies, exposure growth and other factors are relied upon to estimate IBNR reserves. These estimates are revised as additional information becomes available and as claims are actually reported and paid. Estimation techniques - Provisions for losses and loss adjustment expenses and provisions for unearned premiums are determined based upon previous claims experience, knowledge of events, the terms and conditions of the relevant policies and on interpretation of circumstances. Particularly relevant is experience with similar cases and historical claims payment trends. The approach also includes consideration of the development of loss payment trends, the potential longer term significance of large events, the levels of unpaid claims, legislative changes, judicial decisions and economic and political conditions. Where possible the company applies several commonly accepted actuarial projection methodologies in estimating required provisions to give greater insight into the trends inherent in the data being projected. These include methods based upon the following: the development of previously settled claims, where payments to date are extrapolated for each prior year; estimates based upon a projection of number of claims and average cost; notified claims development, where notified claims to date for each year are extrapolated based upon observed development of earlier years; and, expected loss ratios. In addition, the company uses other techniques such as aggregate benchmarking methods for specialist classes of business. In selecting its best estimate, the company considers the appropriateness of the methods to the individual circumstances of the line of business and accident or underwriting year. Large claims affecting each relevant line of business are generally assessed separately, being measured either at the face value of the loss adjuster's estimate or projected separately in order to allow for the future development of large claims. Provisions for losses and loss adjustment expenses are calculated gross of any reinsurance recoveries. A separate estimate is made of the amounts that will be recoverable from reinsurers based upon the gross provisions and with due regard to collectability. The provisions for losses and loss adjustment expenses are subject to review at the subsidiary level by subsidiary actuaries and at the corporate level by the company's Chief Actuary. In addition, for major classes of business where the risks and uncertainties inherent in the provisions are greatest, ad hoc detailed reviews are undertaken by internal and external actuaries who are able to draw upon their specialist expertise and a broader knowledge of current industry trends in claims development. The results of these reviews are considered when establishing the appropriate levels of provisions for losses and loss adjustment expenses and unexpired risks.
Reinsurance	Reinsurance Reinsurance does not relieve the originating insurer of its liability and is reflected on the consolidated balance sheet on a gross basis to indicate the extent of credit risk related to reinsurance and the obligations of the insurer to its policyholders. Reinsurance assets include balances due from reinsurance companies for paid and unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses and ceded unearned premiums. Amounts recoverable from reinsurers are estimated in a manner consistent with the claim liability associated with the reinsured policy. Reinsurance is recorded gross on the consolidated balance sheet unless a legal right to offset against a liability owing to the same reinsurer exists. Ceded premiums and losses are recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings in premiums ceded to reinsurers and losses on claims, ceded to reinsurers respectively and in recoverable from reinsurers on the consolidated balance sheet. Commission income earned on premiums ceded to reinsurers is included in commissions, net in the consolidated statement of earnings. Unearned premiums are reported on the consolidated balance sheet before reduction for premiums ceded to reinsurers. Reinsurers' portion of unearned premiums is included in recoverable from reinsurers on the consolidated balance sheet together with estimates of reinsurers' share of provision for claims determined on a basis consistent with the related claims liabilities. Impairment - Reinsurance assets are assessed regularly for any events that may trigger impairment, including legal disputes with third parties, changes in capital or other financial metrics that may affect the credit worthiness of a counterparty, and historic experience regarding collectability from specific reinsurers. If there is objective evidence that a reinsurance asset is impaired, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its recoverable amount by recording a provision for uncollectible reinsurance in operating expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings. Risk transfer - Reinsurance contracts are assessed to ensure that insurance risk is transferred by the ceding or assuming company to or from the reinsurer. Contracts that do not transfer insurance risk are accounted for using the deposit method whereby a deposit asset or liability is recognized based on the consideration paid or received less any explicitly identified premiums or fees to be retained by the ceding company. Premiums - Premiums payable for reinsurance ceded are recognized on the consolidated balance sheet in the period in which the reinsurance contract is entered into and include estimates for contracts in force which have not yet been finalized. Premiums ceded are recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings over the period of the reinsurance contract.
Income taxes	Income taxes The provision for income taxes for the period comprises current and deferred income tax. Income taxes are recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings, except when related to items recognized in other comprehensive income or in equity. In those cases, the income taxes are also recognized in other comprehensive income or in equity, respectively, except for dividends where the income taxes are recognized in earnings, other comprehensive income or equity according to where the transactions that generated the distributable profits were recognized. Current income tax is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the reporting period in the countries where the company's subsidiaries and associates operate and generate taxable income. Deferred income tax is calculated under the liability method whereby deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective income tax bases at current substantively enacted tax rates. With the exception of initial recognition of deferred income tax arising from business combinations, changes in deferred income tax associated with components of other comprehensive income are recognized in other comprehensive income while all other changes in deferred income tax are included in the provision for income taxes in the consolidated statement of earnings. Deferred income tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized. Carry forwards of unused losses or unused tax credits are tax effected and recognized as deferred tax assets when it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which these losses or tax credits can be utilized. Deferred income tax is not recognized on unremitted earnings of subsidiaries where the company has determined it is not probable those earnings will be repatriated in the foreseeable future. Current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when the income taxes are levied by the same taxation authority and there is a legally enforceable right of offset. On December 22, 2017 the United States enacted the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("U.S. tax reform") that, among other changes, introduced a new minimum base erosion and anti-abuse tax (“BEAT”) on certain payments to foreign affiliates and a U.S. tax on foreign earnings for certain global intangible low-taxed income ("GILTI"), applicable to U.S. corporate income tax for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017. The company recognizes charges related to BEAT and GILTI, if any, in the periods in which they are incurred, and does not include their impacts in measuring its net deferred income tax asset.
Assets held for sale and liabilities associated with assets held for sale	Assets held for sale and liabilities associated with assets held for sale Non-current assets and disposal groups are classified as held for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered through sale rather than through continuing use. A disposal group consists of assets to be transferred as a group, liabilities directly related to those assets and any goodwill acquired in a business combination allocated to the disposal group if the disposal group is a cash-generating unit. Classification as held for sale requires that management be committed to the sale, the sale is highly probable, the asset or disposal group is available for immediate sale in its present condition, and the sale is expected to be completed within one year from the date of classification. Non-current assets and disposal groups classified as held for sale are measured at the lower of carrying value and fair value less costs to sell. When a sale is expected to result in loss of control of a subsidiary, all of the subsidiary's assets and liabilities are classified as held for sale even if the company will retain an interest in its former subsidiary after the sale. When a sale involves an investment in associate or a portion thereof, the portion to be sold is classified as held for sale. The equity method of accounting is no longer applied to the portion to be sold, and continues to be applied to the retained portion if there is significant influence.
Investment property	Investment property Investment property consists of real estate held by the company for capital appreciation, rental income, or both, and is initially recorded at cost, including transaction costs, and subsequently measured at fair value. On the consolidated balance sheet investment property is included in portfolio investments by the insurance and reinsurance companies and in other assets by the non-insurance companies. In the consolidated statement of earnings, insurance and reinsurance companies record investment property rental income and direct expenses in interest and dividends, and changes in fair value in net gains (losses) on investments, while non-insurance companies record investment property rental income and changes in fair value in other revenue, and direct expenses in other expenses.
Other assets	Other assets Other assets primarily consist of premises and equipment, right-of-use assets associated with leases, inventories, sales receivables and finance lease receivables of the non-insurance companies, prepaid expenses, accrued interest and dividends, income taxes refundable, receivables for securities sold, pension assets, deferred compensation assets and other miscellaneous receivables. Receivables are initially recognized at fair value less a provision for expected lifetime credit losses, and subsequently measured at amortized cost. Premises and equipment – Premises and equipment is recorded at historical cost less accumulated amortization and any accumulated impairment losses. The company reviews premises and equipment for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. The cost of premises and equipment is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the asset's estimated useful life. In the consolidated statement of earnings depreciation expense is charged to operating expenses by the insurance and reinsurance companies, and to other expenses by the non-insurance companies.
Other revenue and expenses	Other revenue Other revenue is primarily comprised of revenue earned by the non-insurance companies. Revenue from restaurant and retail sales is recognized when the company provides goods to the customer and receives payment. Revenue from the sale of other goods is typically recognized when shipped to the customer, with payment received in advance of shipment. Revenue from providing travel, hospitality and other non-insurance services is recognized over time based on measured progress towards complete satisfaction of the related performance obligations. Payment is usually received at the time of initial booking for travel and hospitality services, and received in installments for other services. Unconditional payments due from customers for satisfied performance obligations are recorded as sales receivables within other assets on the consolidated balance sheet. Customer prepayments are recorded as deferred revenue within accounts payable and accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet and are not recognized as revenue until the shipment of goods or provision of services occurs. Certain contracts include multiple deliverables which are accounted for as separate performance obligations, with the transaction price allocated to the performance obligations based on their individual selling prices. Other expenses Other expenses is primarily comprised of the cost of inventories sold or services provided and the operating expenses of the non-insurance companies.
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities primarily consist of leases liabilities, trade payables of the non-insurance companies, accrued amounts for salaries and employee benefits, deferred revenue of the non-insurance companies, pension and post retirement liabilities, amounts withheld and accrued taxes, income taxes payable, accrued interest expense, legal fees, and other administrative costs. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities are initially recognized at fair value and subsequently measured at amortized cost.
Borrowings	Borrowings Borrowings are initially recognized at fair value, net of incremental and directly attributable transaction costs, and subsequently measured at amortized cost. Interest expense on borrowings is recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings using the effective interest rate method. Borrowings are derecognized when extinguished, with any gain or loss on extinguishment recognized in other expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings.
Equity	Equity Common stock issued by the company is classified as equity when there is no contractual obligation to transfer cash or other financial assets to the holder of the shares. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue or repurchase of equity instruments are recognized in equity, net of tax. Treasury shares are equity instruments repurchased by the company which have not been canceled and are deducted from equity on the consolidated balance sheet, irrespective of the objective of the purchase. The company acquires its own subordinate voting shares on the open market for its share-based payment awards. No gain or loss is recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings on the purchase, sale, issue or cancellation of treasury shares. Consideration paid or received is recognized directly in equity. Dividends and other distributions to holders of the company's equity instruments are recognized directly in equity.
Share-based payments	Share-based payments The company has restricted share plans or equivalent for management of the holding company and its subsidiaries with vesting periods of up to fifteen years from the date of grant. The fair value of restricted share awards on the grant date is amortized to compensation expense over the vesting period, with a corresponding increase in the share-based payments equity reserve. At each balance sheet date, the company reviews its estimates of the number of restricted share awards expected to vest.
Net earnings per share attributable to shareholders of Fairfax	Net earnings per share attributable to shareholders of Fairfax Net earnings (loss) per share - Basic net earnings (loss) per share is calculated by dividing the net earnings (loss) attributable to shareholders of Fairfax, after the deduction of preferred share dividends declared and the excess over stated value of preferred shares purchased for cancellation, by the weighted average number of subordinate and multiple voting shares issued and outstanding during the period, excluding subordinate voting shares purchased by the company and held as treasury shares. Net earnings (loss) per diluted share - Diluted net earnings (loss) per share is calculated in the same manner as basic net earnings (loss) per share except that the weighted average number of subordinate and multiple voting shares outstanding during the period is adjusted for the dilutive effect, if any, of share-based payments.
Pensions and post retirement benefits	Pensions and post retirement benefits The company's subsidiaries have a number of arrangements in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and certain other jurisdictions that provide pension and post retirement benefits to retired and current employees. The holding company has no such arrangements or plans. Pension arrangements of the subsidiaries include defined benefit statutory pension plans and supplemental arrangements that provide pension benefits in excess of statutory limits. These plans are a combination of defined benefit plans and defined contribution plans. The assets of these plans are held separately from the company's general assets in separate pension funds and invested principally in high quality fixed income securities and cash and short term investments. Certain of the company's post retirement benefit plans covering medical care and life insurance are internally funded. Defined contribution plan - A defined contribution plan is a pension plan under which the company pays fixed contributions. These contributions are charged to operating expenses by the insurance and reinsurance companies and to other expenses by the non-insurance companies in the period in which the employment services qualifying for the benefit are provided. The company has no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid. Defined benefit plan - A defined benefit plan is a plan that defines an amount of pension or other post retirement benefit that an employee will receive on retirement, usually dependent on one or more factors such as age, years of service and salary. Actuarial valuations of benefit liabilities for the majority of pension and post retirement benefit plans are performed each year using the projected benefit method prorated on service, based on management's assumptions. Defined benefit obligations, net of the fair value of plan assets, and adjusted for pension asset limitations, if any, are accrued on the consolidated balance sheet in accounts payable and accrued liabilities (note 14). Plans in a net asset position, subject to any minimum funding requirements, are recognized in other assets (note 13). Defined benefit expense recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings includes the net interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset) calculated using a discount rate based on market yields on high quality bonds, past service costs arising from plan amendments or curtailments and gains or losses on plan settlements. Remeasurements, consisting of actuarial gains and losses on plan liabilities, the actual return on plan assets (excluding the net interest component) and any change in asset limitation amounts, are recognized in other comprehensive income and subsequently included in accumulated other comprehensive income. Remeasurements are not recycled to the consolidated statement of earnings and are reclassified to retained earnings upon settlement of the plan or disposal of the related subsidiary.
Operating leases	Leases Lessees - The company, primarily through its non-insurance companies, is a lessee under various leases related principally to premises, automobiles and equipment. A right-of-use asset and a lease liability are recognized at the commencement date of a lease. Right-of-use assets are initially measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of the lease liability adjusted for any lease payments made before the commencement date, and any initial direct costs incurred. Lease liabilities are initially measured at the present value of lease payments, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease, or if that rate cannot be readily determined, the company’s incremental borrowing rate. The company typically uses its incremental borrowing rate. Right-of-use assets are included in other assets and lease liabilities are included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. Subsequent to initial recognition, right-of-use assets are depreciated using the straight-line method over the shorter of the lease term and the right-of-use asset's useful life, with depreciation expense recorded as operating expenses or other expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings, and lease liabilities are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, with accretion of lease liabilities recorded as interest expense in the consolidated statement of earnings. Each lease payment is allocated between principal and interest expense to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the lease liability. The interest and principal portions of cash payments on lease liabilities are reported as operating activities and financing activities respectively in the consolidated statement of cash flows. Right-of-use assets and lease liabilities are not recognized for short-term leases that have a lease term of twelve months or less, or for low value leases, which principally relate to office equipment, furniture and fixtures. Payments for short-term and low value leases are recorded on a straight-line basis over the lease term in the consolidated statement of earnings and reported as operating activities in the consolidated statement of cash flows. Lessors - The company, primarily through its non-insurance companies, holds certain head leases where it acts as an intermediate lessor in a sub-lease. Interests in head leases and sub-leases are accounted for separately. Classification of a sub-lease is determined with reference to the right-of-use asset arising from the head lease, and not with reference to the underlying leased asset. If substantially all of the risk and rewards of ownership of the right-of-use asset are transferred, then the sub-lease is classified as a finance lease, where the right-of-use asset is derecognized, a finance lease receivable is recorded, representing the present value of future lease payments to be received, and any difference is recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings. Finance lease receivables are included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheet. Interest revenue earned on finance lease receivables is included in other revenue in the consolidated statement of earnings. Sub-leases classified as operating leases do not result in any change to the amounts initially recognized on the head lease. Payments received from operating leases are recorded on a straight-line basis over the lease term as other revenue in the consolidated statement of earnings. Operating leases (policy applicable prior to January 1, 2019) The company and its subsidiaries are lessees under various operating leases related primarily to premises, automobiles and equipment. Payments made under an operating lease, net of any incentives received from the lessor, are recorded as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term in operating expenses or other expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings.
New accounting pronouncements	New accounting pronouncements adopted in 2019 The company adopted the following new standards and amendments, effective January 1, 2019 , in accordance with their applicable transition provisions. IFRS 16 Leases ("IFRS 16") IFRS 16 removes the distinction between finance and operating leases and recognizes substantially all leases on the balance sheet. On the transition date of January 1, 2019, the company recognized the following in its consolidated financial statements: • Lease liabilities of $1,498.0 in accounts payable and accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet, inclusive of finance lease amounts under IAS 17 Leases ("IAS 17") that were carried forward; • Right-of-use assets of $1,051.4 in other assets on the consolidated balance sheet, inclusive of reclassification adjustments for prepaid and accrued lease payments, deferred tenant inducements and leased premises and equipment previously recognized separately on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2018; • Finance lease receivables of $369.0 in other assets on the consolidated balance sheet; and • Net decreases to retained earnings of $4.3 and non-controlling interests of $1.9 in other net changes in capitalization in the consolidated statement of changes in equity. As permitted by IFRS 16, comparative information for periods prior to the transition date have not been restated and continue to be reported in accordance with IAS 17 and IFRIC 4 Determining Whether an Arrangement Contains a Lease ("IFRIC 4"). On initial application of IFRS 16 the company applied the following permitted practical expedients: carried forward the assessment of which contracts contain leases as previously assessed under IAS 17 and IFRIC 4; accounted for operating leases under IAS 17 with a remaining lease term of less than 12 months as short-term leases; measured right-of-use assets at an amount equal to the related lease liabilities; excluded initial direct costs in the measurement of right-of-use assets; and used hindsight in determining the lease term where a contract contains options to extend or terminate the lease. Lease liabilities for leases previously classified as operating leases under IAS 17 and with remaining terms of greater than 12 months at the transition date were measured at the present value of the lease payments over the remaining lease term, discounted at the company’s incremental borrowing rate. Right-of-use assets for those leases were measured as the amount of the lease liabilities, adjusted by any prepaid or accrued lease payments and deferred tenant inducements reclassified from the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2018. Asset and liability balances for leases classified as finance leases under IAS 17 were carried forward under IFRS 16 and reclassified as right-of-use assets and lease liabilities, respectively. Sub-leases previously classified as operating leases under IAS 17 were reassessed at the transition date. Those sub-leases classified as finance leases under IFRS 16 were accounted for as new finance leases entered into on the transition date. Presented in the table below are details of the lease commitments and obligations included in the company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to the lease liabilities, right-of-use assets and finance lease receivables recognized on initial application of IFRS 16 at January 1, 2019: Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Operating lease commitments at December 31, 2018 540.2 1,103.5 1,643.7 Adjustments for: Short-term and low value leases (2.0 ) (20.7 ) (22.7 ) Extension and termination options 32.3 106.5 138.8 Lease commitments to be recognized under IFRS 16 570.5 1,189.3 1,759.8 Incremental borrowing rate (weighted average) 4.2 % 5.1 % 4.8 % Present value of lease commitments recognized under IFRS 16 454.4 992.4 1,446.8 Finance lease obligations at December 31, 2018 and other 1.1 50.1 51.2 Lease liabilities at January 1, 2019 455.5 1,042.5 1,498.0 Right-of-use assets at January 1, 2019 418.9 632.5 1,051.4 Finance lease receivables at January 1, 2019 5.6 363.4 369.0 The company's lease liabilities, right-of-use assets and finance lease receivables at January 1, 2019 related predominantly to premises. Plan Amendment, Curtailment or Settlement (Amendments to IAS 19) The amendments to IAS 19 Employee Benefits clarify the calculation of current service cost and net interest for the remainder of an annual period when a plan amendment, curtailment or settlement occurs, and are effective for such changes to the company's defined benefit pension and post retirement plans occurring on or after January 1, 2019. Adoption of these amendments on January 1, 2019 did not have a significant impact on the company's consolidated financial statements. IFRIC Interpretation 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments ("IFRIC 23") IFRIC 23 clarifies how IAS 12 Income Taxes should be applied when there is uncertainty over income tax treatments. Adoption of IFRIC 23 on January 1, 2019 did not have a significant impact on the company's consolidated financial statements. IFRS Annual Improvements 2015-2017 The Annual Improvements amended IAS 12 Income Taxes to clarify that the income tax consequences, if any, of dividend distributions are recognized at the same time as the liability to pay those dividends, and that the income tax consequences are recorded in earnings, other comprehensive income, or in equity, according to where the past transactions or events that generated those distributable profits were recorded. Adoption of this amendment on January 1, 2019 did not have a significant impact on the company's consolidated financial statements. New accounting pronouncements issued but not yet effective The following new standards and amendments have been issued by the IASB and were not yet effective for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2019 . The company does not expect to adopt any of them in advance of their respective effective dates. IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts ("IFRS 17") On May 18, 2017 the IASB issued IFRS 17, a comprehensive standard that provides guidance on the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of insurance contracts. IFRS 17 requires entities to measure insurance contract liabilities at their current estimates of fulfillment cash flows using one of three approaches and to discount loss reserves. The standard is effective for the company on January 1, 2021 and must be applied retrospectively with restatement of comparatives unless impracticable. On June 26, 2019 the IASB published an exposure draft proposing targeted amendments to IFRS 17, including a tentative deferral of the effective date to January 1, 2022. The company will continue to monitor the IASB’s developments and assess the effect of any changes to IFRS 17 on the company's implementation plan. Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting ("Conceptual Framework") On March 29, 2018 the IASB issued a revised Conceptual Framework that includes revised definitions of an asset and a liability as well as new guidance on measurement, derecognition, presentation and disclosure. The revised Conceptual Framework does not constitute an accounting pronouncement and will not result in any immediate change to IFRS, but the IASB and IFRS Interpretations Committee will use it in setting future standards. The revised Conceptual Framework is effective for the company beginning on January 1, 2020 and will apply when developing an accounting policy for an issue not addressed by IFRS. Definition of a Business (Amendments to IFRS 3) On October 22, 2018 the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 3 Business Combinations to narrow the definition of a business and clarify the distinction between a business combination and an asset acquisition. The amendments are applied prospectively to all business combinations and asset acquisitions on or after January 1, 2020 and are not expected to have a significant impact on the company's consolidated financial statements. Definition of Material (Amendments to IAS 1 and IAS 8) On October 31, 2018 the IASB issued amendments to IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements and IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors to clarify the definition of "material". The amendments are applied prospectively on or after January 1, 2020 and are not expected to have a significant impact on the company's consolidated financial statements. Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-current (Amendments to IAS 1) On January 23, 2020 the IASB issued amendments to IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements to clarify the criteria for classifying a liability as non-current. The amendments are applied retrospectively on or after January 1, 2022 and are not expected to have a significant impact on the company's consolidated financial statements. Comparatives Certain prior year comparatives have been reclassified to conform with the current year’s presentation. Insurance contract payables is a new line on the consolidated balance sheet, comprised of certain insurance related amounts previously included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Income taxes payable and funds withheld payable to reinsurers were previously presented as separate lines on the consolidated balance sheet and are now included within accounts payable and accrued liabilities and insurance contract payables respectively. The company believes these reclassifications provide a better distinction between payables related to insurance and reinsurance contracts and those related to other aspects of the company's operations including investments, non-insurance companies, leases, and administration. December 31, 2018 Insurance contract payables Amounts previously included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities: Payable to reinsurers 576.4 Ceded deferred premium acquisition costs 254.8 Amounts payable to agents and brokers 93.8 Accrued commissions 87.3 Accrued premium taxes 74.6 Other insurance contract payables 241.9 1,328.8 Funds withheld and other payables to reinsurers (previously presented separately on the consolidated balance sheet) 674.3 Insurance contract payables as presented on the consolidated balance sheet 2,003.1 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities as previously presented on the consolidated balance sheet 4,268.7 Amounts reclassified to insurance contract payables (1,328.8 ) Income taxes payable (previously presented separately on the consolidated balance sheet) 80.1 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities as presented on the consolidated balance sheet 3,020.0

Summary of Significant Accoun_3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Corporate Information And Statement Of IFRS Compliance [Abstract]
Schedule of estimated useful lives of intangible assets	The estimated useful lives of the company's intangible assets are as follows: Customer and broker relationships 8 to 20 years Brand names and Lloyd's participation rights Indefinite Computer software 3 to 15 years
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations	Presented in the table below are details of the lease commitments and obligations included in the company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018, compared to the lease liabilities, right-of-use assets and finance lease receivables recognized on initial application of IFRS 16 at January 1, 2019: Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Operating lease commitments at December 31, 2018 540.2 1,103.5 1,643.7 Adjustments for: Short-term and low value leases (2.0 ) (20.7 ) (22.7 ) Extension and termination options 32.3 106.5 138.8 Lease commitments to be recognized under IFRS 16 570.5 1,189.3 1,759.8 Incremental borrowing rate (weighted average) 4.2 % 5.1 % 4.8 % Present value of lease commitments recognized under IFRS 16 454.4 992.4 1,446.8 Finance lease obligations at December 31, 2018 and other 1.1 50.1 51.2 Lease liabilities at January 1, 2019 455.5 1,042.5 1,498.0 Right-of-use assets at January 1, 2019 418.9 632.5 1,051.4 Finance lease receivables at January 1, 2019 5.6 363.4 369.0
Disclosure of reclassifications or changes in presentation	December 31, 2018 Insurance contract payables Amounts previously included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities: Payable to reinsurers 576.4 Ceded deferred premium acquisition costs 254.8 Amounts payable to agents and brokers 93.8 Accrued commissions 87.3 Accrued premium taxes 74.6 Other insurance contract payables 241.9 1,328.8 Funds withheld and other payables to reinsurers (previously presented separately on the consolidated balance sheet) 674.3 Insurance contract payables as presented on the consolidated balance sheet 2,003.1 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities as previously presented on the consolidated balance sheet 4,268.7 Amounts reclassified to insurance contract payables (1,328.8 ) Income taxes payable (previously presented separately on the consolidated balance sheet) 80.1 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities as presented on the consolidated balance sheet 3,020.0

Cash and Investments (Tables)

Cash and Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Investments and Cash1 [Abstract]
Schedule of cash and investments	Presented in the table below are holding company cash and investments and portfolio investments, net of short sale and derivative obligations, all of which are classified at FVTPL except for investments in associates and other invested assets. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Holding company Cash and cash equivalents (1) 183.9 227.7 Short term investments 128.3 19.8 Bonds 395.9 503.4 Preferred stocks 4.7 4.5 Common stocks (2) 296.9 704.7 Derivatives (note 7) 83.7 75.6 1,093.4 1,535.7 Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations: Short term investments 2.8 13.7 Bonds 2.7 7.8 5.5 21.5 Holding company cash and investments as presented on the consolidated balance sheet 1,098.9 1,557.2 Short sale and derivative obligations (note 7) (0.3 ) (6.6 ) 1,098.6 1,550.6 Portfolio investments Cash and cash equivalents (1) 3,954.5 4,583.7 Short term investments 6,066.8 2,138.3 Bonds 15,618.1 19,256.4 Preferred stocks 578.2 260.1 Common stocks (2) 5,287.6 4,431.4 Investments in associates (note 6) 3,195.8 3,471.9 Derivatives (note 7) 202.7 229.8 Other invested assets (3) 556.4 333.8 35,460.1 34,705.4 Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations: Cash and cash equivalents (1) — 3.0 Short term investments 72.4 36.8 Bonds 74.5 124.8 146.9 164.6 Fairfax India cash, portfolio investments and associates: Cash and cash equivalents (1) 104.7 67.7 Bonds 124.1 576.4 Common stocks 359.7 158.5 Investments in associates (note 6) 1,391.3 1,103.0 1,979.8 1,905.6 Fairfax Africa cash, portfolio investments and associates: Cash and cash equivalents (1) 86.2 231.9 Short term investments 104.0 38.7 Bonds 100.1 92.7 Common stocks — 3.9 Investments in associates (note 6) 232.9 288.1 Derivatives (note 7) 1.6 2.0 524.8 657.3 Portfolio investments as presented on the consolidated balance sheet 38,111.6 37,432.9 Short sale and derivative obligations (note 7) (205.6 ) (142.9 ) 37,906.0 37,290.0 Total investments, net of short sale and derivative obligations 39,004.6 38,840.6 (1) Includes aggregate restricted cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2019 of $691.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $577.1 ). See note 27. (2) Includes aggregate investments in limited partnerships and other funds with carrying values at December 31, 2019 of $2,056.8 and $175.6 ( December 31, 2018 - $2,055.8 and $150.3 ). (3) Comprised primarily of investment property.
Schedule of pledged assets, by nature of pledge requirement	The table that follows summarizes assets pledged to third parties by the nature of the pledge requirement (excluding assets pledged in favour of Lloyd's (note 20), for short sale and derivative obligations and for certain intercompany reinsurance arrangements). Pledged assets primarily consist of cash and cash equivalents, short term investments and bonds within portfolio investments on the consolidated balance sheet. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Regulatory deposits (1) 4,667.4 4,503.3 Security for reinsurance and other (1) 1,106.7 1,200.3 5,774.1 5,703.6 (1) Excludes European Run-off's regulatory deposits of $71.7 and security for reinsurance and other of $65.5 at December 31, 2019 that were included in assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet (note 23).
Schedule of fixed income maturity profile	The table below does not reflect the impact of U.S. treasury bond forward contracts with a notional amount at December 31, 2019 of $846.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $471.9 ) that reduce the company's exposure to interest rate risk (described in note 7). The decrease in the company's holdings of bonds due in 1 year or less and due after 1 year through 5 years was primarily due to net sales and maturities of short-dated U.S. treasury bonds and Canadian government bonds for net proceeds of $4,601.5 and $344.5 , the settlement of bonds issued by EXCO Resources Inc. and Sanmar Chemicals Group (both described in note 6) and the reclassification of bonds at European Run-off to assets held for sale (note 23), partially offset by net purchases of high quality U.S. corporate bonds of $545.1 and purchases of other corporate bonds. Proceeds from net sales of short-dated U.S. treasury bonds were primarily reinvested into U.S. treasury and corporate and other short-term investments. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Amortized cost (1) Fair value (1) Amortized cost (1) Fair value (1) Due in 1 year or less 8,158.1 8,206.3 9,610.5 9,606.5 Due after 1 year through 5 years 5,872.8 5,980.8 9,112.7 9,174.4 Due after 5 years through 10 years 1,227.6 1,242.3 808.4 802.7 Due after 10 years 784.9 886.0 956.9 977.9 16,043.4 16,315.4 20,488.5 20,561.5 Pre-tax effective interest rate 3.6 % 3.5 % (1) Includes bonds held by the holding company, Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa.
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets	During 2019 and 2018 there were no significant transfers of financial instruments between Level 1 and Level 2 and there were no significant transfers of financial instruments in or out of Level 3 as a result of changes in the observability of valuation inputs except as described in the following table which summarizes changes in Level 3 financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis. 2019 Limited partnerships and other (1) Private placement debt securities Derivatives and other invested assets Private company preferred Common shares Private equity funds (1) Total Balance - January 1 1,810.7 1,992.9 476.7 255.7 668.0 170.0 5,374.0 Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in the consolidated statement of earnings 136.0 (159.8 ) 195.9 374.3 132.0 29.9 708.3 Purchases 196.6 424.5 195.3 49.0 25.5 — 890.9 Sales and distributions (251.9 ) (806.6 ) (109.2 ) (108.7 ) (45.4 ) (67.4 ) (1,389.2 ) Transfer out of category (39.0 ) — — — (574.3 ) (2) — (613.3 ) Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations included in other comprehensive income 6.8 23.3 5.8 (1.1 ) (0.2 ) (3.3 ) 31.3 Assets held for sale (note 23) (12.5 ) (54.2 ) (0.2 ) — — — (66.9 ) Balance - December 31 1,846.7 1,420.1 764.3 569.2 205.6 129.2 4,935.1 2018 Limited partnerships and other (1) Private placement debt securities Derivatives and other invested assets Private company preferred Common shares Private equity funds (1) Total Balance - January 1 1,598.7 1,941.1 177.6 283.2 202.2 170.5 4,373.3 Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in the consolidated statement of earnings 155.7 (78.4 ) (44.5 ) (46.0 ) (24.0 ) 10.9 (26.3 ) Purchases 383.1 458.7 362.1 47.7 7.5 2.6 1,261.7 Sales and distributions (316.3 ) (266.3 ) (0.5 ) (24.4 ) (3.5 ) (5.8 ) (616.8 ) Transfer into category — — — — 491.4 (2) — 491.4 Unrealized foreign currency translation losses on foreign operations included in other comprehensive income (10.5 ) (62.2 ) (18.0 ) (4.8 ) (5.6 ) (8.2 ) (109.3 ) Balance - December 31 1,810.7 1,992.9 476.7 255.7 668.0 170.0 5,374.0 (1) Included in common stocks in the fair value hierarchy table presented on the previous page and in holding company cash and investments or common stocks on the consolidated balance sheets. (2) During 2019 the company's investment in ICICI Lombard common stock was transferred from Level 3 to Level 1 as the Indian regulatory selling restriction placed on the company's holdings was removed. Accordingly, the company ceased applying a discount for lack of marketability (an unobservable key valuation input) to the traded market price of those holdings, which had previously been transferred from Level 1 to Level 3 during 2018 . Subsequently during 2019 the company sold its remaining 9.9% equity interest in ICICI Lombard . The company’s use of quoted market prices (Level 1), valuation models with significant observable market information as inputs (Level 2) and valuation models with significant unobservable information as inputs (Level 3) in the valuation of securities and derivative contracts by type of issuer was as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Quoted prices (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Total fair Quoted prices (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Total fair Cash and cash equivalents (1) 4,329.3 — — 4,329.3 5,114.0 — — 5,114.0 Short term investments: Canadian government 373.9 — — 373.9 198.9 — — 198.9 Canadian provincials 755.3 — — 755.3 171.6 — — 171.6 U.S. treasury 3,154.4 — — 3,154.4 758.5 — — 758.5 Other government 220.6 155.2 — 375.8 692.4 122.3 — 814.7 Corporate and other — 1,714.9 — 1,714.9 — 303.6 — 303.6 4,504.2 1,870.1 — 6,374.3 1,821.4 425.9 — 2,247.3 Bonds: Canadian government — 664.4 — 664.4 — 964.7 — 964.7 Canadian provincials — 2.9 — 2.9 — 51.9 — 51.9 U.S. treasury — 5,610.8 — 5,610.8 — 10,464.0 — 10,464.0 U.S. states and municipalities — 216.5 — 216.5 — 363.2 — 363.2 Other government — 1,656.0 — 1,656.0 — 1,593.3 — 1,593.3 Corporate and other — 6,744.7 1,420.1 8,164.8 — 5,131.5 1,992.9 7,124.4 — 14,895.3 1,420.1 16,315.4 — 18,568.6 1,992.9 20,561.5 Preferred stocks: Canadian — 8.4 82.5 90.9 — 7.8 160.5 168.3 U.S. — — 5.0 5.0 — — 5.0 5.0 Other (2) 5.3 — 481.7 487.0 1.1 — 90.2 91.3 5.3 8.4 569.2 582.9 1.1 7.8 255.7 264.6 Common stocks: Canadian 577.9 103.7 114.8 796.4 669.6 96.0 107.7 873.3 U.S. 360.6 33.2 1,029.3 1,423.1 302.0 48.6 1,073.2 1,423.8 Other (3) 2,289.5 397.8 1,037.4 3,724.7 1,056.7 476.9 1,467.8 3,001.4 3,228.0 534.7 2,181.5 5,944.2 2,028.3 621.5 2,648.7 5,298.5 Derivatives and other invested assets — 80.1 764.3 844.4 — 164.3 476.9 641.2 Short sale and derivative obligations (note 7) — (205.9 ) — (205.9 ) — (149.3 ) (0.2 ) (149.5 ) Holding company cash and investments and portfolio investments measured at fair value 12,066.8 17,182.7 4,935.1 34,184.6 8,964.8 19,638.8 5,374.0 33,977.6 35.3 % 50.3 % 14.4 % 100.0 % 26.4 % 57.8 % 15.8 % 100.0 % Investments in associates (note 6) (4) 1,982.9 19.4 4,034.2 6,036.5 2,344.9 36.9 2,841.3 5,223.1 (1) Includes restricted cash and cash equivalents of $691.5 at December 31, 2019 ( December 31, 2018 - $577.1 ). See note 27. (2) Primarily comprised of the company's investment in compulsory convertible preferred shares of Go Digit Infoworks Services Limited ("Digit"). The company also holds a 49.0% equity interest in Digit as described in note 6. (3) Includes other funds invested principally in fixed income securities with a carrying value at December 31, 2019 of $175.6 ( December 31, 2018 - $150.3 ) that are excluded when measuring the company's equity and equity-related exposure. (4) The carrying value of investments in associates is determined using the equity method of accounting so fair value is presented separately in the table above.
Disclosure of fair value measurement of liabilities	The company’s use of quoted market prices (Level 1), valuation models with significant observable market information as inputs (Level 2) and valuation models with significant unobservable information as inputs (Level 3) in the valuation of securities and derivative contracts by type of issuer was as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Quoted prices (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Total fair Quoted prices (Level 1) Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Total fair Cash and cash equivalents (1) 4,329.3 — — 4,329.3 5,114.0 — — 5,114.0 Short term investments: Canadian government 373.9 — — 373.9 198.9 — — 198.9 Canadian provincials 755.3 — — 755.3 171.6 — — 171.6 U.S. treasury 3,154.4 — — 3,154.4 758.5 — — 758.5 Other government 220.6 155.2 — 375.8 692.4 122.3 — 814.7 Corporate and other — 1,714.9 — 1,714.9 — 303.6 — 303.6 4,504.2 1,870.1 — 6,374.3 1,821.4 425.9 — 2,247.3 Bonds: Canadian government — 664.4 — 664.4 — 964.7 — 964.7 Canadian provincials — 2.9 — 2.9 — 51.9 — 51.9 U.S. treasury — 5,610.8 — 5,610.8 — 10,464.0 — 10,464.0 U.S. states and municipalities — 216.5 — 216.5 — 363.2 — 363.2 Other government — 1,656.0 — 1,656.0 — 1,593.3 — 1,593.3 Corporate and other — 6,744.7 1,420.1 8,164.8 — 5,131.5 1,992.9 7,124.4 — 14,895.3 1,420.1 16,315.4 — 18,568.6 1,992.9 20,561.5 Preferred stocks: Canadian — 8.4 82.5 90.9 — 7.8 160.5 168.3 U.S. — — 5.0 5.0 — — 5.0 5.0 Other (2) 5.3 — 481.7 487.0 1.1 — 90.2 91.3 5.3 8.4 569.2 582.9 1.1 7.8 255.7 264.6 Common stocks: Canadian 577.9 103.7 114.8 796.4 669.6 96.0 107.7 873.3 U.S. 360.6 33.2 1,029.3 1,423.1 302.0 48.6 1,073.2 1,423.8 Other (3) 2,289.5 397.8 1,037.4 3,724.7 1,056.7 476.9 1,467.8 3,001.4 3,228.0 534.7 2,181.5 5,944.2 2,028.3 621.5 2,648.7 5,298.5 Derivatives and other invested assets — 80.1 764.3 844.4 — 164.3 476.9 641.2 Short sale and derivative obligations (note 7) — (205.9 ) — (205.9 ) — (149.3 ) (0.2 ) (149.5 ) Holding company cash and investments and portfolio investments measured at fair value 12,066.8 17,182.7 4,935.1 34,184.6 8,964.8 19,638.8 5,374.0 33,977.6 35.3 % 50.3 % 14.4 % 100.0 % 26.4 % 57.8 % 15.8 % 100.0 % Investments in associates (note 6) (4) 1,982.9 19.4 4,034.2 6,036.5 2,344.9 36.9 2,841.3 5,223.1 (1) Includes restricted cash and cash equivalents of $691.5 at December 31, 2019 ( December 31, 2018 - $577.1 ). See note 27. (2) Primarily comprised of the company's investment in compulsory convertible preferred shares of Go Digit Infoworks Services Limited ("Digit"). The company also holds a 49.0% equity interest in Digit as described in note 6. (3) Includes other funds invested principally in fixed income securities with a carrying value at December 31, 2019 of $175.6 ( December 31, 2018 - $150.3 ) that are excluded when measuring the company's equity and equity-related exposure. (4) The carrying value of investments in associates is determined using the equity method of accounting so fair value is presented separately in the table above.
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets	The table below presents the valuation techniques and unobservable inputs used to estimate fair values for the company's significant Level 3 financial assets at December 31, 2019 : Asset class Carrying value Valuation technique Significant unobservable input Input range used Effect on estimated fair value if input value is increased (a) Low High Limited partnerships and other (b)(1) 1,846.7 Net asset value Net asset value N/A N/A Increase Private placement debt securities (c)(2) 1,051.0 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 1.4 % 19.4 % Decrease Private placement debt securities (c)(3) 232.0 Market approach Recent transaction price N/A N/A Increase Derivatives and other invested assets: Investment property (e)(4) 480.5 Income capitalization approach and/or sales comparison approach Terminal capitalization rate 6.8 % 7.5 % Decrease Discount rate 7.3 % 9.0 % Decrease Market rent growth rate 3.0 % 3.0 % Increase Warrants (e)(5) 199.5 Option pricing model Equity volatility 21.3 % 41.0 % Increase CPI-linked derivatives (e)(6) 6.7 Option pricing model Inflation volatility 0.0 % 3.9 % Increase Private company preferred shares (d)(7) 481.7 Market approach Transaction price N/A N/A Increase Discount for lack of marketability 4.5 % 4.5 % Decrease Private company preferred shares (d)(8) 68.6 Discounted cash flow Credit spread 3.6 % 3.6 % Decrease Common shares (b)(9) 76.0 Market comparable Book value multiple 1.4 1.4 Increase Private equity funds (b)(1) 65.4 Net asset value Net asset value N/A N/A Increase Private equity funds (b)(9) 63.8 Market comparable Price/Earnings multiple 10.0 10.0 Increase Other 363.2 Various Various N/A N/A N/A Total 4,935.1 (a) Decreasing the input value would have the opposite effect on the estimated fair value. (b) Included in holding company cash and investments or common stocks on the consolidated balance sheet. (c) Included in holding company cash and investments or bonds on the consolidated balance sheet. (d) Included in preferred stocks on the consolidated balance sheet. (e) Included in holding company cash and investments or derivatives and other invested assets on the consolidated balance sheet. (1) Valued primarily based on net asset value statements provided by third party fund managers and general partners. The fair values in those statements are determined using quoted prices of the underlying assets, and to a lesser extent, observable inputs where available and unobservable inputs, in conjunction with industry accepted valuation models, where required. In some instances, such investments are classified as Level 3 if they require at least three months' notice to liquidate or redeem. Reasonably possible alternative assumptions have not been applied to the estimated fair value of these investments due to their diverse nature and resulting dispersion of prices. At December 31, 2019 limited partnerships and other consisted of 49 investments, the largest being $482.3 . (2) Valued using industry accepted discounted cash flow models that incorporate market unobservable credit spreads of the issuers. At December 31, 2019 this asset class consisted of 16 investments, the largest being $442.1 . By increasing (decreasing) the credit spreads within a reasonably possible range, the fair value of these private placement debt securities would decrease by $14.3 (increase by $14.4 ). (3) At December 31, 2019 this asset class consisted of 6 investments, the largest being $108.1 . (4) Valued by third party appraisers using industry accepted income capitalization and/or sales comparison methodologies that incorporate market unobservable capitalization rates, discount rates and market rent growth rates. (5) Valued using industry accepted option pricing models that incorporate market unobservable long-dated equity volatilities. A higher equity volatility generally results in a higher fair value due to the higher probability of obtaining a greater return from the warrant. (6) Valued based on broker-dealer quotes which utilize market observable inputs except for inflation volatility which is market unobservable. (7) A discount for lack of marketability is applied to the transaction price of preferred shares that the company is restricted from converting into common shares for a specified period, and is determined using an industry accepted option pricing model that incorporates market unobservable long-dated equity volatilities. A higher (lower) equity volatility generally results in a higher (lower) option value and a lower (higher) fair value of the preferred shares. (8) Valued using industry accepted discounted cash flow models that incorporate market unobservable credit spreads of the preferred shares. (9) Fair values are determined by reference to various valuation measures for comparable companies and transactions, including relevant valuation multiples. In some instances, such investments are classified as Level 3 because the valuation multiples applied by the company were adjusted for differences in attributes between the investment and the underlying companies or transactions from which the valuation multiples were derived.
Disclosure of investment income	An analysis of investment income for the years ended December 31 follows: Interest and dividends and share of profit of associates 2019 2018 Interest income: Cash and short term investments 156.5 158.1 Bonds 618.0 555.0 Derivatives and other invested assets 51.8 30.8 826.3 743.9 Dividends: Preferred stocks 11.2 11.0 Common stocks 82.5 70.5 93.7 81.5 Investment expenses (39.8 ) (41.9 ) Interest and dividends 880.2 783.5 Share of profit of associates (1) 169.6 221.1 (1) Includes impairment charges recorded on investments in associates during 2019 of $211.2 ( 2018 - $57.3 ). See note 6.
Schedule of gains (losses) on investment	Net gains (losses) on investments 2019 2018 Net realized gains (losses) Net change in unrealized gains (losses) Net gains Net realized gains (losses) Net change in unrealized gains (losses) Net gains Bonds (59.6 ) (1)(2) 258.1 (1)(2) 198.5 126.2 (335.9 ) (209.7 ) Preferred stocks (23.4 ) 397.3 (3) 373.9 (21.9 ) (10.7 ) (32.6 ) Common stocks 548.0 (4) 377.9 (4) 925.9 196.4 (581.1 ) (384.7 ) 465.0 1,033.3 1,498.3 300.7 (927.7 ) (627.0 ) Derivatives: Equity and equity index total return swaps - short positions 48.2 (5) (93.2 ) (45.0 ) (46.8 ) (5) 8.6 (38.2 ) Equity total return swaps - long positions (34.5 ) (5) 55.0 20.5 (37.2 ) (5) (49.1 ) (86.3 ) Equity warrant forward contracts 83.8 (6) (38.4 ) (6) 45.4 75.4 (6) 38.5 (6) 113.9 Equity warrants and call options (4.7 ) 128.6 123.9 (15.1 ) (54.8 ) (69.9 ) CPI-linked derivatives (14.1 ) 1.8 (12.3 ) — (6.7 ) (6.7 ) U.S. treasury bond forwards (119.3 ) 32.6 (86.7 ) 49.6 (2.9 ) 46.7 Other 9.9 (6) (111.3 ) (6) (101.4 ) 0.1 19.8 (6) 19.9 (30.7 ) (24.9 ) (55.6 ) 26.0 (46.6 ) (20.6 ) Foreign currency net gains (losses) on: Investing activities (17.3 ) (50.7 ) (68.0 ) (7) (43.1 ) (128.2 ) (171.3 ) (7) Underwriting activities 5.6 — 5.6 31.6 — 31.6 Foreign currency contracts 8.3 (9.6 ) (1.3 ) (21.5 ) 29.4 7.9 (3.4 ) (60.3 ) (63.7 ) (33.0 ) (98.8 ) (131.8 ) Gain on disposition of associates 10.9 (8) — 10.9 138.9 (11) — 138.9 Gain on deconsolidation of subsidiary 171.3 (9) — 171.3 889.9 (12) — 889.9 Other 20.3 134.7 (10) 155.0 (0.1 ) 3.6 3.5 Net gains (losses) on investments 633.4 1,082.8 1,716.2 1,322.4 (1,069.5 ) 252.9 (1) On June 28, 2019 EXCO emerged from bankruptcy protection and settled the company's holdings of EXCO bonds with common shares (note 6), resulting in the company recording a net loss on investment of $179.3 (realized losses of $296.3, of which $117.0 was recorded as unrealized losses in prior years). (2) On December 21, 2019 Fairfax India's holdings of Sanmar Chemicals Group ("Sanmar") bonds with a principal amount of $300.0 were settled for net cash proceeds of $425.5 (30.3 billion Indian rupees) including accrued interest, resulting in the company recording a net gain on investment of $48.8 (realized gains of $156.5, of which $107.7 was recorded as unrealized gains in prior years). See note 6. (3) On December 23, 2019 Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited ("Digit") entered into definitive agreements whereby its general insurance subsidiary Go Digit Insurance Limited ("Digit Insurance") subsequently issued approximately $91 (6.5 billion Indian rupees) of new equity shares primarily to three Indian investors. This transaction valued Digit Insurance at approximately $858 (61.2 billion Indian rupees) and resulted in the company recording net unrealized gains on investments of $350.9 on its investment in Digit compulsory convertible preferred shares. The company also holds a 49.0% equity interest in Digit as described in note 6. (4) During 2019 the company sold its 9.9% equity interest in ICICI Lombard for gross proceeds of $729.0 and recognized a net gain on investment of $240.0 (realized gains of $311.2, of which $71.2 was recorded as unrealized gains in prior years), primarily related to the removal of the discount for lack of marketability previously applied by the company to the traded market price of its ICICI Lombard common stock. (5) Amounts recorded in net realized gains (losses) include net gains (losses) on total return swaps where the counterparties are required to cash-settle monthly or quarterly the market value movement since the previous reset date notwithstanding that the total return swap positions remain open subsequent to the cash settlement. (6) Includes the Seaspan forward commitment contracts to invest in Seaspan Tranche 2 debentures and warrants in 2019 and also the equity warrant forward contract to invest in Seaspan $8.05 warrants in 2018. See note 6. (7) Foreign currency net losses on investing activities during 2019 primarily related to U.S. dollar denominated investments held by subsidiaries with a Canadian dollar or British pound functional currency as the U.S. dollar weakened relative to those currencies. Foreign currency net losses on investing activities during 2018 primarily reflected strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Indian rupee and the euro. (8) On April 18, 2019 Brit acquired the 50.0% equity interest in Ambridge Partners LLC ("Ambridge Partners") that it did not already own for $46.6 , remeasured its existing equity interest to fair value for a gain of $10.4 , and commenced consolidating Ambridge Partners. (9) On May 17, 2019 the company deconsolidated Grivalia Properties upon its merger into Eurobank and recognized a non-cash gain of $171.3 . See note 23. (10) During 2019 it was determined that the company will receive additional consideration of $33.9 pursuant to its sale of First Capital in 2017. See note 20. (11) During 2018 the company sold its equity accounted investments in Arbor Memorial Services Inc. and an insurance brokerage for net proceeds of $179.2 (Cdn $235.4 ) and $58.8 (Cdn $76.3 ) and recorded net realized gains of $111.8 and $17.6 (Cdn $22.7 ) respectively. (12) During 2018 Thomas Cook India entered into a joint strategic agreement with the founder of Quess that resulted in Quess becoming a joint venture of Thomas Cook India whereas it was previously a consolidated subsidiary. Accordingly, the company remeasured the carrying value of Quess to its fair value of $1,109.5, recognized a non-cash gain of $889.9 and commenced applying the equity method of accounting. See note 23.

Investments in Associates (Tabl

Investments in Associates (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Interests In Other Entities [Abstract]
Schedule of investments in associates	The company's investments in associates are as follows: December 31, 2019 Year ended December 31, 2019 Carrying value Ownership (a)(e) Fair (b)(e) Associates and joint ventures (e) Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa associates (c) Total Share of profit (loss) Insurance and reinsurance: Eurolife ERB Insurance Group Holdings S.A. ("Eurolife") 50.0 % 403.1 303.9 (d) — 303.9 154.8 Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam Insurance Joint Stock Corporation (“BIC Insurance”) 35.0 % 45.2 48.6 — 48.6 2.7 Thai Re Public Company Limited ("Thai Re") (1) 47.1 % 43.3 43.3 — 43.3 (15.0 ) Singapore Reinsurance Corporation Limited ("Singapore Re") 27.8 % 35.6 39.2 — 39.2 3.2 Falcon Insurance PLC ("Falcon Thailand") 41.2 % 10.4 10.4 — 10.4 0.5 Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited ("Digit") (2) 49.0 % 122.3 — — — (7.6 ) Other (3) — 46.6 46.7 — 46.7 7.9 706.5 492.1 — 492.1 146.5 Non-insurance: India Bangalore International Airport Limited ("Bangalore Airport") (14) 54.0 % 1,429.8 — 689.3 689.3 30.8 Quess Corp Limited ("Quess") (6)(7) 33.2 % 332.1 704.1 (d) — 704.1 (183.2 ) IIFL Finance Limited (“IIFL Finance”) (10) 35.4 % 221.4 56.4 167.2 223.6 198.9 Sanmar Chemicals Group ("Sanmar") (11) 42.9 % 412.9 — 178.7 178.7 — CSB Bank Limited ("CSB Bank") (12) 49.7 % 229.3 — 157.8 157.8 (4.0 ) IIFL Securities Limited ("IIFL Securities") (7)(10) 35.4 % 65.0 30.8 90.3 121.1 1.6 Seven Islands Shipping Limited ("Seven Islands") (13) 48.5 % 88.8 — 84.7 84.7 3.0 Other — 24.3 8.8 23.3 32.1 (0.3 ) 2,803.6 800.1 1,391.3 2,191.4 46.8 Africa Atlas Mara Limited ("Atlas Mara") 42.4 % 78.1 — 82.3 82.3 (54.0 ) AFGRI Holdings Proprietary Limited ("AFGRI") 62.8 % 141.0 — 79.6 79.6 19.5 Other (15) — 66.3 — 71.0 71.0 (6.6 ) 285.4 — 232.9 232.9 (41.1 ) Agriculture Astarta Holding N.V. ("Astarta") (7) 27.4 % 28.9 115.5 — 115.5 (19.1 ) Farmers Edge Inc. ("Farmers Edge") 50.4 % 43.8 41.0 — 41.0 (39.9 ) 72.7 156.5 — 156.5 (59.0 ) Real estate KWF Real Estate Ventures Limited Partnerships ("KWF LPs") (4) — 99.0 99.0 (d) — 99.0 49.8 Other (5) — 80.8 74.7 — 74.7 (5.8 ) 179.8 173.7 — 173.7 44.0 Other Seaspan Corporation ("Seaspan") (8) 32.5 % 994.5 626.9 — 626.9 83.8 EXCO Resources Inc. ("EXCO") (9) 43.3 % 238.2 243.2 — 243.2 21.6 Resolute Forest Products Inc. ("Resolute") (7) 27.7 % 104.0 207.5 — 207.5 (4.9 ) APR Energy plc ("APR Energy") 53.4 % 266.2 189.3 (d) — 189.3 (57.0 ) Peak Achievement Athletics ("Peak Achievement") 42.6 % 163.9 104.4 (d) — 104.4 (5.1 ) Partnerships, trusts and other — 221.7 202.1 — 202.1 (6.0 ) 1,988.5 1,573.4 — 1,573.4 32.4 5,330.0 2,703.7 1,624.2 4,327.9 23.1 Investments in associates 6,036.5 3,195.8 1,624.2 4,820.0 169.6 As presented on the consolidated balance sheet: Investments in associates 3,357.3 3,195.8 Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa investments in associates 2,679.2 1,624.2 6,036.5 4,820.0 December 31, 2018 Year ended December 31, 2018 Carrying value Ownership (a) Fair value (b) Associates and joint ventures Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa associates (c) Total Share of profit (loss) Insurance and reinsurance: Eurolife ERB Insurance Group Holdings S.A. ("Eurolife") 50.0 % 287.7 175.2 (d) — 175.2 18.1 Gulf Insurance Company ("Gulf Insurance") 43.3 % 211.5 174.2 — 174.2 7.3 Thai Re Public Company Limited ("Thai Re") 47.1 % 53.1 53.1 — 53.1 (52.4 ) Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam Insurance Joint Stock Corporation (“BIC Insurance”) 35.0 % 46.0 47.1 — 47.1 0.7 Singapore Reinsurance Corporation Limited ("Singapore Re") 27.8 % 34.5 36.5 — 36.5 0.6 Falcon Insurance PLC ("Falcon Thailand") 41.2 % 9.3 9.3 — 9.3 — Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited ("Digit") 49.0 % 3.4 3.4 — 3.4 (6.8 ) Other — 55.2 55.2 — 55.2 2.8 700.7 554.0 — 554.0 (29.7 ) Non-insurance: India Quess Corp Limited ("Quess") 48.8 % 672.5 1,044.6 (d) — 1,044.6 8.4 Bangalore International Airport Limited ("Bangalore Airport") 54.0 % 704.1 — 674.4 674.4 51.1 IIFL Holdings Limited (“IIFL Holdings”) 35.4 % 818.3 106.2 317.2 423.4 45.3 CSB Bank Limited ("CSB Bank") 36.4 % 93.1 — 93.1 93.1 — Other — 233.2 6.6 18.3 24.9 (1.0 ) 2,521.2 1,157.4 1,103.0 2,260.4 103.8 Africa Atlas Mara Limited ("Atlas Mara") 42.4 % 119.1 — 195.6 195.6 30.8 AFGRI Holdings Propriety Limited ("AFGRI") 60.0 % 149.9 — 57.1 57.1 (13.2 ) Other 35.3 — 35.4 35.4 — 304.3 — 288.1 288.1 17.6 Agriculture Astarta Holding N.V. ("Astarta") 28.2 % 43.1 116.9 — 116.9 (16.3 ) Farmers Edge Inc. ("Farmers Edge") 49.2 % 66.6 66.9 — 66.9 (32.7 ) 109.7 183.8 — 183.8 (49.0 ) Real estate KWF Real Estate Ventures Limited Partnerships ("KWF LPs") — 246.7 247.3 (d) — 247.3 118.6 Other — 116.7 105.7 — 105.7 (2.8 ) 363.4 353.0 — 353.0 115.8 Other Resolute Forest Products Inc. ("Resolute") 33.6 % 240.8 299.8 — 299.8 74.4 APR Energy plc (‘‘APR Energy’’) 67.8 % 303.6 298.4 (d) — 298.4 (10.3 ) Seaspan Corporation ("Seaspan") 21.8 % 300.8 276.8 — 276.8 8.8 Peak Achievement Athletics ("Peak Achievement") 42.6 % 153.5 128.6 (d) — 128.6 (15.1 ) Arbor Memorial Services Inc. ("Arbor Memorial") — — — — — 10.8 Partnerships, trusts and other — 225.1 220.1 — 220.1 (6.0 ) 1,223.8 1,223.7 — 1,223.7 62.6 4,522.4 2,917.9 1,391.1 4,309.0 250.8 Investments in associates 5,223.1 3,471.9 1,391.1 4,863.0 221.1 As presented on the consolidated balance sheet: Investments in associates 3,279.1 3,471.9 Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa investments in associates 1,944.0 1,391.1 5,223.1 4,863.0 (a) Ownership percentages include the effects of financial instruments that are considered in-substance equity. (b) See note 5 for fair value hierarchy information. (c) Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa's associates are domiciled in India and Africa respectively. (d) These investments are joint ventures. (e) Excludes European Run-off's investments in associates and joint ventures with a carrying value of $368.8 and a fair value of $430.5 that were included in assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 and principally comprised of investments in Gulf Insurance, Seaspan, APR Energy and Resolute. See note 23. Insurance and reinsurance associates (1) During 2019 the carrying value of the company's investment in Thai Re exceeded its fair value as determined by the market price of Thai Re shares. The company performed a value-in-use analysis to establish the recoverable amount of its investment in Thai Re and recognized a non-cash impairment charge of $7.5 in share of profit of associates in the consolidated statement of earnings. (2) On December 23, 2019 Digit entered into definitive agreements whereby its general insurance subsidiary Digit Insurance subsequently issued approximately $91 ( 6.5 billion Indian rupees) of new equity shares primarily to three Indian investors. This transaction valued Digit Insurance at approximately $858 ( 61.2 billion Indian rupees) and valued the company's 49.0% equity interest in Digit at $122.3 at December 31, 2019 . The company's 49.0% equity interest in Digit is comprised of a 45.3% interest in Digit common shares and a 3.7% interest through Digit compulsory convertible preferred shares that are considered in-substance equity. Foreign direct ownership in the insurance sector in India is limited to 49.0% and as a result the remainder of the company's investment in Digit compulsory convertible preferred shares are recorded at FVTPL as described in note 5. (3) On April 18, 2019 Brit acquired the 50.0% equity interest in Ambridge Partners that it did not already own for $46.6 , remeasured its existing equity interest to fair value for a gain of $10.4 , and commenced consolidating Ambridge Partners. Non-insurance associates (4) The KWF LPs are partnerships formed between the company and Kennedy-Wilson Holdings, Inc. and its affiliates ("Kennedy Wilson") to invest in U.S. and international real estate. The company participates as a limited partner in the KWF LPs with interests ranging from approximately 50% to 90% . Kennedy Wilson is the general partner and holds the remaining limited partnership interest in each of the KWF LPs. During 2019 the company recorded share of profit of a KWF LP of $57.0 ( €53.6 ) related to the sale of investment property in Dublin, Ireland. The KWF LP was subsequently liquidated and its carrying value reduced to nil when the company received final cash distributions of $169.4 ( €150.0 ). (5) On May 17, 2019 the company deconsolidated Grivalia Properties, which included Grivalia Properties' investments in associates with a carrying value of $68.5 . See note 23. (6) On December 9, 2019 Thomas Cook India completed a non-cash spin-off of its 48.6% equity interest in Quess Corp Limited ("Quess") as a return of capital to its shareholders. This resulted in the company receiving a direct 31.8% joint venture interest in Quess as a transfer between companies under common control, with the company's carrying value of Quess remaining unchanged and subject to impairment testing as described in footnote 7 below. Prior to the spin-off Thomas Cook India recorded the Quess shares to be transferred to its minority shareholders at fair value and recognized a non-cash impairment loss of $190.6, which is included in share of profit of associates in the consolidated statement of earnings and fully attributed to non-controlling interests. (7) At December 31, 2019 certain of the company's associates had carrying values that exceeded their fair values as determined by the market prices of their shares. For each such associate, the company performed a value-in-use analysis based on multi-year free cash flow projections and concluded that no impairment was required as the recoverable amount exceeded carrying value. Key assumptions for each value-in-use analysis are set out in the table below: Associate or joint venture Fair value Carrying value Source of free cash flow projections Discount rate (a) Long term growth rate (b) Summary of other assumptions Quess 332.1 704.1 Quess management 12.8 % 6.0 % Annual capital expenditures reverting to lower historical levels, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and reduced cash taxes payable in the next eight years through utilization of existing tax incentives. Resolute 104.0 207.5 Internal estimates consistent with third party analyst reports 10.3 % 1.5 % Valuation of pension funding liability on a going concern basis, annual capital expenditures reverting to lower historical levels, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and no significant cash taxes payable in the next five years through utilization of existing tax losses. IIFL Securities 65.0 121.1 IIFL Securities management 12.3 % 6.0 % Annual capital expenditures normalizing to levels that are comparable to non-capital intensive service-based peers and working capital requirements comparable to industry peers. Astarta (c) 28.9 115.5 Internal estimates consistent with third party analyst reports 12.7 % 3.0 % Annual capital expenditures consistent with external analyst estimates, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and cash taxes payable at the Ukraine corporate income tax rate for subsidiaries that have not elected to pay the fixed agricultural tax. 530.0 1,148.2 (a) The discount rate is representative of the cost of capital of industry peers. (b) The long term growth rate is consistent with growth expectations for the industry and the economies in which each associate or joint venture operates. (c) The company recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $10.1 on its investment in Astarta during 2019. At December 31, 2019 a value-in-use analysis concluded that no further impairment charge was required. (8) On January 15, 2019 the company fulfilled its commitment to Seaspan Corporation ("Seaspan") to purchase Tranche 2 warrants and debentures for aggregate cash consideration of $250.0 . The Tranche 2 warrants were then immediately exercised to acquire 38.5 million Seaspan Class A common shares for an additional $250.0 . On derecognition of its forward commitments to invest in the Tranche 2 warrants and debentures, the company recorded a net gain on investment of $63.5 (realized gains of $107.6 , of which $44.1 was recorded as unrealized gains in 2018), primarily related to the appreciation of Seaspan's Class A common share price over the commitment period. The total cost of the company's investment in Seaspan is set out in the following table: Financial instruments acquired Date Total investment Tranche 1 debentures and warrants February 14, 2018 250.0 Class A common shares and $8.05 warrants through early exercise of Tranche 1 warrants July 16, 2018 250.0 Tranche 2 debentures and warrants January 15, 2019 250.0 Class A common shares through early exercise of Tranche 2 warrants January 15, 2019 250.0 1,000.0 During 2019 the company recorded share of profit of Seaspan of $83.8 , principally reflecting Seaspan's gain of $227.0 related to the modification of charter arrangements with one of its largest customers. (9) On June 28, 2019 EXCO Resources Inc. ("EXCO") emerged from bankruptcy protection and settled the company's investment in EXCO bonds with newly issued common shares that had a fair value of $220.9 and represented a 42.8% equity interest in EXCO. The company derecognized its EXCO bonds and recorded a net loss on investment of $179.3 (realized losses of $296.3 , of which $117.0 was recorded as unrealized losses in prior years), and applied the equity method of accounting to its investment in EXCO common shares. Fairfax India (10) On May 31, 2019 IIFL Holdings Limited ("IIFL Holdings") spun off its wholly-owned subsidiary IIFL Securities Limited ("IIFL Securities", comprised of investment brokerage, distribution and investment banking businesses) and its 53.3% equity interest in its subsidiary IIFL Wealth Management Limited ("IIFL Wealth", comprised of wealth and asset management businesses) in a non-cash transaction. IIFL Holdings was renamed IIFL Finance Limited ("IIFL Finance", comprised of loans and mortgages businesses) and continues to be publicly listed. The company recorded share of profit of IIFL Holdings of $172.9 , reflecting its share of a gain at IIFL Holdings from the spin-offs, and recorded its initial investments in IIFL Wealth and IIFL Securities at their fair values of $255.6 and $121.9 . Subsequently, the company applied the equity method of accounting to its 35.4% equity interest in each of IIFL Finance and IIFL Securities, and recorded its 19.0% equity interest in IIFL Wealth at FVTPL. The shares of IIFL Wealth and IIFL Securities were listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange and National Stock Exchange of India in September 2019. (11) On December 21, 2019 Fairfax India's holdings of Sanmar Chemicals Group ("Sanmar") bonds with a principal amount of $300.0 were settled for net cash proceeds of $425.5 (30.3 billion Indian rupees) including accrued interest, resulting in the company recording a net gain on investment of $48.8 (realized gains of $156.5, of which $107.7 was recorded as unrealized gains in prior years). Fairfax India reinvested $198.0 (14.1 billion Indian rupees) of the net cash proceeds to increase its equity interest in Sanmar from 30.0% to 42.9% . (12) During 2019 Fairfax India increased its equity interest in CSB Bank Limited ("CSB Bank", formerly The Catholic Syrian Bank Limited) to 49.7% for cash consideration of $81.0 (5.6 billion Indian rupees) . The company continues to apply the equity method of accounting to its investment in CSB Bank primarily because of extensive government regulation of the banking sector in India, including restricted board representation and shareholders being limited to 26.0% of available voting rights. CSB Bank, established in 1920, is headquartered in Thrissur, India, offering banking services through branches and automated teller machines across India. In December 2019 CSB Bank became publicly listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange and National Stock Exchange of India. (13) During 2019 Fairfax India acquired a 48.5% equity interest in Seven Islands Shipping Limited ("Seven Islands") for $83.8 (5.8 billion Indian rupees). Seven Islands is a private shipping company headquartered in Mumbai, India that transports liquid cargo along the Indian coast and in international waters. (14) The fair value and carrying value of the company's investment in Bangalore Airport increased to $1,429.8 and $689.3 at December 31, 2019 from $704.1 and $674.4 at December 31, 2018. The increase in fair value was primarily due to Bangalore Airport's finalization of plans for a third terminal expansion and the development of its monetizable land, which increased the free cash flow projections (a significant unobservable input) used in the company's determination of Bangalore Airport's fair value. At December 31, 2019 the company's 54.0% equity interest in Bangalore Airport was held through its 33.8% ownership interest in Fairfax India. Fairfax Africa (15) On January 4, 2019 Fairfax Africa acquired de facto control of Consolidated Infrastructure Group Limited ("CIG") and commenced consolidating CIG, which included CIG's investments in associates with a fair value of $42.8 . See note 23. Changes in the carrying value of investments in associates for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 Associates Joint ventures Fairfax India associates Fairfax Africa associates Total Balance - January 1 1,465.6 2,006.3 1,103.0 288.1 4,863.0 Share of pre-tax comprehensive income (loss): Share of profit (loss) 111.6 131.1 179.2 (41.1 ) 380.8 Impairment (1) (20.6 ) (190.6 ) — — (211.2 ) Share of other comprehensive income (loss), excluding losses on defined benefit plans 26.2 (3.8 ) (0.7 ) (51.6 ) (29.9 ) Share of losses on defined benefit plans (42.3 ) (0.2 ) (5.5 ) — (48.0 ) 74.9 (63.5 ) 173.0 (92.7 ) 91.7 Dividends and distributions received (160.7 ) (245.0 ) (288.8 ) — (694.5 ) Purchases and acquisitions 677.2 71.6 441.0 45.1 1,234.9 Divestitures and other net changes in capitalization (2) (0.5 ) (221.0 ) (9.7 ) (7.4 ) (238.6 ) Reclassifications (3) (36.7 ) — — — (36.7 ) Assets held for sale (note 23) (316.8 ) (52.0 ) — — (368.8 ) Foreign exchange effect 9.2 (12.8 ) (27.2 ) (0.2 ) (31.0 ) Balance - December 31 1,712.2 1,483.6 1,391.3 232.9 4,820.0 2018 Associates Joint ventures Fairfax India associates Fairfax Africa associates Total Balance - January 1 1,437.0 1,050.0 949.5 219.8 3,656.3 Share of pre-tax comprehensive income (loss): Share of profit 64.6 112.4 83.7 17.7 278.4 Impairment (1) (57.3 ) — — — (57.3 ) Share of other comprehensive income (loss), excluding losses on defined benefit plans (23.9 ) (18.5 ) 0.5 (13.0 ) (54.9 ) Share of losses on defined benefit plans (49.4 ) (0.2 ) — — (49.6 ) (66.0 ) 93.7 84.2 4.7 116.6 Dividends and distributions received (74.2 ) (220.5 ) (6.2 ) — (300.9 ) Purchases and acquisitions 321.7 80.6 155.9 63.3 621.5 Divestitures and other net changes in capitalization (2) (139.0 ) (16.8 ) — 0.3 (155.5 ) Reclassifications (3) — 1,103.6 — — 1,103.6 Foreign exchange effect (13.9 ) (84.3 ) (80.4 ) — (178.6 ) Balance - December 31 1,465.6 2,006.3 1,103.0 288.1 4,863.0 (1) Included in share of profit of associates in the consolidated statement of earnings. (2) Primarily reflects the deconsolidation of Grivalia Properties in 2019 and Quess in 2018 and their respective investments in associates of $68.5 and $12.8 . See note 23. (3) Primarily reflects Brit's consolidation of Ambridge Partners in 2019 and the deconsolidation of Quess (note 23) and Grivalia Properties' consolidation of a former joint venture in 2018.
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units	At December 31, 2019 certain of the company's associates had carrying values that exceeded their fair values as determined by the market prices of their shares. For each such associate, the company performed a value-in-use analysis based on multi-year free cash flow projections and concluded that no impairment was required as the recoverable amount exceeded carrying value. Key assumptions for each value-in-use analysis are set out in the table below: Associate or joint venture Fair value Carrying value Source of free cash flow projections Discount rate (a) Long term growth rate (b) Summary of other assumptions Quess 332.1 704.1 Quess management 12.8 % 6.0 % Annual capital expenditures reverting to lower historical levels, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and reduced cash taxes payable in the next eight years through utilization of existing tax incentives. Resolute 104.0 207.5 Internal estimates consistent with third party analyst reports 10.3 % 1.5 % Valuation of pension funding liability on a going concern basis, annual capital expenditures reverting to lower historical levels, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and no significant cash taxes payable in the next five years through utilization of existing tax losses. IIFL Securities 65.0 121.1 IIFL Securities management 12.3 % 6.0 % Annual capital expenditures normalizing to levels that are comparable to non-capital intensive service-based peers and working capital requirements comparable to industry peers. Astarta (c) 28.9 115.5 Internal estimates consistent with third party analyst reports 12.7 % 3.0 % Annual capital expenditures consistent with external analyst estimates, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and cash taxes payable at the Ukraine corporate income tax rate for subsidiaries that have not elected to pay the fixed agricultural tax. 530.0 1,148.2 (a) The discount rate is representative of the cost of capital of industry peers. (b) The long term growth rate is consistent with growth expectations for the industry and the economies in which each associate or joint venture operates. (c) The company recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $10.1 on its investment in Astarta during 2019. At December 31, 2019 a value-in-use analysis concluded that no further impairment charge was required. Goodwill and intangible assets were allocated to the company's cash-generating units (“CGUs”) as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Goodwill Intangible assets Total Goodwill Intangible assets Total Allied World 938.8 659.2 1,598.0 937.9 710.0 1,647.9 Recipe 279.3 1,035.5 1,314.8 261.8 984.9 1,246.7 Brit 200.2 594.2 794.4 154.3 561.1 715.4 Zenith National 317.6 99.3 416.9 317.6 107.2 424.8 Crum & Forster 188.2 111.7 299.9 185.9 108.3 294.2 Boat Rocker 93.8 154.1 247.9 61.7 62.2 123.9 AGT (1) 174.7 58.9 233.6 — — — Thomas Cook India 150.6 55.8 206.4 133.4 52.7 186.1 Northbridge 92.5 90.9 183.4 87.8 76.6 164.4 Odyssey Group 119.7 62.8 182.5 119.7 57.7 177.4 AMAG Insurance 43.7 102.3 146.0 42.2 101.5 143.7 All other (2) 398.2 172.1 570.3 400.4 152.0 552.4 2,997.3 3,196.8 6,194.1 2,702.7 2,974.2 5,676.9 (1) AGT was acquired on April 17, 2019 as described in note 23. (2) Comprised primarily of balances related to Dexterra, Fairchem, Mosaic Capital, Sterling Resorts, CIG, U.S. Run-off and Pethealth.

Short Sales and Derivatives (Ta

Short Sales and Derivatives (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of notes and other explanatory information [Abstract]
Schedule of derivative financial instruments	The following table summarizes the company’s derivative financial instruments: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Notional amount Cost Fair value Notional Cost Fair value Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities Equity contracts: Equity total return swaps – short positions 369.8 — — 84.6 414.4 — 22.3 13.4 Equity total return swaps – long positions 406.3 — 11.1 3.0 390.3 — 4.8 51.7 Equity warrants and call options (1) 528.1 114.8 200.3 — 652.9 123.7 79.8 — Equity warrant forward contracts (2) — — — — 316.6 — 38.4 — CPI-linked derivative contracts 99,804.7 614.9 6.7 — 114,426.4 668.9 24.9 — U.S. treasury bond forward contracts 846.5 — 3.9 1.7 471.9 — — 30.4 Foreign currency forward and swap contracts (3) — 1.8 55.3 114.5 — — 71.3 53.7 Foreign currency options — 102.7 8.2 — — 48.3 44.9 — Other derivative contracts (2) — 3.4 2.5 2.1 — — 21.0 0.3 Total 288.0 205.9 307.4 149.5 (1) Includes the company's investment in Seaspan $8.05 warrants with a fair value at December 31, 2019 of $164.8 ( December 31, 2018 - $47.3 ). See note 6. (2) Includes the forward commitment to invest in Seaspan Tranche 2 debentures and warrants at December 31, 2018. See note 6. (3) During 2019 the company consolidated AGT (note 23) which included AGT's foreign currency swap liabilities with a fair value of $53.3 at December 31, 2019.
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments	The CPI-linked derivative contracts are summarized as follows: December 31, 2019 Floor rate (1) Average life (in years) Notional amount Weighted Index value at period end Cost Cost in bps (3) Fair value (2) Fair value in bps (3) Unrealized gain (loss) Underlying CPI index Contract (2) U.S. dollars (2) United States 0.0 % 2.7 44,775.0 44,775.0 231.35 256.97 277.5 62.0 1.6 0.4 (275.9 ) United States 0.5 % 4.8 12,600.0 12,600.0 238.30 256.97 39.7 31.5 4.4 3.5 (35.3 ) European Union 0.0 % 2.2 32,525.0 36,509.3 96.57 105.13 263.6 72.2 0.6 0.2 (263.0 ) United Kingdom 0.0 % 2.9 1,800.0 2,384.5 243.79 291.90 13.4 56.2 — — (13.4 ) France 0.0 % 3.1 3,150.0 3,535.9 99.27 104.39 20.7 58.5 0.1 0.3 (20.6 ) 2.8 99,804.7 614.9 6.7 (608.2 ) December 31, 2018 Floor rate (1) Average life (in years) Notional amount Weighted Index value at period end Cost Cost in bps (3) Fair value Fair value in bps (3) Unrealized gain (loss) Underlying CPI index Contract U.S. dollars United States 0.0 % 3.7 46,725.0 46,725.0 231.39 251.23 286.7 61.4 8.0 1.7 (278.7 ) United States 0.5 % 5.8 12,600.0 12,600.0 238.30 251.23 39.4 31.3 15.1 12.0 (24.3 ) European Union 0.0 % 3.0 41,375.0 47,297.6 96.09 104.10 299.3 63.3 1.5 0.3 (297.8 ) United Kingdom 0.0 % 3.9 3,300.0 4,202.9 243.82 285.60 22.8 54.2 — — (22.8 ) France 0.0 % 4.1 3,150.0 3,600.9 99.27 103.16 20.7 57.5 0.3 0.8 (20.4 ) 3.6 114,426.4 668.9 24.9 (644.0 ) (1) Contracts with a floor rate of 0.0% provide a payout at maturity if there is cumulative deflation over the life of the contract. Contracts with a floor rate of 0.5% provide a payout at maturity based on an equivalent weighted average strike price of 250.49 if cumulative inflation averages less than 0.5% per year over the life of the contract. At December 31, 2019 the equivalent weighted average strike price for the United States 0.5% CPI-linked derivative contracts was 244.63 (December 31, 2018 - 243.41). (2) Excludes European Run-off's contracts with a notional amount of $12,054.3 and a fair value of $0.2 referenced to CPI in the United States, European Union and United Kingdom that were included in assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 . See note 23. (3) Expressed as a percentage of the notional amount.

Insurance Contract Liabilities

Insurance Contract Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Insurance Contracts [Abstract]
Disclosure of amounts arising from insurance contracts	Changes in the provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses – January 1 29,081.7 28,610.8 Decrease in estimated losses and expenses for claims occurring in the prior years (166.5 ) (462.7 ) Losses and expenses for claims occurring in the current year (1) 11,927.5 11,165.8 Paid on claims occurring during: the current year (2,830.3 ) (2,474.6 ) the prior years (7,733.7 ) (7,566.3 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries and reinsurance transactions (2) 44.0 564.6 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) (1,830.8 ) — Foreign exchange effect and other 8.3 (755.9 ) Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses – December 31 28,500.2 29,081.7 (1) Includes in 2019 the first quarter 2019 reinsurance transaction and excludes in 2018 the gain of $103.7 related to the Part VII transfer component of the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions, both of which are described in the paragraphs below. (2) Includes in 2018 gross insurance contract liabilities assumed of $553.2 related to the Part VII transfer component of the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions described in the second paragraph The estimated fair value of the company's insurance and reinsurance contracts is as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Fair value Carrying value Fair value Carrying value Insurance contracts 35,248.0 35,722.6 34,560.2 35,353.9 Ceded reinsurance contracts 8,049.4 8,518.5 7,276.2 7,749.9 The following is an analysis of the changes which have occurred in the company's provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses related to U.S. asbestos exposure on a gross and net basis for the years ended December 31: 2019 2018 Gross Net Gross Net Provision for asbestos claims and loss adjustment expenses - January 1 1,217.9 995.3 1,292.1 1,033.3 Losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred 135.4 114.8 138.6 114.3 Losses and loss adjustment expenses paid (164.0 ) (138.4 ) (233.2 ) (170.1 ) Provisions for asbestos claims assumed during the year, at December 31 (1) — — 20.4 17.8 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) (114.7 ) (111.2 ) — — Provision for asbestos claims and loss adjustment expenses - December 31 1,074.6 860.5 1,217.9 995.3 (1) Comprised primarily of the reinsurance component of the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions. Changes in the provision for unearned premiums for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Provision for unearned premiums – January 1 6,272.2 5,951.7 Gross premiums written 17,511.2 15,528.3 Less: gross premiums earned (16,611.0 ) (15,001.4 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 53.6 5.9 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) (6.0 ) — Foreign exchange effect and other 2.4 (212.3 ) Provision for unearned premiums - December 31 7,222.4 6,272.2 The loss development table below shows the provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses at the end of each calendar year, the cumulative payments made in respect of those reserves in subsequent years and the re-estimated amount of each calendar year's provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses as at December 31, 2019 . Calendar year 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 16,049.3 17,232.2 19,648.8 19,212.8 17,749.1 19,816.4 19,481.8 28,610.8 29,081.7 28,500.2 Less: CTR Life (1) 25.3 24.2 20.6 17.9 15.2 14.2 12.8 8.7 8.0 7.0 16,024.0 17,208.0 19,628.2 19,194.9 17,733.9 19,802.2 19,469.0 28,602.1 29,073.7 28,493.2 Cumulative payments as of: One year later 3,355.9 3,627.6 4,323.5 4,081.1 3,801.6 4,441.4 4,608.0 7,564.0 7,732.0 Two years later 5,441.4 6,076.7 7,153.1 6,787.6 6,364.5 7,283.6 7,631.4 12,081.3 Three years later 7,063.1 7,920.3 9,148.0 8,775.5 8,172.7 9,466.5 9,655.9 Four years later 8,333.3 9,333.4 10,702.8 10,212.4 9,561.8 10,914.2 Five years later 9,327.0 10,458.7 11,783.3 11,354.4 10,496.4 Six years later 10,202.6 11,263.6 12,729.6 12,123.4 Seven years later 10,823.4 12,030.0 13,335.1 Eight years later 11,442.7 12,558.1 Nine years later 11,853.3 Reserves re-estimated as of: One year later 15,893.8 17,316.4 19,021.2 18,375.6 16,696.4 19,169.3 19,343.1 27,580.6 28,974.3 Two years later 15,959.7 17,013.6 18,529.4 17,475.0 16,269.2 18,973.6 18,804.8 27,565.9 Three years later 15,705.6 16,721.0 17,820.5 17,307.9 16,114.0 18,502.5 18,752.8 Four years later 15,430.4 16,233.9 17,735.5 17,287.2 15,938.9 18,469.1 Five years later 15,036.2 16,269.6 17,830.5 17,203.5 16,049.6 Six years later 15,099.0 16,331.8 17,791.8 17,340.1 Seven years later 15,252.1 16,340.6 17,931.9 Eight years later 15,279.7 16,535.1 Nine years later 15,447.7 Favourable development 576.3 672.9 1,696.3 1,854.8 1,684.3 1,333.1 716.2 1,036.2 99.4 Favourable development comprised of: Effect of foreign currency translation 239.4 240.8 559.4 471.1 255.3 (216.2 ) (190.8 ) 428.0 (66.6 ) Favourable loss reserve development 336.9 432.1 1,136.9 1,383.7 1,429.0 1,549.3 907.0 608.2 166.0 576.3 672.9 1,696.3 1,854.8 1,684.3 1,333.1 716.2 1,036.2 99.4 (1) Guaranteed minimum death benefit retrocessional business written by Compagnie Transcontinentale de Réassurance ("CTR Life"), a wholly owned subsidiary of the company that was transferred to Wentworth and placed into run-off in 2002. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Gross Ceded Net Gross Ceded Net Provision for unearned premiums 7,222.4 1,583.7 5,638.7 6,272.2 1,290.8 4,981.4 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 28,500.2 6,934.8 21,565.4 29,081.7 6,459.1 22,622.6 Total insurance contract liabilities 35,722.6 8,518.5 27,204.1 35,353.9 7,749.9 27,604.0 Current 15,023.9 3,715.8 11,308.1 14,086.5 3,489.5 10,597.0 Non-current 20,698.7 4,802.7 15,896.0 21,267.4 4,260.4 17,007.0 35,722.6 8,518.5 27,204.1 35,353.9 7,749.9 27,604.0
Disclosure of sensitivity to insurance risk	The table that follows illustrates the potential impact of interest rate fluctuations on the fair value of the company's insurance and reinsurance contracts: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Change in interest rates Fair value of insurance contracts Fair value of reinsurance contracts Fair value of insurance contracts Fair value of reinsurance contracts 100 basis point increase 34,240.4 7,836.5 33,539.0 7,074.1 100 basis point decrease 36,343.0 8,285.1 35,686.3 7,494.8

Reinsurance (Tables)

Reinsurance (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Insurance Contracts [Abstract]
Disclosure of reinsurers' share of amounts arising from insurance contracts	Reinsurers’ share of insurance contract liabilities was comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Gross recoverable from reinsurers Provision for uncollectible reinsurance (1) Recoverable from reinsurers Gross recoverable from reinsurers Provision for uncollectible reinsurance (1) Recoverable from reinsurers Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 6,956.7 (21.9 ) 6,934.8 6,482.3 (23.2 ) 6,459.1 Reinsurers’ share of paid losses 776.9 (139.6 ) 637.3 792.6 (141.6 ) 651.0 Provision for unearned premiums 1,583.7 — 1,583.7 1,290.8 — 1,290.8 9,317.3 (161.5 ) 9,155.8 8,565.7 (164.8 ) 8,400.9 Current 4,314.8 4,121.2 Non-current 4,841.0 4,279.7 9,155.8 8,400.9 (1) Management of credit risk associated with reinsurance recoverables is discussed in note 24. Changes in reinsurers' share of paid losses, unpaid losses and unearned premiums, and the provision for uncollectible reinsurance for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 Paid losses Unpaid losses Unearned Provision for uncollectible reinsurance Recoverable from reinsurers Balance – January 1 792.6 6,482.3 1,290.8 (164.8 ) 8,400.9 Reinsurers’ share of losses paid to insureds 2,299.4 (2,299.4 ) — — — Reinsurance recoveries received (2,277.0 ) — — — (2,277.0 ) Reinsurers’ share of unpaid losses and premiums earned — 3,069.6 (3,381.3 ) — (311.7 ) Premiums ceded to reinsurers — — 3,675.6 — 3,675.6 Change in provision, recovery or write-off of impaired balances (20.6 ) — — 3.4 (17.2 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) and reinsurance transactions 0.2 8.7 2.9 — 11.8 Assets held for sale (note 23) (19.4 ) (241.0 ) — 0.4 (260.0 ) Foreign exchange effect and other 1.7 (63.5 ) (4.3 ) (0.5 ) (66.6 ) Balance – December 31 776.9 6,956.7 1,583.7 (161.5 ) 9,155.8 2018 Paid losses Unpaid losses Unearned Provision for uncollectible reinsurance Recoverable from reinsurers Balance – January 1 593.7 6,216.2 1,169.0 (166.4 ) 7,812.5 Reinsurers’ share of losses paid to insureds 2,233.3 (2,233.3 ) — — — Reinsurance recoveries received (2,012.6 ) — — — (2,012.6 ) Reinsurers’ share of unpaid losses and premiums earned — 2,774.4 (2,935.4 ) — (161.0 ) Premiums ceded to reinsurers — — 3,097.3 — 3,097.3 Change in provision, recovery or write-off of impaired balances (5.5 ) (2.5 ) — (0.2 ) (8.2 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) and reinsurance transactions (1) 0.1 30.1 4.2 — 34.4 Foreign exchange effect and other (16.4 ) (302.6 ) (44.3 ) 1.8 (361.5 ) Balance – December 31 792.6 6,482.3 1,290.8 (164.8 ) 8,400.9 (1) Includes recoverable from reinsurers of $23.9 related to the Part VII transfer component of the RiverStone (UK) acquisition transactions (note 8).

Insurance Contract Receivable_2

Insurance Contract Receivables and Payables (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Insurance Contracts [Abstract]
Disclosure of insurance contract receivables and changes in premiums	Insurance contract receivables were comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Insurance premiums receivable 3,325.0 2,949.8 Reinsurance premiums receivable 1,176.0 1,082.1 Funds withheld receivable 753.7 800.9 Other 211.0 307.5 Provision for uncollectible receivables (30.7 ) (29.6 ) 5,435.0 5,110.7 Current 4,921.5 4,467.1 Non-current 513.5 643.6 5,435.0 5,110.7 Changes in insurance premiums receivable and reinsurance premiums receivable for the years ended December 31 were as follows: Insurance premiums receivable Reinsurance premiums receivable 2019 2018 2019 2018 Balance – January 1 2,949.8 2,752.3 1,082.1 1,086.4 Gross premiums written 13,167.8 11,895.0 4,343.4 3,633.3 Premiums collected (11,516.3 ) (10,344.5 ) (3,288.5 ) (2,772.1 ) Amounts due to brokers and agents (1,284.5 ) (1,220.4 ) (917.2 ) (842.7 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 17.1 4.0 — — Assets held for sale (note 23) (1.7 ) — (22.6 ) — Recovery (impairments) (1.3 ) (1.3 ) 0.3 (1.7 ) Foreign exchange effect and other (5.9 ) (135.3 ) (21.5 ) (21.1 ) Balance – December 31 3,325.0 2,949.8 1,176.0 1,082.1
Disclosure of amounts arising from insurance contract payables	Insurance contract payables were comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Payable to reinsurers 1,469.4 1,122.2 Ceded deferred premium acquisition costs 373.2 254.8 Funds withheld payable to reinsurers 239.1 128.5 Amounts payable to agents and brokers 101.8 93.8 Accrued commissions 95.5 87.3 Accrued premium taxes 82.7 74.6 Other insurance contract payables 229.3 241.9 2,591.0 2,003.1 Current 2,315.4 1,514.2 Non-current 275.6 488.9 2,591.0 2,003.1

Deferred Premium Acquisition _2

Deferred Premium Acquisition Costs (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Insurance Contracts [Abstract]
Schedule of deferred premium acquisition costs	Changes in deferred premium acquisition costs for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Balance – January 1 1,127.3 927.5 Premium acquisition costs deferred 3,271.4 3,012.1 Amortization (3,068.2 ) (2,812.5 ) Assets held for sale (note 23) (1.7 ) — Foreign exchange effect and other 15.5 0.2 Balance – December 31 1,344.3 1,127.3

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill	Goodwill and intangible assets were comprised as follows: Goodwill Intangible assets Total Lloyd's participation rights (1) Customer Brand names (1) Computer software and other (1) Balance - January 1, 2019 2,702.7 503.2 932.8 1,096.8 441.4 5,676.9 Additions 316.2 — 134.9 34.8 218.6 704.5 Disposals — — — — (1.3 ) (1.3 ) Amortization — — (105.5 ) — (117.6 ) (223.1 ) Impairments (2) (43.9 ) — — — (2.9 ) (46.8 ) Foreign exchange effect and other 22.3 — 7.6 49.5 4.5 83.9 Balance - December 31, 2019 2,997.3 503.2 969.8 1,181.1 542.7 6,194.1 Gross carrying amount 3,043.9 503.2 1,391.4 1,181.1 1,071.2 7,190.8 Accumulated amortization — — (421.9 ) — (512.6 ) (934.5 ) Accumulated impairment (46.6 ) — 0.3 — (15.9 ) (62.2 ) 2,997.3 503.2 969.8 1,181.1 542.7 6,194.1 Goodwill Intangible assets Total Lloyd's participation rights (1) Customer Brand names (1) Computer software and other (1) Balance - January 1, 2018 2,904.7 507.9 1,047.8 1,171.4 440.7 6,072.5 Additions 136.4 — 11.2 11.9 134.9 294.4 Disposals (227.1 ) — (8.2 ) (8.5 ) (4.1 ) (247.9 ) Amortization — — (99.3 ) — (96.3 ) (195.6 ) Impairments (2.6 ) (4.3 ) (0.2 ) — (1.2 ) (8.3 ) Foreign exchange effect and other (108.7 ) (0.4 ) (18.5 ) (78.0 ) (32.6 ) (238.2 ) Balance - December 31, 2018 2,702.7 503.2 932.8 1,096.8 441.4 5,676.9 Gross carrying amount 2,712.3 507.5 1,247.0 1,096.8 852.8 6,416.4 Accumulated amortization — — (314.0 ) — (398.6 ) (712.6 ) Accumulated impairment (9.6 ) (4.3 ) (0.2 ) — (12.8 ) (26.9 ) 2,702.7 503.2 932.8 1,096.8 441.4 5,676.9 (1) Indefinite-lived intangible assets not subject to amortization had an aggregate carrying value at December 31, 2019 of $1,790.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $1,700.5 ). (2) Non-cash impairment charges recorded in other expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings by the non-insurance companies and principally attributable to non-controlling interests.
Schedule goodwill and intangible asset allocation to CGUs	At December 31, 2019 certain of the company's associates had carrying values that exceeded their fair values as determined by the market prices of their shares. For each such associate, the company performed a value-in-use analysis based on multi-year free cash flow projections and concluded that no impairment was required as the recoverable amount exceeded carrying value. Key assumptions for each value-in-use analysis are set out in the table below: Associate or joint venture Fair value Carrying value Source of free cash flow projections Discount rate (a) Long term growth rate (b) Summary of other assumptions Quess 332.1 704.1 Quess management 12.8 % 6.0 % Annual capital expenditures reverting to lower historical levels, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and reduced cash taxes payable in the next eight years through utilization of existing tax incentives. Resolute 104.0 207.5 Internal estimates consistent with third party analyst reports 10.3 % 1.5 % Valuation of pension funding liability on a going concern basis, annual capital expenditures reverting to lower historical levels, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and no significant cash taxes payable in the next five years through utilization of existing tax losses. IIFL Securities 65.0 121.1 IIFL Securities management 12.3 % 6.0 % Annual capital expenditures normalizing to levels that are comparable to non-capital intensive service-based peers and working capital requirements comparable to industry peers. Astarta (c) 28.9 115.5 Internal estimates consistent with third party analyst reports 12.7 % 3.0 % Annual capital expenditures consistent with external analyst estimates, working capital requirements comparable to industry peers and cash taxes payable at the Ukraine corporate income tax rate for subsidiaries that have not elected to pay the fixed agricultural tax. 530.0 1,148.2 (a) The discount rate is representative of the cost of capital of industry peers. (b) The long term growth rate is consistent with growth expectations for the industry and the economies in which each associate or joint venture operates. (c) The company recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $10.1 on its investment in Astarta during 2019. At December 31, 2019 a value-in-use analysis concluded that no further impairment charge was required. Goodwill and intangible assets were allocated to the company's cash-generating units (“CGUs”) as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Goodwill Intangible assets Total Goodwill Intangible assets Total Allied World 938.8 659.2 1,598.0 937.9 710.0 1,647.9 Recipe 279.3 1,035.5 1,314.8 261.8 984.9 1,246.7 Brit 200.2 594.2 794.4 154.3 561.1 715.4 Zenith National 317.6 99.3 416.9 317.6 107.2 424.8 Crum & Forster 188.2 111.7 299.9 185.9 108.3 294.2 Boat Rocker 93.8 154.1 247.9 61.7 62.2 123.9 AGT (1) 174.7 58.9 233.6 — — — Thomas Cook India 150.6 55.8 206.4 133.4 52.7 186.1 Northbridge 92.5 90.9 183.4 87.8 76.6 164.4 Odyssey Group 119.7 62.8 182.5 119.7 57.7 177.4 AMAG Insurance 43.7 102.3 146.0 42.2 101.5 143.7 All other (2) 398.2 172.1 570.3 400.4 152.0 552.4 2,997.3 3,196.8 6,194.1 2,702.7 2,974.2 5,676.9 (1) AGT was acquired on April 17, 2019 as described in note 23. (2) Comprised primarily of balances related to Dexterra, Fairchem, Mosaic Capital, Sterling Resorts, CIG, U.S. Run-off and Pethealth.

Other Assets (Tables)

Other Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]
Disclosure of information for other assets	Other assets were comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Premises and equipment 367.8 1,319.9 1,687.7 374.8 867.7 1,242.5 Right-of-use assets (notes 3 and 22) 385.4 635.2 1,020.6 — — — Inventories — 694.5 694.5 — 455.5 455.5 Other revenue receivables — 583.5 583.5 — 390.9 390.9 Finance lease receivables (notes 3 and 22) 8.8 367.1 375.9 — — — Prepaid expenses 113.2 168.9 282.1 89.9 117.3 207.2 Accrued interest and dividends 195.7 10.8 206.5 162.0 11.2 173.2 Income taxes refundable 126.3 42.7 169.0 123.0 29.3 152.3 Sales tax and other taxes receivable 22.3 102.6 124.9 24.8 68.9 93.7 Prepaid losses on claims 114.4 — 114.4 98.9 — 98.9 Deferred compensation plans 87.4 — 87.4 80.5 — 80.5 Pension surplus (note 21) 51.9 — 51.9 64.0 — 64.0 Non-insurance companies' investment property (note 23) — — — — 1,157.9 1,157.9 Other 490.3 118.6 608.9 327.8 123.9 451.7 1,963.5 4,043.8 6,007.3 1,345.7 3,222.6 4,568.3 Current 789.7 1,668.1 2,457.8 614.5 947.8 1,562.3 Non-current 1,173.8 2,375.7 3,549.5 731.2 2,274.8 3,006.0 1,963.5 4,043.8 6,007.3 1,345.7 3,222.6 4,568.3

Accounts Payable and Accrued _2

Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Subclassifications of assets, liabilities and equities [abstract]
Schedule of accounts payable and accrued liabilities	Accounts payable and accrued liabilities were comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Lease liabilities (notes 3 and 22) 434.3 1,062.1 1,496.4 — — — Payables related to cost of sales — 778.4 778.4 — 616.8 616.8 Salaries and employee benefit liabilities 354.9 79.7 434.6 315.1 61.2 376.3 Deferred gift card, hospitality and other revenue 21.2 351.6 372.8 24.7 336.4 361.1 Pension and post retirement liabilities (note 21) 338.8 21.8 360.6 232.0 21.1 253.1 Amounts withheld and accrued taxes 314.7 31.5 346.2 269.8 29.5 299.3 Advances and deposits from customers — 109.6 109.6 — 55.9 55.9 Income taxes payable 47.5 30.9 78.4 58.2 21.9 80.1 Accrued legal and professional fees 57.3 11.4 68.7 61.1 10.7 71.8 Accrued interest expense 64.9 2.2 67.1 63.2 3.0 66.2 Accrued rent, storage and facilities costs 16.4 8.8 25.2 26.9 103.7 130.6 Amounts payable for securities purchased but not yet settled 6.2 — 6.2 19.2 29.8 49.0 Administrative and other 423.8 246.1 669.9 433.7 226.1 659.8 2,080.0 2,734.1 4,814.1 1,503.9 1,516.1 3,020.0 Current 869.9 1,594.1 2,464.0 870.4 1,173.6 2,044.0 Non-current 1,210.1 1,140.0 2,350.1 633.5 342.5 976.0 2,080.0 2,734.1 4,814.1 1,503.9 1,516.1 3,020.0

Borrowings (Tables)

Borrowings (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Borrowings [abstract]
Disclosure of the schedule of debt	Changes in the carrying values of borrowings for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Holding company Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Holding company Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Balance – January 1 3,859.5 995.7 1,625.2 6,480.4 3,475.1 1,373.0 1,566.0 6,414.1 Cash inflows from issuances 456.5 — 302.7 759.2 1,490.7 — 664.0 2,154.7 Cash outflows from repayments (326.5 ) (0.2 ) (308.5 ) (635.2 ) (928.8 ) (317.7 ) (660.6 ) (1,907.1 ) Net cash inflows (outflows) from credit facilities and short term loans — 132.1 (16.9 ) 115.2 — (42.2 ) 41.4 (0.8 ) Non-cash changes: Acquisitions (note 23) — — 687.7 687.7 — — 218.1 218.1 Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23) — — (246.2 ) (246.2 ) — — (141.6 ) (141.6 ) Loss on redemption 23.7 — — 23.7 58.9 — — 58.9 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) — (91.4 ) — (91.4 ) — — — — Foreign exchange effect and other 104.1 3.4 31.7 139.2 (236.4 ) (17.4 ) (62.1 ) (315.9 ) Balance – December 31 4,117.3 1,039.6 2,075.7 7,232.6 3,859.5 995.7 1,625.2 6,480.4 December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Principal Carrying value (a) Fair value (b) Principal Carrying value (a) Fair value (b) Borrowings - holding company Fairfax unsecured notes: 6.40% due May 25, 2021 (Cdn$400.0) (d)(1) — — — 289.6 288.7 310.2 5.84% due October 14, 2022 (Cdn$450.0) (d) 343.9 345.9 373.8 326.5 329.2 352.9 4.50% due March 22, 2023 (Cdn$400.0) 308.5 307.0 326.0 292.9 290.9 301.7 4.142% due February 7, 2024 (3) 85.0 85.0 85.1 — — — 4.875% due August 13, 2024 (d) 282.5 280.0 300.8 282.5 279.5 288.2 4.95% due March 3, 2025 (Cdn$350.0) (d) 269.9 267.1 293.1 256.3 252.9 267.2 8.30% due April 15, 2026 (e) 91.8 91.6 116.1 91.8 91.6 109.5 4.70% due December 16, 2026 (Cdn$450.0) 347.0 345.1 370.0 329.5 327.2 334.3 4.25% due December 6, 2027 (Cdn$650.0) 501.3 499.3 515.7 475.9 473.7 462.1 2.75% due March 29, 2028 ( € 750.0) 841.9 827.0 910.2 857.4 840.7 854.5 4.85% due April 17, 2028 600.0 595.2 648.9 600.0 594.6 576.3 4.23% due June 14, 2029 (Cdn$500.0) (2) 385.6 383.6 391.4 — — — 7.75% due July 15, 2037 91.3 90.5 113.8 91.3 90.5 106.7 4,148.7 4,117.3 4,444.9 3,893.7 3,859.5 3,963.6 Borrowings - insurance and reinsurance companies Odyssey Group floating rate unsecured senior notes due 2021 90.0 90.0 92.5 90.0 89.9 92.4 Allied World 4.35% senior notes due October 29, 2025 500.0 506.1 524.1 500.0 507.2 490.4 Allied World revolving credit facility and other borrowings 39.4 43.0 46.4 39.6 43.5 43.2 Zenith National 8.55% debentures due August 1, 2028 (d) 38.5 38.3 38.3 38.5 38.2 38.2 Brit 6.625% subordinated notes due December 9, 2030 (£135.0) 178.8 180.8 181.2 171.9 176.1 174.3 Brit floating rate revolving credit facility (4) 140.0 140.0 140.0 7.9 7.9 7.9 Advent floating rate unsecured senior notes due 2026 (d)(f) — — — 46.0 45.0 46.0 Advent floating rate subordinated notes due June 3, 2035 (d)(f) — — — 47.7 46.5 44.7 First Mercury trust preferred securities due 2036 and 2037 41.4 41.4 41.3 41.4 41.4 41.4 1,028.1 1,039.6 1,063.8 983.0 995.7 978.5 Borrowings - non-insurance companies (c) Fairfax India floating rate term loans (5) 550.0 547.2 550.0 550.0 547.2 550.0 Fairfax India subsidiary borrowings 155.1 155.1 155.1 183.8 183.8 183.8 AGT credit facilities, senior notes and loans (note 23) (6) 435.7 432.8 433.1 — — — Recipe term loans and credit facilities 413.5 410.7 410.8 328.0 326.9 326.9 Boat Rocker demand loans and revolving credit facilities 147.6 147.6 147.5 80.3 80.3 80.3 Fairfax Africa subsidiary borrowings (7) 102.4 102.4 102.4 — — — Fairfax Africa credit facility — — — 30.0 29.5 29.5 Grivalia Properties term loans and revolving facility (note 23) — — — 254.2 254.2 254.2 Loans and revolving credit facilities primarily at floating rates 279.9 279.9 277.7 203.4 203.3 203.3 2,084.2 2,075.7 2,076.6 1,629.7 1,625.2 1,628.0 Total debt 7,261.0 7,232.6 7,585.3 6,506.4 6,480.4 6,570.1 (a) Principal net of unamortized issue costs and discounts (premiums). (b) Based principally on quoted market prices with the remainder based on discounted cash flow models using market observable inputs (Levels 1 and 2 respectively in the fair value hierarchy). (c) These borrowings are non-recourse to the holding company. (d) Issuer may redeem any time at prices specified in the instrument's offering document. (e) Not redeemable prior to the contractual maturity date. (f) European Run-off's borrowings at December 31, 2019 with a carrying value of $91.4 are presented as liabilities associated with assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet. See note 23. During 2019 the company and its subsidiaries completed the following debt transactions: (1) On July 15, 2019 the company redeemed its remaining Cdn $395.6 principal amount of 6.40% unsecured senior notes due May 25, 2021 for cash consideration of $329.1 (Cdn $429.0 ) including accrued interest, and recognized a loss on repurchase of long term debt of $23.7 (Cdn $30.7 ). (2) On June 14, 2019 the company completed an offering of Cdn $500.0 principal amount of 4.23% unsecured senior notes due June 14, 2029 at an issue price of 99.952 for net proceeds after discount, commissions and expenses of $371.5 (Cdn $497.3 ). Commissions and expenses of $1.9 (Cdn $2.5 ) were included in the carrying value of the notes. On July 15, 2019 the company designated these senior notes as a hedge of a portion of its net investment in Canadian subsidiaries. (3) On February 7, 2019 the company completed an offering of $85.0 principal amount of 4.142% unsecured senior notes due February 7, 2024 at an issue price of 100.0 for net proceeds of $85.0 . Commissions and expenses of $0.6 were reimbursed to the company by the sole purchaser of the notes. (4) During 2019 Brit borrowed an additional $132.1 on its revolving credit facility. (5) On June 28, 2019 Fairfax India extended its $550.0 principal amount floating rate term loan for one year (with a one year extension option) and entered into a $50.0 revolving credit facility that was not borrowed on at December 31, 2019. (6) On April 17, 2019 the company consolidated AGT's borrowings (note 23) which primarily included a Cdn $525.0 floating rate secured senior credit facility maturing on March 16, 2020. At December 31, 2019 there was $386.9 (Cdn $501.7 ) borrowed on this credit facility. Subsequent to December 31, 2019 the credit facility was renewed and matures on March 15, 2021. (7) On January 4, 2019 Fairfax Africa consolidated CIG's borrowings which primarily included floating rate unsecured senior notes due 2020, trade finance and overdraft facilities. Refer to note 23 for details of the acquisition of CIG.
Disclosure of borrowing repayments	Principal repayments on borrowings are due as follows: 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Thereafter Total Holding company — — 343.9 308.5 367.5 3,128.8 4,148.7 Insurance and reinsurance companies 140.0 90.0 — — — 798.1 1,028.1 Non-insurance companies 1,304.9 100.8 291.9 75.8 39.0 271.8 2,084.2 Total 1,444.9 190.8 635.8 384.3 406.5 4,198.7 7,261.0

Total Equity (Tables)

Total Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Share Capital, Reserves And Other Equity Interest [Abstract]
Disclosure of classes of share capital	The number of shares outstanding was as follows: 2019 2018 Subordinate voting shares – January 1 26,489,177 27,002,303 Purchases for cancellation (249,361 ) (187,476 ) Treasury shares acquired (229,189 ) (415,538 ) Treasury shares reissued 71,672 89,888 Subordinate voting shares – December 31 26,082,299 26,489,177 Multiple voting shares – beginning and end of year 1,548,000 1,548,000 Interest in multiple and subordinate voting shares held through ownership interest in shareholder – beginning and end of year (799,230 ) (799,230 ) Common stock effectively outstanding – December 31 26,831,069 27,237,947
Dividends paid	Dividends paid by the company on its outstanding multiple voting and subordinate voting shares were as follows: Date of declaration Date of record Date of payment Dividend per share Total cash payment January 3, 2020 January 17, 2020 January 28, 2020 $10.00 $275.7 January 3, 2019 January 18, 2019 January 28, 2019 $10.00 $278.0 January 3, 2018 January 18, 2018 January 25, 2018 $10.00 $283.2
Schedule of preferred shares	The terms of the company's cumulative five-year rate reset preferred shares at December 31, 2019 were as follows: Next possible redemption and conversion date (1)(2) Number of shares outstanding (3) Carrying value (3) Stated capital (3) Liquidation preference per share Fixed dividend rate per annum Floating dividend rate per annum (4) Series C December 31, 2024 7,515,642 $ 170.8 Cdn $ 187.9 Cdn $ 25.00 4.71 % — Series D December 31, 2024 2,484,358 $ 56.4 Cdn $ 62.1 Cdn $ 25.00 — 4.80 % Series E March 31, 2020 3,967,134 $ 90.8 Cdn $ 99.2 Cdn $ 25.00 2.91 % — Series F March 31, 2020 3,572,044 $ 81.8 Cdn $ 89.3 Cdn $ 25.00 — 3.81 % Series G September 30, 2020 7,432,952 $ 175.3 Cdn $ 185.8 Cdn $ 25.00 3.32 % — Series H September 30, 2020 2,567,048 $ 60.6 Cdn $ 64.2 Cdn $ 25.00 — 4.21 % Series I December 31, 2020 10,465,553 $ 251.6 Cdn $ 261.6 Cdn $ 25.00 3.71 % — Series J December 31, 2020 1,534,447 $ 36.9 Cdn $ 38.4 Cdn $ 25.00 — 4.50 % Series K March 31, 2022 9,500,000 $ 231.7 Cdn $ 237.5 Cdn $ 25.00 4.67 % — Series M March 31, 2020 9,200,000 $ 179.6 Cdn $ 230.0 Cdn $ 25.00 4.75 % — $ 1,335.5 Cdn $ 1,456.0 (1) Fixed and floating rate cumulative preferred shares are redeemable by the company at each stated redemption date and on each subsequent five-year anniversary date at Cdn $25.00 per share. (2) Holders of Series C, Series E, Series G, Series I, Series K and Series M fixed rate cumulative preferred shares will have the option to convert their shares into Series D, Series F, Series H, Series J, Series L and Series N floating rate cumulative preferred shares respectively, at the specified conversion dates, and on each subsequent five-year anniversary date. Holders of Series D, Series F, Series H and Series J floating rate cumulative preferred shares will have the option to convert their shares into Series C, Series E, Series G and Series I fixed rate cumulative preferred shares respectively, at the specified conversion dates, and on each subsequent five-year anniversary date. (3) For each series of preferred shares, the number of shares outstanding, carrying value and stated capital have remained consistent at January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2019 except for the net conversion of 1,499,258 Series D floating rate cumulative preferred shares with aggregate carrying value of $34.1 and stated capital of Cdn $37.5 into an equal number of Series C fixed rate cumulative preferred shares on December 31, 2019. (4) The Series D, Series F, Series H, and Series J preferred shares, and the Series L and Series N preferred shares (of which none are currently issued), have a floating dividend rate equal to the three-month Government of Canada treasury bill yield plus 3.15% , 2.16% , 2.56% , 2.85% , 3.51% and 3.98% respectively, with rate resets at the end of each calendar quarter.
Schedule of AOCI	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to shareholders of Fairfax was comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Pre-tax (Provision for) recovery of income tax After-tax Pre-tax Recovery of income tax After-tax Items that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings Currency translation account (423.4 ) 1.4 (422.0 ) (405.1 ) 5.7 (399.4 ) Share of accumulated other comprehensive loss of associates, excluding share of net losses on defined benefit plans of associates (79.3 ) (2.4 ) (81.7 ) (68.2 ) 4.1 (64.1 ) (502.7 ) (1.0 ) (503.7 ) (473.3 ) 9.8 (463.5 ) Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to net earnings Net losses on defined benefit plans (147.7 ) 36.2 (111.5 ) (49.2 ) 7.1 (42.1 ) Share of net losses on defined benefit plans of associates (120.9 ) 15.1 (105.8 ) (78.0 ) 9.0 (69.0 ) Other (0.8 ) 10.1 9.3 (0.8 ) 10.1 9.3 (269.4 ) 61.4 (208.0 ) (128.0 ) 26.2 (101.8 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to shareholders of Fairfax (772.1 ) 60.4 (711.7 ) (601.3 ) 36.0 (565.3 )
Disclosure of non-controlling interests	Details of non-controlling interests as at and for the years ended December 31 were as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Net earnings (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests Subsidiary Domicile Minority voting percentage Carrying value Minority voting percentage Carrying value 2019 2018 Allied World (1) Bermuda 29.9 % 1,256.3 32.2 % 1,196.6 88.1 6.1 Fairfax India (2) Canada 6.2 % 1,117.2 6.2 % 1,095.4 59.0 81.9 Recipe (3) Canada 38.4 % 437.5 43.1 % 494.3 28.5 33.6 Brit (4) U.K. 10.7 % 197.4 11.1 % 181.9 15.8 (1.7 ) Fairfax Africa (5) Canada 1.5 % 195.6 1.7 % 267.2 (41.4 ) (1.6 ) Thomas Cook India (6) India 33.1 % 93.8 33.1 % 434.5 (186.2 ) 283.4 Grivalia Properties (7) Greece — — 47.3 % 473.1 8.5 28.6 All other (8) — — 231.3 — 107.4 (5.2 ) 11.6 3,529.1 4,250.4 (32.9 ) 441.9 (1) On April 29, 2019 Allied World paid a dividend of $126.4 (April 30, 2018 - $61.3 ) to its minority shareholders (OMERS, AIMCo and others). On November 30, 2019 the company made a capital contribution of $320.8 to Allied World which increased its ownership interest to 70.1% from 67.8% . During 2019 Allied World redomesticated from Switzerland to Bermuda. (2) Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests of Fairfax India in 2019 primarily reflected the non-controlling interests' 66.2% share of Fairfax India's share of a spin-off gain at IIFL Holdings on May 31, 2019 (note 6). (3) The decrease in the carrying value of Recipe's non-controlling interests at December 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 primarily reflected Recipe's purchase of its common shares for cancellation ( $85.3 ) and the company's purchase of multiple voting shares from Recipe's non-controlling interests ( $20.2 ), partially offset by the non-controlling interests' share of Recipe's net earnings ( $28.5 ). (4) On April 29, 2019 Brit paid a dividend of $20.6 to its minority shareholder (OMERS). During 2019 Brit received capital contributions from the company of $70.6 primarily to support its underwriting plans. Subsequent to these transactions, the company’s ownership interest in Brit increased to 89.3% from 88.9% at December 31 , 2018. (5) The decrease in the carrying value of Fairfax Africa's non-controlling interests at December 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 primarily reflected net losses at CIG and share of loss of Atlas Mara (note 6), partially offset by the consolidation of CIG (note 23). (6) The decrease in carrying value of Thomas Cook India's non-controlling interests at December 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 and the net loss attributable to non-controlling interests during 2019 primarily reflected Thomas Cook India's spin-off of its investment in Quess to its shareholders (note 6). Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests during 2018 primarily reflected the non-controlling interests' 33.0% share of a non-cash remeasurement gain ( $889.9 ) related to the deconsolidation of Quess (note 23). (7) On May 17, 2019 the company deconsolidated Grivalia Properties upon the merger of Grivalia Properties into Eurobank (note 23). (8) The increase in carrying value at December 31, 2019 compared to December 31, 2018 primarily related to the acquisition of AGT (note 23) and acquisitions by Boat Rocker.
Schedule Of Capitalization	2019 2018 Retained earnings Non-controlling interests Retained earnings Non-controlling interests Thomas Cook India's spin-off of its investment in Quess — (147.2 ) — — Purchase of multiple voting shares from Recipe's non-controlling interests and Recipe's share repurchases (15.5 ) (105.5 ) — — Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa share repurchases 1.7 (31.8 ) — — Dividends paid to co-investors in Allied World and Brit (104.1 ) 104.1 (86.5 ) 86.5 Boat Rocker issuance of preferred shares — 20.0 — — Additional investments in Brit — — (63.9 ) (233.5 ) Recipe's acquisition of The Keg — — (9.3 ) (79.1 ) Fairfax Africa secondary public offering — — 3.9 86.6 Other 8.8 28.7 (29.4 ) (67.2 ) As presented in other net changes in capitalization in the consolidated statement of changes in equity (109.1 ) (131.7 ) (185.2 ) (206.7 )

Earnings per Share (Tables)

Earnings per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Earnings per share [abstract]
Schedule of earnings per share	Net earnings per share is calculated using the weighted average common shares outstanding as follows: 2019 2018 Net earnings attributable to shareholders of Fairfax 2,004.1 376.0 Preferred share dividends (45.8 ) (45.1 ) Net earnings attributable to common shareholders – basic and diluted 1,958.3 330.9 Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic 26,901,184 27,505,896 Share-based payment awards 1,159,352 890,985 Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted 28,060,536 28,396,881 Net earnings per common share – basic $72.80 $12.03 Net earnings per common share – diluted $69.79 $11.65

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Income Taxes [Abstract]
The company's provision for (recovery of) income taxes	The company’s provision for income taxes for the years ended December 31 were comprised as follows: 2019 2018 Current income tax: Current year expense 175.0 144.1 Adjustments to prior years’ income taxes 2.7 5.1 177.7 149.2 Deferred income tax: Origination and reversal of temporary differences 87.5 (108.1 ) Adjustments to prior years' deferred income taxes (17.1 ) (1.6 ) Other 13.4 4.7 83.8 (105.0 ) Provision for income taxes 261.5 44.2
Earnings before income taxes by jurisdiction	The company’s earnings (loss) before income taxes by jurisdiction and the associated provision for (recovery of) income taxes for the years ended December 31 are summarized in the following table: 2019 2018 Canada (1) U.S. (2) U.K. (3) Other (4) Total Canada (1) U.S. (2) U.K. (3) Other (4) Total Earnings (loss) before income taxes 183.4 848.0 244.7 956.6 2,232.7 54.7 (78.2 ) (115.4 ) 1,001.0 862.1 Provision for (recovery of) income taxes 79.3 23.5 24.0 134.7 261.5 47.4 (27.2 ) (24.0 ) 48.0 44.2 Net earnings (loss) 104.1 824.5 220.7 821.9 1,971.2 7.3 (51.0 ) (91.4 ) 953.0 817.9 (1) Includes Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa. (2) Principally comprised of Crum & Forster, Zenith National, Odyssey Group (notwithstanding that certain operations of Odyssey Group conduct business outside of the U.S.), U.S. Run-off and other associated holding company results. (3) Principally comprised of Brit, European Run-off and other associated holding company results. (4) Includes companies in India, Asia and Europe (excluding the U.K.), and Allied World (the majority of Allied World's net earnings (loss) is sourced from its Bermuda operations notwithstanding certain of its operations conduct business in the U.S. and the U.K.).
Reconciliations of the provision for (recovery of) income taxes	Reconciliations of the provision for income taxes calculated at the Canadian statutory income tax rate to the provision for income taxes at the effective tax rate in the consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31 are summarized in the following table: 2019 2018 Canadian statutory income tax rate 26.5 % 26.5 % Provision for income taxes at the Canadian statutory income tax rate 591.7 228.5 Non-taxable investment income (56.6 ) (289.7 ) Tax rate differential on income and losses outside Canada (209.5 ) (36.4 ) Change in unrecorded tax benefit of losses and temporary differences (90.7 ) 81.6 Change in tax rate for deferred income taxes 0.5 4.3 Provision (recovery) relating to prior years (14.4 ) 3.5 Foreign exchange effect (3.7 ) 27.4 Other including permanent differences 44.2 25.0 Provision for income taxes 261.5 44.2
Income taxes refundable and payable	Income taxes refundable and payable were as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Income taxes refundable 169.0 152.3 Income taxes payable (78.4 ) (80.1 ) Net income taxes refundable 90.6 72.2
Changes net income taxes (payable) refundable	Changes in net income taxes refundable during the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Balance - January 1 72.2 51.4 Amounts recorded in the consolidated statements of earnings (177.7 ) (149.2 ) Payments made during the year 178.9 229.9 Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 6.7 7.3 Assets held for sale (note 23) (17.1 ) — Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23) 29.6 — Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23) — (71.3 ) Foreign exchange effect and other (2.0 ) 4.1 Balance - December 31 90.6 72.2
Changes in net deferred income tax asset	Changes in the net deferred income tax asset during the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 Operating and capital losses Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses Provision for unearned premiums Deferred premium acquisition costs Intangible assets Investments Tax credits Other Total Balance - January 1 107.4 134.7 96.8 (81.1 ) (419.6 ) 314.9 118.9 225.9 497.9 Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings (11.7 ) 8.8 23.1 (16.0 ) 28.3 (181.0 ) 92.5 (27.8 ) (83.8 ) Amounts recorded in total equity 2.5 — — — — (11.4 ) — 35.3 26.4 Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 22.9 — — — (29.5 ) — — (58.3 ) (64.9 ) Assets held for sale (note 23) — — — — — 0.8 — (3.0 ) (2.2 ) Foreign exchange effect and other (1.9 ) 1.8 — 0.2 (7.4 ) 4.7 (0.4 ) 5.5 2.5 Balance - December 31 119.2 145.3 119.9 (96.9 ) (428.2 ) 128.0 211.0 177.6 375.9 2018 Operating and capital losses Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses Provision for unearned premiums Deferred premium acquisition costs Intangible assets Investments Tax credits Other Total Balance - January 1 187.7 131.3 91.9 (66.7 ) (443.5 ) 177.5 118.1 184.5 380.8 Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings (67.6 ) 5.3 5.5 (15.6 ) 11.2 128.8 1.1 36.3 105.0 Amounts recorded in total equity 5.0 — — — — 7.6 — 13.9 26.5 Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 1.4 — (0.8 ) 1.4 (4.7 ) — — 9.1 6.4 Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23) (6.1 ) — — — 4.2 — — (15.3 ) (17.2 ) Foreign exchange effect and other (13.0 ) (1.9 ) 0.2 (0.2 ) 13.2 1.0 (0.3 ) (2.6 ) (3.6 ) Balance - December 31 107.4 134.7 96.8 (81.1 ) (419.6 ) 314.9 118.9 225.9 497.9

Statutory Requirements (Tables)

Statutory Requirements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Statutory Requirements [Abstract]
Schedule of dividend capacity available	Based on the surplus and net earnings (loss) of the primary insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries as at and for the year ended December 31, 2019 , the maximum dividend capacity available in 2020 at each of those subsidiaries, payable to all shareholders (including non-controlling interests) is as follows: December 31, 2019 Allied World 798.7 Odyssey Group 347.6 Crum & Forster (1) 140.6 Brit 138.8 Northbridge (1) 132.6 Zenith National 66.9 1,625.2 (1) Subject to prior regulatory approval.

Pensions and Post Retirement _2

Pensions and Post Retirement Benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Pension And Post Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Disclosure of defined benefit plans	The funded status of the company's defined benefit pension and post retirement plans at December 31 were as follows: Defined benefit pension plans Defined benefit post retirement plans 2019 2018 2019 2018 Benefit obligation (789.4 ) (803.7 ) (125.4 ) (112.3 ) Fair value of plan assets 605.8 726.9 — — Funded status of plans - deficit (183.6 ) (76.8 ) (125.4 ) (112.3 ) Impact of asset ceiling 0.3 — — — Net accrued liability (1) (183.3 ) (76.8 ) (125.4 ) (112.3 ) Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations: Discount rate 3.0 % 3.6 % 3.3 % 4.2 % Rate of compensation increase 2.6 % 2.7 % 3.6 % 3.6 % Health care cost trend — — 4.5 % 4.6 % (1) The defined benefit pension plan net accrued liability at December 31, 2019 of $183.3 ( December 31, 2018 - $76.8 ) was comprised of pension surpluses of $51.9 and pension deficits of $235.2 ( December 31, 2018 - $64.0 and $140.8 ). See notes 13 and 14.
Pension and post retirement expenses recognized	Pension and post retirement benefit expenses recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Defined benefit pension plan expense 18.8 26.8 Defined contribution pension plan expense 53.1 50.3 Defined benefit post retirement plan expense 8.4 9.7 80.3 86.8
Pre-tax actuarial net gains (losses) recognized in the consolidated statements	Pre-tax actuarial net gains (losses) recognized in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the years ended December 31 were comprised as follows: 2019 2018 Defined benefit pension plans Actuarial net gains (losses) on plan assets and change in asset ceiling 18.8 (69.2 ) Actuarial net gains (losses) on benefit obligations (109.9 ) 74.1 (91.1 ) 4.9 Defined benefit post retirement plans - actuarial net gains (losses) on benefit obligations (8.0 ) 7.3 (99.1 ) 12.2

Leases (Tables)

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Leases1 [Abstract]
Disclosure of quantitative information about right-of-use assets	Changes in the company's right-of-use assets for the year ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Balance - January 1 418.9 632.5 1,051.4 Additions 59.9 73.2 133.1 Disposals (8.3 ) (1.6 ) (9.9 ) Depreciation (1) (69.3 ) (109.4 ) (178.7 ) Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) 4.4 16.2 20.6 Assets held for sale (note 23) (22.9 ) — (22.9 ) Foreign exchange effect and other 2.7 24.3 27.0 Balance - December 31 (note 13) 385.4 635.2 1,020.6 (1) Recorded in operating expenses and other expenses in the consolidated statement of earnings.
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments	he maturity profile of the company’s lease liabilities was as follows: December 31, 2019 Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Less than one year 78.0 209.4 287.4 One to two years 72.0 193.1 265.1 Two to three years 63.2 163.8 227.0 Three to four years 54.7 136.5 191.2 Four to five years 48.8 115.6 164.4 More than five years 240.8 428.5 669.3 Undiscounted lease liabilities 557.5 1,246.9 1,804.4 Lease liabilities - discounted (note 14) 434.3 1,062.1 1,496.4 Weighted average incremental borrowing rate 4.6 % 4.6 % 4.6 %
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable	he maturity profile of the company’s finance lease receivables was as follows: December 31, 2019 Insurance and reinsurance companies Non-insurance companies Total Less than one year 1.7 72.0 73.7 One to two years 1.7 66.9 68.6 Two to three years 1.8 59.3 61.1 Three to four years 1.6 49.6 51.2 Four to five years 0.7 41.4 42.1 More than five years 4.0 130.2 134.2 Undiscounted finance lease receivables 11.5 419.4 430.9 Unearned finance income 2.7 52.3 55.0 Finance lease receivables (note 13) 8.8 367.1 375.9

Acquisitions and Divestitures (

Acquisitions and Divestitures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Business Combinations1 [Abstract]
Disclosure of non-current assets or disposal groups classified as held for sale [text block]	Assets held for sale and liabilities associated with assets held for sale as presented on the company's consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 were comprised of the assets and liabilities of European Run-off as follows : European Run-off Intercompany reinsurance (1) Consolidation adjustments (1) As presented on the consolidated balance sheet Assets held for sale: Insurance contract receivables 53.1 8.2 — 61.3 Portfolio investments (2) 2,688.7 — (313.4 ) 2,375.3 Deferred premium acquisition costs 1.9 (0.2 ) — 1.7 Recoverable from reinsurers 642.0 (382.0 ) — 260.0 Deferred income taxes 2.2 — — 2.2 Other assets 351.2 — (266.1 ) 85.1 3,739.1 (374.0 ) (579.5 ) 2,785.6 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 77.6 — (10.5 ) 67.1 Short sale and derivative obligations 2.0 — — 2.0 Insurance contract payables 49.5 (11.7 ) — 37.8 Insurance contract liabilities 2,340.7 (503.9 ) — 1,836.8 Borrowings - insurance and reinsurance companies 91.4 — — 91.4 2,561.2 (515.6 ) (10.5 ) 2,035.1 (1) Primarily reflects reinsurance with Wentworth and investments in Fairfax subsidiaries. (2) Includes cash and cash equivalents of $ 283.7 . See note 27.
Disclosure of detailed information about business combinations	Toys "R" Us Canada Other (1) Acquisition date May 31, 2018 Throughout 2018 Percentage of common shares acquired 100.0 % Assets: Insurance contract receivables — 4.1 Portfolio investments 9.1 (2) 30.5 Recoverable from reinsurers — 10.0 Deferred income taxes 11.3 1.6 Goodwill and intangible assets (3) 16.8 193.7 Other assets 415.8 130.5 453.0 370.4 Liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 166.4 105.0 Deferred income taxes 12.4 1.8 Insurance contract payables — 2.6 Insurance contract liabilities — 13.9 Borrowings - non-insurance companies 195.9 23.3 374.7 146.6 Non-controlling interests — 4.0 Purchase consideration 41.1 218.4 Excess of fair value of net assets acquired over purchase consideration 37.2 1.4 453.0 370.4 (1) Comprised primarily of the acquisitions of Dexterra and SouthBridge Uruguay, and incremental acquisitions by Boat Rocker, Recipe and Pethealth. (2) Comprised of subsidiary cash and cash equivalent s . (3) Comprised of goodwill of $140.5 and intangible assets of $70.0 (primarily customer relationships of $21.5 , brand names of $15.3 and media content and non-compete agreements at Boat Rocker of $12.1 ). AGT Other (1) Acquisition date April 17, 2019 Throughout 2019 Percentage of common shares acquired 69.9 % Assets: Insurance contract receivables — 16.9 Portfolio investments 113.0 (2) 220.3 (2) Recoverable from reinsurers — 17.6 Deferred income taxes — 0.8 Goodwill and intangible assets 240.9 (3) 285.4 (4) Other assets 878.9 (5) 328.4 1,232.8 869.4 Liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 161.9 282.6 Short sale and derivative obligations 50.3 — Insurance contract payables — 8.3 Insurance contract liabilities — 93.2 Deferred income taxes 42.9 18.1 Borrowings - non-insurance companies 535.9 148.5 791.0 550.7 Settlement of pre-existing interests 114.3 (6) — Non-controlling interests 98.5 (7) 36.7 (7) Purchase consideration 229.0 281.2 Excess of fair value of net assets acquired over purchase consideration — 0.8 1,232.8 869.4 (1) Comprised primarily of the acquisitions of Universalna and ARX Insurance, the consolidation of CIG by Fairfax Africa, the consolidation of Ambridge Partners by Brit (note 6) and incremental acquisitions by Boat Rocker and Thomas Cook India. (2) Includes subsidiary cash and cash equivalents at AGT of $111.5 and at other subsidiaries of $144.5 . (3) Comprised of goodwill of $175.5 and intangible assets of $65.4 (primarily brand names of $34.7 and customer relationships of $16.9 ). (4) Comprised of goodwill of $146.1 and intangible assets of $139.3 (primarily customer relationships of $42.6 at Brit and $46.0 at Boat Rocker). (5) Primarily comprised of premises and equipment of $442.6 (principally vehicles and heavy machinery of $200.4 and buildings of $108.3 ), accounts receivable of $198.1 and inventory of $148.3 . (6) Comprised of the company's pre-existing investments in AGT preferred shares of $108.6 and AGT warrants of $5.7 which were considered settled at fair value on the acquisition date. (7) Non-controlling interest was measured at fair value at AGT and as the proportionate share of the identifiable net assets acquired at other subsidiaries.

Financial Risk Management (Tabl

Financial Risk Management (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [abstract]
Concentration of risk by region and line of business based on gross premiums written	The table that follows shows the company's concentration of insurance risk by region and line of business based on gross premiums written prior to giving effect to ceded reinsurance premiums. The company's exposure to general insurance risk varies by geographic region and may change over time. Premiums ceded to reinsurers (including retrocessions) in 2019 by line of business was comprised of property of $1,471.5 ( 2018 - $1,267.2 ), casualty of $1,842.9 ( 2018 - $1,443.4 ) and specialty of $361.2 ( 2018 - $386.7 ). Canada United States Asia (1) International (2) Total For the years ended December 31 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Property 853.5 732.6 3,087.9 2,704.3 710.4 634.5 1,669.4 1,495.8 6,321.2 5,567.2 Casualty 805.4 695.4 6,903.4 6,082.3 411.6 384.5 1,424.6 1,210.8 9,545.0 8,373.0 Specialty 177.6 164.6 597.7 619.8 237.6 215.3 632.1 588.4 1,645.0 1,588.1 Total 1,836.5 1,592.6 10,589.0 9,406.4 1,359.6 1,234.3 3,726.1 3,295.0 17,511.2 15,528.3 Insurance 1,724.5 1,492.5 8,389.9 7,439.7 676.1 692.4 2,377.3 2,270.4 13,167.8 11,895.0 Reinsurance 112.0 100.1 2,199.1 1,966.7 683.5 541.9 1,348.8 1,024.6 4,343.4 3,633.3 1,836.5 1,592.6 10,589.0 9,406.4 1,359.6 1,234.3 3,726.1 3,295.0 17,511.2 15,528.3 (1) The Asia geographic segment is primarily comprised of countries located throughout Asia, including China, Japan, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand, and the Middle East. (2) The International geographic segment is primarily comprised of countries located in South America, Europe and Africa.
Schedule of aggregate gross credit risk exposure	The company's gross credit risk exposure (without consideration of amounts held by the company as collateral) was comprised as follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Cash and short term investments 10,703.6 7,361.3 Investments in debt instruments: U.S. sovereign government (1) 5,610.8 10,464.0 Other sovereign government rated AA/Aa or higher (1)(2) 1,090.4 1,368.1 All other sovereign government (3) 1,230.0 1,189.9 Canadian provincials 2.9 51.9 U.S. states and municipalities 216.5 363.2 Corporate and other 8,164.8 7,124.4 Receivable from counterparties to derivative contracts 85.2 168.2 Insurance contract receivables 5,435.0 5,110.7 Recoverable from reinsurers 9,155.8 8,400.9 Other assets 1,645.0 1,253.3 Total gross credit risk exposure 43,340.0 42,855.9 (1) Representing together 17.2% of the company's total investment portfolio at December 31, 2019 ( December 31, 2018 - 30.5% ) and considered by the company to have nominal credit risk. (2) Comprised primarily of bonds issued by the governments of Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia with fair values at December 31, 2019 of $664.4 , $105.9 , $99.4 and $89.0 respectively ( December 31, 2018 - $964.7 , $86.4 , $54.4 and $93.6 ). (3) Comprised primarily of bonds issued by the governments of India, Spain and Poland with fair values at December 31, 2019 of $519.0 , $218.2 and $149.6 respectively ( December 31, 2018 - $527.5 , $210.6 and $127.4 ).
Schedule of fixed income portfolio according to credit rating	The composition of the company's investments in debt instruments classified according to the higher of each security's respective S&P and Moody's issuer credit rating is presented in the table that follows: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Issuer Credit Rating Amortized cost Fair value % Amortized cost Fair value % AAA/Aaa 6,795.2 6,820.4 41.8 11,931.0 11,920.5 58.1 AA/Aa 870.0 881.8 5.4 1,107.6 1,115.3 5.4 A/A 2,979.4 3,008.0 18.4 2,214.0 2,184.7 10.6 BBB/Baa 3,059.6 3,206.2 19.7 2,583.1 2,641.8 12.8 BB/Ba 121.9 135.0 0.8 125.0 131.8 0.6 B/B 59.9 61.6 0.4 87.8 79.7 0.4 Lower than B/B 31.6 16.4 0.1 27.6 27.5 0.1 Unrated (1) 2,125.8 2,186.0 13.4 2,412.4 2,460.2 12.0 Total 16,043.4 16,315.4 100.0 20,488.5 20,561.5 100.0 (1) Comprised primarily of the fair value of the company's investments in Seaspan Corporation of $483.4 ( December 31, 2018 - $242.9 ), Blackberry Limited of $442.1 ( December 31, 2018 - $512.4 ), Chorus Aviation Inc. of $155.8 ( December 31, 2018 - $138.6 ), EXCO Resources, Inc. of nil ( December 31, 2018 - $ 504.6 ) and Sanmar Chemicals Group of nil ( December 31, 2018 - $392.8 )
Schedule of credit risk related to derivative contract counterparties	The following table sets out the company's counterparty risk assuming all derivative counterparties are simultaneously in default: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Total derivative assets (1) 85.2 168.2 Obligations that may be offset under net settlement arrangements (19.2 ) (83.4 ) Fair value of collateral deposited for the benefit of the company (2) (14.2 ) (17.9 ) Excess collateral pledged by the company in favour of counterparties 1.9 26.1 Initial margin not held in segregated third party custodian accounts — 2.0 Net derivative counterparty exposure after net settlement and collateral arrangements 53.7 95.0 (1) Excludes equity warrants, equity warrant forward contracts, equity call options and other derivatives which are not subject to counterparty risk. (2) Excludes excess collateral pledged by counterparties of $1.9 at December 31, 2019 ( December 31, 2018 - $1.5 ).
Schedule of gross reinsurance recoverable by reinsurer financial strength rating	The following table presents the gross recoverable from reinsurers classified according to the financial strength ratings of the reinsurers. Pools and associations are generally government or similar insurance funds with limited credit risk. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 A.M. Best Rating (or S&P equivalent) Gross recoverable from reinsurers Outstanding balances for which security is held Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers Gross recoverable from reinsurers Outstanding balances for which security is held Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers A++ 357.1 28.8 328.3 369.8 28.9 340.9 A+ 5,005.9 351.9 4,654.0 4,225.2 264.8 3,960.4 A 2,567.7 106.0 2,461.7 2,255.2 85.5 2,169.7 A- 217.7 9.7 208.0 247.9 9.6 238.3 B++ 18.1 1.2 16.9 32.4 10.5 21.9 B+ 3.9 0.4 3.5 1.5 0.3 1.2 B or lower 11.0 1.4 9.6 10.3 1.8 8.5 Not rated 941.1 524.3 416.8 1,139.6 673.4 466.2 Pools and associations 194.8 6.5 188.3 283.8 3.7 280.1 9,317.3 1,030.2 8,287.1 8,565.7 1,078.5 7,487.2 Provision for uncollectible reinsurance (161.5 ) (161.5 ) (164.8 ) (164.8 ) Recoverable from reinsurers 9,155.8 8,125.6 8,400.9 7,322.4
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities	The following tables set out the maturity profile of the company's financial liabilities based on the expected undiscounted cash flows from the balance sheet date to the contractual maturity date or the settlement date: December 31, 2019 Less than 3 months 3 months to 1 year 1 - 3 years 3 - 5 years More than 5 years Total Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (1) 1,321.1 799.9 798.1 426.0 853.2 4,198.3 Insurance contract payables (3) 717.2 1,294.8 133.2 9.6 63.0 2,217.8 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 2,475.6 5,325.9 8,490.8 4,619.5 7,588.4 28,500.2 Borrowings - holding company and insurance and reinsurance companies: Principal — 140.0 433.9 676.0 3,926.9 5,176.8 Interest 53.1 180.5 456.4 391.1 648.0 1,729.1 Borrowings - non-insurance companies: Principal 533.4 771.5 392.7 114.8 271.8 2,084.2 Interest 59.9 45.4 60.4 38.4 113.9 318.0 5,160.3 8,558.0 10,765.5 6,275.4 13,465.2 44,224.4 December 31, 2018 Less than 3 months 3 months to 1 year 1 - 3 years 3 - 5 years More than 5 years Total Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (2) 1,118.3 576.0 251.7 98.8 204.8 2,249.6 Insurance contract payables (3) 653.3 652.6 360.6 5.2 76.6 1,748.3 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 2,385.8 5,428.5 8,292.1 4,578.1 8,397.2 29,081.7 Borrowings - holding company and insurance and reinsurance companies: Principal 0.1 8.1 380.2 620.0 3,868.3 4,876.7 Interest 53.5 177.7 451.4 391.4 783.2 1,857.2 Borrowings - non-insurance companies: Principal 159.5 866.7 356.0 157.9 89.6 1,629.7 Interest 20.1 39.3 43.7 22.1 63.5 188.7 4,390.6 7,748.9 10,135.7 5,873.5 13,483.2 41,631.9 (1) Excludes pension and post retirement liabilities (note 21), deferred gift card, hospitality and other revenue, accrued interest expense and other. The maturity profile of lease liabilities is based on undiscounted balances (note 22). (2) Excludes lease commitments in addition to the items described in the preceding footnote. (3) Excludes ceded deferred premium acquisition costs.
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities	The following table provides a maturity profile of the company's short sale and derivative obligations based on the expected undiscounted cash flows from the balance sheet date to the contractual maturity date or the settlement date: December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Less than 3 months 3 months to 1 year More than 1 year Total Less than 3 months 3 months to 1 year More than 1 year Total Equity total return swaps - short positions 58.0 26.6 — 84.6 13.4 — — 13.4 Equity total return swaps - long positions — 3.0 — 3.0 51.7 — — 51.7 U.S. treasury bond forward contracts 1.7 — — 1.7 30.4 — — 30.4 Foreign currency forward and swap contracts 59.3 1.9 53.3 114.5 45.7 8.0 — 53.7 Other derivative contracts 1.6 0.4 0.1 2.1 — — 0.3 0.3 120.6 31.9 53.4 205.9 141.2 8.0 0.3 149.5
Schedule of potential impact of changes in interest rates on fixed asset portfolio	The table below displays the potential impact of changes in interest rates on the company's fixed income portfolio based on parallel 200 basis point shifts up and down, in 100 basis point increments. This analysis was performed on each individual security to determine the hypothetical effect on net earnings. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Fair value of fixed income portfolio Hypothetical change in net earnings (1) Hypothetical % change in fair value (1) Fair value of Hypothetical change in net earnings (1) Hypothetical % change in fair value (1) Change in interest rates 200 basis point increase 15,752.1 (463.3 ) (3.5 ) 19,902.5 (541.1 ) (3.2 ) 100 basis point increase 16,018.9 (243.6 ) (1.8 ) 20,227.4 (274.3 ) (1.6 ) No change 16,315.4 — — 20,561.5 — — 100 basis point decrease 16,712.8 326.8 2.4 20,915.6 290.4 1.7 200 basis point decrease 17,162.3 695.8 5.2 21,282.1 590.6 3.5 (1) Includes the impact of forward contracts to sell long dated U.S. treasury bonds with a notional amount at December 31, 2019 of $846.5 ( December 31, 2018 - $471.9 ).
Schedule of impact of equity and equity related holdings on the financial position	The following table summarizes the net effect of the company's equity and equity-related holdings (long exposures net of short exposures) on the company's financial position as at December 31, 2019 and 2018 and results of operations for the years then ended. In that table the company considers its non-insurance investments in associates (note 6) with a fair value of December 31, 2019 of $5,330.0 ( December 31, 2018 – $4,522.4 ) as a component of its equity and equity-related holdings when assessing its net equity exposures. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Year ended December 31, 2019 Year ended December 31, 2018 Exposure/Notional Carrying Exposure/Notional Carrying Pre-tax earnings (loss) Pre-tax earnings (loss) Long equity exposures: Common stocks (1)(2) 5,768.6 5,768.6 5,148.2 5,148.2 915.9 (386.2 ) Preferred stocks – convertible (3) 20.7 20.7 17.7 17.7 0.9 2.9 Bonds – convertible 667.6 667.6 595.6 595.6 1.4 (171.3 ) Investments in associates (3)(4) 5,330.0 4,327.9 4,522.4 4,309.0 0.7 138.9 Deconsolidation of non-insurance companies (5)(6) — — — — 171.3 889.9 Derivatives and other invested assets: Equity total return swaps – long positions 406.3 8.1 390.3 (46.9 ) 20.5 (86.3 ) Equity warrant forward contracts (7) — — 316.6 38.4 45.4 113.9 Equity warrants and call options (7) 200.3 200.3 79.8 79.8 123.9 (69.9 ) Total equity and equity related holdings 12,393.5 10,993.2 11,070.6 10,141.8 1,280.0 431.9 Short equity exposures: Derivatives and other invested assets: Equity total return swaps – short positions (369.8 ) (84.6 ) (414.4 ) 8.9 (45.0 ) (33.9 ) Equity index total return swaps – short positions — — — — — (4.3 ) Other — — — — (12.8 ) — (369.8 ) (84.6 ) (414.4 ) 8.9 (57.8 ) (38.2 ) Net equity exposures and financial effects 12,023.7 10,656.2 1,222.2 393.7 (1) The company excludes other funds that are invested principally in fixed income securities with a carrying value at December 31, 2019 of $175.6 ( December 31, 2018 - $150.3 ) when measuring its equity and equity-related exposure. (2) During 2019 the company sold its 9.9% equity interest in ICICI Lombard for gross proceeds of $729.0 and recognized a net gain on investment of $240.0 (realized gains of $311.2, of which $71.2 was recorded as unrealized gains in prior years), primarily related to the removal of the discount for lack of marketability previously applied by the company to the traded market price of its ICICI Lombard common stock. (3) Excludes the company’s insurance and reinsurance investments in associates, joint ventures and other equity and equity-related holdings which are considered long term strategic holdings. See note 6. (4) On October 31, 2018 the company sold its equity accounted investments in Arbor Memorial Services Inc. and an insurance brokerage for net proceeds of $179.2 (Cdn $235.4) and $58.8 (Cdn $76.3) and recorded net realized gains of $111.8 and $17.6 (Cdn $22.7) respectively. (5) On May 17, 2019 the company deconsolidated Grivalia Properties upon its merger into Eurobank and recognized a non-cash gain of $171.3 . See note 23. (6) On March 1, 2018 Thomas Cook India entered into a strategic joint venture agreement with the founder of Quess that resulted in Quess becoming a joint venture of Thomas Cook India whereas it was previously a consolidated subsidiary. Accordingly, the company remeasured the carrying value of Quess to its fair value of $1,109.5, recognized a non-cash gain of $889.9 and commenced applying the equity method of accounting. (7) Includes the Seaspan warrants and forward contracts described in note 6.
Schedule of potential impact of changes in the fair value of equity and equity related holdings	The table that follows illustrates the potential impact on net earnings of changes in the fair value of the company's equity and equity-related holdings (long exposures net of short exposures) as a result of changes in global equity markets at December 31, 2019 and 2018 . The analysis assumes variations of 5% and 10% which the company believes to be reasonably possible based on analysis of the return on various equity indexes and management's knowledge of global equity markets. December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Fair value of Hypothetical $ change in net earnings Hypothetical % change in fair value Fair value of Hypothetical $ change in net earnings Hypothetical % change in fair value Change in global equity markets 10% increase 7,329.1 532.5 9.5 6,807.2 498.3 9.4 5% increase 7,010.7 265.7 4.7 6,510.9 244.9 4.6 No change 6,693.7 — — 6,224.0 — — 5% decrease 6,377.9 (264.4 ) (4.7 ) 5,929.9 (251.3 ) (4.7 ) 10% decrease 6,063.7 (527.5 ) (9.4 ) 5,645.7 (493.8 ) (9.3 )
Schedule of pre-tax foreign currency effect	The pre-tax foreign exchange effects included in net gains on investments in the company's consolidated statements of earnings for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Net gains (losses) on investments: Investing activities (68.0 ) (171.3 ) Underwriting activities 5.6 31.6 Foreign currency contracts (1.3 ) 7.9 Foreign currency net losses (63.7 ) (131.8 )
Schedule of effect of currency appreciation	The table below shows the approximate effect of a 10% appreciation of the U.S. dollar against each of the Canadian dollar, euro, British pound sterling, Indian rupee and all other currencies, respectively, on pre-tax earnings (loss), net earnings (loss), pre-tax other comprehensive income (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss). Certain shortcomings are inherent in the method of analysis presented, including the assumption that the 10% appreciation of the U.S. dollar occurred at December 31, 2019 with all other variables held constant. Canadian dollar Euro British pound sterling Indian rupee All other currencies Total 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Pre-tax earnings (loss) 12.7 0.1 (57.3 ) 37.8 (5.7 ) 15.6 (108.0 ) (105.8 ) (77.3 ) (96.9 ) (235.6 ) (149.2 ) Net earnings (loss) 9.6 (1.3 ) (52.3 ) 31.8 (2.4 ) 12.6 (93.8 ) (95.0 ) (57.5 ) (74.3 ) (196.4 ) (126.2 ) Pre-tax other comprehensive income (loss) (113.6 ) (137.2 ) 30.2 (13.8 ) (125.5 ) (98.5 ) (275.4 ) (308.7 ) (124.3 ) (99.5 ) (608.6 ) (657.7 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) (116.8 ) (134.9 ) 40.9 (4.9 ) (124.7 ) (98.1 ) (254.2 ) (305.7 ) (119.1 ) (93.4 ) (573.9 ) (637.0 )
Schedule of capital management, financial measurements	The company manages its capital based on the following financial measurements and ratios to provide an indication of the company's ability to issue and service debt without impacting the operating companies or their portfolio investments: Consolidated Excluding consolidated non-insurance companies December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 December 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Holding company cash and investments (net of short sale and derivative obligations) 1,098.6 1,550.6 1,098.6 1,550.6 Borrowings – holding company 4,117.3 3,859.5 4,117.3 3,859.5 Borrowings – insurance and reinsurance companies 1,039.6 995.7 1,039.6 995.7 Borrowings – non-insurance companies 2,075.7 1,625.2 — — Total debt 7,232.6 6,480.4 5,156.9 4,855.2 Net debt (1) 6,134.0 4,929.8 4,058.3 3,304.6 Common shareholders’ equity 13,042.6 11,779.3 13,042.6 11,779.3 Preferred stock 1,335.5 1,335.5 1,335.5 1,335.5 Non-controlling interests 3,529.1 4,250.4 1,519.8 1,437.1 Total equity 17,907.2 17,365.2 15,897.9 14,551.9 Net debt/total equity 34.3 % 28.4 % 25.5 % 22.7 % Net debt/net total capital (2) 25.5 % 22.1 % 20.3 % 18.5 % Total debt/total capital (3) 28.8 % 27.2 % 24.5 % 25.0 % Interest coverage (4) 6.5x 3.5x 9.8x (6) 3.2x (6) Interest and preferred share dividend distribution coverage (5) 5.7x 3.0x 7.9x (6) 2.6x (6) (1) Net debt is calculated by the company as total debt less holding company cash and investments (net of short sale and derivative obligations). (2) Net total capital is calculated by the company as the sum of total equity and net debt. (3) Total capital is calculated by the company as the sum of total equity and total debt. (4) Interest coverage is calculated by the company as earnings (loss) before income taxes and interest expense on borrowings, divided by interest expense on borrowings. (5) Interest and preferred share dividend distribution coverage is calculated by the company as earnings (loss) before income taxes and interest expense on borrowings divided by the sum of interest expense on borrowings and preferred share dividend distributions adjusted to a pre-tax equivalent at the company’s Canadian statutory income tax rate. (6) Excludes earnings (loss) before income taxes, and interest expense on borrowings, of consolidated non-insurance companies. The ratios for the year ended December 31, 2018 include the non-cash gain of $889.9 from the deconsolidation of Quess (note 23).

Segmented Information (Tables)

Segmented Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Operating Segments [Abstract]
Disclosure of operating segments	Sources of earnings by reporting segment for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge Odyssey Group Crum & Forster Zenith National Brit Allied World Fairfax Asia Other Operating companies Run-off Non-insurance companies Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Gross premiums written External 1,513.6 3,742.8 2,805.0 732.7 2,245.4 3,809.3 439.3 1,616.7 16,904.8 606.4 — — — 17,511.2 Intercompany 7.9 73.2 22.8 — 48.1 51.0 (1.0 ) 94.2 296.2 3.2 — — (299.4 ) — 1,521.5 3,816.0 2,827.8 732.7 2,293.5 3,860.3 438.3 1,710.9 17,201.0 609.6 — — (299.4 ) 17,511.2 Net premiums written 1,350.3 3,393.8 2,331.5 720.8 1,656.2 2,428.9 231.2 1,148.4 13,261.1 574.5 — — — 13,835.6 Net premiums earned External 1,247.3 3,162.2 2,234.4 737.3 1,608.1 2,345.9 228.2 981.3 12,544.7 685.0 — — — 13,229.7 Intercompany (7.0 ) 17.0 (40.6 ) (2.3 ) 33.8 (10.5 ) (13.0 ) 65.5 42.9 (42.9 ) — — — — 1,240.3 3,179.2 2,193.8 735.0 1,641.9 2,335.4 215.2 1,046.8 12,587.6 642.1 — — — 13,229.7 Underwriting expenses (1) (1,193.6 ) (3,089.3 ) (2,142.0 ) (626.2 ) (1,590.8 ) (2,277.7 ) (208.8 ) (1,064.7 ) (12,193.1 ) (906.3 ) — — — (13,099.4 ) Underwriting profit (loss) 46.7 89.9 51.8 108.8 51.1 57.7 6.4 (17.9 ) 394.5 (264.2 ) — — — 130.3 Interest income 65.9 189.5 93.6 36.7 82.0 165.6 16.9 66.8 717.0 60.5 24.5 33.7 (9.4 ) 826.3 Dividends 10.4 17.5 7.0 4.0 3.0 16.7 8.6 3.6 70.8 9.5 11.8 1.6 — 93.7 Investment expenses (11.3 ) (31.1 ) (14.7 ) (7.6 ) (11.5 ) (33.4 ) (7.8 ) (13.4 ) (130.8 ) (14.2 ) (89.0 ) (2.4 ) 196.6 (39.8 ) Interest and dividends 65.0 175.9 85.9 33.1 73.5 148.9 17.7 57.0 657.0 55.8 (52.7 ) 32.9 187.2 880.2 Share of profit (loss) of associates 1.1 55.1 19.1 (16.4 ) (2.4 ) 13.3 (0.1 ) (13.7 ) 56.0 (6.3 ) (45.2 ) 165.1 — 169.6 Other Revenue — — — — — — — — — — 5,537.1 — — 5,537.1 Expenses — — — — — — — — — — (5,441.6 ) — 8.4 (5,433.2 ) — — — — — — — — — — 95.5 — 8.4 103.9 Operating income (loss) 112.8 320.9 156.8 125.5 122.2 219.9 24.0 25.4 1,107.5 (214.7 ) (2.4 ) 198.0 195.6 1,284.0 Net gains on investments 0.5 149.5 75.2 22.5 62.1 210.2 632.3 106.2 1,258.5 168.2 72.6 216.9 — 1,716.2 Loss on repurchase of long term debt (note 15) — — — — — — — — — — — (23.7 ) — (23.7 ) Interest expense (1.5 ) (7.8 ) (5.3 ) (3.9 ) (19.1 ) (29.1 ) (0.4 ) (1.9 ) (69.0 ) (7.0 ) (184.9 ) (212.1 ) 1.0 (472.0 ) Corporate overhead (5.7 ) (10.7 ) (20.5 ) (8.5 ) (9.2 ) (59.7 ) (9.8 ) (0.6 ) (124.7 ) 0.4 — 49.1 (196.6 ) (271.8 ) Pre-tax income (loss) 106.1 451.9 206.2 135.6 156.0 341.3 646.1 129.1 2,172.3 (53.1 ) (114.7 ) 228.2 — 2,232.7 Provision for income taxes (261.5 ) Net earnings 1,971.2 Attributable to: Shareholders of Fairfax 2,004.1 Non-controlling interests (32.9 ) 1,971.2 (1) Underwriting expenses for the year ended December 31, 2019 were comprised as shown below. Accident year underwriting expenses exclude the impact of favourable or adverse prior year claims reserve development. Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge Odyssey Group Crum & Forster Zenith National Brit Allied World Fairfax Asia Other Operating companies Loss & LAE - accident year 851.9 2,383.6 1,387.4 423.4 961.0 1,585.8 151.3 678.8 8,423.2 Commissions 204.1 629.9 350.8 80.1 444.6 256.2 29.1 187.5 2,182.3 Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses 204.7 305.4 410.0 204.8 231.7 403.7 56.7 250.4 2,067.4 Underwriting expenses - accident year 1,260.7 3,318.9 2,148.2 708.3 1,637.3 2,245.7 237.1 1,116.7 12,672.9 Net (favourable) adverse claims reserve development (67.1 ) (229.6 ) (6.2 ) (82.1 ) (46.5 ) 32.0 (28.3 ) (52.0 ) (479.8 ) Underwriting expenses - calendar year 1,193.6 3,089.3 2,142.0 626.2 1,590.8 2,277.7 208.8 1,064.7 12,193.1 2018 Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge Odyssey Group Crum & Forster Zenith National Brit Allied World Fairfax Asia Other Operating companies Run-off Non-insurance companies Corporate Eliminations Consolidated Gross premiums written External 1,316.0 3,269.4 2,305.7 800.3 2,221.3 3,355.2 384.5 1,725.2 15,377.6 150.7 — — — 15,528.3 Intercompany 6.0 59.2 57.4 — 17.8 13.7 1.1 67.7 222.9 268.2 — — (491.1 ) — 1,322.0 3,328.6 2,363.1 800.3 2,239.1 3,368.9 385.6 1,792.9 15,600.5 418.9 — — (491.1 ) 15,528.3 Net premiums written 1,173.6 2,897.8 1,977.8 789.2 1,494.2 2,368.8 191.9 1,124.2 12,017.5 413.5 — — — 12,431.0 Net premiums earned External 1,125.4 2,736.4 1,939.6 806.6 1,645.8 2,318.3 195.6 1,141.2 11,908.9 157.1 — — — 12,066.0 Intercompany (6.2 ) 19.0 21.3 (2.3 ) (166.1 ) (31.5 ) (6.1 ) (75.6 ) (247.5 ) 247.5 — — — — 1,119.2 2,755.4 1,960.9 804.3 1,479.7 2,286.8 189.5 1,065.6 11,661.4 404.6 — — — 12,066.0 Underwriting expenses (1) (1,072.2 ) (2,574.3 ) (1,928.3 ) (664.1 ) (1,556.7 ) (2,243.9 ) (189.1 ) (1,114.5 ) (11,343.1 ) (647.0 ) — — — (11,990.1 ) Underwriting profit (loss) 47.0 181.1 32.6 140.2 (77.0 ) 42.9 0.4 (48.9 ) 318.3 (242.4 ) — — — 75.9 Interest income 72.2 155.5 73.2 36.9 64.5 140.6 16.4 61.7 621.0 45.3 43.4 39.8 (5.6 ) 743.9 Dividends 10.2 15.6 4.9 3.5 3.6 11.3 7.8 3.5 60.4 9.8 10.0 1.3 — 81.5 Investment expenses (15.4 ) (31.2 ) (13.5 ) (8.1 ) (12.8 ) (34.7 ) (3.1 ) (18.5 ) (137.3 ) (11.4 ) (40.6 ) (3.3 ) 150.7 (41.9 ) Interest and dividends 67.0 139.9 64.6 32.3 55.3 117.2 21.1 46.7 544.1 43.7 12.8 37.8 145.1 783.5 Share of profit (loss) of associates 6.3 65.8 4.1 4.4 5.3 (3.8 ) (5.1 ) 16.7 93.7 0.8 109.4 17.2 — 221.1 Other Revenue — — — — — — — — — — 4,434.2 — — 4,434.2 Expenses — — — — — — — — — — (4,176.1 ) — 5.6 (4,170.5 ) — — — — — — — — — — 258.1 — 5.6 263.7 Operating income (loss) 120.3 386.8 101.3 176.9 (16.4 ) 156.3 16.4 14.5 956.1 (197.9 ) 380.3 55.0 150.7 1,344.2 Net gains (losses) on investments (55.6 ) (111.4 ) (144.2 ) (57.6 ) (63.1 ) (66.9 ) (71.7 ) 45.8 (524.7 ) (107.6 ) 900.4 (15.2 ) — 252.9 Loss on repurchase of long term debt (note 15) — — — — — — — — — — — (58.9 ) — (58.9 ) Interest expense — (4.1 ) (2.2 ) (3.3 ) (14.2 ) (26.2 ) — (5.6 ) (55.6 ) — (94.1 ) (197.4 ) — (347.1 ) Corporate overhead (6.6 ) (23.3 ) (24.1 ) (8.2 ) (14.0 ) (67.6 ) (10.3 ) (21.9 ) (176.0 ) — — (2.3 ) (150.7 ) (329.0 ) Pre-tax income (loss) 58.1 248.0 (69.2 ) 107.8 (107.7 ) (4.4 ) (65.6 ) 32.8 199.8 (305.5 ) 1,186.6 (218.8 ) — 862.1 Provision for income taxes (44.2 ) Net earnings 817.9 Attributable to: Shareholders of Fairfax 376.0 Non-controlling interests 441.9 817.9 (1) Underwriting expenses for the year ended December 31, 2018 were comprised as shown below. Accident year underwriting expenses exclude the impact of favourable or adverse prior year claims reserve development. Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge Odyssey Group Crum & Forster Zenith National Brit Allied World Fairfax Other Operating companies Loss & LAE - accident year 802.7 2,061.5 1,244.7 453.4 982.6 1,739.9 138.0 687.4 8,110.2 Commissions 184.5 588.7 304.2 84.2 456.8 207.8 19.9 177.6 2,023.7 Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses 191.7 269.8 383.3 211.8 216.6 392.8 55.6 276.6 1,998.2 Underwriting expenses - accident year 1,178.9 2,920.0 1,932.2 749.4 1,656.0 2,340.5 213.5 1,141.6 12,132.1 Net favourable claims reserve development (106.7 ) (345.7 ) (3.9 ) (85.3 ) (99.3 ) (96.6 ) (24.4 ) (27.1 ) (789.0 ) Underwriting expenses - calendar year 1,072.2 2,574.3 1,928.3 664.1 1,556.7 2,243.9 189.1 1,114.5 11,343.1 Investments in associates, segment assets and segment liabilities at December 31, and additions to goodwill for the years then ended, by reporting segment were as follows: Investments in associates Additions to goodwill Segment assets Segment liabilities 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge 195.4 136.9 — — 4,654.4 4,205.7 3,085.0 2,706.0 Odyssey Group 641.6 443.2 — — 13,489.0 12,077.8 8,710.8 7,887.7 Crum & Forster 265.4 260.6 0.5 — 6,803.3 6,217.4 4,995.4 4,617.9 Zenith National 133.2 149.3 — — 2,504.8 2,543.0 1,527.7 1,612.8 Brit 270.0 266.9 45.9 — 8,106.8 7,543.4 6,329.2 5,947.6 Allied World 373.3 310.0 — — 15,596.0 14,530.7 11,499.3 10,911.7 Fairfax Asia 92.1 91.6 — (0.3 ) 2,231.5 1,813.4 805.1 692.4 Other 114.8 115.9 3.9 3.7 4,520.1 4,353.4 3,442.5 3,285.9 Operating companies 2,085.8 1,774.4 50.3 3.4 57,905.9 53,284.8 40,395.0 37,662.0 Run-off 142.0 (1) 273.4 3.8 — 6,372.6 (2) 5,529.1 4,530.2 (2) 3,934.3 Non-insurance companies 1,663.0 2,523.3 262.1 133.0 9,210.5 9,424.7 5,181.9 3,361.2 Corporate and Other and eliminations and adjustments 929.2 291.9 — — (2,980.5 ) (3,866.5 ) 2,494.2 2,049.4 Consolidated 4,820.0 4,863.0 316.2 136.4 70,508.5 64,372.1 52,601.3 47,006.9 (1) Excludes European Run-off's investments in associates and joint ventures with a carrying value of $368.8 and a fair value of $430.5 that were included in assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 and principally comprised of investments in Gulf Insurance, Seaspan, APR Energy and Resolute. (2) Includes European Run-off's assets and liabilities that were included in assets held for sale and liabilities associated with assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2019 . See note 23. Revenue and expenses of the non-insurance companies were comprised as follows for the years ended December 31: Restaurants and retail Fairfax India (1) Thomas Cook India (2) Other Total 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Revenue 2,120.6 2,013.4 410.7 430.3 1,087.4 1,202.4 1,918.4 788.1 5,537.1 4,434.2 Expenses (2,049.5 ) (1,890.7 ) (401.8 ) (403.3 ) (1,081.3 ) (1,184.1 ) (1,909.0 ) (698.0 ) (5,441.6 ) (4,176.1 ) Pre-tax income before interest expense and other (3) 71.1 122.7 8.9 27.0 6.1 18.3 9.4 90.1 95.5 258.1 (1) These results differ from those published by Fairfax India due to Fairfax India's application of investment entity accounting under IFRS. (2) These results differ from those published by Thomas Cook India primarily due to differences between IFRS and Ind AS, and acquisition accounting adjustments. (3) Excludes interest and dividends, share of profit (loss) of associates and net gains (losses) on investments.
Schedule of net premiums earned by product line	Net premiums earned by product line for the years ended December 31 were as follows: Property Casualty Specialty Total 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Net premiums earned - Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge 538.0 490.3 581.4 523.2 120.9 105.7 1,240.3 1,119.2 Odyssey Group 1,598.8 1,398.3 1,288.2 1,099.2 292.2 257.9 3,179.2 2,755.4 Crum & Forster 293.8 253.9 1,771.6 1,623.6 128.4 83.4 2,193.8 1,960.9 Zenith National 39.1 35.5 695.9 768.8 — — 735.0 804.3 Brit 494.3 490.7 844.3 618.5 303.3 370.5 1,641.9 1,479.7 Allied World 832.1 794.5 1,394.1 1,362.4 109.2 129.9 2,335.4 2,286.8 Fairfax Asia 74.7 75.7 113.7 93.0 26.8 20.8 215.2 189.5 Other 601.2 564.9 305.8 308.5 139.8 192.2 1,046.8 1,065.6 Operating companies 4,472.0 4,103.8 6,995.0 6,397.2 1,120.6 1,160.4 12,587.6 11,661.4 Run-off 103.8 — 379.2 389.1 159.1 15.5 642.1 404.6 Consolidated net premiums earned 4,575.8 4,103.8 7,374.2 6,786.3 1,279.7 1,175.9 13,229.7 12,066.0 Interest and dividends 880.2 783.5 Share of profit of associates 169.6 221.1 Net gains on investments 1,716.2 252.9 Other revenue (Non-insurance companies) 5,537.1 4,434.2 Consolidated income 21,532.8 17,757.7 Allocation of net premiums earned 34.6 % 34.0 % 55.7 % 56.3 % 9.7 % 9.7 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
Disclosure of geographical regions	Net premiums earned by geographic region for the years ended December 31 were as follows: Canada United States Asia (1) International (2) Total 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 2019 2018 Net premiums earned - Insurance and Reinsurance Northbridge 1,223.8 1,108.2 16.5 11.0 — — — — 1,240.3 1,119.2 Odyssey Group 80.8 70.2 2,126.5 1,858.0 377.1 319.8 594.8 507.4 3,179.2 2,755.4 Crum & Forster — — 2,191.7 1,958.0 — — 2.1 2.9 2,193.8 1,960.9 Zenith National — — 735.0 804.3 — — — — 735.0 804.3 Brit 107.0 95.3 1,119.5 1,073.7 48.9 57.9 366.5 252.8 1,641.9 1,479.7 Allied World 34.7 28.2 1,710.2 1,671.9 239.7 254.9 350.8 331.8 2,335.4 2,286.8 Fairfax Asia — — — — 215.2 189.5 — — 215.2 189.5 Other — 5.0 31.1 83.6 111.1 94.9 904.6 882.1 1,046.8 1,065.6 Operating companies 1,446.3 1,306.9 7,930.5 7,460.5 992.0 917.0 2,218.8 1,977.0 12,587.6 11,661.4 Run-off 5.8 — 29.8 6.3 0.5 — 606.0 398.3 642.1 404.6 Consolidated net premiums earned 1,452.1 1,306.9 7,960.3 7,466.8 992.5 917.0 2,824.8 2,375.3 13,229.7 12,066.0 Interest and dividends 880.2 783.5 Share of profit of associates 169.6 221.1 Net gains on investments 1,716.2 252.9 Other revenue (Non-insurance companies) 5,537.1 4,434.2 Consolidated income 21,532.8 17,757.7 Allocation of net premiums earned 11.0 % 10.8 % 60.1 % 61.9 % 7.5 % 7.6 % 21.4 % 19.7 % 100.0 % 100.0 % (1) The Asia geographic segment is primarily comprised of countries located throughout Asia, including China, Japan, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand, and the Middle East. (2) The International geographic segment is primarily comprised of countries located in South America, Europe and Africa.

Expenses (Tables)

Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Analysis of income and expense [abstract]
Schedule of losses on claims, net, operating expenses and other expenses	Losses on claims, net, operating expenses and other expenses for the years ended December 31 were comprised as follows: 2019 2018 Insurance and reinsurance companies (1) Non-insurance companies (2) Total Insurance and reinsurance companies (1) Non-insurance companies (2) Total Losses and loss adjustment expenses 8,401.5 — 8,401.5 7,545.9 — 7,545.9 Non-insurance companies' cost of sales — 3,474.1 3,474.1 — 2,653.2 2,653.2 Wages and salaries 1,263.2 801.4 2,064.6 1,241.2 688.5 1,929.7 Depreciation, amortization and impairment charges (3) 233.8 377.7 611.5 184.6 166.3 350.9 Employee benefits 326.7 121.8 448.5 309.5 103.3 412.8 Premium taxes 223.9 — 223.9 210.9 — 210.9 Information technology costs 163.1 29.9 193.0 155.9 24.5 180.4 Audit, legal and tax professional fees 137.0 52.3 189.3 136.4 40.2 176.6 Non-insurance companies' marketing costs — 108.5 108.5 — 102.7 102.7 Share-based payments to directors and employees 89.1 13.4 102.5 78.4 11.2 89.6 Short-term and low value lease costs (3) 17.5 60.5 78.0 — — — Loss on repurchase of long term debt (note 15) (2) — 23.7 23.7 — 58.9 58.9 Restructuring costs 3.8 3.2 7.0 25.9 9.5 35.4 Operating lease costs (3) — — — 93.5 159.6 253.1 Administrative expense and other 304.8 390.4 695.2 285.9 211.5 497.4 11,164.4 5,456.9 16,621.3 10,268.1 4,229.4 14,497.5 (1) Total expense of the insurance and reinsurance companies is comprised of losses on claims, net and operating expenses as presented in the consolidated statement of earnings. (2) Other expenses as presented in the consolidated statement of earnings is comprised of cost of sales and operating expenses of the non-insurance companies, and loss on repurchase of long term debt of the holding company. (3) Reflects the adoption of IFRS 16 as described in note 3. Leases are presented in note 22.

Supplementary Cash Flow Infor_2

Supplementary Cash Flow Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Cash Flow Statement [Abstract]
Schedule of supplemental balance sheet disclosures	Cash, cash equivalents and bank overdrafts as presented in the consolidated statements of cash flows excludes restricted cash and cash equivalents that are amounts primarily required to be maintained on deposit with various regulatory authorities to support the operations of the insurance and reinsurance subsidiaries. Cash equivalents are comprised of treasury bills and other eligible bills. December 31, 2019 Unrestricted cash and cash equivalents included in the consolidated statement of cash flows Restricted cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents included on the consolidated balance sheet Cash Cash equivalents Total Cash Cash equivalents Total Cash Cash equivalents Total Holding company cash and investments 98.8 84.5 183.3 0.6 — 0.6 99.4 84.5 183.9 Subsidiary cash and short term investments 1,934.7 1,355.0 3,289.7 469.4 195.4 664.8 2,404.1 1,550.4 3,954.5 Fairfax India 67.0 19.1 86.1 18.6 — 18.6 85.6 19.1 104.7 Fairfax Africa 77.9 0.8 78.7 7.5 — 7.5 85.4 0.8 86.2 Assets held for sale (note 23) 160.5 65.0 1.0 225.5 54.0 4.2 58.2 214.5 69.2 283.7 2,338.9 1,524.4 3,863.3 550.1 199.6 749.7 2,889.0 1,724.0 4,613.0 December 31, 2018 Unrestricted cash and cash equivalents included in the consolidated statement of cash flows Restricted cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents included on the consolidated balance sheet Cash Cash equivalents Total Cash Cash equivalents Total Cash Cash equivalents Total Holding company cash and investments 131.0 96.1 227.1 0.6 — 0.6 131.6 96.1 227.7 Subsidiary cash and short term investments 2,300.1 1,722.7 4,022.8 359.7 201.2 560.9 2,659.8 1,923.9 4,583.7 Subsidiary assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations — 3.0 3.0 — — — — 3.0 3.0 Fairfax India 25.0 27.1 52.1 15.6 — 15.6 40.6 27.1 67.7 Fairfax Africa 77.4 154.5 231.9 — — — 77.4 154.5 231.9 2,533.5 2,003.4 4,536.9 375.9 201.2 577.1 2,909.4 2,204.6 5,114.0
Schedule of cash flow, supplemental disclosures	Details of certain cash flows included in the consolidated statement of cash flows for the years ended December 31 were as follows: 2019 2018 Net (purchases) sales of securities classified at FVTPL Short term investments (4,646.5 ) 8,033.8 Bonds 3,618.7 (10,743.0 ) Preferred stocks (52.4 ) (25.6 ) Common stocks 898.3 82.3 Derivatives and short sales (184.8 ) (96.8 ) (366.7 ) (2,749.3 ) Changes in operating assets and liabilities Net decrease (increase) in restricted cash and cash equivalents (170.3 ) 102.9 Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses 1,171.5 1,200.6 Provision for unearned premiums 893.9 521.9 Insurance contract receivables (382.5 ) (555.6 ) Insurance contract payables 616.5 246.6 Recoverable from reinsurers (1,093.8 ) (954.5 ) Other receivables 211.8 (211.6 ) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 3.8 225.3 Other (297.0 ) (304.2 ) 953.9 271.4 Net interest and dividends received Interest and dividends received 819.2 764.0 Interest paid on borrowings (319.6 ) (285.5 ) Interest paid on lease liabilities (1) (60.4 ) — 439.2 478.5 Net income taxes paid (178.9 ) (229.9 ) (1) Reflects the adoption of IFRS 16 as described in note 3.

Related Party Transactions (Tab

Related Party Transactions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Related Party [Abstract]
Schedule of related parties	Compensation for the company's key management team for the years ended December 31 determined in accordance with the company's IFRS accounting policies was as follows: 2019 2018 Salaries and other short-term employee benefits 9.8 9.3 Share-based payments 5.1 3.6 14.9 12.9 Compensation for the company's Board of Directors for the years ended December 31 was as follows: 2019 2018 Retainers and fees 1.1 0.9 Share-based payments 0.2 0.3 1.3 1.2

Subsidiaries (Tables)

Subsidiaries (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019
Interests In Other Entities [Abstract]
Disclosure of interests in subsidiaries	The company has wholly-owned subsidiaries not presented in the tables below that are intermediate holding companies of investments in subsidiaries and intercompany balances, all of which are eliminated on consolidation. December 31, 2019 Domicile Fairfax's ownership (100% other than as shown below) Insurance and reinsurance Northbridge Financial Corporation (Northbridge) Canada Odyssey Group Holdings, Inc. (Odyssey Group), which consists of: United States Hudson Insurance Company (Hudson Insurance) United States Newline Holdings UK Limited (Newline) United Kingdom Crum & Forster Holdings Corp. (Crum & Forster) United States Zenith National Insurance Corp. (Zenith National) United States Brit Limited (Brit) United Kingdom 89.3% Allied World Assurance Company Holdings, Ltd (Allied World) Bermuda 70.1% Fairfax Central and Eastern Europe, which consists of: Polskie Towarzystwo Reasekuracji Spólka Akcyjna (Polish Re) Poland Colonnade Insurance S.A. (Colonnade Insurance) Luxembourg FFH Ukraine Holdings (Fairfax Ukraine), which consists of: Ukraine 70.0% ARX Insurance Company (ARX Insurance) Ukraine Private Joint Stock Company Insurance Company Universalna (Universalna) Ukraine Fairfax Latin America, which consists of: Fairfax Brasil Seguros Corporativos S.A. (Fairfax Brasil) Brazil La Meridional Compañía Argentina de Seguros S.A. (La Meridional Argentina) Argentina SBS Seguros Colombia S.A. (SouthBridge Colombia) Colombia SBI Seguros Uruguay S.A. (SouthBridge Uruguay) Uruguay Southbridge Compañía de Seguros Generales S.A. (SouthBridge Chile) Chile Bryte Insurance Company Ltd (Bryte Insurance) South Africa Group Re, which underwrites business in: CRC Reinsurance Limited (CRC Re) Barbados Wentworth Insurance Company Ltd. (Wentworth) Barbados Connemara Reinsurance Company Ltd. (Connemara) Barbados Fairfax Asia, which consists of: Falcon Insurance Company (Hong Kong) Limited (Falcon) Hong Kong The Pacific Insurance Berhad (Pacific Insurance) Malaysia 85.0% PT Asuransi Multi Artha Guna Tbk (AMAG Insurance) Indonesia 80.0% Fairfirst Insurance Limited (Fairfirst Insurance) Sri Lanka 78.0% Run-off U.S. Run-off, which consists of: TIG Insurance Company (TIG Insurance) United States European Run-off, which consists of (1) : RiverStone Insurance (UK) Limited (RiverStone (UK)) United Kingdom RiverStone Managing Agency Limited United Kingdom Advent Capital (Holdings) Ltd. (Advent) (2) United Kingdom TIG Insurance (Barbados) Company Barbados Investment management Hamblin Watsa Investment Counsel Ltd. (Hamblin Watsa) Canada (1) Classified as held for sale at December 31, 2019 as described in note 23. (2) Transferred to the Run-off reporting segment effective January 1, 2019 as described in note 25. December 31, 2019 Domicile Fairfax's ownership Primary business Non-insurance companies Restaurants and retail Recipe Unlimited Corporation (Recipe), which owns: Canada 47.9 % (1) Franchisor, owner and operator of restaurants 100.0% of Keg Restaurants Ltd. (The Keg) Canada 47.9 % Owner and operator of premium dining restaurants 100.0% of Groupe St-Hubert Inc. (St-Hubert) Canada 47.9 % Full-service restaurant operator and a fully integrated food manufacturer 89.2% of Original Joe's Franchise Group Inc. (Original Joe's) Canada 42.7 % Multi-brand restaurant owner and operator 100.0% of Pickle Barrel Holdings Limited (Pickle Barrel) Canada 47.9 % Owner and operator of restaurants and catering business Praktiker Hellas Commercial Societe Anonyme (Praktiker) Greece 100.0 % Retailer of home improvement goods Toys "R" Us (Canada) Ltd. (Toys "R" Us Canada) Canada 100.0 % Retailer of toys and baby products Sporting Life Group Limited, which owns: Canada 65.1 % Invests in retail businesses 100.0% of Sporting Life Inc. (Sporting Life) Canada 65.1 % Retailer of sporting goods and sports apparel 100.0% of Golf Town Limited (Golf Town) Canada 65.1 % Retailer of golf equipment, consumables, athletic apparel and accessories Kitchen Stuff Plus, Inc. (Kitchen Stuff Plus) Canada 55.0 % Retailer of housewares and home decor William Ashley China Corporation (William Ashley) Canada 100.0 % Retailer of tableware and gifts Fairfax India Fairfax India Holdings Corporation (Fairfax India), which owns: Canada 33.8 % (1) Invests in public and private Indian businesses 89.5% of National Collateral Management Services Limited (NCML) India 30.3 % Provider of agricultural commodities storage 48.8% of Fairchem Speciality Limited (Fairchem) India 16.5 % Manufacturer, supplier and exporter of aroma chemicals 51.0% of Saurashtra Freight Private Limited (Saurashtra Freight) India 17.2 % Container freight station operator Thomas Cook India Thomas Cook (India) Limited (Thomas Cook India), which owns: India 66.9 % Provider of integrated travel and travel-related financial services 100.0% of Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited (Sterling Resorts) India 66.9 % Owner and operator of holiday resorts Other Fairfax Africa Holdings Corporation (Fairfax Africa), which owns: Canada 62.0 % (1) Invests in public and private African businesses 49.3% of Consolidated Infrastructure Group (CIG) South Africa 30.6 % (2) Developer and operator of engineering infrastructure AGT Food and Ingredients Inc. (AGT) Canada 59.6 % Originator, processor and distributor of value-added pulses and staple foods. Dexterra Integrated Facilities Management (Dexterra) Canada 100.0 % Infrastructure services to industries and government Boat Rocker Media Inc. (Boat Rocker) Canada 59.1 % Development, production, marketing and distribution of television programs Mosaic Capital Corporation (Mosaic Capital) Canada — (3) Invests in private Canadian businesses Pethealth Inc. (Pethealth) Canada 100.0 % Pet medical insurance and database services Rouge Media Group Inc. (Rouge Media) Canada 65.0 % Media and marketing solutions (1) The company owns multiple voting shares and subordinate voting shares of Recipe, Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa that give it voting rights of 61.6% , 93.8% and 98.5% respectively. (2) The company's consolidated ownership of CIG is 31.2% inclusive of a 0.6% ownership interest held by Bryte Insurance. (3) The company owns Mosaic Capital warrants that represent a substantive potential voting interest of approximately 62% .

Summary of Significant Accoun_4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Jan. 01, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Restricted share vesting period	15 years
Lease liabilities	$ 1,496.4		$ 0
Right-of-use assets	1,020.6	$ 1,051.4	0
Finance lease receivables (notes 3 and 22)	375.9		0
Non-controlling interests	$ 3,529.1		$ 4,250.4
Customer and broker relationships | Bottom of range
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible asset useful lives	8 years
Customer and broker relationships | Top of range
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible asset useful lives	20 years
Computer software | Bottom of range
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible asset useful lives	3 years
Computer software | Top of range
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Intangible asset useful lives	15 years
Restricted Share Units
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Restricted share vesting period	15 years
IFRS 16
Disclosure of detailed information about intangible assets [line items]
Retained earnings		(4.3)
Non-controlling interests		$ (1.9)

Summary of Significant Accoun_5

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Reconciliation of Operating Lease Liabiltiies at Initial Application of IFRS 16 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Jan. 01, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Operating lease commitments at December 31, 2018			$ 1,643.7
Incremental borrowing rate (weighted average)	4.60%
Lease liabilities	$ 1,496.4		0
Right-of-use assets	1,020.6	$ 1,051.4	0
Finance lease receivables	$ 375.9		0
IFRS 16
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Short-term and low value leases		(22.7)
Extension and termination options		138.8
Lease commitments to be recognized under IFRS 16		$ 1,759.8
Incremental borrowing rate (weighted average)		4.80%
Present value of lease commitments recognized under IFRS 16		$ 1,446.8
Finance lease obligations at December 31, 2018 and other		51.2
Lease liabilities		1,498
Right-of-use assets		1,051.4
Finance lease receivables		369
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Operating lease commitments at December 31, 2018			540.2
Incremental borrowing rate (weighted average)	4.60%
Lease liabilities	$ 434.3		0
Right-of-use assets	385.4	418.9	0
Finance lease receivables	$ 8.8		0
Insurance and reinsurance companies | IFRS 16
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Short-term and low value leases		(2)
Extension and termination options		32.3
Lease commitments to be recognized under IFRS 16		$ 570.5
Incremental borrowing rate (weighted average)		4.20%
Present value of lease commitments recognized under IFRS 16		$ 454.4
Finance lease obligations at December 31, 2018 and other		1.1
Lease liabilities		455.5
Right-of-use assets		418.9
Finance lease receivables		5.6
Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Operating lease commitments at December 31, 2018			1,103.5
Incremental borrowing rate (weighted average)	4.60%
Lease liabilities	$ 1,062.1		0
Right-of-use assets	635.2	632.5	0
Finance lease receivables	$ 367.1		$ 0
Non-insurance companies | IFRS 16
Disclosure of initial application of standards or interpretations [line items]
Short-term and low value leases		(20.7)
Extension and termination options		106.5
Lease commitments to be recognized under IFRS 16		$ 1,189.3
Incremental borrowing rate (weighted average)		5.10%
Present value of lease commitments recognized under IFRS 16		$ 992.4
Finance lease obligations at December 31, 2018 and other		50.1
Lease liabilities		1,042.5
Right-of-use assets		632.5
Finance lease receivables		$ 363.4

Summary of Significant Accoun_6

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Reclassification of Prior Year Comparatives (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Insurance Contract Payables [Abstract]
Payable to reinsurers	$ 1,469.4	$ 1,122.2
Ceded deferred premium acquisition costs	373.2	254.8
Amounts payable to agents and brokers	101.8	93.8
Accrued commissions	95.5	87.3
Accrued premium taxes	82.7	74.6
Other insurance contract payables	229.3	241.9
Insurance contract payables	2,591	2,003.1
Funds withheld and other payables to reinsurers (previously presented separately on the consolidated balance sheet)	239.1	128.5
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	4,814.1	3,020
Income taxes payable (previously presented separately on the consolidated balance sheet)	$ 78.4	80.1
Previously Reported
Insurance Contract Payables [Abstract]
Payable to reinsurers		576.4
Funds withheld and other payables to reinsurers (previously presented separately on the consolidated balance sheet)		674.3
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		4,268.7
Income taxes payable (previously presented separately on the consolidated balance sheet)		80.1
Restatement Adjustment
Insurance Contract Payables [Abstract]
Insurance contract payables		1,328.8
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		$ (1,328.8)

Cash and Investments - Schedule

Cash and Investments - Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments, net	$ 37,900	$ 37,300
Total investments	39,004.6	38,840.6
Holding company cash and investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	1,098.9	1,557.2
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations	5.5	21.5
Short sale and derivative obligations (note 7)	(0.3)	(6.6)
Cash and investments, net	1,098.6	1,550.6
Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	38,111.6	37,432.9
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations	146.9	164.6
Short sale and derivative obligations (note 7)	(205.6)	(142.9)
Cash and investments, net	37,906	37,290
Total | Holding company cash and investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	183.9	227.7
Total | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	3,954.5	4,583.7
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations	0	3
Short term investments | Holding company cash and investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	128.3	19.8
Short term investments | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	6,066.8	2,138.3
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations	72.4	36.8
Subsidiary assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations | Holding company cash and investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations	2.8	13.7
Bonds | Holding company cash and investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	395.9	503.4
Bonds | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	15,618.1	19,256.4
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations	74.5	124.8
Bonds pledged for short sale and derivative obligations | Holding company cash and investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations	2.7	7.8
Preferred stocks | Holding company cash and investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	4.7	4.5
Preferred stocks | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	578.2	260.1
Common stocks | Holding company cash and investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	296.9	704.7
Common stocks | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	5,287.6	4,431.4
Investments in associates | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	3,195.8	3,471.9
Derivatives (note 7) | Holding company cash and investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	83.7	75.6
Derivatives (note 7) | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	202.7	229.8
Other invested assets | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	556.4	333.8
Portfolio investments, net | Holding company cash and investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	1,093.4	1,535.7
Portfolio investments, net | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	35,460.1	34,705.4
Common Stock, Limited Partnerships
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	2,056.8	2,055.8
Common Stock, Other Funds
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	175.6	150.3
Fairfax India | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	1,979.8	1,905.6
Fairfax India | Total | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	104.7	67.7
Fairfax India | Bonds | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	124.1	576.4
Fairfax India | Common stocks | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	359.7	158.5
Fairfax India | Investments in associates | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	1,391.3	1,103
Fairfax Africa | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	524.8	657.3
Fairfax Africa | Total | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	86.2	231.9
Fairfax Africa | Short term investments | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	104	38.7
Fairfax Africa | Bonds | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	100.1	92.7
Fairfax Africa | Common stocks | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	0	3.9
Fairfax Africa | Investments in associates | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	232.9	288.1
Fairfax Africa | Derivatives and other invested assets | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	1.6	2
Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa | Portfolio Investments
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	$ 2,504.6	$ 2,562.9

Cash and Investments - Addition

Cash and Investments - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	$ 691.5	$ 577.1
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	5,774.1	5,703.6
Common Stock, Limited Partnerships
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	2,056.8	2,055.8
Common Stock, Other Funds
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Cash and investments	175.6	150.3
Regulatory deposits
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	4,667.4	4,503.3
Security for reinsurance and other
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	1,106.7	$ 1,200.3
Non-current assets held for sale | Regulatory deposits
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	71.7
Non-current assets held for sale | Security for reinsurance and other
Schedule Of Cash And Cash Equivalents1 [Line Items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	$ 65.5

Cash and Investments - Schedu_2

Cash and Investments - Schedule of Pledged Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Investment [Line Items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	$ 5,774.1	$ 5,703.6
Regulatory deposits
Investment [Line Items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	4,667.4	4,503.3
Security for reinsurance and other
Investment [Line Items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	$ 1,106.7	$ 1,200.3

Cash and Investments - Fixed In

Cash and Investments - Fixed Income Maturity Profile (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Bonds with call features	$ 3,415.4	$ 3,123.1
Bonds with put features	2.6	49.1
Bonds with call and put features	952.7	242.9
Notional amount	$ 7,261	$ 6,506.4
Debt securities
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Effective interest rate	3.60%	3.50%
U.S. treasury bond forward contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	$ 846.5	$ 471.9
Bonds, U.S. treasury
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Net proceeds	4,601.5
Bonds, Canadian government
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Net proceeds	344.5
Bonds, U.S. Corporate
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Net purchases	$ (545.1)

Cash and Investments - Schedu_3

Cash and Investments - Schedule of Fixed Income Maturity (Details) - Debt securities - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Investment [Line Items]
Amortized cost	$ 16,043.4	$ 20,488.5
Fair value	$ 16,315.4	$ 20,561.5
Effective interest rate	3.60%	3.50%
Due in 1 year or less
Investment [Line Items]
Amortized cost	$ 8,158.1	$ 9,610.5
Fair value	8,206.3	9,606.5
Due after 1 year through 5 years
Investment [Line Items]
Amortized cost	5,872.8	9,112.7
Fair value	5,980.8	9,174.4
Due after 5 years through 10 years
Investment [Line Items]
Amortized cost	1,227.6	808.4
Fair value	1,242.3	802.7
Due after 10 years
Investment [Line Items]
Amortized cost	784.9	956.9
Fair value	$ 886	$ 977.9

Cash and Investments - Schedu_4

Cash and Investments - Schedule of Fair Value Measurement (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	$ 70,508.5	$ 64,372.1
Financial liabilities	(52,601.3)	(47,006.9)
Fair value of investments in associates	530
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	691.5	577.1
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	4,935.1
Recurring fair value measurement
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	$ 34,184.6	$ 33,977.6
Percentage of assets classified as level 1, 2, and 3	100.00%	100.00%
Fair value of investments in associates	$ 6,036.5	$ 5,223.1
Recurring fair value measurement | Short sale and derivative obligations
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	205.9	149.5
Recurring fair value measurement | Cash and cash equivalents
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	4,329.3	5,114
Recurring fair value measurement | Short term investments
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	6,374.3	2,247.3
Recurring fair value measurement | Short term investments, Canadian government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	373.9	198.9
Recurring fair value measurement | Short term investments, Canadian provincials
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	755.3	171.6
Recurring fair value measurement | Short term investments, U.S. treasury
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	3,154.4	758.5
Recurring fair value measurement | Short term investments, Other government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	375.8	814.7
Recurring fair value measurement | Short term investments, Corporate and other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	1,714.9	303.6
Recurring fair value measurement | Bonds
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	16,315.4	20,561.5
Recurring fair value measurement | Bonds, Canadian government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	664.4	964.7
Recurring fair value measurement | Bonds, Canadian provincials
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	2.9	51.9
Recurring fair value measurement | Bonds, U.S. treasury
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	5,610.8	10,464
Recurring fair value measurement | Bonds, U.S. states and municipalities
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	216.5	363.2
Recurring fair value measurement | Bonds, Other government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	1,656	1,593.3
Recurring fair value measurement | Bonds, Corporate and other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	8,164.8	7,124.4
Recurring fair value measurement | Preferred stocks
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	582.9	264.6
Recurring fair value measurement | Preferred stocks, Canadian
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	90.9	168.3
Recurring fair value measurement | Preferred stocks, U.S.
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	5	5
Recurring fair value measurement | Preferred stocks, Other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	487	91.3
Recurring fair value measurement | Common stocks
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	5,944.2	5,298.5
Recurring fair value measurement | Common stocks, Canadian
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	796.4	873.3
Recurring fair value measurement | Common stocks, U.S.
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	1,423.1	1,423.8
Recurring fair value measurement | Common stocks, Other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	3,724.7	3,001.4
Recurring fair value measurement | Common stocks, Other funds
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	175.6	150.3
Recurring fair value measurement | Derivatives and other invested assets
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	844.4	641.2
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1)
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	$ 12,066.8	$ 8,964.8
Percentage of assets classified as level 1, 2, and 3	35.30%	26.40%
Fair value of investments in associates	$ 1,982.9	$ 2,344.9
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Short sale and derivative obligations
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Cash and cash equivalents
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	4,329.3	5,114
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Short term investments
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	4,504.2	1,821.4
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Short term investments, Canadian government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	373.9	198.9
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Short term investments, Canadian provincials
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	755.3	171.6
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Short term investments, U.S. treasury
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	3,154.4	758.5
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Short term investments, Other government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	220.6	692.4
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Short term investments, Corporate and other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Bonds
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Bonds, Canadian government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Bonds, Canadian provincials
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Bonds, U.S. treasury
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Bonds, U.S. states and municipalities
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Bonds, Other government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Bonds, Corporate and other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Preferred stocks
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	5.3	1.1
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Preferred stocks, Canadian
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Preferred stocks, U.S.
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Preferred stocks, Other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	5.3	1.1
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Common stocks
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	3,228	2,028.3
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Common stocks, Canadian
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	577.9	669.6
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Common stocks, U.S.
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	360.6	302
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Common stocks, Other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	2,289.5	1,056.7
Recurring fair value measurement | Quoted prices (Level 1) | Derivatives and other invested assets
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	$ 17,182.7	$ 19,638.8
Percentage of assets classified as level 1, 2, and 3	50.30%	57.80%
Fair value of investments in associates	$ 19.4	$ 36.9
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Short sale and derivative obligations
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	(205.9)	(149.3)
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Cash and cash equivalents
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Short term investments
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	1,870.1	425.9
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Short term investments, Canadian government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Short term investments, Canadian provincials
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Short term investments, U.S. treasury
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Short term investments, Other government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	155.2	122.3
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Short term investments, Corporate and other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	1,714.9	303.6
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Bonds
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	14,895.3	18,568.6
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Bonds, Canadian government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	664.4	964.7
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Bonds, Canadian provincials
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	2.9	51.9
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Bonds, U.S. treasury
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	5,610.8	10,464
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Bonds, U.S. states and municipalities
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	216.5	363.2
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Bonds, Other government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	1,656	1,593.3
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Bonds, Corporate and other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	6,744.7	5,131.5
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Preferred stocks
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	8.4	7.8
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Preferred stocks, Canadian
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	8.4	7.8
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Preferred stocks, U.S.
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Preferred stocks, Other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Common stocks
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	534.7	621.5
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Common stocks, Canadian
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	103.7	96
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Common stocks, U.S.
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	33.2	48.6
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Common stocks, Other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	397.8	476.9
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Derivatives and other invested assets
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	80.1	164.3
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	$ 4,935.1	$ 5,374
Percentage of assets classified as level 1, 2, and 3	14.40%	15.80%
Fair value of investments in associates	$ 4,034.2	$ 2,841.3
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Short sale and derivative obligations
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Financial liabilities	0	(0.2)
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Cash and cash equivalents
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Short term investments
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Short term investments, Canadian government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Short term investments, Canadian provincials
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Short term investments, U.S. treasury
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Short term investments, Other government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Short term investments, Corporate and other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Bonds
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	1,420.1	1,992.9
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Bonds, Canadian government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Bonds, Canadian provincials
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Bonds, U.S. treasury
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Bonds, U.S. states and municipalities
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Bonds, Other government
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	0	0
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Bonds, Corporate and other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	1,420.1	1,992.9
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Preferred stocks
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	569.2	255.7
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Preferred stocks, Canadian
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	82.5	160.5
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Preferred stocks, U.S.
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	5	5
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Preferred stocks, Other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	481.7	90.2
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Common stocks
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	2,181.5	2,648.7
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Common stocks, Canadian
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	114.8	107.7
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Common stocks, U.S.
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	1,029.3	1,073.2
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Common stocks, Other
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	1,037.4	1,467.8
Recurring fair value measurement | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Derivatives and other invested assets
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Assets	$ 764.3	$ 476.9
Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited
Disclosure Of Fair Value Measurement Of Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	49.00%

Cash and Investments - Changes

Cash and Investments - Changes in Level 3 Financial Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]
Balance - January 1	$ 5,374	$ 4,373.3
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in the consolidated statement of earnings	708.3	(26.3)
Purchases	890.9	1,261.7
Sales and distributions	1,389.2	(616.8)
Transfer out of category	(613.3)	491.4
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations included in other comprehensive income	31.3	(109.3)
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(66.9)
Balance - December 31	4,935.1	5,374
Limited partnerships and other | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]
Balance - January 1	1,810.7	1,598.7
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in the consolidated statement of earnings	136	155.7
Purchases	196.6	383.1
Sales and distributions	(251.9)	(316.3)
Transfer out of category	(39)	0
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations included in other comprehensive income	6.8	(10.5)
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(12.5)
Balance - December 31	1,846.7	1,810.7
Private placement debt securities | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]
Balance - January 1	1,992.9	1,941.1
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in the consolidated statement of earnings	(159.8)	(78.4)
Purchases	424.5	458.7
Sales and distributions	(806.6)	(266.3)
Transfer out of category	0	0
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations included in other comprehensive income	23.3	(62.2)
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(54.2)
Balance - December 31	1,420.1	1,992.9
Derivatives and other invested assets | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]
Balance - January 1	476.7	177.6
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in the consolidated statement of earnings	195.9	(44.5)
Purchases	195.3	362.1
Sales and distributions	(109.2)	(0.5)
Transfer out of category	0	0
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations included in other comprehensive income	5.8	(18)
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(0.2)
Balance - December 31	764.3	476.7
Private company preferred shares | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]
Balance - January 1	255.7	283.2
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in the consolidated statement of earnings	374.3	(46)
Purchases	49	47.7
Sales and distributions	(108.7)	(24.4)
Transfer out of category	0	0
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations included in other comprehensive income	(1.1)	(4.8)
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Balance - December 31	569.2	255.7
Common shares | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]
Balance - January 1	668	202.2
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in the consolidated statement of earnings	132	(24)
Purchases	25.5	7.5
Sales and distributions	(45.4)	(3.5)
Transfer out of category	(574.3)	491.4
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations included in other comprehensive income	(0.2)	(5.6)
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Balance - December 31	205.6	668
Private equity funds | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]
Balance - January 1	170	170.5
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in the consolidated statement of earnings	29.9	10.9
Purchases	0	2.6
Sales and distributions	(67.4)	(5.8)
Transfer out of category	0	0
Unrealized foreign currency translation gains (losses) on foreign operations included in other comprehensive income	(3.3)	(8.2)
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Balance - December 31	$ 129.2	$ 170
ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited
Changes in fair value measurement, assets [abstract]
Ownership percentage	9.90%

Cash and Investments - Fair Val

Cash and Investments - Fair Value Assets Measurement Techniques (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	$ 70,508.5	$ 64,372.1
Recurring fair value measurement
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	$ 34,184.6	33,977.6
Recurring fair value measurement | Private placement debt securities | Discounted cash flow | Bottom of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Credit spread	1.40%
Recurring fair value measurement | Private placement debt securities | Discounted cash flow | Top of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Credit spread	19.40%
Recurring fair value measurement | Investment property | Income capitalization approach and/or sales comparison approach | Bottom of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Terminal capitalization rate	6.80%
Discount rate	7.30%
Market rent growth rate	3.00%
Recurring fair value measurement | Investment property | Income capitalization approach and/or sales comparison approach | Top of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Terminal capitalization rate	7.50%
Discount rate	9.00%
Market rent growth rate	3.00%
Recurring fair value measurement | Warrants | Option pricing model | Bottom of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Equity volatility	21.30%
Recurring fair value measurement | Warrants | Option pricing model | Top of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Equity volatility	41.00%
Recurring fair value measurement | CPI-linked derivatives | Option pricing model | Bottom of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Inflation volatility	0.00%
Recurring fair value measurement | CPI-linked derivatives | Option pricing model | Top of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Inflation volatility	3.90%
Recurring fair value measurement | Private company preferred shares | Discounted cash flow | Bottom of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Credit spread	3.60%
Recurring fair value measurement | Private company preferred shares | Discounted cash flow | Top of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Credit spread	3.60%
Recurring fair value measurement | Private company preferred shares | Market approach | Bottom of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Discount for lack of marketability	4.50%
Recurring fair value measurement | Private company preferred shares | Market approach | Top of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Discount for lack of marketability	4.50%
Recurring fair value measurement | Common shares | Market comparable | Bottom of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Book value multiple	1.4
Recurring fair value measurement | Common shares | Market comparable | Top of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Book value multiple	1.4
Recurring fair value measurement | Private equity funds | Market comparable | Bottom of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Price/Earnings multiple	10
Recurring fair value measurement | Private equity funds | Market comparable | Top of range
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Price/Earnings multiple	10
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	$ 4,935.1
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Limited partnerships and other | Net asset value
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	1,846.7
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Private placement debt securities | Discounted cash flow
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	1,051
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Private placement debt securities | Market approach
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	232
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Investment property | Income capitalization approach and/or sales comparison approach
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	480.5
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Warrants | Option pricing model
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	199.5
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | CPI-linked derivatives | Option pricing model
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	6.7
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Private company preferred shares | Discounted cash flow
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	68.6
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Private company preferred shares | Market approach
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	481.7
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Common shares | Market comparable
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	76
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Private equity funds | Net asset value
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	65.4
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Private equity funds | Market comparable
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	63.8
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Other
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	363.2
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Recurring fair value measurement
Disclosure of significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	$ 4,935.1	$ 5,374

Cash and Investments - Fair V_2

Cash and Investments - Fair Value Disclosures (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)investment	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	$ 70,508.5	$ 64,372.1
Net asset value | Limited partnerships and other
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Number of investments | investment	49
Net asset value | Limited partnerships and other - largest investment
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	$ 482.3
Discounted cash flow | Private placement debt securities
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Number of investments | investment	16
Decrease in fair value measurement due to change in one or more unobservable inputs to reflect reasonably possible alternative assumptions, assets	$ (14.3)
Increase in fair value measurement due to change in one or more unobservable inputs to reflect reasonably possible alternative assumptions, assets	14.4
Discounted cash flow | Private placement debt securities - largest investment
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	$ 442.1
Market approach | Private placement debt securities
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Number of investments | investment	6
Market approach | Private placement debt securities - largest investment
Disclosure of fair value measurement of assets [line items]
Assets	$ 108.1

Cash and Investments - Schedu_5

Cash and Investments - Schedule of Interest Income and Dividends (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Interest income:
Cash and short term investments	$ 156.5	$ 158.1
Bonds	618	555
Derivatives and other	51.8	30.8
Interest income	826.3	743.9
Dividends:
Dividend income	93.7	81.5
Investment expenses	(39.8)	(41.9)
Interest and dividends	880.2	783.5
Share of profit (loss) of associates	169.6	221.1
Preferred stocks
Dividends:
Dividend income	11.2	11
Common stocks
Dividends:
Dividend income	82.5	70.5
Investments in associates
Dividends:
Share of profit (loss) of associates	169.6	221.1
Impairment charges recorded in share of profit of associates	$ 211.2	$ 57.3

Cash and Investments - Net Gain

Cash and Investments - Net Gains (Losses) on Investments (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions, $ in Millions, ₨ in Billions	Dec. 23, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 23, 2019INR (₨)	Dec. 21, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 21, 2019INR (₨)	Dec. 09, 2019	Jun. 28, 2019USD ($)	May 17, 2019USD ($)	Apr. 18, 2019USD ($)	Jan. 15, 2019USD ($)	Jan. 01, 2019USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2018USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2018CAD ($)	Oct. 01, 2018USD ($)	Jul. 05, 2018USD ($)	Mar. 01, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)$ / shares	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018CAD ($)
Investment [Line Items]
Net gains (losses) on investments																		$ 1,716.2	$ 252.9
Consideration paid										$ (561.5)			$ (670.5)
Share of profit (loss) of associates																		169.6	221.1
Proceeds from sales of interests in associates																		323.8	444.8
Proceeds from issue of bonds, notes and debentures																		3,618.7	(10,743)
Total carrying value																		1,148.2
Seaspan Corporation
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)									$ 63.5
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)									$ 44.1
Consideration paid																		$ 1,000
Warrants, exercise price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares																		$ 8.05
EXCO Resources, Inc
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)						$ (179.3)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)						117
Share of profit (loss) of associates						$ 296.3
Ownership percentage						42.80%
First Capital Insurance Limited
Investment [Line Items]
Proceeds from sales of interests in associates																		$ 33.9
Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited
Investment [Line Items]
Share of profit (loss) of associates	$ 350.9
Ownership percentage																		49.00%
Quess
Investment [Line Items]
Ownership percentage					31.80%
Investments accounted for using equity method | Quess
Investment [Line Items]
Share of profit (loss) of associates															$ 889.9			$ 889.9	889.9
Fair value of equity method investment															$ 1,109.5			1,109.5
Associates
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		10.9	138.9
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		0	0
Net gains (losses) on investments																		10.9	138.9
Subsidiaries
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		171.3	889.9
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		0	0
Net gains (losses) on investments																		171.3	889.9
Other
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		20.3	(0.1)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		134.7	3.6
Net gains (losses) on investments																		155	3.5
Bonds
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		(59.6)	126.2
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		258.1	(335.9)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		198.5	(209.7)
Preferred stocks
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		(23.4)	(21.9)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		397.3	(10.7)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		373.9	(32.6)
Common stocks
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		548	196.4
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		377.9	(581.1)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		925.9	(384.7)
Debt and equity securities
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		465	300.7
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		1,033.3	(927.7)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		1,498.3	(627)
Derivatives and foreign currency net gains (losses)
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		633.4	1,322.4
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		1,082.8	(1,069.5)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		1,716.2	252.9
Derivatives:
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		(30.7)	26
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		(24.9)	(46.6)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		(55.6)	(20.6)
Equity and equity index total return swaps - short positions
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		48.2	(46.8)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		(93.2)	8.6
Net gains (losses) on investments																		(45)	(38.2)
Equity total return swaps - long positions
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		(34.5)	(37.2)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		55	(49.1)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		20.5	(86.3)
Equity warrant forward contracts
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		83.8	75.4
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		(38.4)	38.5
Net gains (losses) on investments																		45.4	113.9
Equity warrants and call options
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		(4.7)	(15.1)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		128.6	(54.8)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		123.9	(69.9)
CPI-linked derivative contracts
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		(14.1)	0
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		1.8	(6.7)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		(12.3)	(6.7)
U.S. government bond forwards
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		(119.3)	49.6
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		32.6	(2.9)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		(86.7)	46.7
Other
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		9.9	0.1
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		(111.3)	19.8
Net gains (losses) on investments																		(101.4)	19.9
Foreign currency net gains (losses)
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		(3.4)	(33)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		(60.3)	(98.8)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		(63.7)	(131.8)
Investing activities
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		(17.3)	(43.1)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		(50.7)	(128.2)
Net gains (losses) on investments																		(68)	(171.3)
Underwriting activities
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		5.6	31.6
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		0	0
Net gains (losses) on investments																		5.6	31.6
Foreign currency contracts
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																		8.3	(21.5)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		(9.6)	29.4
Net gains (losses) on investments																		(1.3)	7.9
ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)																$ 240
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																		$ 71.2
Net gains (losses) on investments																	$ 311.2
Ownership percentage																		9.90%
Proceeds from sales of interests in associates																		$ 729
Grivalia Properties
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)							$ 171.3
Arbor Memorial Services Inc.
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)											$ 111.8								111.8
Proceeds from sales of interests in associates											179.2	$ 235.4							179.2	$ 235.4
Navacord Inc.
Investment [Line Items]
Net realized gains (losses)											17.6	22.7							17.6	22.7
Proceeds from sales of interests in associates											$ 58.8	$ 76.3							$ 58.8	$ 76.3
Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited
Investment [Line Items]
Value of shares committed to be issued	91	₨ 6.5
Investment, value of company	$ 858	₨ 61.2
Fairfax India | Sanmar Chemicals Group
Investment [Line Items]
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)			$ 107.8
Net gains (losses) on investments			48.8
Bonds issued			300
Share of profit (loss) of associates			156.5
Proceeds from issue of bonds, notes and debentures			$ 433.9	₨ 30.8
Brit
Investment [Line Items]
Percentage of economic interests acquired														11.20%
Consideration paid														$ 251.8
Brit | Ambridge Partners LLC
Investment [Line Items]
Percentage of economic interests acquired								50.00%
Consideration paid								$ 46.6
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 10.4

Investments in Associates - Inv

Investments in Associates - Investments in Associates (Details) € in Millions, ₨ in Billions	Dec. 23, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 21, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 20, 2019	Dec. 16, 2019	Dec. 09, 2019	Jun. 28, 2019USD ($)	May 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 21, 2019INR (₨)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 530,000,000
Carrying value								4,820,000,000		$ 4,863,000,000
Total carrying value								1,148,200,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 169,600,000		$ 221,100,000
Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								49.00%	49.00%
Share of profit (loss) of associates	$ 350,900,000
Bangalore International Airport Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage				54.00%
Quess
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage					31.80%
IIFL Finance Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage							35.40%
IIFL Holdings Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Share of profit (loss) of associates							$ 172,900,000
Catholic Syrian Bank Ltd.
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage										49.70%
IIFL Securities Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage							35.40%
Fair value of investments in associates							$ 121,900,000
KWF Real Estate Ventures Limited Partnerships
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value								$ 0
Share of profit (loss) of associates								57,000,000	€ 53.6
EXCO Resources, Inc
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage						42.80%
Fair value of investments in associates						$ 220,900,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates						$ 296,300,000
Non-insurance associates
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								5,330,000,000		$ 4,522,400,000
Investments in associates
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								6,036,500,000		5,223,100,000
Carrying value								3,195,800,000		3,471,900,000
Total carrying value								4,820,000,000		4,863,000,000		$ 3,656,300,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								169,600,000		221,100,000
Investments in associates
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								3,357,300,000		3,279,100,000
Total carrying value								3,195,800,000		3,471,900,000
Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa investments in associates
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								2,679,200,000		1,944,000,000
Total carrying value								1,624,200,000		1,391,100,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Insurance and reinsurance associates
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								706,500,000		700,700,000
Carrying value								492,100,000		554,000,000
Total carrying value								492,100,000		554,000,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 146,500,000		$ (29,700,000)
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Eurolife ERB Insurance Group Holdings S.A.
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 403,100,000		$ 287,700,000
Carrying value								303,900,000		175,200,000
Total carrying value								303,900,000		175,200,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 154,800,000		$ 18,100,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Gulf Insurance Company
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage										43.30%
Fair value of investments in associates										$ 211,500,000
Carrying value										174,200,000
Total carrying value										174,200,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates										$ 7,300,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam Insurance Joint Stock Corporation
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 45,200,000		$ 46,000,000
Carrying value								48,600,000		47,100,000
Total carrying value								48,600,000		47,100,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 2,700,000		$ 700,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Thai Re Public Company Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								47.10%	47.10%	47.10%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 43,300,000		$ 53,100,000
Carrying value								43,300,000		53,100,000
Total carrying value								43,300,000		53,100,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ (15,000,000)		$ (52,400,000)
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Singapore Reinsurance Corporation Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								27.80%	27.80%	27.80%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 35,600,000		$ 34,500,000
Carrying value								39,200,000		36,500,000
Total carrying value								39,200,000		36,500,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 3,200,000		$ 600,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Falcon Insurance PLC
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								41.20%	41.20%	41.20%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 10,400,000		$ 9,300,000
Carrying value								10,400,000		9,300,000
Total carrying value								10,400,000		9,300,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 500,000		$ 0
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								49.00%	49.00%	49.00%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 122,300,000		$ 3,400,000
Carrying value								0		3,400,000
Total carrying value								0		3,400,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ (7,600,000)		$ (6,800,000)
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Ambridge Partners LLC
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 46,600,000		$ 55,200,000
Carrying value								46,700,000		55,200,000
Total carrying value								46,700,000		55,200,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								7,900,000		2,800,000
Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value										93,100,000
Non-insurance companies | Non-insurance associates, India
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								2,803,600,000		2,521,200,000
Carrying value								800,100,000		1,157,400,000
Total carrying value								2,191,400,000		2,260,400,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 46,800,000		$ 103,800,000
Non-insurance companies | Bangalore International Airport Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								54.00%	54.00%	54.00%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 1,429,800,000		$ 704,100,000
Carrying value								0		0
Total carrying value								689,300,000		674,400,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 30,800,000		$ 51,100,000
Non-insurance companies | Quess
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								33.20%	33.20%	48.80%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 332,100,000		$ 672,500,000
Carrying value								704,100,000		1,044,600,000
Total carrying value								704,100,000		1,044,600,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ (183,200,000)		$ 8,400,000
Non-insurance companies | IIFL Finance Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								35.40%	35.40%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 221,400,000
Carrying value								56,400,000
Total carrying value								223,600,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 198,900,000
Non-insurance companies | IIFL Holdings Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage										35.40%
Fair value of investments in associates										$ 818,300,000
Carrying value										106,200,000
Total carrying value										423,400,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates										$ 45,300,000
Non-insurance companies | Sanmar Chemicals Group
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage			30.00%					42.90%	42.90%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 412,900,000
Carrying value								0
Total carrying value		$ 198,000,000						178,700,000			₨ 14.1
Share of profit (loss) of associates		$ 156,500,000						$ 0
Non-insurance companies | Catholic Syrian Bank Ltd.
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								49.70%	49.70%	36.40%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 229,300,000		$ 93,100,000
Carrying value								0		0
Total carrying value								157,800,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ (4,000,000)		$ 0
Non-insurance companies | IIFL Securities Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								35.40%	35.40%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 65,000,000
Carrying value								30,800,000
Total carrying value								121,100,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 1,600,000
Non-insurance companies | Seven Islands Shipping Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								48.50%	48.50%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 88,800,000
Carrying value								0
Total carrying value								84,700,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 3,000,000
Non-insurance companies | Other, India
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 24,300,000		$ 233,200,000
Carrying value								8,800,000		6,600,000
Total carrying value								32,100,000		24,900,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								(300,000)		(1,000,000)
Non-insurance companies | Non-insurance associates, Africa
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								285,400,000		304,300,000
Carrying value								0		0
Total carrying value								232,900,000		288,100,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ (41,100,000)		$ 17,600,000
Non-insurance companies | Atlas Mara Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								42.40%	42.40%	42.40%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 78,100,000		$ 119,100,000
Carrying value								0		0
Total carrying value								82,300,000		195,600,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ (54,000,000)		$ 30,800,000
Non-insurance companies | AFGRI Proprietary Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								62.80%	62.80%	60.00%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 141,000,000		$ 149,900,000
Carrying value								0		0
Total carrying value								79,600,000		57,100,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 19,500,000		(13,200,000)
Non-insurance companies | Other, Africa
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								0.00%	0.00%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 66,300,000		35,300,000
Carrying value								0		0
Total carrying value								71,000,000		35,400,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								(6,600,000)		0
Non-insurance companies | Non-insurance associates, Agriculture
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								72,700,000		109,700,000
Carrying value								156,500,000		183,800,000
Total carrying value								156,500,000		183,800,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ (59,000,000)		$ (49,000,000)
Non-insurance companies | Astarta Holding N.V.
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								27.40%	27.40%	28.20%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 28,900,000		$ 43,100,000
Carrying value								115,500,000		116,900,000
Total carrying value								115,500,000		116,900,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ (19,100,000)		$ (16,300,000)
Non-insurance companies | Farmers Edge Inc
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								50.40%	50.40%	49.20%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 43,800,000		$ 66,600,000
Carrying value								41,000,000		66,900,000
Total carrying value								41,000,000		66,900,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								(39,900,000)		(32,700,000)
Non-insurance companies | Non-insurance associates, Real estate
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								179,800,000		363,400,000
Carrying value								173,700,000		353,000,000
Total carrying value								173,700,000		353,000,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 44,000,000		$ 115,800,000
Non-insurance companies | KWF Real Estate Ventures Limited Partnerships
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 99,000,000		$ 246,700,000
Carrying value								99,000,000		247,300,000
Total carrying value								99,000,000		247,300,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 49,800,000		$ 118,600,000
Non-insurance companies | Other, Real estate
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 80,800,000		$ 116,700,000
Carrying value								74,700,000		105,700,000
Total carrying value								74,700,000		105,700,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								(5,800,000)		(2,800,000)
Non-insurance companies | Non-insurance associates, Other
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								1,988,500,000		1,223,800,000
Carrying value								1,573,400,000		1,223,700,000
Total carrying value								1,573,400,000		1,223,700,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 32,400,000		$ 62,600,000
Non-insurance companies | Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								32.50%	32.50%	21.80%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 994,500,000		$ 300,800,000
Carrying value								626,900,000		276,800,000
Total carrying value								626,900,000		276,800,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 83,800,000		$ 8,800,000
Non-insurance companies | EXCO Resources, Inc
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								43.30%	43.30%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 238,200,000
Carrying value								243,200,000
Total carrying value								243,200,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ 21,600,000
Non-insurance companies | Resolute Forest Products Inc.
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								27.70%	27.70%	33.60%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 104,000,000		$ 240,800,000
Carrying value								207,500,000		299,800,000
Total carrying value								207,500,000		299,800,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ (4,900,000)		$ 74,400,000
Non-insurance companies | APR Energy PLC
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								53.40%	53.40%	67.80%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 266,200,000		$ 303,600,000
Carrying value								189,300,000		298,400,000
Total carrying value								189,300,000		298,400,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ (57,000,000)		$ (10,300,000)
Non-insurance companies | Peak Achievement Athletics
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								42.60%	42.60%	42.60%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 163,900,000		$ 153,500,000
Carrying value								104,400,000		128,600,000
Total carrying value								104,400,000		128,600,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								$ (5,100,000)		$ (15,100,000)
Non-insurance companies | Arbor Memorial Services Inc.
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage										0.00%
Fair value of investments in associates										$ 0
Carrying value										0
Total carrying value										0
Share of profit (loss) of associates										$ 10,800,000
Non-insurance companies | Partnerships, trusts and other
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage								0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 221,700,000		$ 225,100,000
Carrying value								202,100,000		220,100,000
Total carrying value								202,100,000		220,100,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								(6,000,000)		(6,000,000)
Non-insurance companies | Non-insurance associates
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								5,330,000,000		4,522,400,000
Carrying value								2,703,700,000		2,917,900,000
Total carrying value								4,327,900,000		4,309,000,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates								23,100,000		250,800,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax India | Non-insurance associates, India
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								1,391,300,000		1,103,000,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax India | Bangalore International Airport Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								689,300,000		674,400,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax India | IIFL Finance Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								167,200,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax India | IIFL Holdings Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value										317,200,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax India | Sanmar Chemicals Group
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								178,700,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax India | Catholic Syrian Bank Ltd.
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								157,800,000		93,100,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax India | IIFL Securities Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								90,300,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax India | Seven Islands Shipping Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								84,700,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax India | Other, India
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								23,300,000		18,300,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax Africa | Non-insurance associates, Africa
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								232,900,000		288,100,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax Africa | Atlas Mara Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								82,300,000		195,600,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax Africa | AFGRI Proprietary Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								79,600,000		57,100,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax Africa | Other, Africa
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								71,000,000		35,400,000
Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa | Non-insurance associates
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								1,624,200,000		1,391,100,000
Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa | Investments in associates
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Carrying value								1,624,200,000		$ 1,391,100,000
European Run-off
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								430,500,000
Total carrying value								$ 368,800,000

Investments in Associates - Add

Investments in Associates - Additional Information (Details) € in Millions, shares in Millions, ₨ in Billions	Feb. 28, 2020USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2020USD ($)	Jan. 01, 2020USD ($)	Dec. 23, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 23, 2019INR (₨)	Dec. 21, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 21, 2019INR (₨)	Dec. 20, 2019	Dec. 17, 2019	Dec. 16, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 16, 2019INR (₨)	Dec. 09, 2019USD ($)	Jun. 28, 2019USD ($)	May 31, 2019USD ($)	Apr. 18, 2019USD ($)	Jan. 15, 2019USD ($)shares	Jan. 01, 2019USD ($)	Oct. 01, 2018USD ($)	Jul. 16, 2018USD ($)	Jul. 05, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019INR (₨)	Dec. 31, 2019EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 21, 2019INR (₨)	May 17, 2019USD ($)	Jan. 04, 2019USD ($)
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					$ 1,148,200,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					530,000,000
Consideration paid																	$ (561,500,000)	$ (670,500,000)
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					169,600,000			$ 221,100,000
Proceeds from issue of bonds																					3,618,700,000			(10,743,000,000)
Net gains (losses) on investments																					1,716,200,000			252,900,000
Investments in associates																					4,820,000,000			4,863,000,000
Sales of investments in associates																					323,800,000			$ 444,800,000
Thai Re Public Company Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Non-cash impairment charge																					$ 7,500,000
Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage																					49.00%	49.00%	49.00%
Share of profit (loss) of associates				$ 350,900,000
KWF Real Estate Ventures Limited Partnerships
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					$ 0
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					57,000,000		€ 53.6
Distributions and dividends received from associates																					169,400,000		€ 150
Quess
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage												31.80%
Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Consideration paid																					1,000,000,000
Net realized gains (losses)																$ 63,500,000
Realized gain on derivatives																107,600,000
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)																44,100,000
EXCO Resources, Inc
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates													$ 220,900,000
Ownership percentage													42.80%
Share of profit (loss) of associates													$ 296,300,000
Net realized gains (losses)													(179,300,000)
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)													$ 117,000,000
IIFL Holdings Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Share of profit (loss) of associates														$ 172,900,000
IIFL Wealth Management Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates														$ 255,600,000
Ownership percentage														19.00%
IIFL Securities Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates														$ 121,900,000
Ownership percentage														35.40%
IIFL Finance Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage														35.40%
CSB Bank Limited (Fomerly, Catholic Syrian Bank Ltd.)
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage																								49.70%
Maximum percentage of voting rights allowed to be owned																								26.00%
Anchorage Infrastructure Investments Holdings Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Sale of interest in associates, percentage										12.00%	12.00%
Sales of investments in associates										$ 133,000,000	₨ 9.5
Bangalore International Airport Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage										54.00%	54.00%
Anchorage Infrastructure Investments Holdings Limited | Bangalore International Airport Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage									44.00%
European Run-off
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					368,800,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					430,500,000
Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Value of shares committed to be issued				91,000,000	₨ 6.5
Investment, value of company				$ 858,000,000	₨ 61.2
Brit
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Percentage of economic interests acquired																				11.20%
Consideration paid																				$ 251,800,000
Brit | Ambridge Partners LLC
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Percentage of economic interests acquired															50.00%
Consideration paid															$ 46,600,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates															$ 10,400,000
Grivalia Properties
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																								$ 68,500,000		$ 68,500,000
Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Gain (loss) on modification of charter arrangement																					227,000,000
Thomas Cook India | Quess
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Non-cash impairment charge												$ 190,600,000
Ownership percentage												48.60%
IIFL Holdings Limited | IIFL Wealth Management Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage														53.30%
Fairfax India | Sanmar Chemicals Group
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Share of profit (loss) of associates						$ 156,500,000
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)						107,800,000
Bonds issued						300,000,000
Proceeds from issue of bonds						433,900,000	₨ 30.8
Net gains (losses) on investments						48,800,000
Fairfax India | CSB Bank Limited (Fomerly, Catholic Syrian Bank Ltd.)
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Consideration paid																					$ 81,000,000
Fairfax India | Seven Islands Shipping Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Percentage of economic interests acquired																					48.50%
Consideration paid																					$ 83,800,000	₨ 5.8
Consolidated Infrastructure Group (CIG)
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates																											$ 42,800,000
Minimum | KWF Real Estate Ventures Limited Partnerships
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage																					50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Maximum | KWF Real Estate Ventures Limited Partnerships
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage																					90.00%	90.00%	90.00%
Tranche 2 debentures and warrants | Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Consideration paid																$ 250,000,000
Class A common shares and $8.05 warrants through early exercise of Tranche 1 warrants | Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Consideration paid																			$ 250,000,000
Number of securities called by warrants or rights | shares																38.5
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Thai Re Public Company Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					$ 43,300,000			53,100,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 43,300,000			$ 53,100,000
Ownership percentage																					47.10%	47.10%	47.10%	47.10%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ (15,000,000)			$ (52,400,000)
Investments in associates																					43,300,000			53,100,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					0			3,400,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 122,300,000			$ 3,400,000
Ownership percentage																					49.00%	49.00%	49.00%	49.00%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ (7,600,000)			$ (6,800,000)
Investments in associates																					0			3,400,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Ambridge Partners LLC
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					46,700,000			55,200,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 46,600,000			$ 55,200,000
Ownership percentage																					0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ 7,900,000			$ 2,800,000
Investments in associates																					46,700,000			55,200,000
Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																								93,100,000
Non-insurance companies | KWF Real Estate Ventures Limited Partnerships
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					99,000,000			247,300,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 99,000,000			$ 246,700,000
Ownership percentage																					0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ 49,800,000			$ 118,600,000
Investments in associates																					99,000,000			247,300,000
Non-insurance companies | Quess
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					704,100,000			1,044,600,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 332,100,000			$ 672,500,000
Ownership percentage																					33.20%	33.20%	33.20%	48.80%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ (183,200,000)			$ 8,400,000
Investments in associates																					704,100,000			1,044,600,000
Non-insurance companies | Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					626,900,000			276,800,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 994,500,000			$ 300,800,000
Ownership percentage																					32.50%	32.50%	32.50%	21.80%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ 83,800,000			$ 8,800,000
Investments in associates																					626,900,000			276,800,000
Non-insurance companies | EXCO Resources, Inc
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					243,200,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 238,200,000
Ownership percentage																					43.30%	43.30%	43.30%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ 21,600,000
Investments in associates																					243,200,000
Non-insurance companies | IIFL Holdings Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																								423,400,000
Fair value of investments in associates																								$ 818,300,000
Ownership percentage																								35.40%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																								$ 45,300,000
Investments in associates																								106,200,000
Non-insurance companies | IIFL Securities Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					121,100,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 65,000,000
Ownership percentage																					35.40%	35.40%	35.40%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ 1,600,000
Investments in associates																					30,800,000
Non-insurance companies | IIFL Finance Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					223,600,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 221,400,000
Ownership percentage																					35.40%	35.40%	35.40%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ 198,900,000
Investments in associates																					56,400,000
Non-insurance companies | Sanmar Chemicals Group
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value						198,000,000															178,700,000				₨ 14.1
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 412,900,000
Ownership percentage								30.00%													42.90%	42.90%	42.90%
Share of profit (loss) of associates						156,500,000															$ 0
Net change in unrealized gains (losses)						107,700,000
Bonds issued						300,000,000
Proceeds from issue of bonds						425,500,000	₨ 30.3
Net gains (losses) on investments						$ 48,800,000
Investments in associates																					0
Non-insurance companies | CSB Bank Limited (Fomerly, Catholic Syrian Bank Ltd.)
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					157,800,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 229,300,000			$ 93,100,000
Ownership percentage																					49.70%	49.70%	49.70%	36.40%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ (4,000,000)			$ 0
Investments in associates																					0			0
Non-insurance companies | Seven Islands Shipping Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					84,700,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 88,800,000
Ownership percentage																					48.50%	48.50%	48.50%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ 3,000,000
Investments in associates																					0
Non-insurance companies | APR Energy PLC
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					189,300,000			298,400,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 266,200,000			$ 303,600,000
Ownership percentage																					53.40%	53.40%	53.40%	67.80%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ (57,000,000)			$ (10,300,000)
Investments in associates																					189,300,000			298,400,000
Non-insurance companies | Bangalore International Airport Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Total carrying value																					689,300,000			674,400,000
Fair value of investments in associates																					$ 1,429,800,000			$ 704,100,000
Ownership percentage																					54.00%	54.00%	54.00%	54.00%
Share of profit (loss) of associates																					$ 30,800,000			$ 51,100,000
Investments in associates																					$ 0			$ 0
Subsequent event
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Consideration paid		$ (143,400,000)	$ (155,600,000)
Subsequent event | Atlas Corp | APR Energy PLC
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Consideration paid	$ 406,000,000
Common shares | Insurance and reinsurance companies | Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage																					45.30%	45.30%	45.30%
Preferred stocks – convertible | Insurance and reinsurance companies | Go Digit Infoworks Services Private Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Ownership percentage																					3.70%	3.70%	3.70%

Investments in Associates - Fai

Investments in Associates - Fair Value Assumptions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	May 31, 2019
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates	$ 530
Total carrying value	$ 1,148.2
Astarta Holding N.V.
Disclosure of associates [line items]
After-tax discount rate	12.70%
Long-term growth rate	3.00%
Non-cash impairment charge	$ 10.1
IIFL Securities Limited
Disclosure of associates [line items]
After-tax discount rate	12.30%
Long-term growth rate	6.00%
Fair value of investments in associates		$ 121.9
Quess
Disclosure of associates [line items]
After-tax discount rate	12.80%
Long-term growth rate	6.00%
Resolute Forest Products Inc.
Disclosure of associates [line items]
After-tax discount rate	10.30%
Long-term growth rate	1.50%
Minimum
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Long-term growth rate	2.50%
Maximum
Disclosure of associates [line items]
Long-term growth rate	3.00%

Investments in Associates - Agg

Investments in Associates - Aggregate Cash Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jan. 15, 2019	Jan. 01, 2019	Oct. 01, 2018	Jul. 16, 2018	Feb. 14, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of financial assets to which overlay approach is applied for associates [line items]
Consideration paid		$ (561.5)	$ (670.5)
Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of financial assets to which overlay approach is applied for associates [line items]
Consideration paid						$ 1,000
Tranche 1 debentures and warrants | Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of financial assets to which overlay approach is applied for associates [line items]
Consideration paid					$ 250
Class A common shares and $8.05 warrants through early exercise of Tranche 1 warrants | Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of financial assets to which overlay approach is applied for associates [line items]
Consideration paid				$ 250
Tranche 2 debentures and warrants | Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of financial assets to which overlay approach is applied for associates [line items]
Consideration paid	$ 250
Class A common shares through early exercise of Tranche 2 warrants | Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of financial assets to which overlay approach is applied for associates [line items]
Consideration paid	$ 250

Investments in Associates - Ass

Investments in Associates - Associates Rollforward (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Schedule Of Associates [Roll Forward]
Purchases and acquisitions	$ 772.1	$ 535.8
Divestitures and other net changes in capitalization	323.8	444.8
Investments in associates (fair value $3,357.3; December 31, 2018 – $3,279.1)	4,820	4,863
Balance - December 31	1,148.2
Investments in associates
Schedule Of Associates [Roll Forward]
Balance - January 1	1,465.6	1,437
Share of profit (loss)	111.6	64.6
Impairment charges	(20.6)	(57.3)
Share of other comprehensive income (loss), excluding losses on defined benefit plans	26.2	(23.9)
Share of losses on defined benefit plans	(42.3)	(49.4)
Share of pre-tax comprehensive income (loss) of associates and joint arrangements	74.9	(66)
Distributions and dividends received from associates	(160.7)	(74.2)
Purchases and acquisitions	677.2	321.7
Divestitures and other net changes in capitalization	(0.5)	(139)
Reclassifications	(36.7)	0
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(316.8)
Foreign exchange effect	9.2	(13.9)
Balance - December 31	1,712.2	1,465.6
Joint arrangements
Schedule Of Associates [Roll Forward]
Balance - January 1	2,006.3	1,050
Share of profit (loss)	131.1	112.4
Impairment charges	(190.6)	0
Share of other comprehensive income (loss), excluding losses on defined benefit plans	(3.8)	(18.5)
Share of losses on defined benefit plans	(0.2)	(0.2)
Share of pre-tax comprehensive income (loss) of associates and joint arrangements	(63.5)	93.7
Distributions and dividends received from associates	(245)	(220.5)
Purchases and acquisitions	71.6	80.6
Divestitures and other net changes in capitalization	(221)	(16.8)
Reclassifications	0	1,103.6
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(52)
Foreign exchange effect	(12.8)	(84.3)
Balance - December 31	1,483.6	2,006.3
Fairfax India
Schedule Of Associates [Roll Forward]
Balance - January 1	1,103	949.5
Share of profit (loss)	179.2	83.7
Impairment charges	0	0
Share of other comprehensive income (loss), excluding losses on defined benefit plans	(0.7)	0.5
Share of losses on defined benefit plans	(5.5)	0
Share of pre-tax comprehensive income (loss) of associates and joint arrangements	173	84.2
Distributions and dividends received from associates	(288.8)	(6.2)
Purchases and acquisitions	441	155.9
Divestitures and other net changes in capitalization	(9.7)	0
Reclassifications	0	0
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Foreign exchange effect	(27.2)	(80.4)
Balance - December 31	1,391.3	1,103
Fairfax Africa
Schedule Of Associates [Roll Forward]
Balance - January 1	288.1	219.8
Share of profit (loss)	(41.1)	17.7
Impairment charges	0	0
Share of other comprehensive income (loss), excluding losses on defined benefit plans	(51.6)	(13)
Share of losses on defined benefit plans	0	0
Share of pre-tax comprehensive income (loss) of associates and joint arrangements	(92.7)	4.7
Distributions and dividends received from associates	0	0
Purchases and acquisitions	45.1	63.3
Divestitures and other net changes in capitalization	(7.4)	0.3
Reclassifications	0	0
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Foreign exchange effect	(0.2)	0
Balance - December 31	232.9	288.1
Associates
Schedule Of Associates [Roll Forward]
Balance - January 1	4,863	3,656.3
Share of profit (loss)	380.8	278.4
Impairment charges	(211.2)	(57.3)
Share of other comprehensive income (loss), excluding losses on defined benefit plans	(29.9)	(54.9)
Share of losses on defined benefit plans	(48)	(49.6)
Share of pre-tax comprehensive income (loss) of associates and joint arrangements	91.7	116.6
Distributions and dividends received from associates	(694.5)	(300.9)
Purchases and acquisitions	1,234.9	621.5
Divestitures and other net changes in capitalization	(238.6)	(155.5)
Reclassifications	(36.7)	1,103.6
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(368.8)
Investments in associates (fair value $3,357.3; December 31, 2018 – $3,279.1)	3,195.8	3,471.9
Foreign exchange effect	(31)	(178.6)
Balance - December 31	4,820	4,863
Grivalia Properties
Schedule Of Associates [Roll Forward]
Balance - January 1	68.5
Balance - December 31		68.5
Quess
Schedule Of Associates [Roll Forward]
Balance - January 1	$ 12.8
Balance - December 31		$ 12.8

Short Sales and Derivatives - F

Short Sales and Derivatives - Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	$ 7,261	$ 6,506.4
Market value	288	307.4
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	205.9	149.5
Equity total return swaps – short positions
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	369.8	414.4
Cost	0	0
Market value	0	22.3
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	84.6	13.4
Equity total return swaps – long positions
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	406.3	390.3
Cost	0	0
Market value	11.1	4.8
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	3	51.7
Equity warrants and call options
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	528.1	652.9
Cost	114.8	123.7
Market value	200.3	79.8
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	0	0
Equity warrant forward contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	0	316.6
Cost	0	0
Market value	0	38.4
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	0	0
CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	99,804.7	114,426.4
Cost	614.9	668.9
Market value	6.7	24.9
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	0	0
U.S. treasury bond forward contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	846.5	471.9
Cost	3.9	0
Market value	0	0
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	1.7	30.4
Foreign currency forward and swap contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	0	0
Cost	1.8	0
Market value	55.3	71.3
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	114.5	53.7
Foreign currency options
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	0	0
Cost	102.7	48.3
Market value	8.2	44.9
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	0	0
Other derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	0	0
Cost	3.4	0
Market value	2.5	21
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	2.1	0.3
AGT | Foreign currency forward and swap contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Short sale and derivative obligations, holding company	$ 53.3
Seaspan Corporation
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Warrants, exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 8.05
Seaspan Corporation | Equity warrants and call options
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Market value	$ 0	$ 0

Short Sales and Derivatives - A

Short Sales and Derivatives - Additional Information (Details) $ in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2018CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018EUR (€)
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	$ 7,261	$ 6,506.4
Net gains (losses) on investments	1,716.2	252.9
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations, at fair value	152.4	186.1
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations, collateral, entering derivative contracts	70.3	126.1
Assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations, collateral, fair value changes	82.1	60
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	5,774.1	5,703.6
Equity total return swaps – short positions, investment purposes
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	194.4	276.5
Equity total return swaps – short positions
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	369.8	414.4
Net cash paid (received) for derivative closures and reset provisions	(48.2)	46.8
Notional amount of derivatives settled	89.9	565.8
Net gains (losses) on investments	(30.3)	(11.4)
Realized gain (loss) on derivatives	(7.9)	(248.2)
Unrealized gain (loss)	(38.2)	(236.8)
Equity total return swaps – long positions, individual equities
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	501.5	501.5
Equity total return swaps – long positions
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	406.3	390.3
Net cash paid (received) for derivative closures and reset provisions	34.5	37.2
Notional amount of derivatives settled	0	452.9
Net gains (losses) on investments		(19.5)
Realized gain (loss) on derivatives		(16.5)
Unrealized gain (loss)		(3)
U.S. treasury bond forward contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	846.5	471.9
Net gains (losses) on investments	(86.7)	46.7
CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	99,804.7	114,426.4
Unrealized gain (loss)	$ (608.2)	$ (644)
Average life (in years)	2 years 9 months 18 days	3 years 7 months 6 days
Other price risk | CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Average life (in years)	2 years 9 months 18 days	3 years 7 months 6 days
Credit risk | Cash
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	$ 5.3	$ 1.1
Credit risk | Government securities
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	10.8	18.3
United States, European Union, and United Kingdom | CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	12,100	1,800.3
Canada
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Gains (losses) on hedge of net investment	(105.6)	166.3
Canada | Hedges of net investment in foreign operations | Unsecured senior notes
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Borrowings			$ 2,796.1		$ 2,691.5
Borrowings at fair value	2,270	2,028.4
Europe
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Gains (losses) on hedge of net investment	(35.3)	57.1
Europe | Hedges of net investment in foreign operations | Unsecured senior notes
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Borrowings | €				€ 277,000,000		€ 750,000,000
Borrowings at fair value	$ 336.2	$ 854.5

Short Sales and Derivatives - U

Short Sales and Derivatives - Underlying CPI Index (Details) € in Millions, £ in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)$ / derivative_unit	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)$ / derivative_unit	Dec. 31, 2019GBP (£)$ / derivative_unit	Dec. 31, 2019EUR (€)$ / derivative_unit	Dec. 31, 2018GBP (£)$ / derivative_unit	Dec. 31, 2018EUR (€)$ / derivative_unit
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	$ 7,261	$ 6,506.4
Market value	$ 288	$ 307.4
CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Average life (in years)	2 years 9 months 18 days	3 years 7 months 6 days
Notional amount	$ 99,804.7	$ 114,426.4
Cost	614.9	668.9
Market value	6.7	24.9
Unrealized gain (loss)	$ (608.2)	$ (644)
United States | CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Floor rate	0.50%		0.50%	0.50%
Weighted average index value or strike price (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	244.63	243.41	244.63	244.63	243.41	243.41
United States, 1 | CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Floor rate	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Average life (in years)	2 years 8 months 12 days	3 years 8 months 12 days
Notional amount	$ 44,775	$ 46,725
Weighted average index value or strike price (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	231.35	231.39	231.35	231.35	231.39	231.39
Index value at period end (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	256.97	251.23	256.97	256.97	251.23	251.23
Cost	$ 277.5	$ 286.7
Cost (in bps)	0.62%	0.614%	0.62%	0.62%	0.614%	0.614%
Market value	$ 1.6	$ 8
Market value (in bps)	0.004%	0.017%	0.004%	0.004%	0.017%	0.017%
Unrealized gain (loss)	$ (275.9)	$ (278.7)
United States, 2 | CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Floor rate	0.50%	0.50%	0.50%	0.50%	0.50%	0.50%
Average life (in years)	4 years 9 months 18 days	5 years 9 months 18 days
Notional amount	$ 12,600	$ 12,600
Weighted average index value or strike price (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	238.30	238.30	238.30	238.30	238.30	238.30
Index value at period end (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	256.97	251.23	256.97	256.97	251.23	251.23
Cost	$ 39.7	$ 39.4
Cost (in bps)	0.315%	0.313%	0.315%	0.315%	0.313%	0.313%
Market value	$ 4.4	$ 15.1
Market value (in bps)	0.035%	0.12%	0.035%	0.035%	0.12%	0.12%
Unrealized gain (loss)	$ (35.3)	$ (24.3)
European Union | CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Floor rate	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Average life (in years)	2 years 2 months 12 days	3 years
Notional amount	$ 36,509.3	$ 47,297.6		€ 32,525		€ 41,375
Weighted average index value or strike price (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	96.57	96.09	96.57	96.57	96.09	96.09
Index value at period end (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	105.13	104.10	105.13	105.13	104.10	104.10
Cost	$ 263.6	$ 299.3
Cost (in bps)	0.722%	0.633%	0.722%	0.722%	0.633%	0.633%
Market value	$ 0.6	$ 1.5
Market value (in bps)	0.002%	0.003%	0.002%	0.002%	0.003%	0.003%
Unrealized gain (loss)	$ (263)	$ (297.8)
United Kingdom | CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Floor rate	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Average life (in years)	2 years 10 months 25 days	3 years 10 months 24 days
Notional amount	$ 2,384.5	$ 4,202.9	£ 1,800		£ 3,300
Weighted average index value or strike price (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	243.79	243.82	243.79	243.79	243.82	243.82
Index value at period end (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	291.90	285.60	291.90	291.90	285.60	285.60
Cost	$ 13.4	$ 22.8
Cost (in bps)	0.562%	0.542%	0.562%	0.562%	0.542%	0.542%
Market value	$ 0	$ 0
Market value (in bps)	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Unrealized gain (loss)	$ (13.4)	$ (22.8)
France | CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Floor rate	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Average life (in years)	3 years 1 month 6 days	4 years 1 month 6 days
Notional amount	$ 3,535.9	$ 3,600.9		€ 3,150		€ 3,150
Weighted average index value or strike price (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	99.27	99.27	99.27	99.27	99.27	99.27
Index value at period end (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	104.39	103.16	104.39	104.39	103.16	103.16
Cost	$ 20.7	$ 20.7
Cost (in bps)	0.585%	0.575%	0.585%	0.585%	0.575%	0.575%
Market value	$ 0.1	$ 0.3
Market value (in bps)	0.003%	0.008%	0.003%	0.003%	0.008%	0.008%
Unrealized gain (loss)	$ (20.6)	$ (20.4)
Payout At Maturity Scenario 1
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Floor rate	0.00%		0.00%	0.00%
Payout At Maturity Scenario 2
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Floor rate	0.50%		0.50%	0.50%
Weighted average index value or strike price (usd per unit) | $ / derivative_unit	250.49		250.49	250.49
European Run-off | CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	$ 12,054.3
Market value	$ 0

Insurance Contract Liabilitie_2

Insurance Contract Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Provision for unearned premiums	$ 7,222.4	$ 6,272.2	$ 5,951.7
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	28,500.2	29,081.7	$ 28,610.8	$ 19,481.8	$ 19,816.4	$ 17,749.1	$ 19,212.8	$ 19,648.8	$ 17,232.2	$ 16,049.3
Total insurance contract liabilities	35,722.6	35,353.9
Total insurance contract liabilities, Current	15,023.9	14,086.5
Total ceded insurance contract liabilities, Current	3,715.8	3,489.5
Total insurance contract liabilities, net, Current	11,308.1	10,597
Total insurance contract liabilities, Non-current	20,698.7	21,267.4
Total ceded insurance contract liabilities, Non-current	4,802.7	4,260.4
Total insurance contract liabilities, net, Non-current	15,896	17,007
Total insurance contract liabilities, Ceded	8,518.5	7,749.9
Total insurance contract liabilities, Net	27,204.1	27,604
Gross
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Provision for unearned premiums	7,222.4	6,272.2
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	28,500.2	29,081.7
Total insurance contract liabilities	35,722.6	35,353.9
Ceded
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Provision for unearned premiums	1,583.7	1,290.8
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	6,934.8	6,459.1
Total insurance contract liabilities	8,518.5	7,749.9
Net
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Provision for unearned premiums	5,638.7	4,981.4
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	21,565.4	22,622.6
Total insurance contract liabilities	$ 27,204.1	$ 27,604

Insurance Contract Liabilitie_3

Insurance Contract Liabilities - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jan. 31, 2020	Jan. 01, 2020	Jan. 01, 2019	Oct. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Consideration paid (received)			$ (561.5)	$ (670.5)
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses					$ 28,500.2	$ 29,081.7	$ 28,610.8	$ 19,481.8	$ 19,816.4	$ 17,749.1	$ 19,212.8	$ 19,648.8	$ 17,232.2	$ 16,049.3
Net loss reserves, case reserves					9,061.1	9,409.3
Net loss reserves, IBNR					12,504.3	13,213.3
Net earned premium					13,229.7	12,066
Loss reserve development					166	(166)	$ (608.2)	$ (907)	$ (1,549.3)	$ (1,429)	$ (1,383.7)	$ (1,136.9)	$ (432.1)	$ (336.9)
Net
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses					21,565.4	22,622.6
RiverStone (UK)
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Insurance contract liabilities, net						529.3
Consideration paid (received)						(633)
Gain related to Part VII transfer						103.7
Insurance contract payables						553.2
Net earned premium						37.5
European Run-off
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Insurance contract liabilities, net			$ 556.8
Net loss reserves, case reserves					793.4
Net loss reserves, IBNR					796.8
European Run-off | Net
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses					$ 1,590.2
RiverStone (UK)
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Insurance contract liabilities, net				$ 566.8
UK Insurer | RiverStone (UK)
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Profit commission payable						$ (18.8)
Subsequent event
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Consideration paid (received)	$ (143.4)	$ (155.6)
Subsequent event | European Run-off
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Insurance contract liabilities, net		$ 154.6
Subsequent event | RiverStone (UK)
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Insurance contract liabilities, net	$ 134.2

Insurance Contract Liabilitie_4

Insurance Contract Liabilities - Provision For Unearned Premiums (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Change In Unearned Premiums [Roll Forward]
Provision for unearned premiums – January 1	$ 6,272.2	$ 5,951.7
Gross premiums written	17,511.2	15,528.3
Less: gross premiums earned	(16,611)	(15,001.4)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	53.6	5.9
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23)	(6)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	2.4	(212.3)
Provision for unearned premiums - December 31	$ 7,222.4	$ 6,272.2

Insurance Contract Liabilitie_5

Insurance Contract Liabilities - Provision For Loss And Loss Adjustment Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Provision For Loss On Insurance Contracts [Roll Forward]
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses – January 1	$ 29,081.7	$ 28,610.8
Decrease in estimated losses and expenses for claims occurring in the prior years	(166.5)	(462.7)
Losses and expenses for claims occurring in the current year	11,927.5	11,165.8
Paid on claims occurring during:
the current year	(2,830.3)	(2,474.6)
the prior years	(7,733.7)	(7,566.3)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	44	564.6
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23)	(1,830.8)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	8.3	(755.9)
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses – December 31	$ 28,500.2	$ 29,081.7

Insurance Contract Liabilitie_6

Insurance Contract Liabilities - Development Of Insurance Losses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	$ 28,500.2	$ 29,081.7	$ 28,610.8	$ 19,481.8	$ 19,816.4	$ 17,749.1	$ 19,212.8	$ 19,648.8	$ 17,232.2	$ 16,049.3
Less: CTR Life	7	8	8.7	12.8	14.2	15.2	17.9	20.6	24.2	25.3
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses, net of CTR Life	28,493.2	29,073.7	28,602.1	19,469	19,802.2	17,733.9	19,194.9	19,628.2	17,208	16,024
Effect of foreign currency translation		(66.6)	428	(190.8)	(216.2)	255.3	471.1	559.4	240.8	239.4
Loss reserve development	$ (166)	166	608.2	907	1,549.3	1,429	1,383.7	1,136.9	432.1	336.9
Favourable (unfavourable) development		99.4	1,036.2	716.2	1,333.1	1,684.3	1,854.8	1,696.3	672.9	576.3
One year later
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Cumulative payments		7,732	7,564	4,608	4,441.4	3,801.6	4,081.1	4,323.5	3,627.6	3,355.9
Reserves re-estimated		$ 28,974.3	27,580.6	19,343.1	19,169.3	16,696.4	18,375.6	19,021.2	17,316.4	15,893.8
Two years later
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Cumulative payments			12,081.3	7,631.4	7,283.6	6,364.5	6,787.6	7,153.1	6,076.7	5,441.4
Reserves re-estimated			$ 27,565.9	18,804.8	18,973.6	16,269.2	17,475	18,529.4	17,013.6	15,959.7
Three years later
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Cumulative payments				9,655.9	9,466.5	8,172.7	8,775.5	9,148	7,920.3	7,063.1
Reserves re-estimated				$ 18,752.8	18,502.5	16,114	17,307.9	17,820.5	16,721	15,705.6
Four years later
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Cumulative payments					10,914.2	9,561.8	10,212.4	10,702.8	9,333.4	8,333.3
Reserves re-estimated					$ 18,469.1	15,938.9	17,287.2	17,735.5	16,233.9	15,430.4
Five years later
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Cumulative payments						10,496.4	11,354.4	11,783.3	10,458.7	9,327
Reserves re-estimated						$ 16,049.6	17,203.5	17,830.5	16,269.6	15,036.2
Six years later
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Cumulative payments							12,123.4	12,729.6	11,263.6	10,202.6
Reserves re-estimated							$ 17,340.1	17,791.8	16,331.8	15,099
Seven years later
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Cumulative payments								13,335.1	12,030	10,823.4
Reserves re-estimated								$ 17,931.9	16,340.6	15,252.1
Eight years later
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Cumulative payments									12,558.1	11,442.7
Reserves re-estimated									$ 16,535.1	15,279.7
Nine years later
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Cumulative payments										11,853.3
Reserves re-estimated										$ 15,447.7

Insurance Contract Liabilitie_7

Insurance Contract Liabilities - Provision For Loss And Loss Adjustment Expenses - Asbestos (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Gross
Provision for asbestos claims and loss adjustment expenses - January 1	$ 1,217.9	$ 1,292.1
Losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred	135.4	138.6
Losses and loss adjustment expenses paid	164	(233.2)
Provisions for asbestos claims assumed during the year, at December 31	0	20.4
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23)	(114.7)	0
Provision for asbestos claims and loss adjustment expenses - December 31	1,074.6	1,217.9
Net
Provision for asbestos claims and loss adjustment expenses - January 1	995.3	1,033.3
Losses and loss adjustment expenses incurred	114.8	114.3
Losses and loss adjustment expenses paid	138.4	(170.1)
Provisions for asbestos claims assumed during the year, at December 31	0	17.8
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23)	(111.2)	0
Provision for asbestos claims and loss adjustment expenses - December 31	$ 860.5	$ 995.3

Insurance Contract Liabilitie_8

Insurance Contract Liabilities - Fair Value/Change In Interest Rates (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Carrying value	$ 35,722.6	$ 35,353.9
Insurance contracts
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Fair value	35,248	34,560.2
Carrying value	35,722.6	35,353.9
Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Fair value	8,049.4	7,276.2
Carrying value	8,518.5	7,749.9
100 basis point increase | Insurance contracts
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Fair value	34,240.4	33,539
100 basis point increase | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Fair value	7,836.5	7,074.1
100 basis point decrease | Insurance contracts
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Fair value	36,343	35,686.3
100 basis point decrease | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of types of insurance contracts [line items]
Fair value	$ 8,285.1	$ 7,494.8

Reinsurance - Reinsurers' Share

Reinsurance - Reinsurers' Share of Insurance Contract Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Assets under reinsurance ceded	$ 9,155.8	$ 8,400.9
Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	6,934.8	6,459.1
Reinsurers’ share of paid losses	637.3	651
Provision for unearned premiums	1,583.7	1,290.8
Assets under reinsurance ceded	9,155.8	8,400.9	$ 7,812.5
Recoverable from reinsurers, current	4,314.8	4,121.2
Recoverable from reinsurers, non-current	4,841	4,279.7
Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	6,956.7	6,482.3
Reinsurers’ share of paid losses	776.9	792.6
Provision for unearned premiums	1,583.7	1,290.8
Assets under reinsurance ceded	9,317.3	8,565.7
Provision for uncollectible reinsurance | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of net, gross and reinsurer's share for amounts arising from insurance contracts [line items]
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	(21.9)	(23.2)
Reinsurers’ share of paid losses	(139.6)	(141.6)
Provision for unearned premiums	0	0
Assets under reinsurance ceded	$ (161.5)	$ (164.8)	$ (166.4)

Reinsurance - Reinsurers' Sha_2

Reinsurance - Reinsurers' Share of Paid Losses, Unpaid Losses, Unearned Premiums and the Provision (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Changes In Reinsurance Recoverables [Roll Forward]
Reinsurance recoverables, beginning balance	$ 8,400.9
Reinsurance recoverables, ending balance	9,155.8	$ 8,400.9
Ceded reinsurance contracts
Changes In Reinsurance Recoverables [Roll Forward]
Reinsurance recoverables, beginning balance	8,400.9	7,812.5
Reinsurers’ share of losses paid to insureds	0	0
Reinsurance recoveries received	(2,277)	(2,012.6)
Reinsurers’ share of unpaid losses and premiums earned	(311.7)	(161)
Premiums ceded to reinsurers	3,675.6	3,097.3
Change in provision, recovery or write-off of impaired balances	(17.2)	(8.2)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) and reinsurance transactions	11.8	34.4
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(260)
Foreign exchange effect and other	(66.6)	(361.5)
Reinsurance recoverables, ending balance	9,155.8	8,400.9
Commission income on premiums ceded	652.3	567.4
Ceded reinsurance contracts | Paid losses
Changes In Reinsurance Recoverables [Roll Forward]
Reinsurance recoverables, beginning balance	792.6	593.7
Reinsurers’ share of losses paid to insureds	2,299.4	2,233.3
Reinsurance recoveries received	(2,277)	(2,012.6)
Reinsurers’ share of unpaid losses and premiums earned	0	0
Premiums ceded to reinsurers	0	0
Change in provision, recovery or write-off of impaired balances	(20.6)	(5.5)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) and reinsurance transactions	0.2	0.1
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(19.4)
Foreign exchange effect and other	1.7	(16.4)
Reinsurance recoverables, ending balance	776.9	792.6
Ceded reinsurance contracts | Unpaid losses
Changes In Reinsurance Recoverables [Roll Forward]
Reinsurance recoverables, beginning balance	6,482.3	6,216.2
Reinsurers’ share of losses paid to insureds	(2,299.4)	(2,233.3)
Reinsurance recoveries received	0	0
Reinsurers’ share of unpaid losses and premiums earned	3,069.6	2,774.4
Premiums ceded to reinsurers	0	0
Change in provision, recovery or write-off of impaired balances	0	(2.5)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) and reinsurance transactions	8.7	30.1
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(241)
Foreign exchange effect and other	(63.5)	(302.6)
Reinsurance recoverables, ending balance	6,956.7	6,482.3
Ceded reinsurance contracts | Unearned premiums
Changes In Reinsurance Recoverables [Roll Forward]
Reinsurance recoverables, beginning balance	1,290.8	1,169
Reinsurers’ share of losses paid to insureds	0	0
Reinsurance recoveries received	0	0
Reinsurers’ share of unpaid losses and premiums earned	(3,381.3)	(2,935.4)
Premiums ceded to reinsurers	3,675.6	3,097.3
Change in provision, recovery or write-off of impaired balances	0	0
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) and reinsurance transactions	2.9	4.2
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	(4.3)	(44.3)
Reinsurance recoverables, ending balance	1,583.7	1,290.8
Ceded reinsurance contracts | Provision for uncollectible reinsurance
Changes In Reinsurance Recoverables [Roll Forward]
Reinsurance recoverables, beginning balance	(164.8)	(166.4)
Reinsurers’ share of losses paid to insureds	0	0
Reinsurance recoveries received	0	0
Reinsurers’ share of unpaid losses and premiums earned	0	0
Premiums ceded to reinsurers	0	0
Change in provision, recovery or write-off of impaired balances	3.4	(0.2)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) and reinsurance transactions	0	0
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0.4
Foreign exchange effect and other	(0.5)	1.8
Reinsurance recoverables, ending balance	(161.5)	$ (164.8)
RiverStone (UK) | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Changes In Reinsurance Recoverables [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23) and reinsurance transactions	$ 23.9

Insurance Contract Receivable_3

Insurance Contract Receivables and Payables - Insurance Contract Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Insurance Contracts [Abstract]
Insurance premiums receivable	$ 3,325	$ 2,949.8	$ 2,752.3
Reinsurance premiums receivable	1,176	1,082.1	$ 1,086.4
Funds withheld receivable	753.7	800.9
Other	211	307.5
Provision for uncollectible receivables	(30.7)	(29.6)
Insurance contract receivables	5,435	5,110.7
Current	4,921.5	4,467.1
Non-current	$ 513.5	$ 643.6

Insurance Contract Receivable_4

Insurance Contract Receivables and Payables - Changes in Insurance Contract Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Insurance premiums receivable
Insurance premiums receivable, beginning balance	$ 2,949.8	$ 2,752.3
Gross premiums written	13,167.8	11,895
Premiums collected	(11,516.3)	(10,344.5)
Amounts due to brokers and agents	(1,284.5)	(1,220.4)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	17.1	4
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(1.7)	0
Recovery (impairments)	(1.3)	(1.3)
Foreign exchange effect and other	(5.9)	(135.3)
Insurance premiums receivable, ending balance	3,325	2,949.8
Reinsurance premiums receivable
Reinsurance premiums receivable, beginning balance	1,082.1	1,086.4
Gross premiums written	4,343.4	3,633.3
Premiums collected	(3,288.5)	(2,772.1)
Amounts due to brokers and agents	(917.2)	(842.7)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	0	0
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(22.6)	0
Recovery (impairments)	0.3	(1.7)
Foreign exchange effect and other	(21.5)	(21.1)
Reinsurance premiums receivable, ending balance	$ 1,176	$ 1,082.1

Insurance Contract Receivable_5

Insurance Contract Receivables and Payables - Insurance Contract Payables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Insurance Contracts [Abstract]
Funds withheld and other payables to reinsurers (previously presented separately on the consolidated balance sheet)	$ 239.1	$ 128.5
Payable to reinsurers	1,469.4	1,122.2
Ceded deferred premium acquisition costs	373.2	254.8
Amounts payable to agents and brokers	101.8	93.8
Accrued commissions	95.5	87.3
Accrued premium taxes	82.7	74.6
Other insurance contract payables	229.3	241.9
Insurance contract payables	2,591	2,003.1
Current	2,315.4	1,514.2
Non-current	$ 275.6	$ 488.9

Deferred Premium Acquisition _3

Deferred Premium Acquisition Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Reconciliation of changes in deferred acquisition costs arising from insurance contracts [abstract]
Deferred premium acquisition costs, beginning balance	$ 1,127.3	$ 927.5
Premium acquisition costs deferred	3,271.4	3,012.1
Amortization	(3,068.2)	(2,812.5)
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(1.7)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	15.5	0.2
Deferred premium acquisition costs, ending balance	$ 1,344.3	$ 1,127.3

Goodwill and Intangible Asset_2

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Schedule of Changes in Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	$ 5,676.9	$ 6,072.5
Additions	704.5	294.4
Disposals	(1.3)	(247.9)
Amortization	(223.1)	(195.6)
Impairment	(46.8)	(8.3)
Foreign exchange effect and other	83.9	(238.2)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	6,194.1	5,676.9
Intangible assets with indefinite useful life	1,790.5	1,700.5
Gross carrying amount
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	6,416.4
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	7,190.8	6,416.4
Accumulated amortization
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	(712.6)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	(934.5)	(712.6)
Accumulated impairment
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	(26.9)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	(62.2)	(26.9)
Goodwill
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	2,702.7	2,904.7
Additions	316.2	136.4
Disposals	0	(227.1)
Amortization	0	0
Impairment	(43.9)	(2.6)
Foreign exchange effect and other	22.3	(108.7)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	2,997.3	2,702.7
Goodwill | Gross carrying amount
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	2,712.3
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	3,043.9	2,712.3
Goodwill | Accumulated amortization
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	0
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	0	0
Goodwill | Accumulated impairment
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	(9.6)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	(46.6)	(9.6)
Lloyd's participation rights
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	503.2	507.9
Additions	0	0
Disposals	0	0
Amortization	0	0
Impairment	0	(4.3)
Foreign exchange effect and other	0	(0.4)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	503.2	503.2
Lloyd's participation rights | Gross carrying amount
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	507.5
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	503.2	507.5
Lloyd's participation rights | Accumulated amortization
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	0
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	0	0
Lloyd's participation rights | Accumulated impairment
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	(4.3)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	0	(4.3)
Customer and broker relationships
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	932.8	1,047.8
Additions	134.9	11.2
Disposals	0	(8.2)
Amortization	(105.5)	(99.3)
Impairment	0	(0.2)
Foreign exchange effect and other	7.6	(18.5)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	969.8	932.8
Customer and broker relationships | Gross carrying amount
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	1,247
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	1,391.4	1,247
Customer and broker relationships | Accumulated amortization
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	(314)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	(421.9)	(314)
Customer and broker relationships | Accumulated impairment
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	(0.2)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	0.3	(0.2)
Brand names
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	1,096.8	1,171.4
Additions	34.8	11.9
Disposals	0	(8.5)
Amortization	0	0
Impairment	0	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	49.5	(78)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	1,181.1	1,096.8
Brand names | Gross carrying amount
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	1,096.8
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	1,181.1	1,096.8
Brand names | Accumulated amortization
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	0
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	0	0
Brand names | Accumulated impairment
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	0
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	0	0
Computer software and other
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	441.4	440.7
Additions	218.6	134.9
Disposals	(1.3)	(4.1)
Amortization	(117.6)	(96.3)
Impairment	(2.9)	(1.2)
Foreign exchange effect and other	4.5	(32.6)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	542.7	441.4
Computer software and other | Gross carrying amount
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	852.8
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	1,071.2	852.8
Computer software and other | Accumulated amortization
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	(398.6)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	(512.6)	(398.6)
Computer software and other | Accumulated impairment
Disclosure of reconciliation of changes in intangible assets and goodwill [abstract]
Intangible assets and goodwill, beginning balance	(12.8)
Intangible assets and goodwill, ending balance	$ (15.9)	$ (12.8)

Other Assets (Details)

Other Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Jan. 01, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Premises and equipment	$ 1,687.7		$ 1,242.5
Right-of-use assets (notes 3 and 22)	1,020.6	$ 1,051.4	0
Inventories	694.5		455.5
Other revenue receivables	583.5		390.9
Finance lease receivables (notes 3 and 22)	375.9		0
Prepaid expenses	282.1		207.2
Accrued interest and dividends	206.5		173.2
Income taxes refundable	169		152.3
Sales tax and other taxes receivable	124.9		93.7
Prepaid losses on claims	114.4		98.9
Deferred compensation plans	87.4		80.5
Pension surplus (note 21)	51.9		64
Non-insurance companies' investment property (note 23)	0		1,157.9
Other	608.9		451.7
Current	2,457.8		1,562.3
Non-current	3,549.5		3,006
Other assets	6,007.3		4,568.3
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Premises and equipment	367.8		374.8
Right-of-use assets (notes 3 and 22)	385.4	418.9	0
Inventories	0		0
Other revenue receivables	0		0
Finance lease receivables (notes 3 and 22)	8.8		0
Prepaid expenses	113.2		89.9
Accrued interest and dividends	195.7		162
Income taxes refundable	126.3		123
Sales tax and other taxes receivable	22.3		24.8
Prepaid losses on claims	114.4		98.9
Deferred compensation plans	87.4		80.5
Pension surplus (note 21)	51.9		64
Non-insurance companies' investment property (note 23)	0		0
Other	490.3		327.8
Current	789.7		614.5
Non-current	1,173.8		731.2
Other assets	1,963.5		1,345.7
Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Premises and equipment	1,319.9		867.7
Right-of-use assets (notes 3 and 22)	635.2	$ 632.5	0
Inventories	694.5		455.5
Other revenue receivables	583.5		390.9
Finance lease receivables (notes 3 and 22)	367.1		0
Prepaid expenses	168.9		117.3
Accrued interest and dividends	10.8		11.2
Income taxes refundable	42.7		29.3
Sales tax and other taxes receivable	102.6		68.9
Prepaid losses on claims	0		0
Deferred compensation plans	0		0
Pension surplus (note 21)	0		0
Non-insurance companies' investment property (note 23)	0		1,157.9
Other	118.6		123.9
Current	1,668.1		947.8
Non-current	2,375.7		2,274.8
Other assets	$ 4,043.8		$ 3,222.6

Goodwill and Intangible Asset_3

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Allocation of Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	$ 2,997.3	$ 2,702.7
Intangible assets	3,196.8	2,974.2
Total	6,194.1	5,676.9	$ 6,072.5
Allied World
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	938.8	937.9
Intangible assets	659.2	710
Total	1,598	1,647.9
Recipe
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	279.3	261.8
Intangible assets	1,035.5	984.9
Total	1,314.8	1,246.7
Brit
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	200.2	154.3
Intangible assets	594.2	561.1
Total	794.4	715.4
Zenith National
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	317.6	317.6
Intangible assets	99.3	107.2
Total	416.9	424.8
Crum & Forster
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	188.2	185.9
Intangible assets	111.7	108.3
Total	299.9	294.2
Boat Rocker
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	93.8	61.7
Intangible assets	154.1	62.2
Total	247.9	123.9
AGT
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	174.7	0
Intangible assets	58.9	0
Total	233.6	0
Thomas Cook India
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	150.6	133.4
Intangible assets	55.8	52.7
Total	206.4	186.1
Northbridge
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	92.5	87.8
Intangible assets	90.9	76.6
Total	183.4	164.4
Odyssey Group
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	119.7	119.7
Intangible assets	62.8	57.7
Total	182.5	177.4
AMAG Insurance
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	43.7	42.2
Intangible assets	102.3	101.5
Total	146	143.7
All other
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Goodwill	398.2	400.4
Intangible assets	172.1	152
Total	$ 570.3	$ 552.4

Goodwill and Intangible Asset_4

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Details)	Dec. 31, 2019
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Investment return rate	5.00%
Bottom of range
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Growth rate used to extrapolate cash flow projections	2.50%
Top of range
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Growth rate used to extrapolate cash flow projections	3.00%
Insurance business | Bottom of range
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Discount rate applied to cash flow projections	6.80%
Insurance business | Top of range
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Discount rate applied to cash flow projections	12.80%
Non-insurance business | Bottom of range
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Discount rate applied to cash flow projections	8.40%
Non-insurance business | Top of range
Disclosure of information for cash-generating units [line items]
Discount rate applied to cash flow projections	15.20%

Accounts Payable and Accrued _3

Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities [Line Items]
Lease liabilities (notes 3 and 22)	$ 1,496.4	$ 0
Payables related to cost of sales	778.4	616.8
Salaries and employee benefit liabilities	434.6	376.3
Deferred gift card, hospitality and other revenue	372.8	361.1
Pension and post retirement liabilities (note 21)	360.6	253.1
Amounts withheld and accrued taxes	346.2	299.3
Advances and deposits from customers	109.6	55.9
Income taxes payable	78.4	80.1
Accrued legal and professional fees	68.7	71.8
Accrued interest expense	67.1	66.2
Accrued rent, storage and facilities costs	25.2	130.6
Amounts payable for securities purchased but not yet settled	6.2	49
Administrative and other	669.9	659.8
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	4,814.1	3,020
Current	2,464	2,044
Non-current	2,350.1	976
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities [Line Items]
Lease liabilities (notes 3 and 22)	434.3	0
Payables related to cost of sales	0	0
Salaries and employee benefit liabilities	354.9	315.1
Deferred gift card, hospitality and other revenue	21.2	24.7
Pension and post retirement liabilities (note 21)	338.8	232
Amounts withheld and accrued taxes	314.7	269.8
Advances and deposits from customers	0	0
Income taxes payable	47.5	58.2
Accrued legal and professional fees	57.3	61.1
Accrued interest expense	64.9	63.2
Accrued rent, storage and facilities costs	16.4	26.9
Amounts payable for securities purchased but not yet settled	6.2	19.2
Administrative and other	423.8	433.7
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	2,080	1,503.9
Current	869.9	870.4
Non-current	1,210.1	633.5
Non-insurance companies
Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities [Line Items]
Lease liabilities (notes 3 and 22)	1,062.1	0
Payables related to cost of sales	778.4	616.8
Salaries and employee benefit liabilities	79.7	61.2
Deferred gift card, hospitality and other revenue	351.6	336.4
Pension and post retirement liabilities (note 21)	21.8	21.1
Amounts withheld and accrued taxes	31.5	29.5
Advances and deposits from customers	109.6	55.9
Income taxes payable	30.9	21.9
Accrued legal and professional fees	11.4	10.7
Accrued interest expense	2.2	3
Accrued rent, storage and facilities costs	8.8	103.7
Amounts payable for securities purchased but not yet settled	0	29.8
Administrative and other	246.1	226.1
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	2,734.1	1,516.1
Current	1,594.1	1,173.6
Non-current	$ 1,140	$ 342.5

Borrowings - Schedule of Borrow

Borrowings - Schedule of Borrowings (Details)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2019EUR (€)	Jul. 15, 2019	Jun. 28, 2019USD ($)	Jun. 14, 2019USD ($)	Feb. 07, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 7,261,000,000								$ 6,506,400,000
Carrying amount	7,232,600,000								6,480,400,000
Fair value	7,585,300,000								6,570,100,000
Holding company cash and investments
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	4,148,700,000								3,893,700,000
Carrying amount	4,117,300,000								3,859,500,000
Fair value	4,444,900,000								3,963,600,000
Holding company cash and investments | 6.40% due May 25, 2021 (Cdn$400.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	0	$ 400,000,000							289,600,000
Fair value	$ 0								310,200,000
Interest rate	6.40%	6.40%	6.40%	6.40%	6.40%
Holding company cash and investments | 5.84% due October 14, 2022 (Cdn$450.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 343,900,000	$ 450,000,000							326,500,000
Fair value	$ 373,800,000								352,900,000
Interest rate	5.84%	5.84%	5.84%	5.84%
Holding company cash and investments | 4.50% due March 22, 2023 (Cdn$400.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 308,500,000	$ 400,000,000							292,900,000
Fair value	$ 326,000,000								301,700,000
Interest rate	4.50%	4.50%	4.50%	4.50%
Holding company cash and investments | 4.142% due February 7, 2024
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 85,000,000							$ 85,000,000
Fair value	$ 85,100,000
Interest rate	4.142%	4.142%	4.142%	4.142%				4.142%
Holding company cash and investments | 4.875% due August 13, 2024
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 282,500,000								282,500,000
Fair value	$ 300,800,000								288,200,000
Interest rate	4.875%	4.875%	4.875%	4.875%
Holding company cash and investments | 4.95% due March 3, 2025 (Cdn$350.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 269,900,000	$ 350,000,000							256,300,000
Fair value	$ 293,100,000								267,200,000
Interest rate	4.95%	4.95%	4.95%	4.95%
Holding company cash and investments | 8.30% due April 15, 2026
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 91,800,000								91,800,000
Fair value	$ 116,100,000								109,500,000
Interest rate	8.30%	8.30%	8.30%	8.30%
Holding company cash and investments | 4.70% due December 16, 2026 (Cdn$450.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 347,000,000	$ 450,000,000							329,500,000
Fair value	$ 370,000,000								334,300,000
Interest rate	4.70%	4.70%	4.70%	4.70%
Holding company cash and investments | 4.25% due December 6, 2027 (Cdn$650.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 501,300,000	$ 650,000,000							475,900,000
Fair value	$ 515,700,000								462,100,000
Interest rate	4.25%	4.25%	4.25%	4.25%
Holding company cash and investments | 2.75% due March 29, 2028 (€750.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 841,900,000			€ 750,000,000					857,400,000
Fair value	$ 910,200,000								854,500,000
Interest rate	2.75%	2.75%	2.75%	2.75%
Holding company cash and investments | 4.85% due April 17, 2028
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 600,000,000								600,000,000
Fair value	$ 648,900,000								576,300,000
Interest rate	4.85%	4.85%	4.85%	4.85%
Holding company cash and investments | 4.23% due June 14, 2029 (Cdn$500.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 385,600,000	$ 500,000,000					$ 500,000,000
Fair value	$ 391,400,000
Interest rate	4.23%	4.23%	4.23%	4.23%			4.23%
Holding company cash and investments | 7.75% due July 15, 2037
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 91,300,000								91,300,000
Fair value	$ 113,800,000								106,700,000
Interest rate	7.75%	7.75%	7.75%	7.75%
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 1,028,100,000								983,000,000
Carrying amount	1,039,600,000								995,700,000
Fair value	1,063,800,000								978,500,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | OdysseyRe floating rate unsecured senior notes due 2021
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	90,000,000								90,000,000
Fair value	92,500,000								92,400,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Allied World senior notes, 4.35% due October 29, 2025
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	500,000,000								500,000,000
Fair value	$ 524,100,000								490,400,000
Interest rate	4.35%	4.35%	4.35%	4.35%
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Allied World revolving credit facility and other borrowings
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 39,400,000								39,600,000
Fair value	46,400,000								43,200,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Zenith National 8.55% debentures due August 1, 2028
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	38,500,000								38,500,000
Fair value	$ 38,300,000								38,200,000
Interest rate	8.55%	8.55%	8.55%	8.55%
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Brit 6.625% subordinated notes due December 9, 2030 (£135.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 178,800,000		£ 135,000,000						171,900,000
Fair value	$ 181,200,000								174,300,000
Interest rate	6.625%	6.625%	6.625%	6.625%
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Brit floating rate revolving credit facility
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	$ 140,000,000								7,900,000
Fair value	140,000,000								7,900,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Advent floating rate unsecured senior notes due 2026
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	0								46,000,000
Fair value	0								46,000,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Advent floating rate subordinated notes due June 3, 2035
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	0								47,700,000
Fair value	0								44,700,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies | First Mercury floating rate trust preferred securities due 2036 and 2037
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	41,400,000								41,400,000
Fair value	41,300,000								41,400,000
Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	2,084,200,000								1,629,700,000
Carrying amount	2,075,700,000								1,625,200,000
Fair value	2,076,600,000								1,628,000,000
Non-insurance companies | Fairfax India floating rate term loans
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal						$ 550,000,000			550,000,000
Fair value	550,000,000								550,000,000
Non-insurance companies | Fairfax India subsidiary borrowings
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	155,100,000								183,800,000
Fair value	155,100,000								183,800,000
Non-insurance companies | Fairfax Africa credit facility
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	0								30,000,000
Fair value	0								29,500,000
Non-insurance companies | Recipe term loans and credit facilities
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	413,500,000								328,000,000
Fair value	410,800,000								326,900,000
Non-insurance companies | Boat Rocker demand loans and revolving credit facilities
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	147,600,000								80,300,000
Fair value	147,500,000								80,300,000
Non-insurance companies | AGT credit facilities, senior notes and loans
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	435,700,000								0
Fair value	433,100,000								0
Non-insurance companies | CIG long term notes
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	102,400,000								0
Fair value	102,400,000								0
Non-insurance companies | Grivalia Properties term loans and revolving facility
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	0								254,200,000
Fair value	0								254,200,000
Non-insurance companies | Loans and revolving credit facilities primarily at floating rates
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal	279,900,000								203,400,000
Fair value	277,700,000								203,300,000
Gross carrying amount
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	7,232,600,000								6,480,400,000	$ 6,414,100,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	4,117,300,000								3,859,500,000	3,475,100,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 6.40% due May 25, 2021 (Cdn$400.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	0								288,700,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 5.84% due October 14, 2022 (Cdn$450.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	345,900,000								329,200,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 4.50% due March 22, 2023 (Cdn$400.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	307,000,000								290,900,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 4.142% due February 7, 2024
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	85,000,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 4.875% due August 13, 2024
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	280,000,000								279,500,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 4.95% due March 3, 2025 (Cdn$350.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	267,100,000								252,900,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 8.30% due April 15, 2026
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	91,600,000								91,600,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 4.70% due December 16, 2026 (Cdn$450.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	345,100,000								327,200,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 4.25% due December 6, 2027 (Cdn$650.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	499,300,000								473,700,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 2.75% due March 29, 2028 (€750.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	827,000,000								840,700,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 4.85% due April 17, 2028
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	595,200,000								594,600,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 4.23% due June 14, 2029 (Cdn$500.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	383,600,000
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments | 7.75% due July 15, 2037
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	90,500,000								90,500,000
Gross carrying amount | Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	1,039,600,000								995,700,000	1,373,000,000
Gross carrying amount | Insurance and reinsurance companies | OdysseyRe floating rate unsecured senior notes due 2021
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	90,000,000								89,900,000
Gross carrying amount | Insurance and reinsurance companies | Allied World senior notes, 4.35% due October 29, 2025
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	506,100,000								507,200,000
Gross carrying amount | Insurance and reinsurance companies | Allied World revolving credit facility and other borrowings
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	43,000,000								43,500,000
Gross carrying amount | Insurance and reinsurance companies | Zenith National 8.55% debentures due August 1, 2028
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	38,300,000								38,200,000
Gross carrying amount | Insurance and reinsurance companies | Brit 6.625% subordinated notes due December 9, 2030 (£135.0)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	180,800,000								176,100,000
Gross carrying amount | Insurance and reinsurance companies | Brit floating rate revolving credit facility
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	140,000,000								7,900,000
Gross carrying amount | Insurance and reinsurance companies | Advent floating rate unsecured senior notes due 2026
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	0								45,000,000
Gross carrying amount | Insurance and reinsurance companies | Advent floating rate subordinated notes due June 3, 2035
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	0								46,500,000
Gross carrying amount | Insurance and reinsurance companies | First Mercury floating rate trust preferred securities due 2036 and 2037
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	41,400,000								41,400,000
Gross carrying amount | Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	2,075,700,000								1,625,200,000	$ 1,566,000,000
Gross carrying amount | Non-insurance companies | Fairfax India floating rate term loans
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	547,200,000								547,200,000
Gross carrying amount | Non-insurance companies | Fairfax India subsidiary borrowings
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	155,100,000								183,800,000
Gross carrying amount | Non-insurance companies | Fairfax Africa credit facility
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	0								29,500,000
Gross carrying amount | Non-insurance companies | Recipe term loans and credit facilities
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	410,700,000								326,900,000
Gross carrying amount | Non-insurance companies | Boat Rocker demand loans and revolving credit facilities
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	147,600,000								80,300,000
Gross carrying amount | Non-insurance companies | AGT credit facilities, senior notes and loans
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	432,800,000								0
Gross carrying amount | Non-insurance companies | CIG long term notes
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	102,400,000								0
Gross carrying amount | Non-insurance companies | Grivalia Properties term loans and revolving facility
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	0								254,200,000
Gross carrying amount | Non-insurance companies | Loans and revolving credit facilities primarily at floating rates
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Carrying amount	$ 279,900,000								$ 203,300,000

Borrowings - Additional Informa

Borrowings - Additional Information (Details)	Jul. 15, 2019USD ($)	Jul. 15, 2019CAD ($)	Jun. 14, 2019USD ($)	Jun. 14, 2019CAD ($)	Feb. 07, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019CAD ($)	Jun. 28, 2019USD ($)	Apr. 17, 2019CAD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Loss on repurchase of borrowings						$ 23,700,000	$ 58,900,000
Principal						7,261,000,000	6,506,400,000
Borrowings						7,232,600,000	6,480,400,000
Interest expense on borrowings						404,200,000	347,100,000
Interest expense on lease liabilities						$ 67,800,000	0
Maximum ratio of consolidated debt to consolidated capitalization						0.35
Required minimum of shareholders' equity balance						$ 9,500,000,000
Shareholders’ equity attributable to shareholders of Fairfax						14,378,100,000	13,114,800,000
Holding company cash and investments
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal						4,148,700,000	3,893,700,000
Borrowings						4,117,300,000	3,859,500,000
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Loss on repurchase of borrowings						0	0
Principal						1,028,100,000	983,000,000
Borrowings						1,039,600,000	995,700,000
Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Loss on repurchase of borrowings						23,700,000	58,900,000
Principal						2,084,200,000	1,629,700,000
Borrowings						$ 2,075,700,000	1,625,200,000
6.40% due May 25, 2021 (Cdn$400.0) | Holding company cash and investments
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Repurchased amount		$ 395,600,000
Interest rate		6.40%				6.40%		6.40%
Payments for redemption of debt	$ 329,100,000	$ 429,000,000
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	$ 23,700,000	$ 30,700,000
Principal						$ 0	289,600,000	$ 400,000,000
4.23% due June 14, 2029 (Cdn$500.0) | Holding company cash and investments
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Interest rate			4.23%			4.23%		4.23%
Principal			$ 500,000,000			$ 385,600,000		$ 500,000,000
Issuance price			99.952
Net proceeds from borrowings			371,500,000	$ 497,300,000
Borrowing costs capitalised			$ 1,900,000	$ 2,500,000
4.142% due February 7, 2024 | Holding company cash and investments
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Interest rate					4.142%	4.142%		4.142%
Principal					$ 85,000,000	$ 85,000,000
Issuance price					100
Net proceeds from borrowings					85,000,000
Borrowing costs capitalised					$ 600,000
Brit floating rate revolving credit facility | Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal						140,000,000	7,900,000
Fairfax India Floating Rate Term Loan Due June 2019 | Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal							$ 550,000,000		$ 550,000,000
Fairfax India Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Borrowings									$ 50,000,000
AGT Floating Rate Secured Senior Credit Facility Due March 2020
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Principal										$ 525,000,000
Borrowings						386,900,000		$ 501,700,000
The credit facility | Holding company cash and investments
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Short term draw						0
Revolving credit facility available						$ 2,000,000,000
Debt to consolidated capitalization ratio, actual						0.26		0.26
Brit | Brit floating rate revolving credit facility | Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
Short term draw						$ 132,100,000

Borrowings - Carrying Amount Ro

Borrowings - Carrying Amount Rollforward (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Carrying Value Of Borrowings [Roll Forward]
Balance – January 1	$ 6,480.4
Balance – December 31	7,232.6	$ 6,480.4
Holding company cash and investments
Carrying Value Of Borrowings [Roll Forward]
Balance – January 1	3,859.5
Balance – December 31	4,117.3	3,859.5
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Carrying Value Of Borrowings [Roll Forward]
Balance – January 1	995.7
Balance – December 31	1,039.6	995.7
Non-insurance companies
Carrying Value Of Borrowings [Roll Forward]
Balance – January 1	1,625.2
Net cash inflows (outflows) from credit facilities and short term loans		41.4
Balance – December 31	2,075.7	1,625.2
Gross carrying amount
Carrying Value Of Borrowings [Roll Forward]
Balance – January 1	6,480.4	6,414.1
Cash inflows from issuances	759.2	2,154.7
Cash outflows from repayments	(635.2)	(1,907.1)
Net cash inflows (outflows) from credit facilities and short term loans	115.2	(0.8)
Acquisitions (note 23)	687.7	218.1
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)	(246.2)	(141.6)
Loss on redemption	23.7	58.9
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23)	(91.4)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	139.2	(315.9)
Balance – December 31	7,232.6	6,480.4
Gross carrying amount | Holding company cash and investments
Carrying Value Of Borrowings [Roll Forward]
Balance – January 1	3,859.5	3,475.1
Cash inflows from issuances	456.5	1,490.7
Cash outflows from repayments	(326.5)	(928.8)
Net cash inflows (outflows) from credit facilities and short term loans	0	0
Acquisitions (note 23)	0	0
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)	0	0
Loss on redemption	23.7	58.9
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23)	0	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	104.1	(236.4)
Balance – December 31	4,117.3	3,859.5
Gross carrying amount | Insurance and reinsurance companies
Carrying Value Of Borrowings [Roll Forward]
Balance – January 1	995.7	1,373
Cash inflows from issuances	0	0
Cash outflows from repayments	(0.2)	(317.7)
Net cash inflows (outflows) from credit facilities and short term loans		(42.2)
Acquisitions (note 23)	0	0
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)	0	0
Loss on redemption	0	0
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23)	(91.4)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	3.4	(17.4)
Balance – December 31	1,039.6	995.7
Gross carrying amount | Non-insurance companies
Carrying Value Of Borrowings [Roll Forward]
Balance – January 1	1,625.2	1,566
Cash inflows from issuances	302.7	664
Cash outflows from repayments	(308.5)	(660.6)
Net cash inflows (outflows) from credit facilities and short term loans	(16.9)	41.4
Acquisitions (note 23)	687.7	218.1
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)	(246.2)	(141.6)
Loss on redemption	0	0
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23)	0	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	31.7	(62.1)
Balance – December 31	$ 2,075.7	$ 1,625.2

Borrowings - Schedule of Borr_2

Borrowings - Schedule of Borrowings Principal Payments (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
2020	$ 1,444.9
2021	190.8
2022	635.8
2023	384.3
2024	406.5
Thereafter	4,198.7
Total	7,261
Holding company
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
2020	0
2021	0
2022	343.9
2023	308.5
2024	367.5
Thereafter	3,128.8
Total	4,148.7
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
2020	140
2021	90
2022	0
2023	0
2024	0
Thereafter	798.1
Total	1,028.1
Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of detailed information about borrowings [line items]
2020	1,304.9
2021	100.8
2022	291.9
2023	75.8
2024	39
Thereafter	271.8
Total	$ 2,084.2

Total Equity - Narrative (Detai

Total Equity - Narrative (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	2 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 05, 2020USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)sharesemployee$ / shares	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)shares
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Reduction of issued capital purchases for cancellation		$ 118	$ 92.7
Purchases and amortization		$ 19	145.6
Options, exercisable period		15 years
Stock options granted, exercise price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares		$ 650
Number of employees who received option grants | employee		24
Number of options granted (in shares) | shares		103,079
Dividends paid, other shares		$ 45.8	$ 45.1
Multiple voting shares
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Voting percentage of multiple voting shares		41.80%
Number of shares issued (in shares) | shares		1,548,000	1,548,000
Subordinate voting shares
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of shares issued (in shares) | shares		27,467,964	27,717,325
Number of shares reserved for share-based payments | shares		1,385,665	1,228,148
Purchases for cancellation | shares		249,361	187,476
Cost of cancellation		$ 118	$ (92.7)
Treasury shares acquired (in shares) | shares		229,189	415,538
Retained earnings
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Reduction of issued capital purchases for cancellation		$ 56.2	$ 46.3
Dividends paid, other shares		45.8	45.1
Treasury shares (at cost)
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Purchases and amortization		$ 104.4	$ 214
Subsequent event
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Cost of cancellation	$ 10
Subsequent event | Subordinate voting shares
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Purchases for cancellation | shares	23,568
Treasury shares acquired (in shares) | shares	22,693
Subsequent event | Treasury shares (at cost)
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Purchases and amortization	$ 9.8

Total Equity - Shares Outstandi

Total Equity - Shares Outstanding Rollforward (Details) - shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Subordinate voting shares
Reconciliation of number of shares outstanding [abstract]
Beginning balance, shares outstanding	26,489,177	27,002,303
Interest in subordinate voting shares held through ownership interest in shareholder, beginning balance	(799,230)
Purchases for cancellation	(249,361)	(187,476)
Treasury shares acquired (in shares)	(229,189)	(415,538)
Treasury shares reissued	71,672	89,888
Interest in subordinate voting shares held through ownership interest in shareholder, ending balance	(799,230)	(799,230)
Ending balance, shares outstanding	26,082,299	26,489,177
Multiple voting shares
Reconciliation of number of shares outstanding [abstract]
Beginning balance, shares outstanding	1,548,000
Ending balance, shares outstanding	1,548,000	1,548,000
Common shares
Reconciliation of number of shares outstanding [abstract]
Beginning balance, shares outstanding	27,237,947
Ending balance, shares outstanding	26,831,069	27,237,947

Total Equity - Dividends Paid (

Total Equity - Dividends Paid (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Jan. 28, 2020	Jan. 28, 2019	Jan. 25, 2018	Jan. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Dividends Declared [Line Items]
Dividend per share (in dollars per share)		$ 10	$ 10		$ 10	$ 10
Total cash payment		$ 278	$ 283.2		$ 453.8	$ 442.7
Subsequent event
Dividends Declared [Line Items]
Dividend per share (in dollars per share)	$ 10			$ 10
Total cash payment	$ 275.7			$ 275.7

Total Equity - Preferred Shares

Total Equity - Preferred Shares (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2019CAD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2019CAD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Liquidation preference per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 25
Preferred shares
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Stated capital	$ 1,335.5		$ 1,456	$ 1,335.5
Series C
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of shares outstanding | shares	7,515,642		7,515,642
Stated capital	$ 170.8		$ 187.9
Liquidation preference per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 25
Fixed dividend rate per annum	4.71%	4.71%
Series D
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of shares outstanding | shares	2,484,358		2,484,358
Stated capital	$ 56.4		$ 62.1
Liquidation preference per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 25
Floating dividend rate per annum	4.80%	4.80%
Number of shares converted (in shares) | shares	1,499,258	1,499,258
Carrying value of amount converted	$ 34.1	$ 37.5
Series E
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of shares outstanding | shares	3,967,134		3,967,134
Stated capital	$ 90.8		$ 99.2
Liquidation preference per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 25
Fixed dividend rate per annum	2.91%	2.91%
Series F
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of shares outstanding | shares	3,572,044		3,572,044
Stated capital	$ 81.8		$ 89.3
Liquidation preference per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 25
Floating dividend rate per annum	3.81%	3.81%
Series G
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of shares outstanding | shares	7,432,952		7,432,952
Stated capital	$ 175.3		$ 185.8
Liquidation preference per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 25
Fixed dividend rate per annum	3.32%	3.32%
Series H
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of shares outstanding | shares	2,567,048		2,567,048
Stated capital	$ 60.6		$ 64.2
Liquidation preference per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 25
Floating dividend rate per annum	4.21%	4.21%
Series I
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of shares outstanding | shares	10,465,553		10,465,553
Stated capital	$ 251.6		$ 261.6
Liquidation preference per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 25
Fixed dividend rate per annum	3.71%	3.71%
Series J
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of shares outstanding | shares	1,534,447		1,534,447
Stated capital	$ 36.9		$ 38.4
Liquidation preference per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 25
Floating dividend rate per annum	4.50%	4.50%
Series K
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of shares outstanding | shares	9,500,000		9,500,000
Stated capital	$ 231.7		$ 237.5
Liquidation preference per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 25
Fixed dividend rate per annum	4.67%	4.67%
Series M
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Number of shares outstanding | shares	9,200,000		9,200,000
Stated capital	$ 179.6		$ 230
Liquidation preference per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 25
Fixed dividend rate per annum	4.75%	4.75%
Government of Canada Treasury Bill | Series D
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Variable rate basis spread	3.15%	3.15%
Government of Canada Treasury Bill | Series F
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Variable rate basis spread	2.16%	2.16%
Government of Canada Treasury Bill | Series H
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Variable rate basis spread	2.56%	2.56%
Government of Canada Treasury Bill | Series J
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Variable rate basis spread	2.85%	2.85%
Government of Canada Treasury Bill | Series L
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Variable rate basis spread	3.51%	3.51%
Government of Canada Treasury Bill | Series N
Disclosure of classes of share capital [line items]
Variable rate basis spread	3.98%	3.98%

Total Equity - Accumulated Othe

Total Equity - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - Equity attributable to shareholders of Fairfax - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Pre-tax amount
Currency translation account	$ (423.4)	$ (405.1)
Share of accumulated other comprehensive loss of associates, excluding net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans	(79.3)	(68.2)
Items that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings	(502.7)	(473.3)
Net losses on defined benefit plans	(147.7)	(49.2)
Share of net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans of associates	(120.9)	(78)
Other	(0.8)	(0.8)
Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to net earnings	(269.4)	(128)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss attributable to shareholders of Fairfax	(772.1)	(601.3)
Income tax recovery
Currency translation account	1.4	5.7
Share of accumulated other comprehensive loss of associates, excluding net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans	(2.4)	4.1
Items that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings	(1)	9.8
Net losses on defined benefit plans	36.2	7.1
Share of net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans of associates	15.1	9
Other	10.1	10.1
Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to net earnings	61.4	26.2
Accumulated other comprehensive loss attributable to shareholders of Fairfax	60.4	36
After-tax amount
Currency translation account	(422)	(399.4)
Share of accumulated other comprehensive loss of associates, excluding net gains (losses) on defined benefit plans	(81.7)	(64.1)
Items that may be subsequently reclassified to net earnings	(503.7)	(463.5)
Share of net losses on defined benefit plans of associates	(105.8)	(69)
Net losses on defined benefit plans	(111.5)	(42.1)
Other	9.3	9.3
Items that will not be subsequently reclassified to net earnings	(208)	(101.8)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss attributable to shareholders of Fairfax	$ (711.7)	$ (565.3)

Total Equity - Non-Controlling

Total Equity - Non-Controlling Interests (Details) - USD ($)	Nov. 30, 2019	Nov. 29, 2019	May 31, 2019	Apr. 29, 2019	Dec. 14, 2018	Jul. 05, 2018	Apr. 30, 2018	Mar. 09, 2018	Mar. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Carrying value										$ 3,529,100,000	$ 4,250,400,000
Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests										(32,900,000)	441,900,000
Dividends paid, other shares										45,800,000	45,100,000
Purchase of voting shares held by non-controlling interests										20,200,000
Share of profit (loss) of associates										$ 169,600,000	$ 221,100,000
Allied World
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Minority voting percentage										29.90%	32.20%
Carrying value										$ 1,256,300,000	$ 1,196,600,000
Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests										$ 88,100,000	$ 6,100,000
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		67.80%								70.10%
Fairfax India
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Minority voting percentage										6.20%	6.20%
Carrying value										$ 1,117,200,000	$ 1,095,400,000
Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests										$ 59,000,000	$ 81,900,000
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary								33.60%		33.80%	30.20%
Economic ownership percentage										66.20%	66.30%
Recipe
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Minority voting percentage										38.40%	43.10%
Carrying value										$ 437,500,000	$ 494,300,000
Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests										$ 28,500,000	$ 33,600,000
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary										47.90%
Economic ownership percentage										52.10%	56.30%
Brit
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Minority voting percentage										10.70%	11.10%
Carrying value										$ 197,400,000	$ 181,900,000
Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests										$ 15,800,000	$ (1,700,000)
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary					88.90%	88.00%				89.30%	88.90%
Fairfax Africa
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Minority voting percentage										1.50%	1.70%
Carrying value										$ 195,600,000	$ 267,200,000
Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests										$ (41,400,000)	$ (1,600,000)
Economic ownership percentage										38.00%	41.30%
Thomas Cook India
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Minority voting percentage										33.10%	33.10%
Carrying value										$ 93,800,000	$ 434,500,000
Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests										$ (186,200,000)	$ 283,400,000
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary										66.90%
Grivalia Properties REIC
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Minority voting percentage										0.00%	47.30%
Carrying value										$ 0	$ 473,100,000
Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests										8,500,000	28,600,000
All other
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Carrying value										231,300,000	107,400,000
Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests										(5,200,000)	11,600,000
IIFL Holdings Limited
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Minority voting percentage			66.20%
Allied World
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Capital contribution	$ 320,800,000
Recipe
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Cost of cancellation										85,300,000
Brit
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Capital contribution					$ 126,000,000	$ 264,600,000				70,600,000
Dividends paid, other shares				$ 20,600,000		$ 12,800,000
Allied World's Minority Shareholders | Allied World
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Dividends paid, other shares				$ 126,400,000			$ 61,300,000
Subordinate voting shares
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Cost of cancellation										118,000,000	$ (92,700,000)
Investments accounted for using equity method | Quess
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Percentage of non-cash remeasurement gain											33.00%
Share of profit (loss) of associates									$ 889,900,000	$ 889,900,000	$ 889,900,000

Total Equity - Other Net Change

Total Equity - Other Net Changes In Capitalization (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Thomas Cook India's spin-off of its investment in Quess	$ (466.2)	$ (212.5)
Boat Rocker issuance of preferred shares	(5.1)	(0.6)
Recipe's acquisition of The Keg	121.7	(5.8)
As presented in other net changes in capitalization in the consolidated statement of changes in equity	(255.2)	(399)
Retained earnings
Dividends paid to co-investors in Allied World and Brit	(104.1)	(86.5)
Other	8.8	(29.4)
As presented in other net changes in capitalization in the consolidated statement of changes in equity	(109.1)	(185.2)
Non- controlling interests
Thomas Cook India's spin-off of its investment in Quess	(466.2)	(212.5)
Dividends paid to co-investors in Allied World and Brit	104.1	86.5
Boat Rocker issuance of preferred shares	(0.3)
Recipe's acquisition of The Keg	121.7	(5.8)
Other	28.7	(67.2)
As presented in other net changes in capitalization in the consolidated statement of changes in equity	(131.7)	(206.7)
Thomas Cook India | Retained earnings
Thomas Cook India's spin-off of its investment in Quess	0	0
Thomas Cook India | Non- controlling interests
Thomas Cook India's spin-off of its investment in Quess	(147.2)	0
The Keg | Retained earnings
Recipe's acquisition of The Keg	0	(9.3)
The Keg | Non- controlling interests
Recipe's acquisition of The Keg	0	(79.1)
Brit | Retained earnings
Additional investments in Brit	0	(63.9)
Brit | Non- controlling interests
Additional investments in Brit	0	(233.5)
Boat Rocker | Retained earnings
Boat Rocker issuance of preferred shares	0	0
Boat Rocker | Non- controlling interests
Boat Rocker issuance of preferred shares	20	0
Recipe | Retained earnings
Share repurchases	(15.5)	0
Recipe | Non- controlling interests
Share repurchases	(105.5)	0
Fairfax Africa | Retained earnings
Fairfax Africa secondary public offering	0	3.9
Fairfax Africa | Non- controlling interests
Fairfax Africa secondary public offering	0	86.6
Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa | Retained earnings
Share repurchases	1.7	0
Fairfax India and Fairfax Africa | Non- controlling interests
Share repurchases	$ (31.8)	$ 0

Earnings per Share (Details)

Earnings per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Earnings per share [abstract]
Net earnings attributable to shareholders of Fairfax	$ 2,004.1	$ 376
Preferred share dividends	(45.8)	(45.1)
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders – basic and diluted	$ 1,958.3	$ 330.9
Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic (in shares)	26,901,184	27,505,896
Share-based payment awards (in shares)	1,159,352	890,985
Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted (in shares)	28,060,536	28,396,881
Net earnings per common share – basic (in dollars per share)	$ 72.80	$ 12.03
Net earnings per common share – diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 69.79	$ 11.65

Income Taxes - Provision for (R

Income Taxes - Provision for (Recovery of) Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Current income tax:
Current year expense	$ 175	$ 144.1
Adjustments to prior years’ income taxes	2.7	5.1
Current income tax	177.7	149.2
Deferred income tax:
Origination and reversal of temporary differences	87.5	(108.1)
Adjustments to prior years' deferred income taxes	(17.1)	(1.6)
Other	13.4	4.7
Deferred income tax	83.8	(105)
Provision for income taxes	$ 261.5	$ 44.2

Income Taxes - Earnings Before

Income Taxes - Earnings Before Income Taxes by Jurisdiction (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Earnings (loss) before income taxes	$ 2,232.7	$ 862.1
Provision for (recovery of) income taxes	261.5	44.2
Net earnings	1,971.2	817.9
Canada
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Earnings (loss) before income taxes	183.4	54.7
Provision for (recovery of) income taxes	79.3	47.4
Net earnings	104.1	7.3
United States
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Earnings (loss) before income taxes	848	(78.2)
Provision for (recovery of) income taxes	23.5	(27.2)
Net earnings	824.5	(51)
UK
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Earnings (loss) before income taxes	244.7	(115.4)
Provision for (recovery of) income taxes	24	(24)
Net earnings	220.7	(91.4)
Other
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Earnings (loss) before income taxes	956.6	1,001
Provision for (recovery of) income taxes	134.7	48
Net earnings	$ 821.9	$ 953

Income Taxes - Income Tax Recon

Income Taxes - Income Tax Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Provision for income taxes at the Canadian statutory income tax rate	$ 591.7	$ 228.5
Non-taxable investment income	(56.6)	(289.7)
Tax rate differential on income and losses outside Canada	(209.5)	(36.4)
Change in unrecorded tax benefit of losses and temporary differences	(90.7)	81.6
Change in tax rate for deferred income taxes	0.5	4.3
Provision (recovery) relating to prior years	(14.4)	3.5
Foreign exchange effect	(3.7)	27.4
Other including permanent differences	44.2	25
Provision for income taxes	$ 261.5	$ 44.2
Canada
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Canadian statutory income tax rate	26.50%	26.50%
Provision for income taxes	$ 79.3	$ 47.4

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Non-taxable investment income	$ 56,600,000	$ 289,700,000
Tax rate differential on income and losses incurred outside Canada	(209,500,000)	(36,400,000)
Change in unrecorded tax benefit of losses and temporary differences	(90,700,000)	81,600,000
U.S. foreign tax credit carryforwards	104,000,000	0
Deferred tax assets	375,900,000	497,900,000
Other including permanent differences	44,200,000	25,000,000
Unremitted earnings of subsidiaries	3,500,000,000	3,200,000,000
Canada
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Deferred tax assets	13,800,000	63,300,000
Unused tax losses	1,863,500,000	1,570,100,000
India
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Tax effect of deconsolidation of subsidiary		235,800,000
United States
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Other including permanent differences		17,900,000
Unused tax losses	46,100,000	45,900,000
Unused foreign tax credits	55,000,000	159,000,000
Europe
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Unused tax losses	495,800,000	613,400,000
Operating And Capital Losses, And U.S. Foreign Tax Credits
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Deferred tax assets	814,700,000	857,800,000
Allied World
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Unused tax losses	359,400,000	$ 363,500,000
Non-insurance companies, Fairfax India
Disclosure of temporary difference, unused tax losses and unused tax credits [line items]
Other including permanent differences	$ 13,400,000

Income Taxes - Income Taxes Ref

Income Taxes - Income Taxes Refundable and Payable (Details) $ in Millions, $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income taxes refundable	$ 169		$ 152.3
Income taxes payable	(78.4)		(80.1)
Net income taxes refundable	$ 90.6	$ 90.6	$ 72.2	$ 51.4

Income Taxes - Changes in Net I

Income Taxes - Changes in Net Income Taxes (Payable) Refundable (Details) $ in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Income Tax Receivable (Payable) [Roll Forward]
Balance - January 1	$ 72.2		$ 51.4
Amounts recorded in the consolidated statements of earnings	(177.7)		(149.2)
Payments made during the year	178.9		229.9
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	6.7		7.3
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(17.1)		0
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale (note 23)	29.6		0
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)	0		(71.3)
Foreign exchange effect and other	(2)		4.1
Balance - December 31	$ 90.6	$ 90.6	$ 72.2

Income Taxes - Changes in Defer

Income Taxes - Changes in Deferred Net Income Tax Asset (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]
Deferred tax asset, beginning balance	$ 497.9	$ 380.8
Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings	(83.8)	105
Amounts recorded in total equity	26.4	26.5
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	(64.9)	6.4
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)		(17.2)
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(2.2)
Foreign exchange effect and other	2.5	(3.6)
Deferred tax asset, ending balance	375.9	497.9
Operating and capital losses
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]
Deferred tax asset, beginning balance	107.4	187.7
Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings	(11.7)	(67.6)
Amounts recorded in total equity	2.5	5
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	22.9	1.4
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)		(6.1)
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	(1.9)	(13)
Deferred tax asset, ending balance	119.2	107.4
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]
Deferred tax asset, beginning balance	134.7	131.3
Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings	8.8	5.3
Amounts recorded in total equity	0	0
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	0	0
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)		0
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	1.8	(1.9)
Deferred tax asset, ending balance	145.3	134.7
Provision for unearned premiums
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]
Deferred tax asset, beginning balance	96.8	91.9
Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings	23.1	5.5
Amounts recorded in total equity	0	0
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	0	(0.8)
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)		0
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	0	0.2
Deferred tax asset, ending balance	119.9	96.8
Deferred premium acquisition costs
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]
Deferred tax asset, beginning balance	(81.1)	(66.7)
Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings	(16)	(15.6)
Amounts recorded in total equity	0	0
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	0	1.4
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)		0
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	0.2	(0.2)
Deferred tax asset, ending balance	(96.9)	(81.1)
Intangibles
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]
Deferred tax asset, beginning balance	(419.6)	(443.5)
Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings	28.3	11.2
Amounts recorded in total equity	0	0
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	(29.5)	(4.7)
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)		4.2
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	(7.4)	13.2
Deferred tax asset, ending balance	(428.2)	(419.6)
Investments
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]
Deferred tax asset, beginning balance	314.9	177.5
Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings	(181)	128.8
Amounts recorded in total equity	(11.4)	7.6
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	0	0
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)		0
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0.8
Foreign exchange effect and other	4.7	1
Deferred tax asset, ending balance	128	314.9
Tax credits
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]
Deferred tax asset, beginning balance	118.9	118.1
Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings	92.5	1.1
Amounts recorded in total equity	0	0
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	0	0
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)		0
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	(0.4)	(0.3)
Deferred tax asset, ending balance	211	118.9
Other
Reconciliation of changes in deferred tax liability (asset) [abstract]
Deferred tax asset, beginning balance	225.9	184.5
Amounts recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings	(27.8)	36.3
Amounts recorded in total equity	35.3	13.9
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	(58.3)	9.1
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (note 23)		(15.3)
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(3)
Foreign exchange effect and other	5.5	(2.6)
Deferred tax asset, ending balance	$ 177.6	$ 225.9

Statutory Requirements (Details

Statutory Requirements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jan. 28, 2019	Jan. 25, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Statutory Requirements [Line Items]
Common share dividends	$ 278	$ 283.2	$ 453.8	$ 442.7
Dividend capacity available			1,625.2
Allied World
Statutory Requirements [Line Items]
Dividend capacity available			798.7
Odyssey Group
Statutory Requirements [Line Items]
Dividend capacity available			347.6
Crum & Forster
Statutory Requirements [Line Items]
Dividend capacity available			140.6
Brit
Statutory Requirements [Line Items]
Dividend capacity available			138.8
Northbridge
Statutory Requirements [Line Items]
Dividend capacity available			132.6
Zenith National
Statutory Requirements [Line Items]
Dividend capacity available			66.9
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Statutory Requirements [Line Items]
Common share dividends			$ 282.3	$ 415.2

Contingencies and Commitments (

Contingencies and Commitments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2018	Dec. 28, 2017	Jul. 26, 2006	Oct. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities					$ 5,774,100	$ 5,703,600
Capital commitments					988,500
Investments
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Capital commitments					33,900
Financial assets at fair value | Cash | Insurance underwriting | Lloyd's participants
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities					232,200
Financial assets at fair value | Cash | Insurance underwriting | Advent And Riverstone (UK)
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities					9,200
Financial assets at fair value | Securities | Insurance underwriting | Lloyd's participants
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities					1,264,900
Financial assets at fair value | Securities | Insurance underwriting | Advent And Riverstone (UK)
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities					$ 175,500
Various Defendants
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Damages sought in legal suit			$ 6,000,000
Damages awarded	$ 20,000
Exis Capital Management, Adam Sender and Andrew Heller
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Damages awarded				$ 10,900
Exis Capital Management
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Damages awarded				3,000
Adam Sender
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Damages awarded				2,250
Andrew Heller
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Damages awarded				$ 250
First Capital Insurance Limited
Disclosure of contingent liabilities [line items]
Percentage of interest sold		97.70%

Pensions and Post Retirement _3

Pensions and Post Retirement Benefits - Funded Status of Defined Benefit Pension and Post Retirement Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Pension surpluses	$ 51.9	$ 64
Pension deficits	360.6	253.1
Defined benefit pension plans
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Benefit obligation	(789.4)	(803.7)
Fair value of plan assets	605.8	726.9
Funded status of plans - deficit	(183.6)	(76.8)
Impact of asset ceiling	0.3	0
Net accrued liability (notes 13 and 14)	$ (183.3)	$ (76.8)
Discount rate	3.00%	3.60%
Rate of compensation increase	2.60%	2.70%
Pension surpluses	$ 51.9	$ 64
Pension deficits	235.2	140.8
Post retirement benefit plans
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Benefit obligation	(125.4)	(112.3)
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Funded status of plans - deficit	(125.4)	(112.3)
Net accrued liability (notes 13 and 14)	$ (125.4)	$ (112.3)
Discount rate	3.30%	4.20%
Rate of compensation increase	3.60%	3.60%
Health care cost trend	4.50%	4.60%

Pensions and Post Retirement _4

Pensions and Post Retirement Benefits - Pension and Post Retirement Expenses Recognized (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Employee benefits	$ 448.5	$ 412.8
Defined benefit pension plans
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Defined benefit plan expense	18.8	26.8
Defined contribution pension plan expense	53.1	50.3
Employee benefits	80.3	86.8
Post retirement benefit plans
Disclosure of defined benefit plans [line items]
Defined benefit plan expense	$ 8.4	$ 9.7

Pensions and Post Retirement _5

Pensions and Post Retirement Benefits - Pre-tax Actuarial Gains and (Losses) Recognized (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]
Gain (loss) on defined benefit pension plans	$ (99.1)	$ 12.2
Defined benefit pension plans
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]
Actuarial net gains (losses) on plan assets and change in asset ceiling	18.8	(69.2)
Actuarial net gains (losses) on benefit obligations	(109.9)	74.1
Gain (loss) on defined benefit pension plans	(91.1)	4.9
Post retirement benefit plans
Disclosure of net defined benefit liability (asset) [line items]
Actuarial net gains (losses) on benefit obligations	$ (8)	$ 7.3

Pensions and Post Retirement _6

Pensions and Post Retirement Benefits - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Pension And Post Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Employer contributions	$ 36.8	$ 28.8
Expected employer contributions	$ 19.3

Leases - Changes in Right-of-Us

Leases - Changes in Right-of-Use Assets (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)
Changes In Right-Of-Use Assets [Roll Forward]
Balance - January 1	$ 1,051.4
Additions	133.1
Disposals	(9.9)
Depreciation(1)	(178.7)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	20.6
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(22.9)
Foreign exchange effect and other	27
Balance - December 31 (note 13)	1,020.6
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Changes In Right-Of-Use Assets [Roll Forward]
Balance - January 1	418.9
Additions	59.9
Disposals	(8.3)
Depreciation(1)	(69.3)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	4.4
Assets held for sale (note 23)	(22.9)
Foreign exchange effect and other	2.7
Balance - December 31 (note 13)	385.4
Non-insurance companies
Changes In Right-Of-Use Assets [Roll Forward]
Balance - January 1	632.5
Additions	73.2
Disposals	(1.6)
Depreciation(1)	(109.4)
Acquisitions of subsidiaries (note 23)	16.2
Assets held for sale (note 23)	0
Foreign exchange effect and other	24.3
Balance - December 31 (note 13)	$ 635.2

Leases - Maturity of Lease Liab

Leases - Maturity of Lease Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	$ 1,804.4
Lease liabilities	$ 1,496.4	$ 0
Incremental borrowing rate (weighted average)	4.60%
Less than one year
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	$ 287.4
One to two years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	265.1
Two to three years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	227
Three to four years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	191.2
Four to five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	164.4
More than five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	669.3
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	557.5
Lease liabilities	$ 434.3	0
Incremental borrowing rate (weighted average)	4.60%
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Less than one year
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	$ 78
Insurance and reinsurance companies | One to two years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	72
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Two to three years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	63.2
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Three to four years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	54.7
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Four to five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	48.8
Insurance and reinsurance companies | More than five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	240.8
Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	1,246.9
Lease liabilities	$ 1,062.1	$ 0
Incremental borrowing rate (weighted average)	4.60%
Non-insurance companies | Less than one year
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	$ 209.4
Non-insurance companies | One to two years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	193.1
Non-insurance companies | Two to three years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	163.8
Non-insurance companies | Three to four years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	136.5
Non-insurance companies | Four to five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	115.6
Non-insurance companies | More than five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of operating lease payments [line items]
Undiscounted lease liabilities	$ 428.5

Leases - Narrative (Details)

Leases - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Leases1 [Abstract]
Interest expense on lease liabilities	$ 67.8	$ 0
Short-term and low value lease costs	78	$ 0
Interest revenue on finance lease receivables	$ 14.7

Leases - Maturity of Finance Le

Leases - Maturity of Finance Lease Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	$ 430.9
Unearned finance income	55
Finance lease receivables	375.9	$ 0
Due in 1 year or less
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	73.7
One to two years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	68.6
Two to three years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	61.1
Three to four years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	51.2
Four to five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	42.1
More than five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	134.2
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	11.5
Unearned finance income	2.7
Finance lease receivables	8.8	0
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Due in 1 year or less
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	1.7
Insurance and reinsurance companies | One to two years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	1.7
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Two to three years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	1.8
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Three to four years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	1.6
Insurance and reinsurance companies | Four to five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	0.7
Insurance and reinsurance companies | More than five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	4
Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	419.4
Unearned finance income	52.3
Finance lease receivables	367.1	$ 0
Non-insurance companies | Due in 1 year or less
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	72
Non-insurance companies | One to two years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	66.9
Non-insurance companies | Two to three years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	59.3
Non-insurance companies | Three to four years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	49.6
Non-insurance companies | Four to five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	41.4
Non-insurance companies | More than five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis of finance lease payments receivable [line items]
Undiscounted finance lease receivables	$ 130.2

Acquisitions and Divestitures -

Acquisitions and Divestitures - Assets and Liabilities Held-For-Sale (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Assets held for sale:
Non-current assets or disposal groups classified as held for sale	$ 2,785.6	$ 0
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale:
Liabilities included in disposal groups classified as held for sale	2,035.1	0
Subsidiary cash and short term investments (including restricted cash and cash equivalents - $664.8; December 31, 2018 - $560.9)	4,613	$ 5,114
European Run-off
Assets held for sale:
Insurance contract receivables	61.3
Portfolio investments(2)	2,375.3
Deferred premium acquisition costs	1.7
Recoverable from reinsurers	260
Deferred income taxes	2.2
Other assets	85.1
Non-current assets or disposal groups classified as held for sale	2,785.6
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	67.1
Short sale and derivative obligations	2
Insurance contract payables	37.8
Insurance contract liabilities	1,836.8
Borrowings - insurance and reinsurance companies	91.4
Liabilities included in disposal groups classified as held for sale	2,035.1
Intercompany Reinsurance | European Run-off
Assets held for sale:
Insurance contract receivables	8.2
Portfolio investments(2)	0
Deferred premium acquisition costs	(0.2)
Recoverable from reinsurers	(382)
Deferred income taxes	0
Other assets	0
Non-current assets or disposal groups classified as held for sale	(374)
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	0
Short sale and derivative obligations	0
Insurance contract payables	(11.7)
Insurance contract liabilities	(503.9)
Borrowings - insurance and reinsurance companies	0
Liabilities included in disposal groups classified as held for sale	(515.6)
Consolidation Adjustments | European Run-off
Assets held for sale:
Insurance contract receivables	0
Portfolio investments(2)	(313.4)
Deferred premium acquisition costs	0
Recoverable from reinsurers	0
Deferred income taxes	0
Other assets	(266.1)
Non-current assets or disposal groups classified as held for sale	(579.5)
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(10.5)
Short sale and derivative obligations	0
Insurance contract payables	0
Insurance contract liabilities	0
Borrowings - insurance and reinsurance companies	0
Liabilities included in disposal groups classified as held for sale	(10.5)
European Run-off | European Run-off
Assets held for sale:
Insurance contract receivables	53.1
Portfolio investments(2)	2,688.7
Deferred premium acquisition costs	1.9
Recoverable from reinsurers	642
Deferred income taxes	2.2
Other assets	351.2
Non-current assets or disposal groups classified as held for sale	3,739.1
Liabilities associated with assets held for sale:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	77.6
Short sale and derivative obligations	2
Insurance contract payables	49.5
Insurance contract liabilities	2,340.7
Borrowings - insurance and reinsurance companies	91.4
Liabilities included in disposal groups classified as held for sale	$ 2,561.2

Acquisitions and Divestitures_2

Acquisitions and Divestitures - Subsequent to 2019 (Details) - RiverStone Barbados $ in Millions	Dec. 20, 2019USD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Percentage of interests acquired	40.00%
Cash transferred	$ 597

Acquisitions and Divestitures_3

Acquisitions and Divestitures - 2019 Acquisitions (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, R in Millions, $ in Millions, $ in Millions

Nov. 06, 2019USD ($)

May 17, 2019USD ($)shares

May 16, 2019

Apr. 17, 2019USD ($)

Apr. 17, 2019CAD ($)$ / shares

Jan. 04, 2019USD ($)

Jan. 04, 2019ZAR (R)

Jan. 01, 2019USD ($)

Oct. 01, 2018USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)

Feb. 14, 2019USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)

Feb. 05, 2019€ / shares

Jun. 18, 2018$ / shares

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Increase (decrease) through disposal of subsidiary, equity

$ (466.2)

$ (212.5)

Consideration paid

$ (561.5)

$ (670.5)

ARX Insurance Company (ARX Insurance)

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Consideration paid

$ 17.4

AGT Food & Ingredients Inc.

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Percentage of interests acquired

69.90%

Consideration paid

$ 226.5

$ 301.8

Percentage of economic interests acquired

69.90%

Common shares | AGT Food & Ingredients Inc.

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Share price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares

$ 18

AGT Food & Ingredients Inc.

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Ownership percentage in equity method investment

59.60%

59.60%

59.60%

Ownership percentage in investment if warrants are exercised

80.00%

80.00%

Grivalia Properties

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Ownership percentage

53.00%

Net realized gains (losses)

$ 171.3

Increase (decrease) through disposal of subsidiary, equity

$ (466.2)

Eurobank Ergasias S.A

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Ownership percentage

32.40%

18.00%

Limited Liability Company FFH Ukraine Holdings (Fairfax Ukraine) | Universalna

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Cash transferred

$ 4.6

Ownership percentage

30.00%

Fairfax Africa

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Share price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares

$ 12.25

Fairfax Africa | Consolidated Infrastructure Group (CIG)

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Percentage of interests acquired

41.20%

41.20%

Consideration paid

$ 44.9

R 628.3

Fairfax Africa | Consolidated Infrastructure Group (CIG)

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Ownership percentage in equity method investment

49.10%

49.10%

Shareholder's of Grivalia Properties REIC

Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]

Right to receive exchange of shares | shares

15.8

Pre-merger dividend (in dollars per share) | € / shares

€ 0.42

Acquisitions and Divestitures_4

Acquisitions and Divestitures - 2018 Acquisitions (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions, $ in Millions	Dec. 09, 2019USD ($)	Apr. 29, 2019USD ($)	Jan. 01, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 14, 2018USD ($)	Oct. 01, 2018USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2018	Jul. 05, 2018USD ($)	Jun. 18, 2018USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Mar. 09, 2018USD ($)shares	Mar. 01, 2018USD ($)	Feb. 22, 2018USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2019CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2017	May 31, 2018USD ($)	May 31, 2018CAD ($)	Feb. 22, 2018CAD ($)shares	Jan. 31, 2018USD ($)
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Consideration paid			$ (561.5)		$ (670.5)
Dividends paid, other shares												$ 45.8		$ 45.1
Acquisitions of subsidiaries												121.7		(5.8)
Other net changes in capitalization (notes 16 and 23)												(255.2)		(399)
Share of profit (loss) of associates												$ 169.6		$ 221.1
Toys R Us Canada
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Percentage of interests acquired																100.00%	100.00%
Purchase consideration																$ 41.1	$ 53.3
SBI Seguros Uruguay S.A. (SouthBridge Uruguay)
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Cash transferred																			$ 5.9
Sporting Life Inc. (Sporting Life)
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary						65.10%						65.10%	65.10%
Golf Town Limited
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary						65.10%						65.10%	65.10%
Brit
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary				88.90%			88.00%					89.30%	89.30%	88.90%
Fairfax Africa
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Ownership percentage														59.20%	64.20%
Voting interest percentage														98.30%	98.80%
Acquisitions of subsidiaries												$ 86.6
Other net changes in capitalization (notes 16 and 23)												$ 3.9
Fairfax India
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary									33.60%			33.80%	33.80%	30.20%
Number of subordinated voting equity interests acquired | shares									7,663,685
The Keg
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary												47.90%	47.90%
Percentage of interest sold											51.00%
Sporting Life Group Limited | Sporting Life Inc. (Sporting Life)
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary						100.00%						100.00%	100.00%
Sporting Life Group Limited | Golf Town Limited
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary						100.00%						100.00%	100.00%
Fairfax Africa
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Number of shares issued (in shares) | shares								12,300,000
Share price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares								$ 12.25
Proceeds from issuing shares, gross								$ 150.7
Proceeds from issuing shares								$ 148.3
Fairfax Africa | Fairfax Africa
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary												62.00%	62.00%
Brit
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Capital contribution				$ 126			$ 264.6					$ 70.6
Percentage of economic interests acquired							11.20%
Consideration paid							$ 251.8
Dividends paid, other shares		$ 20.6					$ 12.8
Other shareholders | The Keg
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Cash transferred											$ 74.8							$ 95
Purchase consideration											$ 82.7							$ 105
Percentage of interest sold											49.00%
Number of shares issued (in shares) | shares											401,284							401,284
Recipe | The Keg
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Cash transferred											$ 7.9							$ 10
Percentage of interests acquired											49.00%							49.00%
Purchase consideration											$ 74.6							$ 94.7
Recipe | The Keg
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary												100.00%	100.00%
Quess
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Ownership percentage	31.80%
Other net changes in capitalization (notes 16 and 23)										$ 212.5
Quess | Thomas Cook India
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Ownership percentage	48.60%
Non-cash impairment charge	$ 190.6
Toys R Us Canada
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Additional investment																$ 193.7	$ 251.3
Recipe
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Ownership percentage											43.20%				40.20%
Subordinate voting shares
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Number of shares issued (in shares) | shares												27,467,964		27,717,325
Subordinate voting shares | Recipe | The Keg
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Number of shares issued (in shares) | shares											3,400,000							3,400,000
Other shareholders | Recipe | The Keg
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Cash considerations required to be made upon achievements of financial objectives within the first three years of closing												$ 15.4	$ 20
Investments accounted for using equity method | Quess
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Share of profit (loss) of associates										889.9		889.9		$ 889.9
Fair value of equity method investment										$ 1,109.5		$ 1,109.5
Public Offering | Fairfax Africa
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Number of subordinated voting equity interests acquired | shares								4,100,000
Cash transferred								$ 50.2
Open Market | Fairfax Africa
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Number of subordinated voting equity interests acquired | shares								645,421
Cash transferred								$ 7.6
Fairfax India
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Performance fee revenue									$ 114.4

Acquisitions and Divestitures_5

Acquisitions and Divestitures - Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Details) $ in Millions, $ in Millions	Apr. 17, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	May 31, 2018USD ($)	May 31, 2018CAD ($)
Liabilities:
Goodwill		$ 2,997.3	$ 2,702.7
AGT Food & Ingredients Inc.
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Percentage of common shares acquired	69.90%
Assets:
Insurance contract receivables	$ 0
Portfolio investments	113
Recoverable from reinsurers	0
Deferred income taxes	0
Goodwill and intangible assets	240.9
Other assets	878.9
Assets	1,232.8
Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	161.9
Short sale and derivative obligations	50.3
Insurance contract payables	0
Insurance contract liabilities	0
Deferred income taxes	42.9
Borrowings	535.9
Liabilities	791
Settlement of pre-existing interests	114.3
Non-controlling interests	98.5
Purchase consideration	229
Excess of fair value of net assets acquired over purchase consideration	0
Assets acquired (liabilities assumed)	1,232.8
Subsidiary cash and cash equivalents	111.5
Goodwill	175.5
Identifiable intangible assets recognised as of acquisition date	65.4
Property, plant and equipment recognised as of acquisition date	442.6
Accounts receivable recognized at acquisition date	198.1
Inventory recognised as of acquisition date	148.3
2019 Acquisitions
Assets:
Insurance contract receivables		16.9
Portfolio investments		220.3
Recoverable from reinsurers		17.6
Deferred income taxes		0.8
Goodwill and intangible assets		285.4
Other assets		328.4
Assets		869.4
Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities		282.6
Short sale and derivative obligations	0
Insurance contract payables		8.3
Insurance contract liabilities		93.2
Deferred income taxes		18.1
Borrowings		148.5
Liabilities		550.7
Settlement of pre-existing interests		0
Non-controlling interests		36.7
Purchase consideration		281.2
Excess of fair value of net assets acquired over purchase consideration		0.8
Assets acquired (liabilities assumed)		869.4
Other
Liabilities:
Subsidiary cash and cash equivalents		144.5
Goodwill		146.1
Identifiable intangible assets recognised as of acquisition date		139.3
2018 Acquisitions
Assets:
Insurance contract receivables			4.1
Portfolio investments			30.5
Recoverable from reinsurers			10
Deferred income taxes			1.6
Goodwill and intangible assets			193.7
Other assets			130.5
Assets			370.4
Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities			105
Funds withheld payable to reinsurers			2.6
Insurance contract payables			13.9
Deferred income taxes			1.8
Borrowings			23.3
Liabilities			146.6
Non-controlling interests			4
Purchase consideration			218.4
Excess of fair value of net assets acquired over purchase consideration			1.4
Assets acquired (liabilities assumed)			370.4
Goodwill			140.5
Identifiable intangible assets recognised as of acquisition date			70
Toys R Us Canada
Disclosure of detailed information about business combination [line items]
Percentage of common shares acquired				100.00%	100.00%
Assets:
Insurance contract receivables				$ 0
Portfolio investments				9.1
Recoverable from reinsurers				0
Deferred income taxes				11.3
Goodwill and intangible assets				16.8
Other assets				415.8
Assets				453
Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities				166.4
Funds withheld payable to reinsurers				0
Insurance contract payables				0
Deferred income taxes				12.4
Borrowings				195.9
Liabilities				374.7
Non-controlling interests				0
Purchase consideration				41.1	$ 53.3
Excess of fair value of net assets acquired over purchase consideration				37.2
Assets acquired (liabilities assumed)				$ 453
Brand names | AGT Food & Ingredients Inc.
Liabilities:
Identifiable intangible assets recognised as of acquisition date	34.7
Brand names | 2018 Acquisitions
Liabilities:
Identifiable intangible assets recognised as of acquisition date			15.3
Media Content and Non-Compete Agreements | 2018 Acquisitions
Liabilities:
Identifiable intangible assets recognised as of acquisition date			12.1
Customer and broker relationships | AGT Food & Ingredients Inc.
Liabilities:
Identifiable intangible assets recognised as of acquisition date	16.9
Customer and broker relationships | Brit
Liabilities:
Identifiable intangible assets recognised as of acquisition date		42.6
Customer and broker relationships | Boat Rocker Media Inc. (Boat Rocker)
Liabilities:
Identifiable intangible assets recognised as of acquisition date		$ 46
Customer and broker relationships | 2018 Acquisitions
Liabilities:
Identifiable intangible assets recognised as of acquisition date			$ 21.5
Vehicles And Heavy Machinery | AGT Food & Ingredients Inc.
Liabilities:
Property, plant and equipment recognised as of acquisition date	200.4
Buildings | AGT Food & Ingredients Inc.
Liabilities:
Property, plant and equipment recognised as of acquisition date	108.3
Preferred shares | AGT Food & Ingredients Inc.
Liabilities:
Settlement of pre-existing interests	108.6
Warrants | AGT Food & Ingredients Inc.
Liabilities:
Settlement of pre-existing interests	$ 5.7

Financial Risk Management - Und

Financial Risk Management - Underwriting Risk - Gross Premiums Written (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	$ 9,155.8	$ 8,400.9
Gross premiums written	$ 17,511.2	15,528.3
Normalized net earnings, percent return on common shareholders' equity adjusted to pre-tax basis	15.00%
Canada
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	$ 1,836.5	1,592.6
United States
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	10,589	9,406.4
Asia
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	1,359.6	1,234.3
International
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	3,726.1	3,295
Property
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	6,321.2	5,567.2
Property | Canada
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	853.5	732.6
Property | United States
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	3,087.9	2,704.3
Property | Asia
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	710.4	634.5
Property | International
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	1,669.4	1,495.8
Casualty
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	9,545	8,373
Casualty | Canada
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	805.4	695.4
Casualty | United States
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	6,903.4	6,082.3
Casualty | Asia
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	411.6	384.5
Casualty | International
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	1,424.6	1,210.8
Specialty
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	1,645	1,588.1
Specialty | Canada
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	177.6	164.6
Specialty | United States
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	597.7	619.8
Specialty | Asia
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	237.6	215.3
Specialty | International
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	632.1	588.4
Insurance
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	13,167.8	11,895
Insurance | Canada
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	1,724.5	1,492.5
Insurance | United States
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	8,389.9	7,439.7
Insurance | Asia
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	676.1	692.4
Insurance | International
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	2,377.3	2,270.4
Reinsurance
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	4,343.4	3,633.3
Reinsurance | Canada
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	112	100.1
Reinsurance | United States
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	2,199.1	1,966.7
Reinsurance | Asia
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	683.5	541.9
Reinsurance | International
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Gross premiums written	1,348.8	1,024.6
Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	9,155.8	8,400.9	$ 7,812.5
Ceded reinsurance contracts | Property
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	1,471.5	1,267.2
Ceded reinsurance contracts | Casualty
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	1,842.9	1,443.4
Ceded reinsurance contracts | Specialty
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	$ 361.2	$ 386.7

Financial Risk Management - Cre

Financial Risk Management - Credit Risk - Aggregate Gross Credit Risk Exposure (Details) - Credit risk - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	$ 43,340	$ 42,855.9
Cash and short term investments
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	10,703.6	7,361.3
U.S. sovereign government
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	5,610.8	10,464
Other sovereign government rated AA/Aa or higher
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	1,090.4	1,368.1
All other sovereign government
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	1,230	1,189.9
Canadian provincials
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	2.9	51.9
U.S. states and municipalities
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	216.5	363.2
Corporate and other
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	8,164.8	7,124.4
Receivable from counterparties to derivative contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	85.2	168.2
Insurance contract receivables
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	5,435	5,110.7
Recoverable from reinsurers
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	9,155.8	8,400.9
Other assets
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	$ 1,645	$ 1,253.3

Financial Risk Management - C_2

Financial Risk Management - Credit Risk - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Income taxes refundable	$ 169	$ 152.3
Proceeds from issue of bonds, notes and debentures	3,618.7	(10,743)
Excess collateral pledged by counterparties	1.9	1.5
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	5,774.1	5,703.6
Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	43,340	$ 42,855.9
Capital and surplus requirement	$ 500
Investment grade or better | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	85.30%	86.90%
AA or better | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	47.20%	63.50%
AAA/Aaa | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	41.80%	58.10%
A/A | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	18.40%	10.60%
BBB/Baa | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	19.70%	12.80%
Unrated | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	13.40%	12.00%
Cash and short term investments | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	$ 10,703.6	$ 7,361.3
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	5.3	$ 1.1
Bonds, Canadian government | AAA/Aaa | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Proceeds from issue of bonds, notes and debentures	(344.5)
Bonds, U.S. Corporate
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Purchases of bonds, notes and debentures	1,370.4
Bonds, U.S. Corporate | A/A
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Purchases of bonds, notes and debentures	664.5
Bonds, U.S. Corporate | BBB/Baa
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Purchases of bonds, notes and debentures	708.3
Bonds, U.S. Corporate | Unrated | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Purchases of bonds, notes and debentures	$ 492.4
Other than U.S., U.K., German, and Canadian sovereign government | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	8.20%	7.90%
Maximum exposure to credit risk	$ 3,201.5	$ 3,079.6
Largest single issuer of corporate bonds | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	1.20%	1.30%
Maximum exposure to credit risk	$ 483.4	$ 512.4
Bonds, U.S. states and municipalities | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	216.5	363.2
Government securities | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Financial assets pledged as liabilities	10.8	18.3
Recoverable from reinsurers | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Maximum exposure to credit risk	$ 9,155.8	$ 8,400.9
Recoverable from reinsurers | A Plus | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	6.40%	6.70%
Canada | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Bonds issued by government	$ 664.4	$ 964.7
HONG KONG | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Bonds issued by government	105.9	86.4
SINGAPORE | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Bonds issued by government	99.4	54.4
Australia | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Bonds issued by government	89	93.6
India | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Bonds issued by government	519	527.5
Spain | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Bonds issued by government	218.2	210.6
Poland | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Bonds issued by government	$ 149.6	$ 127.4
Canada and United States | Cash and short term investments | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	83.50%	79.50%
Europe | Cash and short term investments | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	11.00%	13.00%
Other foreign countries | Cash and short term investments | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	5.50%	7.50%
Low Risk Level | Bonds | Credit risk
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Risk exposure percentage	17.20%	30.50%
Seaspan Corporation | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Financial assets	$ 483.4	$ 242.9
Blackberry Limited | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Financial assets	442.1	512.4
Chorus Aviation | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Financial assets	155.8	138.6
EXCO Resources, Inc | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Financial assets	0	504.6
Sanmar Chemicals Group | Bonds
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Financial assets	$ 0	$ 392.8

Financial Risk Management - C_3

Financial Risk Management - Credit Risk - Schedule of Issuer Credit Rating (Details) - Credit risk - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
AAA/Aaa
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Percent	41.80%	58.10%
AA/Aa
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Percent	5.40%	5.40%
A/A
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Percent	18.40%	10.60%
BBB/Baa
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Percent	19.70%	12.80%
BB/Ba
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Percent	0.80%	0.60%
B/B
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Percent	0.40%	0.40%
Lower than B/B
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Percent	0.10%	0.10%
Unrated
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Percent	13.40%	12.00%
Total
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Percent	100.00%	100.00%
At cost | AAA/Aaa
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	$ 6,795.2	$ 11,931
At cost | AA/Aa
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	870	1,107.6
At cost | A/A
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	2,979.4	2,214
At cost | BBB/Baa
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	3,059.6	2,583.1
At cost | BB/Ba
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	121.9	125
At cost | B/B
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	59.9	87.8
At cost | Lower than B/B
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	31.6	27.6
At cost | Unrated
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	2,125.8	2,412.4
At cost | Total
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	16,043.4	20,488.5
At fair value | AAA/Aaa
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	6,820.4	11,920.5
At fair value | AA/Aa
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	881.8	1,115.3
At fair value | A/A
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	3,008	2,184.7
At fair value | BBB/Baa
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	3,206.2	2,641.8
At fair value | BB/Ba
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	135	131.8
At fair value | B/B
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	61.6	79.7
At fair value | Lower than B/B
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	16.4	27.5
At fair value | Unrated
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	2,186	2,460.2
At fair value | Total
Disclosure of external credit grades [line items]
Financial assets	$ 16,315.4	$ 20,561.5

Financial Risk Management - C_4

Financial Risk Management - Credit Risk - Related Derivative Contract Counterparties (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [abstract]
Total derivative assets	$ 85.2	$ 168.2
Obligations that may be offset under net settlement arrangements	(19.2)	(83.4)
Fair value of collateral deposited for the benefit of the company	(14.2)	(17.9)
Excess collateral pledged by the company in favour of counterparties	1.9	26.1
Initial margin not held in segregated third party custodian accounts	0	2
Net derivative counterparty exposure after net settlement and collateral arrangements	$ 53.7	$ 95

Financial Risk Management - C_5

Financial Risk Management - Credit Risk - Gross Recoverable From Reinsurers Classified by Financial Strength (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	$ 9,155.8	$ 8,400.9
Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	9,155.8	8,400.9	$ 7,812.5
Provision for uncollectible reinsurance	6,934.8	6,459.1
Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	9,317.3	8,565.7
Provision for uncollectible reinsurance	6,956.7	6,482.3
Provision for uncollectible reinsurance | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	(161.5)	(164.8)	$ (166.4)
Provision for uncollectible reinsurance	(21.9)	(23.2)
Credit risk | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	9,155.8	8,400.9
Outstanding balances for which security is held	1,030.2	1,078.5
Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers	8,287.1	7,487.2
Provision for uncollectible reinsurance	(161.5)	(164.8)
Recoverable from reinsurers	8,125.6	7,322.4
Credit risk | Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	9,317.3	8,565.7
Credit risk | Provision for uncollectible reinsurance | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	(161.5)	(164.8)
Credit risk | A Plus Plus | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Outstanding balances for which security is held	28.8	28.9
Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers	328.3	340.9
Credit risk | A Plus Plus | Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	357.1	369.8
Credit risk | A Plus | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Outstanding balances for which security is held	351.9	264.8
Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers	4,654	3,960.4
Credit risk | A Plus | Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	5,005.9	4,225.2
Credit risk | A | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Outstanding balances for which security is held	106	85.5
Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers	2,461.7	2,169.7
Credit risk | A | Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	2,567.7	2,255.2
Credit risk | A Minus | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Outstanding balances for which security is held	9.7	9.6
Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers	208	238.3
Credit risk | A Minus | Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	217.7	247.9
Credit risk | B Plus Plus | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Outstanding balances for which security is held	1.2	10.5
Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers	16.9	21.9
Credit risk | B Plus Plus | Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	18.1	32.4
Credit risk | B Plus | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Outstanding balances for which security is held	0.4	0.3
Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers	3.5	1.2
Credit risk | B Plus | Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	3.9	1.5
Credit risk | B or lower | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Outstanding balances for which security is held	1.4	1.8
Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers	9.6	8.5
Credit risk | B or lower | Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	11	10.3
Credit risk | Not rated | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Outstanding balances for which security is held	524.3	673.4
Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers	416.8	466.2
Credit risk | Not rated | Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	941.1	1,139.6
Credit risk | Pools and associations | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Outstanding balances for which security is held	6.5	3.7
Net unsecured recoverable from reinsurers	188.3	280.1
Credit risk | Pools and associations | Gross recoverable from reinsurers | Ceded reinsurance contracts
Disclosure of credit risk exposure [line items]
Recoverable from reinsurers	$ 194.8	$ 283.8

Financial Risk Management - Liq

Financial Risk Management - Liquidity Risk - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	Jan. 28, 2020	Jan. 28, 2019	Jan. 25, 2018	Jan. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Mar. 06, 2020
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Common share dividends		$ 278	$ 283.2		$ 453.8	$ 442.7
Dividend per share (in dollars per share)		$ 10	$ 10		$ 10	$ 10
Cash and investments, net					$ 37,900	$ 37,300
Borrowings					7,232.6	6,480.4
Net (purchases) sales of securities classified as FVTPL					1,716.2	252.9
Repayments of borrowings in next fiscal year					1,444.9
Income taxes payable					78.4	80.1
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Common share dividends					282.3	415.2
Borrowings					1,039.6	995.7
Repayments of borrowings in next fiscal year					140
Income taxes payable					47.5	58.2
Holding company cash and investments
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Cash and investments, net					1,098.6	1,550.6
Borrowings					4,117.3	3,859.5
Repayments of borrowings in next fiscal year					0
Subsidiary cash and short term investments
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Cash and investments, net					37,906	37,290
Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings					2,075.7	1,625.2
Income taxes payable					30.9	21.9
Fairfax India | Subsidiary cash and short term investments
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Investments lacking liquidity or inactively traded					$ 1,415.3	$ 1,406.7
Liquidity risk | Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Risk exposure percentage					12.60%	13.30%
Long and short equity and equity index total return swaps | Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Net (purchases) sales of securities classified as FVTPL					$ 30.7	$ (61.8)
Subsequent event
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Common share dividends	$ 275.7			$ 275.7
Dividend per share (in dollars per share)	$ 10			$ 10
Subsequent event | Revolving credit facility | Holding company cash and investments
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings							$ 300

Financial Risk Management - L_2

Financial Risk Management - Liquidity Risk - Financial Liabilities Maturity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Insurance contract payables	$ 2,591	$ 2,003.1
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	28,500.2	29,081.7	$ 28,610.8	$ 19,481.8	$ 19,816.4	$ 17,749.1	$ 19,212.8	$ 19,648.8	$ 17,232.2	$ 16,049.3
Liquidity risk
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	4,198.3	2,249.6
Insurance contract payables	2,217.8	1,748.3
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	28,500.2	29,081.7
Total financial liabilities	44,224.4	41,631.9
Liquidity risk | Less than 3 months
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	1,321.1	1,118.3
Insurance contract payables	717.2	653.3
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	2,475.6	2,385.8
Total financial liabilities	5,160.3	4,390.6
Liquidity risk | 3 months to 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	799.9	576
Insurance contract payables	1,294.8	652.6
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	5,325.9	5,428.5
Total financial liabilities	8,558	7,748.9
Liquidity risk | 1 - 3 years
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	798.1	251.7
Insurance contract payables	133.2	360.6
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	8,490.8	8,292.1
Total financial liabilities	10,765.5	10,135.7
Liquidity risk | 3 - 5 years
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	426	98.8
Insurance contract payables	9.6	5.2
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	4,619.5	4,578.1
Total financial liabilities	6,275.4	5,873.5
Liquidity risk | More than five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	853.2	204.8
Insurance contract payables	63	76.6
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	7,588.4	8,397.2
Total financial liabilities	13,465.2	13,483.2
Holding Company, Insurance, and Reinsurance Companies | Liquidity risk
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	5,176.8	4,876.7
Borrowings - interest	1,729.1	1,857.2
Holding Company, Insurance, and Reinsurance Companies | Liquidity risk | Less than 3 months
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	0	0.1
Borrowings - interest	53.1	53.5
Holding Company, Insurance, and Reinsurance Companies | Liquidity risk | 3 months to 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	140	8.1
Borrowings - interest	180.5	177.7
Holding Company, Insurance, and Reinsurance Companies | Liquidity risk | 1 - 3 years
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	433.9	380.2
Borrowings - interest	456.4	451.4
Holding Company, Insurance, and Reinsurance Companies | Liquidity risk | 3 - 5 years
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	676	620
Borrowings - interest	391.1	391.4
Holding Company, Insurance, and Reinsurance Companies | Liquidity risk | More than five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	3,926.9	3,868.3
Borrowings - interest	648	783.2
Non-insurance companies | Liquidity risk
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	2,084.2	1,629.7
Borrowings - interest	318	188.7
Non-insurance companies | Liquidity risk | Less than 3 months
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	533.4	159.5
Borrowings - interest	59.9	20.1
Non-insurance companies | Liquidity risk | 3 months to 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	771.5	866.7
Borrowings - interest	45.4	39.3
Non-insurance companies | Liquidity risk | 1 - 3 years
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	392.7	356
Borrowings - interest	60.4	43.7
Non-insurance companies | Liquidity risk | 3 - 5 years
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	114.8	157.9
Borrowings - interest	38.4	22.1
Non-insurance companies | Liquidity risk | More than five years
Disclosure of maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings - principal	271.8	89.6
Borrowings - interest	$ 113.9	$ 63.5

Financial Risk Management - L_3

Financial Risk Management - Liquidity Risk - Derivative Financial Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Other derivative contracts | More than 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	$ 0.1	$ 0.3
Liquidity risk
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	205.9	149.5
Liquidity risk | Less than 3 months
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	120.6	141.2
Liquidity risk | 3 months to 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	31.9	8
Liquidity risk | More than 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	53.4	0.3
Liquidity risk | Equity total return swaps – short positions
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	84.6	13.4
Liquidity risk | Equity total return swaps – short positions | Less than 3 months
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	58	13.4
Liquidity risk | Equity total return swaps – short positions | 3 months to 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	26.6	0
Liquidity risk | Equity total return swaps – short positions | More than 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	0	0
Liquidity risk | Equity total return swaps – long positions
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	3	51.7
Liquidity risk | Equity total return swaps – long positions | Less than 3 months
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	0	51.7
Liquidity risk | Equity total return swaps – long positions | 3 months to 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	3	0
Liquidity risk | Equity total return swaps – long positions | More than 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	0	0
Liquidity risk | Foreign exchange forward contracts
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	114.5	53.7
Liquidity risk | Foreign exchange forward contracts | Less than 3 months
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	59.3	45.7
Liquidity risk | Foreign exchange forward contracts | 3 months to 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	1.9	8
Liquidity risk | Foreign exchange forward contracts | More than 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	53.3	0
Liquidity risk | U.S. treasury bond forward contracts
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	1.7	30.4
Liquidity risk | U.S. treasury bond forward contracts | Less than 3 months
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	1.7	30.4
Liquidity risk | U.S. treasury bond forward contracts | 3 months to 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	0	0
Liquidity risk | U.S. treasury bond forward contracts | More than 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	0	0
Liquidity risk | Other derivative contracts
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	2.1	0.3
Liquidity risk | Other derivative contracts | Less than 3 months
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	1.6	0
Liquidity risk | Other derivative contracts | 3 months to 1 year
Disclosure of maturity analysis for derivative financial liabilities [line items]
Derivative financial liabilities	$ 0.4	$ 0

Financial Risk Management - Mar

Financial Risk Management - Market Risk - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Notional amount	$ 7,261	$ 6,506.4
Bonds
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Fair value	$ 16,315.4	20,561.5
Interest rate risk
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Change in interest rate on investments	2.00%
Increment change in interest rate on investments	1.00%
Interest rate risk | Bonds
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Fair value	$ 16,315.4	20,561.5
Bonds, U.S. Corporate
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Purchases of bonds, notes and debentures	1,370.4
U.S. treasury bond forward contracts
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Notional amount	$ 846.5	$ 471.9

Financial Risk Management - M_2

Financial Risk Management - Market Risk - Potential Impact of Changes in Interest Rates on Fixed Asset Portfolio (Details) - Debt securities - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Fair value of fixed income portfolio, no change	$ 16,315.4	$ 20,561.5
Interest rate risk
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Fair value of fixed income portfolio, 200 basis point increase	15,752.1	19,902.5
Hypothetical $ change effect on net earnings, 200 basis point increase	$ (463.3)	$ (541.1)
Hypothetical % change in fair value, 200 basis point increase	(3.50%)	(3.20%)
Fair value of fixed income portfolio, 100 basis point increase	$ 16,018.9	$ 20,227.4
Hypothetical $ change effect on net earnings, 100 basis point increase	$ (243.6)	$ (274.3)
Hypothetical % change in fair value, 100 basis point increase	(1.80%)	(1.60%)
Fair value of fixed income portfolio, no change	$ 16,315.4	$ 20,561.5
Fair value of fixed income portfolio, 100 basis point decrease	16,712.8	20,915.6
Hypothetical $ change effect on net earnings, 100 basis point decrease	$ 326.8	$ 290.4
Hypothetical % change in fair value, 100 basis point decrease	2.40%	1.70%
Fair value of fixed income portfolio, 200 basis point decrease	$ 17,162.3	$ 21,282.1
Hypothetical $ change effect on net earnings, 200 basis point decrease	$ 695.8	$ 590.6
Hypothetical % change in fair value, 200 basis point decrease	5.20%	3.50%

Financial Risk Management - M_3

Financial Risk Management - Market Price Fluctuations - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions, $ in Millions	Dec. 09, 2019	May 17, 2019USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2018USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2018CAD ($)	Mar. 01, 2018USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2018CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018EUR (€)
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 530
Proceeds from sales of interests in associates								323.8	$ 444.8
Net gains (losses) on investments								1,716.2	252.9
Share of profit (loss) of associates								169.6	221.1
Notional amount								7,261	6,506.4
Market value								288	307.4
Fair value								$ 7,585.3	$ 6,570.1
CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Average life (in years)								2 years 9 months 18 days	3 years 7 months 6 days	3 years 7 months 6 days
Notional amount								$ 99,804.7	$ 114,426.4
Market value								6.7	24.9
Equity price risk | Investment Portfolio With Ten Largest Issuers
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Common equity instrument								$ 3,407	$ 2,681.1
Risk exposure percentage								8.70%	6.90%		8.70%	8.70%	6.90%	6.90%
Equity price risk | Investment Portfolio With Single Largest Issuer
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Common equity instrument								$ 1,164.4	$ 497.1
Risk exposure percentage								3.00%	1.30%		3.00%	3.00%	1.30%	1.30%
Other price risk | CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Average life (in years)								2 years 9 months 18 days	3 years 7 months 6 days	3 years 7 months 6 days
Currency risk
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Change in interest rate on investments								10.00%
Common Stock, Other Funds
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Portfolio investments								$ 175.6	$ 150.3
Bottom of range | Equity price risk
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Change in interest rate on investments								5.00%
Top of range | Equity price risk
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Change in interest rate on investments								10.00%
Non-insurance associates
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Fair value of investments in associates								$ 5,330	4,522.4
Quess
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Ownership percentage	31.80%
Quess | Investments accounted for using equity method
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Fair value of equity method investment					$ 1,109.5			1,109.5
Share of profit (loss) of associates					$ 889.9			889.9	889.9
United States, European Union, and United Kingdom | CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Notional amount								12,100	1,800.3
Market value								0.2
Canada
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Gains (losses) on hedge of net investment in Canadian subsidiaries								(105.6)	166.3
Canada | Unsecured senior notes | Hedges of net investment in foreign operations
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings											$ 2,796.1		$ 2,691.5
Borrowings at fair value								2,270	2,028.4
Europe
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Gains (losses) on hedge of net investment in Canadian subsidiaries								(35.3)	57.1
Europe | Unsecured senior notes | Hedges of net investment in foreign operations
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Borrowings | €												€ 277,000,000		€ 750,000,000
Borrowings at fair value								336.2	854.5
Holding company
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Portfolio investments								1,098.9	1,557.2
Notional amount								4,148.7	3,893.7
Fair value								4,444.9	3,963.6
Holding company | 2.75% due March 29, 2028
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Notional amount								841.9	857.4			€ 750,000,000
Fair value								$ 910.2	854.5
Grivalia Properties
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Net realized gains (losses)		$ 171.3
Arbor Memorial Services Inc.
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Proceeds from sales of interests in associates			$ 179.2	$ 235.4					179.2	$ 235.4
Net realized gains (losses)			111.8						111.8
Navacord Inc.
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Proceeds from sales of interests in associates			58.8	76.3					58.8	76.3
Net realized gains (losses)			$ 17.6	$ 22.7					17.6	$ 22.7
ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Ownership percentage								9.90%
Proceeds from sales of interests in associates								$ 729
Net realized gains (losses)						$ 240
Net gains (losses) on investments							$ 311.2
CPI-linked derivative contracts
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Net realized gains (losses)								(14.1)	0
Net gains (losses) on investments								$ (12.3)	$ (6.7)

Financial Risk Management - M_4

Financial Risk Management - Market Price Fluctuations - Equity and Equity Related Holdings (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	$ 7,261	$ 6,506.4
Total carrying value	1,148.2
Market value	288	307.4
Net gains (losses) on investments	1,716.2	252.9
Equity total return swaps – long positions
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	406.3	390.3
Market value	11.1	4.8
Net gains (losses) on investments		(19.5)
Equity warrant forward contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	0	316.6
Market value	0	38.4
Equity total return swaps – short positions
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	369.8	414.4
Market value	0	22.3
Net gains (losses) on investments	(30.3)	(11.4)
Equity price risk
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Net equity exposures and financial effects, exposure/notional amount	12,023.7	10,656.2
Net equity exposures and financial effects, pre-tax earnings (loss)	1,222.2	393.7
Equity price risk | Investments in associates and subsidiary
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	5,330	4,522.4
Total carrying value	4,327.9	4,309
Net gains (losses) on investments	0.7	138.9
Equity price risk | Deconsolidation of non-insurance companies
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	0	0
Total carrying value	0	0
Net gains (losses) on investments	171.3	889.9
Equity price risk | Common stocks
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	5,768.6	5,148.2
Common equity instrument, carrying value	5,768.6	5,148.2
Net gains (losses) on investments	915.9	(386.2)
Equity price risk | Preferred stocks – convertible
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	20.7	17.7
Preferred equity instrument, carrying value	20.7	17.7
Net gains (losses) on investments	0.9	2.9
Equity price risk | Bonds – convertible
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	667.6	595.6
Market value	667.6	595.6
Net gains (losses) on investments	1.4	(171.3)
Equity price risk | Equity hedges and long equity exposures
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	12,393.5	11,070.6
Total equity and equity related holdings	10,993.2	10,141.8
Net gains (losses) on investments	1,280	431.9
Equity price risk | Equity total return swaps – long positions
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	406.3	390.3
Market value	8.1	(46.9)
Net gains (losses) on investments	20.5	(86.3)
Equity price risk | Equity warrant forward contracts
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	0	316.6
Market value	0	38.4
Net gains (losses) on investments	45.4	113.9
Equity price risk | Equity warrants and call options
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	200.3	79.8
Market value	200.3	79.8
Net gains (losses) on investments	123.9	(69.9)
Equity price risk | Equity hedges and short equity exposures
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	(369.8)	(414.4)
Total equity and equity related holdings	(84.6)	8.9
Net gains (losses) on investments	(57.8)	(38.2)
Equity price risk | Equity total return swaps – short positions
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	(369.8)	(414.4)
Market value	(84.6)	8.9
Net gains (losses) on investments	(45)	(33.9)
Equity price risk | Equity index total return swaps – short positions
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	0	0
Market value	0	0
Net gains (losses) on investments	0	(4.3)
Equity price risk | Other
Disclosure of financial assets [line items]
Notional amount	0	0
Market value	0	0
Net gains (losses) on investments	$ (12.8)	$ 0

Financial Risk Management - M_5

Financial Risk Management - Market Price Fluctuations - Impact on Net Earnings (Details) - Equity price risk - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [line items]
Fair value of equity and equity-related holdings, 10% increase	$ 7,329.1	$ 6,807.2
Hypothetical $ change effect on net earnings, 10% increase	$ 532.5	$ 498.3
Hypothetical % change in fair value, 10% increase	9.50%	9.40%
Fair value of equity and equity-related holdings, 5% increase	$ 7,010.7	$ 6,510.9
Hypothetical $ change effect on net earnings, 5% increase	$ 265.7	$ 244.9
Hypothetical % change in fair value, 5% increase	4.70%	4.60%
Fair value of equity and equity-related holdings, no change	$ 6,693.7	$ 6,224
Hypothetical $ change effect on net earnings, no change	$ 0	$ 0
Hypothetical % change in fair value, no change	0.00%	0.00%
Fair value of equity and equity-related holdings, 5% decrease	$ 6,377.9	$ 5,929.9
Hypothetical $ change effect on net earnings, 5% decrease	$ (264.4)	$ (251.3)
Hypothetical % change in fair value, 5% decrease	(4.70%)	(4.70%)
Fair value of equity and equity-related holdings, 10% decrease	$ 6,063.7	$ 5,645.7
Hypothetical $ change effect on net earnings, 10% decrease	$ (527.5)	$ (493.8)
Hypothetical % change in fair value, 10% decrease	(9.40%)	(9.30%)

Financial Risk Management - M_6

Financial Risk Management - Market Price Fluctuations - Pre Tax Foreign Exchange (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments [abstract]
Investing activities	$ (68)	$ (171.3)
Underwriting activities	5.6	31.6
Foreign currency forward contracts	(1.3)	7.9
Foreign currency net gains (losses) included in pre-tax earnings (loss)	$ (63.7)	$ (131.8)

Financial Risk Management - M_7

Financial Risk Management - Market Price Fluctuations - Currency Appreciation (Details) - Currency risk - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Effect Of Currency Appreciation [Line Items]
Pre-tax earnings (loss)	$ (235.6)	$ (149.2)
Net earnings (loss)	(196.4)	(126.2)
Pre-tax other comprehensive income (loss)	(608.6)	(657.7)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(573.9)	(637)
Canadian dollar
Effect Of Currency Appreciation [Line Items]
Pre-tax earnings (loss)	12.7	0.1
Net earnings (loss)	9.6	(1.3)
Pre-tax other comprehensive income (loss)	(113.6)	(137.2)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(116.8)	(134.9)
Euro
Effect Of Currency Appreciation [Line Items]
Pre-tax earnings (loss)	(57.3)	37.8
Net earnings (loss)	(52.3)	31.8
Pre-tax other comprehensive income (loss)	30.2	(13.8)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	40.9	(4.9)
British pound sterling
Effect Of Currency Appreciation [Line Items]
Pre-tax earnings (loss)	(5.7)	15.6
Net earnings (loss)	(2.4)	12.6
Pre-tax other comprehensive income (loss)	(125.5)	(98.5)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(124.7)	(98.1)
Indian rupee
Effect Of Currency Appreciation [Line Items]
Pre-tax earnings (loss)	(108)	(105.8)
Net earnings (loss)	(93.8)	(95)
Pre-tax other comprehensive income (loss)	(275.4)	(308.7)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(254.2)	(305.7)
All other currencies
Effect Of Currency Appreciation [Line Items]
Pre-tax earnings (loss)	(77.3)	(96.9)
Net earnings (loss)	(57.5)	(74.3)
Pre-tax other comprehensive income (loss)	(124.3)	(99.5)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	$ (119.1)	$ (93.4)

Financial Risk Management - Cap

Financial Risk Management - Capital Management - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Capitalization		$ 25,139.8	$ 23,845.6
Share of profit (loss) of associates		$ 169.6	221.1
Target capital level percentage		120.00%
Minimum supervisory target		150.00%
Quess | Investments accounted for using equity method
Disclosure of detailed information about financial instruments [line items]
Share of profit (loss) of associates	$ 889.9	$ 889.9	$ 889.9

Financial Risk Management - C_6

Financial Risk Management - Capital Management - Schedule of Capital (Details) $ in Millions, $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019CAD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Holding company cash and investments (net of short sale and derivative obligations)	$ 37,900		$ 37,300
Borrowings	7,232.6		6,480.4
Net debt	6,134		4,929.8
Non-controlling interests	3,529.1		4,250.4
Total equity	$ 17,907.2		$ 17,365.2	$ 18,412
Net debt/total equity	34.30%	34.30%	28.40%
Net debt/net total capital	25.50%	25.50%	22.10%
Total debt/total capital	28.80%	28.80%	27.20%
Interest coverage	6.5	6.5	3.5
Interest and preferred share dividend distribution coverage	5.7	5.7	3
Common shareholders’ equity
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Equity in stock	$ 13,042.6		$ 11,779.3
Preferred shares
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Equity in stock	1,335.5	$ 1,456	1,335.5
Holding company
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Holding company cash and investments (net of short sale and derivative obligations)	1,098.6		1,550.6
Borrowings	4,117.3		3,859.5
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings	1,039.6		995.7
Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings	2,075.7		1,625.2
Excluding consolidated non-insurance companies
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings	5,156.9		4,855.2
Net debt	4,058.3		3,304.6
Non-controlling interests	1,519.8		1,437.1
Total equity	$ 15,897.9		$ 14,551.9
Net debt/total equity	25.50%	25.50%	22.70%
Net debt/net total capital	20.30%	20.30%	18.50%
Total debt/total capital	24.50%	24.50%	25.00%
Interest coverage	9.8	9.8	3.2
Interest and preferred share dividend distribution coverage	7.9	7.9	2.6
Excluding consolidated non-insurance companies | Common shareholders’ equity
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Equity in stock	$ 13,042.6		$ 11,779.3
Excluding consolidated non-insurance companies | Preferred shares
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Equity in stock	1,335.5		1,335.5
Excluding consolidated non-insurance companies | Holding company
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Holding company cash and investments (net of short sale and derivative obligations)	1,098.6		1,550.6
Borrowings	4,117.3		3,859.5
Excluding consolidated non-insurance companies | Insurance and reinsurance companies
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings	1,039.6		995.7
Excluding consolidated non-insurance companies | Non-insurance companies
Disclosure of financial liabilities [line items]
Borrowings	$ 0		$ 0

Segmented Information - Operati

Segmented Information - Operating Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	$ 17,511.2	$ 15,528.3
Net premiums written	13,835.6	12,431
Net earned premium	13,229.7	12,066
Underwriting expenses	(13,099.4)	(11,990.1)
Underwriting profit (loss)	130.3	75.9
Interest income	826.3	743.9
Dividends	93.7	81.5
Investment expenses	(39.8)	(41.9)
Interest and dividends	880.2	783.5
Share of profit (loss) of associates	169.6	221.1
Other revenue	5,537.1	4,434.2
Other expenses	(5,433.2)	(4,170.5)
Other revenue (expenses)	103.9	263.7
Operating income (loss)	1,284	1,344.2
Net gains (losses) on investments	1,716.2	252.9
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	(23.7)	(58.9)
Interest expense	(472)	(347.1)
Corporate overhead	(271.8)	(329)
Earnings before income taxes	2,232.7	862.1
Income taxes	(261.5)	(44.2)
Net earnings	1,971.2	817.9
Shareholders of Fairfax	2,004.1	376
Non-controlling interests	(32.9)	441.9
Operating companies
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	17,201	15,600.5
Net premiums written	13,261.1	12,017.5
Net earned premium	12,587.6	11,661.4
Underwriting expenses	(12,193.1)	(11,343.1)
Underwriting profit (loss)	394.5	318.3
Interest income	717	621
Dividends	70.8	60.4
Investment expenses	(130.8)	(137.3)
Interest and dividends	657	544.1
Share of profit (loss) of associates	56	93.7
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	0	0
Other revenue (expenses)	0	0
Operating income (loss)	1,107.5	956.1
Net gains (losses) on investments	1,258.5	(524.7)
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	(69)	(55.6)
Corporate overhead	(124.7)	(176)
Earnings before income taxes	2,172.3	199.8
Reportable segments | Runoff
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	609.6	418.9
Net premiums written	574.5	413.5
Net earned premium	642.1	404.6
Underwriting expenses	(906.3)	(647)
Underwriting profit (loss)	(264.2)	(242.4)
Interest income	60.5	45.3
Dividends	9.5	9.8
Investment expenses	(14.2)	(11.4)
Interest and dividends	55.8	43.7
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(6.3)	0.8
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	0	0
Other revenue (expenses)	0	0
Operating income (loss)	(214.7)	(197.9)
Net gains (losses) on investments	168.2	(107.6)
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	(7)	0
Corporate overhead	0.4	0
Earnings before income taxes	(53.1)	(305.5)
Reportable segments | Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	0	0
Net premiums written	0	0
Net earned premium	0	0
Underwriting expenses	0	0
Underwriting profit (loss)	0	0
Interest income	24.5	43.4
Dividends	11.8	10
Investment expenses	(89)	(40.6)
Interest and dividends	(52.7)	12.8
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(45.2)	109.4
Other revenue	5,537.1	4,434.2
Other expenses	(5,441.6)	(4,176.1)
Other revenue (expenses)	95.5	258.1
Operating income (loss)	(2.4)	380.3
Net gains (losses) on investments	72.6	900.4
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	(184.9)	(94.1)
Corporate overhead	0	0
Earnings before income taxes	(114.7)	1,186.6
Corporate and Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	0	0
Net premiums written	0	0
Net earned premium	0	0
Underwriting expenses	0	0
Underwriting profit (loss)	0	0
Interest income	33.7	39.8
Dividends	1.6	1.3
Investment expenses	(2.4)	(3.3)
Interest and dividends	32.9	37.8
Share of profit (loss) of associates	165.1	17.2
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	0	0
Other revenue (expenses)	0	0
Operating income (loss)	198	55
Net gains (losses) on investments	216.9	(15.2)
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	(23.7)	(58.9)
Interest expense	(212.1)	(197.4)
Corporate overhead	49.1	(2.3)
Earnings before income taxes	228.2	(218.8)
Eliminations and adjustments
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	(299.4)	(491.1)
Net premiums written	0	0
Net earned premium	0	0
Underwriting expenses	0	0
Underwriting profit (loss)	0	0
Interest income	(9.4)	(5.6)
Dividends	0	0
Investment expenses	196.6	150.7
Interest and dividends	187.2	145.1
Share of profit (loss) of associates	0	0
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	8.4	5.6
Other revenue (expenses)	8.4	5.6
Operating income (loss)	195.6	150.7
Net gains (losses) on investments	0	0
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	1	0
Corporate overhead	(196.6)	(150.7)
Earnings before income taxes	0	0
External
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	17,511.2	15,528.3
Net earned premium	13,229.7	12,066
External | Operating companies
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	16,904.8	15,377.6
Net earned premium	12,544.7	11,908.9
External | Reportable segments | Runoff
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	606.4	150.7
Net earned premium	685	157.1
External | Reportable segments | Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	0	0
Net earned premium	0	0
External | Corporate and Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	0	0
Net earned premium	0	0
External | Eliminations and adjustments
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	0	0
Net earned premium	0	0
Intercompany
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	0	0
Net earned premium	0	0
Intercompany | Operating companies
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	296.2	222.9
Net earned premium	42.9	(247.5)
Intercompany | Reportable segments | Runoff
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	3.2	268.2
Net earned premium	(42.9)	247.5
Intercompany | Reportable segments | Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	0	0
Net earned premium	0	0
Intercompany | Corporate and Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	0	0
Net earned premium	0	0
Intercompany | Eliminations and adjustments
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	(299.4)	(491.1)
Net earned premium	0	0
Northbridge | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	1,521.5	1,322
Net premiums written	1,350.3	1,173.6
Net earned premium	1,240.3	1,119.2
Underwriting expenses	(1,193.6)	(1,072.2)
Underwriting profit (loss)	46.7	47
Interest income	65.9	72.2
Dividends	10.4	10.2
Investment expenses	(11.3)	(15.4)
Interest and dividends	65	67
Share of profit (loss) of associates	1.1	6.3
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	0	0
Other revenue (expenses)	0	0
Operating income (loss)	112.8	120.3
Net gains (losses) on investments	0.5	(55.6)
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	(1.5)	0
Corporate overhead	(5.7)	(6.6)
Earnings before income taxes	106.1	58.1
Northbridge | External | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	1,513.6	1,316
Net earned premium	1,247.3	1,125.4
Northbridge | Intercompany | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	7.9	6
Net earned premium	(7)	(6.2)
Odyssey Group | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	3,816	3,328.6
Net premiums written	3,393.8	2,897.8
Net earned premium	3,179.2	2,755.4
Underwriting expenses	(3,089.3)	(2,574.3)
Underwriting profit (loss)	89.9	181.1
Interest income	189.5	155.5
Dividends	17.5	15.6
Investment expenses	(31.1)	(31.2)
Interest and dividends	175.9	139.9
Share of profit (loss) of associates	55.1	65.8
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	0	0
Other revenue (expenses)	0	0
Operating income (loss)	320.9	386.8
Net gains (losses) on investments	149.5	(111.4)
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	(7.8)	(4.1)
Corporate overhead	(10.7)	(23.3)
Earnings before income taxes	451.9	248
Odyssey Group | External | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	3,742.8	3,269.4
Net earned premium	3,162.2	2,736.4
Odyssey Group | Intercompany | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	73.2	59.2
Net earned premium	17	19
Crum & Forster | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	2,827.8	2,363.1
Net premiums written	2,331.5	1,977.8
Net earned premium	2,193.8	1,960.9
Underwriting expenses	(2,142)	(1,928.3)
Underwriting profit (loss)	51.8	32.6
Interest income	93.6	73.2
Dividends	7	4.9
Investment expenses	(14.7)	(13.5)
Interest and dividends	85.9	64.6
Share of profit (loss) of associates	19.1	4.1
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	0	0
Other revenue (expenses)	0	0
Operating income (loss)	156.8	101.3
Net gains (losses) on investments	75.2	(144.2)
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	(5.3)	(2.2)
Corporate overhead	(20.5)	(24.1)
Earnings before income taxes	206.2	(69.2)
Crum & Forster | External | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	2,805	2,305.7
Net earned premium	2,234.4	1,939.6
Crum & Forster | Intercompany | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	22.8	57.4
Net earned premium	(40.6)	21.3
Zenith National | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	732.7	800.3
Net premiums written	720.8	789.2
Net earned premium	735	804.3
Underwriting expenses	(626.2)	(664.1)
Underwriting profit (loss)	108.8	140.2
Interest income	36.7	36.9
Dividends	4	3.5
Investment expenses	(7.6)	(8.1)
Interest and dividends	33.1	32.3
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(16.4)	4.4
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	0	0
Other revenue (expenses)	0	0
Operating income (loss)	125.5	176.9
Net gains (losses) on investments	22.5	(57.6)
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	(3.9)	(3.3)
Corporate overhead	(8.5)	(8.2)
Earnings before income taxes	135.6	107.8
Zenith National | External | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	732.7	800.3
Net earned premium	737.3	806.6
Zenith National | Intercompany | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	0	0
Net earned premium	(2.3)	(2.3)
Brit | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	2,293.5	2,239.1
Net premiums written	1,656.2	1,494.2
Net earned premium	1,641.9	1,479.7
Underwriting expenses	(1,590.8)	(1,556.7)
Underwriting profit (loss)	51.1	(77)
Interest income	82	64.5
Dividends	3	3.6
Investment expenses	(11.5)	(12.8)
Interest and dividends	73.5	55.3
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(2.4)	5.3
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	0	0
Other revenue (expenses)	0	0
Operating income (loss)	122.2	(16.4)
Net gains (losses) on investments	62.1	(63.1)
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	(19.1)	(14.2)
Corporate overhead	(9.2)	(14)
Earnings before income taxes	156	(107.7)
Brit | External | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	2,245.4	2,221.3
Net earned premium	1,608.1	1,645.8
Brit | Intercompany | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	48.1	17.8
Net earned premium	33.8	(166.1)
Allied World | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	3,860.3	3,368.9
Net premiums written	2,428.9	2,368.8
Net earned premium	2,335.4	2,286.8
Underwriting expenses	(2,277.7)	(2,243.9)
Underwriting profit (loss)	57.7	42.9
Interest income	165.6	140.6
Dividends	16.7	11.3
Investment expenses	(33.4)	(34.7)
Interest and dividends	148.9	117.2
Share of profit (loss) of associates	13.3	(3.8)
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	0	0
Other revenue (expenses)	0	0
Operating income (loss)	219.9	156.3
Net gains (losses) on investments	210.2	(66.9)
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	(29.1)	(26.2)
Corporate overhead	(59.7)	(67.6)
Earnings before income taxes	341.3	(4.4)
Allied World | External | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	3,809.3	3,355.2
Net earned premium	2,345.9	2,318.3
Allied World | Intercompany | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	51	13.7
Net earned premium	(10.5)	(31.5)
Fairfax Asia | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	438.3	385.6
Net premiums written	231.2	191.9
Net earned premium	215.2	189.5
Underwriting expenses	(208.8)	(189.1)
Underwriting profit (loss)	6.4	0.4
Interest income	16.9	16.4
Dividends	8.6	7.8
Investment expenses	(7.8)	(3.1)
Interest and dividends	17.7	21.1
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(0.1)	(5.1)
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	0	0
Other revenue (expenses)	0	0
Operating income (loss)	24	16.4
Net gains (losses) on investments	632.3	(71.7)
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	(0.4)	0
Corporate overhead	(9.8)	(10.3)
Earnings before income taxes	646.1	(65.6)
Fairfax Asia | External | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	439.3	384.5
Net earned premium	228.2	195.6
Fairfax Asia | Intercompany | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	(1)	1.1
Net earned premium	(13)	(6.1)
Other | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	1,710.9	1,792.9
Net premiums written	1,148.4	1,124.2
Net earned premium	1,046.8	1,065.6
Underwriting expenses	(1,064.7)	(1,114.5)
Underwriting profit (loss)	(17.9)	(48.9)
Interest income	66.8	61.7
Dividends	3.6	3.5
Investment expenses	(13.4)	(18.5)
Interest and dividends	57	46.7
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(13.7)	16.7
Other revenue	0	0
Other expenses	0	0
Other revenue (expenses)	0	0
Operating income (loss)	25.4	14.5
Net gains (losses) on investments	106.2	45.8
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Interest expense	(1.9)	(5.6)
Corporate overhead	(0.6)	(21.9)
Earnings before income taxes	129.1	32.8
Other | External | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	1,616.7	1,725.2
Net earned premium	981.3	1,141.2
Other | Intercompany | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Gross premiums written	94.2	67.7
Net earned premium	$ 65.5	$ (75.6)

Segmented Information - Underwr

Segmented Information - Underwriting Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Loss & LAE - accident year	$ 11,927.5	$ 11,165.8
Total underwriting expenses - calendar year	13,099.4	11,990.1
Operating companies
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Loss & LAE - accident year	8,423.2	8,110.2
Commissions	2,182.3	2,023.7
Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses	2,067.4	1,998.2
Total underwriting expenses - accident year	12,672.9	12,132.1
Net favourable claims reserve development	(479.8)	(789)
Total underwriting expenses - calendar year	12,193.1	11,343.1
Northbridge | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Loss & LAE - accident year	851.9	802.7
Commissions	204.1	184.5
Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses	204.7	191.7
Total underwriting expenses - accident year	1,260.7	1,178.9
Net favourable claims reserve development	(67.1)	(106.7)
Total underwriting expenses - calendar year	1,193.6	1,072.2
Odyssey Group | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Loss & LAE - accident year	2,383.6	2,061.5
Commissions	629.9	588.7
Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses	305.4	269.8
Total underwriting expenses - accident year	3,318.9	2,920
Net favourable claims reserve development	(229.6)	(345.7)
Total underwriting expenses - calendar year	3,089.3	2,574.3
Crum & Forster | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Loss & LAE - accident year	1,387.4	1,244.7
Commissions	350.8	304.2
Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses	410	383.3
Total underwriting expenses - accident year	2,148.2	1,932.2
Net favourable claims reserve development	(6.2)	(3.9)
Total underwriting expenses - calendar year	2,142	1,928.3
Zenith National | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Loss & LAE - accident year	423.4	453.4
Commissions	80.1	84.2
Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses	204.8	211.8
Total underwriting expenses - accident year	708.3	749.4
Net favourable claims reserve development	(82.1)	(85.3)
Total underwriting expenses - calendar year	626.2	664.1
Brit | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Loss & LAE - accident year	961	982.6
Commissions	444.6	456.8
Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses	231.7	216.6
Total underwriting expenses - accident year	1,637.3	1,656
Net favourable claims reserve development	(46.5)	(99.3)
Total underwriting expenses - calendar year	1,590.8	1,556.7
Allied World | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Loss & LAE - accident year	1,585.8	1,739.9
Commissions	256.2	207.8
Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses	403.7	392.8
Total underwriting expenses - accident year	2,245.7	2,340.5
Net favourable claims reserve development	32	(96.6)
Total underwriting expenses - calendar year	2,277.7	2,243.9
Fairfax Asia | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Loss & LAE - accident year	151.3	138
Commissions	29.1	19.9
Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses	56.7	55.6
Total underwriting expenses - accident year	237.1	213.5
Net favourable claims reserve development	(28.3)	(24.4)
Total underwriting expenses - calendar year	208.8	189.1
Other | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Loss & LAE - accident year	678.8	687.4
Commissions	187.5	177.6
Premium acquisition costs and other underwriting expenses	250.4	276.6
Total underwriting expenses - accident year	1,116.7	1,141.6
Net favourable claims reserve development	(52)	(27.1)
Total underwriting expenses - calendar year	$ 1,064.7	$ 1,114.5

Segmented Information - Investm

Segmented Information - Investments In Associates (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	$ 4,820	$ 4,863
Additions to goodwill	316.2	136.4
Segment assets	70,508.5	64,372.1
Segment liabilities	52,601.3	47,006.9
Total carrying value	1,148.2
Fair value of investments in associates	530
Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	2,085.8	1,774.4
Additions to goodwill	50.3	3.4
Segment assets	57,905.9	53,284.8
Segment liabilities	40,395	37,662
Operating companies | Northbridge | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	195.4	136.9
Additions to goodwill	0	0
Segment assets	4,654.4	4,205.7
Segment liabilities	3,085	2,706
Operating companies | Odyssey Group | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	641.6	443.2
Additions to goodwill	0	0
Segment assets	13,489	12,077.8
Segment liabilities	8,710.8	7,887.7
Operating companies | Crum & Forster | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	265.4	260.6
Additions to goodwill	0.5	0
Segment assets	6,803.3	6,217.4
Segment liabilities	4,995.4	4,617.9
Operating companies | Zenith National | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	133.2	149.3
Additions to goodwill	0	0
Segment assets	2,504.8	2,543
Segment liabilities	1,527.7	1,612.8
Operating companies | Brit | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	270	266.9
Additions to goodwill	45.9	0
Segment assets	8,106.8	7,543.4
Segment liabilities	6,329.2	5,947.6
Operating companies | Allied World | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	373.3	310
Additions to goodwill	0	0
Segment assets	15,596	14,530.7
Segment liabilities	11,499.3	10,911.7
Operating companies | Fairfax Asia | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	92.1	91.6
Additions to goodwill	0	(0.3)
Segment assets	2,231.5	1,813.4
Segment liabilities	805.1	692.4
Operating companies | Other | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	114.8	115.9
Additions to goodwill	3.9	3.7
Segment assets	4,520.1	4,353.4
Segment liabilities	3,442.5	3,285.9
Reportable segments | Runoff
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	142	273.4
Additions to goodwill	3.8	0
Segment assets	6,372.6	5,529.1
Segment liabilities	4,530.2	3,934.3
Reportable segments | Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	1,663	2,523.3
Additions to goodwill	262.1	133
Segment assets	9,210.5	9,424.7
Segment liabilities	5,181.9	3,361.2
Corporate and Other and eliminations and adjustments
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Investments in associates	929.2	291.9
Additions to goodwill	0	0
Segment assets	(2,980.5)	(3,866.5)
Segment liabilities	$ 2,494.2	$ 2,049.4

Segmented Information - Product

Segmented Information - Product Line (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	$ 13,229.7	$ 12,066
Interest and dividends	880.2	783.5
Share of profit (loss) of associates	169.6	221.1
Net gains on investments	1,716.2	252.9
Other revenue	5,537.1	4,434.2
Income	21,532.8	17,757.7
Property
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	4,575.8	4,103.8
Casualty
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	7,374.2	6,786.3
Specialty
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	1,279.7	1,175.9
Operating companies
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	12,587.6	11,661.4
Interest and dividends	657	544.1
Share of profit (loss) of associates	56	93.7
Net gains on investments	1,258.5	(524.7)
Other revenue	0	0
Operating companies | Property
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	4,472	4,103.8
Operating companies | Casualty
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	6,995	6,397.2
Operating companies | Specialty
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	1,120.6	1,160.4
Reportable segments | Runoff
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	642.1	404.6
Interest and dividends	55.8	43.7
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(6.3)	0.8
Net gains on investments	168.2	(107.6)
Other revenue	0	0
Reportable segments | Property | Runoff
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	103.8	0
Reportable segments | Casualty | Runoff
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	379.2	389.1
Reportable segments | Specialty | Runoff
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	$ 159.1	$ 15.5
Product Concentration | Net Premiums Earned
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Allocation of net premiums earned	100.00%	100.00%
Product Concentration | Net Premiums Earned | Property
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Allocation of net premiums earned	34.60%	34.00%
Product Concentration | Net Premiums Earned | Casualty
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Allocation of net premiums earned	55.70%	56.30%
Product Concentration | Net Premiums Earned | Specialty
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Allocation of net premiums earned	9.70%	9.70%
Northbridge | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	$ 1,240.3	$ 1,119.2
Interest and dividends	65	67
Share of profit (loss) of associates	1.1	6.3
Net gains on investments	0.5	(55.6)
Other revenue	0	0
Northbridge | Operating companies | Property | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	538	490.3
Northbridge | Operating companies | Casualty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	581.4	523.2
Northbridge | Operating companies | Specialty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	120.9	105.7
Odyssey Group | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	3,179.2	2,755.4
Interest and dividends	175.9	139.9
Share of profit (loss) of associates	55.1	65.8
Net gains on investments	149.5	(111.4)
Other revenue	0	0
Odyssey Group | Operating companies | Property | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	1,598.8	1,398.3
Odyssey Group | Operating companies | Casualty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	1,288.2	1,099.2
Odyssey Group | Operating companies | Specialty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	292.2	257.9
Crum & Forster | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	2,193.8	1,960.9
Interest and dividends	85.9	64.6
Share of profit (loss) of associates	19.1	4.1
Net gains on investments	75.2	(144.2)
Other revenue	0	0
Crum & Forster | Operating companies | Property | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	293.8	253.9
Crum & Forster | Operating companies | Casualty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	1,771.6	1,623.6
Crum & Forster | Operating companies | Specialty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	128.4	83.4
Zenith National | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	735	804.3
Interest and dividends	33.1	32.3
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(16.4)	4.4
Net gains on investments	22.5	(57.6)
Other revenue	0	0
Zenith National | Operating companies | Property | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	39.1	35.5
Zenith National | Operating companies | Casualty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	695.9	768.8
Zenith National | Operating companies | Specialty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	0	0
Brit | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	1,641.9	1,479.7
Interest and dividends	73.5	55.3
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(2.4)	5.3
Net gains on investments	62.1	(63.1)
Other revenue	0	0
Brit | Operating companies | Property | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	494.3	490.7
Brit | Operating companies | Casualty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	844.3	618.5
Brit | Operating companies | Specialty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	303.3	370.5
Allied World | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	2,335.4	2,286.8
Interest and dividends	148.9	117.2
Share of profit (loss) of associates	13.3	(3.8)
Net gains on investments	210.2	(66.9)
Other revenue	0	0
Allied World | Operating companies | Property | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	832.1	794.5
Allied World | Operating companies | Casualty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	1,394.1	1,362.4
Allied World | Operating companies | Specialty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	109.2	129.9
Fairfax Asia | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	215.2	189.5
Fairfax Asia | Operating companies | Property | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	74.7	75.7
Fairfax Asia | Operating companies | Casualty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	113.7	93
Fairfax Asia | Operating companies | Specialty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	26.8	20.8
Other | Operating companies | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	1,046.8	1,065.6
Interest and dividends	57	46.7
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(13.7)	16.7
Net gains on investments	106.2	45.8
Other revenue	0	0
Other | Operating companies | Property | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	601.2	564.9
Other | Operating companies | Casualty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	305.8	308.5
Other | Operating companies | Specialty | Insurance and Reinsurance
Disclosure of products and services [line items]
Net earned premium	$ 139.8	$ 192.2

Segmented Information - Geograp

Segmented Information - Geographic Region (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	$ 13,229.7	$ 12,066
Interest and dividends	880.2	783.5
Share of profit (loss) of associates	169.6	221.1
Net gains (losses) on investments	1,716.2	252.9
Other revenue	5,537.1	4,434.2
Income	21,532.8	17,757.7
Canada
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	1,452.1	1,306.9
United States
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	7,960.3	7,466.8
Asia
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	992.5	917
International
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	2,824.8	2,375.3
Operating companies
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	12,587.6	11,661.4
Interest and dividends	657	544.1
Share of profit (loss) of associates	56	93.7
Net gains (losses) on investments	1,258.5	(524.7)
Other revenue	0	0
Operating companies | Canada
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	1,446.3	1,306.9
Operating companies | United States
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	7,930.5	7,460.5
Operating companies | Asia
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	992	917
Operating companies | International
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	2,218.8	1,977
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Northbridge
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	1,240.3	1,119.2
Interest and dividends	65	67
Share of profit (loss) of associates	1.1	6.3
Net gains (losses) on investments	0.5	(55.6)
Other revenue	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Odyssey Group
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	3,179.2	2,755.4
Interest and dividends	175.9	139.9
Share of profit (loss) of associates	55.1	65.8
Net gains (losses) on investments	149.5	(111.4)
Other revenue	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Crum & Forster
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	2,193.8	1,960.9
Interest and dividends	85.9	64.6
Share of profit (loss) of associates	19.1	4.1
Net gains (losses) on investments	75.2	(144.2)
Other revenue	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Zenith National
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	735	804.3
Interest and dividends	33.1	32.3
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(16.4)	4.4
Net gains (losses) on investments	22.5	(57.6)
Other revenue	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Brit
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	1,641.9	1,479.7
Interest and dividends	73.5	55.3
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(2.4)	5.3
Net gains (losses) on investments	62.1	(63.1)
Other revenue	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Allied World
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	2,335.4	2,286.8
Interest and dividends	148.9	117.2
Share of profit (loss) of associates	13.3	(3.8)
Net gains (losses) on investments	210.2	(66.9)
Other revenue	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Fairfax Asia
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	215.2	189.5
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Other
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	1,046.8	1,065.6
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Canada | Northbridge
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	1,223.8	1,108.2
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Canada | Odyssey Group
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	80.8	70.2
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Canada | Crum & Forster
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Canada | Zenith National
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Canada | Brit
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	107	95.3
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Canada | Allied World
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	34.7	28.2
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Canada | Fairfax Asia
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Canada | Other
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0	5
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | United States | Northbridge
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	16.5	11
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | United States | Odyssey Group
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	2,126.5	1,858
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | United States | Crum & Forster
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	2,191.7	1,958
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | United States | Zenith National
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	735	804.3
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | United States | Brit
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	1,119.5	1,073.7
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | United States | Allied World
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	1,710.2	1,671.9
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | United States | Fairfax Asia
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | United States | Other
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	31.1	83.6
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Asia | Northbridge
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Asia | Odyssey Group
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	377.1	319.8
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Asia | Crum & Forster
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Asia | Zenith National
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Asia | Brit
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	48.9	57.9
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Asia | Allied World
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	239.7	254.9
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Asia | Fairfax Asia
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	215.2	189.5
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | Asia | Other
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	111.1	94.9
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | International | Northbridge
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | International | Odyssey Group
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	594.8	507.4
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | International | Crum & Forster
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	2.1	2.9
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | International | Zenith National
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | International | Brit
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	366.5	252.8
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | International | Allied World
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	350.8	331.8
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | International | Fairfax Asia
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0	0
Insurance and Reinsurance | Operating companies | International | Other
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	904.6	882.1
Runoff | Reportable segments
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	642.1	404.6
Interest and dividends	55.8	43.7
Share of profit (loss) of associates	(6.3)	0.8
Net gains (losses) on investments	168.2	(107.6)
Other revenue	0	0
Runoff | Reportable segments | Canada
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	5.8	0
Runoff | Reportable segments | United States
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	29.8	6.3
Runoff | Reportable segments | Asia
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	0.5	0
Runoff | Reportable segments | International
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Net earned premium	$ 606	$ 398.3
Geographic | Net Premiums Earned
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Allocation of net premiums earned	100.00%	100.00%
Geographic | Net Premiums Earned | Canada
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Allocation of net premiums earned	11.00%	10.80%
Geographic | Net Premiums Earned | United States
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Allocation of net premiums earned	60.10%	61.90%
Geographic | Net Premiums Earned | Asia
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Allocation of net premiums earned	7.50%	7.60%
Geographic | Net Premiums Earned | International
Disclosure of geographical areas [line items]
Allocation of net premiums earned	21.40%	19.70%

Segmented Information - Other O

Segmented Information - Other Operating Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Other revenue	$ 5,537.1	$ 4,434.2
Other expenses	(5,433.2)	(4,170.5)
Other revenue (expenses)	103.9	263.7
Reportable segments | Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Other revenue	5,537.1	4,434.2
Other expenses	(5,441.6)	(4,176.1)
Other revenue (expenses)	95.5	258.1
Restaurants and retail | Reportable segments | Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Other revenue	2,120.6	2,013.4
Other expenses	(2,049.5)	(1,890.7)
Other revenue (expenses)	71.1	122.7
Fairfax India | Reportable segments | Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Other revenue	410.7	430.3
Other expenses	(401.8)	(403.3)
Other revenue (expenses)	8.9	27
Thomas Cook India | Reportable segments | Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Other revenue	1,087.4	1,202.4
Other expenses	(1,081.3)	(1,184.1)
Other revenue (expenses)	6.1	18.3
Other | Reportable segments | Other
Disclosure of operating segments [line items]
Other revenue	1,918.4	788.1
Other expenses	(1,909)	(698)
Other revenue (expenses)	$ 9.4	$ 90.1

Expenses (Details)

Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Expenses [Line Items]
Losses and loss adjustment expenses	$ 8,401.5	$ 7,545.9
Non-insurance companies' cost of sales	3,474.1	2,653.2
Wages and salaries	2,064.6	1,929.7
Depreciation, amortization and impairment charges	611.5	350.9
Employee benefits	448.5	412.8
Premium taxes	223.9	210.9
Information technology costs	193	180.4
Audit, legal and tax professional fees	189.3	176.6
Non-insurance companies' marketing costs	108.5	102.7
Share-based payments to directors and employees	102.5	89.6
Short-term and low value lease costs	78	0
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	23.7	58.9
Restructuring costs	7	35.4
Operating lease costs	0	253.1
Administrative expense and other	695.2	497.4
Total expenses	16,621.3	14,497.5
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Expenses [Line Items]
Losses and loss adjustment expenses	8,401.5	7,545.9
Non-insurance companies' cost of sales	0	0
Wages and salaries	1,263.2	1,241.2
Depreciation, amortization and impairment charges	233.8	184.6
Employee benefits	326.7	309.5
Premium taxes	223.9	210.9
Information technology costs	163.1	155.9
Audit, legal and tax professional fees	137	136.4
Non-insurance companies' marketing costs	0	0
Share-based payments to directors and employees	89.1	78.4
Short-term and low value lease costs	17.5	0
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	0	0
Restructuring costs	3.8	25.9
Operating lease costs	0	93.5
Administrative expense and other	304.8	285.9
Total expenses	11,164.4	10,268.1
Non-insurance companies
Expenses [Line Items]
Losses and loss adjustment expenses	0	0
Non-insurance companies' cost of sales	3,474.1	2,653.2
Wages and salaries	801.4	688.5
Depreciation, amortization and impairment charges	377.7	166.3
Employee benefits	121.8	103.3
Premium taxes	0	0
Information technology costs	29.9	24.5
Audit, legal and tax professional fees	52.3	40.2
Non-insurance companies' marketing costs	108.5	102.7
Share-based payments to directors and employees	13.4	11.2
Short-term and low value lease costs	60.5	0
Loss on repurchase of borrowings	23.7	58.9
Restructuring costs	3.2	9.5
Operating lease costs	0	159.6
Administrative expense and other	390.4	211.5
Total expenses	$ 5,456.9	$ 4,229.4

Supplementary Cash Flow Infor_3

Supplementary Cash Flow Information - Supplemental Balance Sheet Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	$ 3,863.3	$ 4,536.9	$ 7,935
Restricted cash	550.1	375.9
Restricted cash equivalents	199.6	201.2
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	749.7	577.1
Cash	2,889	2,909.4
Cash equivalents	1,724	2,204.6
Cash and cash equivalents	4,613	5,114
Holding company cash and investments
Entity Information [Line Items]
Restricted cash	0.6	0.6
Restricted cash equivalents	0	0
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	0.6	0.6
Cash	99.4	131.6
Cash equivalents	84.5	96.1
Cash and cash equivalents	183.9	227.7
Subsidiary cash and short term investments
Entity Information [Line Items]
Restricted cash	469.4	359.7
Restricted cash equivalents	195.4	201.2
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	664.8	560.9
Cash	2,404.1	2,659.8
Cash equivalents	1,550.4	1,923.9
Cash and cash equivalents	3,954.5	4,583.7
Subsidiary assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations
Entity Information [Line Items]
Restricted cash		0
Restricted cash equivalents		0
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		0
Cash		0
Cash equivalents		3
Cash and cash equivalents		3
Fairfax India
Entity Information [Line Items]
Restricted cash	18.6	15.6
Restricted cash equivalents	0	0
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	18.6	15.6
Cash	85.6	40.6
Cash equivalents	19.1	27.1
Cash and cash equivalents	104.7	67.7
Fairfax Africa
Entity Information [Line Items]
Restricted cash	7.5	0
Restricted cash equivalents	0	0
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	7.5	0
Cash	85.4	77.4
Cash equivalents	0.8	154.5
Cash and cash equivalents	86.2	231.9
Assets held for sale (note 23)
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	1
Restricted cash	54
Restricted cash equivalents	4.2
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	58.2
Cash	214.5
Cash equivalents	69.2
Cash and cash equivalents	283.7
Cash
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	2,338.9	2,533.5
Cash | Holding company cash and investments
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	98.8	131
Cash | Subsidiary cash and short term investments
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	1,934.7	2,300.1
Cash | Subsidiary assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows		0
Cash | Fairfax India
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	67	25
Cash | Fairfax Africa
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	77.9	77.4
Cash | Assets held for sale (note 23)
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	160.5
Cash equivalents
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	1,524.4	2,003.4
Cash equivalents | Holding company cash and investments
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	84.5	96.1
Cash equivalents | Subsidiary cash and short term investments
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	1,355	1,722.7
Cash equivalents | Subsidiary assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows		3
Cash equivalents | Fairfax India
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	19.1	27.1
Cash equivalents | Fairfax Africa
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	0.8	154.5
Cash equivalents | Assets held for sale (note 23)
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	65
Total
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	3,863.3	4,536.9
Total | Holding company cash and investments
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	183.3	227.1
Total | Subsidiary cash and short term investments
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	3,289.7	4,022.8
Total | Subsidiary assets pledged for short sale and derivative obligations
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows		3
Total | Fairfax India
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	86.1	52.1
Total | Fairfax Africa
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	78.7	$ 231.9
Total | Assets held for sale (note 23)
Entity Information [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents as presented on the consolidated statements of cash flows	$ 225.5

Supplementary Cash Flow Infor_4

Supplementary Cash Flow Information - Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Net (purchases) sales of securities classified as FVTPL
Short term investments	$ (4,646.5)	$ 8,033.8
Bonds	3,618.7	(10,743)
Preferred stocks	(52.4)	(25.6)
Common stocks	898.3	82.3
Derivatives and short sales	(184.8)	(96.8)
Net sales of securities classified as FVTPL	(366.7)	(2,749.3)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Net decrease (increase) in restricted cash and cash equivalents	(170.3)	102.9
Provision for losses and loss adjustment expenses	1,171.5	1,200.6
Provision for unearned premiums	893.9	521.9
Insurance contract receivables	(382.5)	(555.6)
Insurance contract payables	616.5	246.6
Insurance contract payables	2,591	2,003.1
Recoverable from reinsurers	(1,093.8)	(954.5)
Other receivables	211.8	(211.6)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	3.8	225.3
Other	(297)	(304.2)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities	953.9	271.4
Net interest and dividends received
Interest and dividends received	819.2	764
Interest paid on borrowings	(319.6)	(285.5)
Interest paid on lease liabilities(1)	(60.4)	0
Net interest and dividends received	439.2	478.5
Net income taxes paid	$ (178.9)	$ (229.9)

Related Party Transactions (Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) - USD ($)	Mar. 09, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Key management team
Disclosure of transactions between related parties [line items]
Salaries and other short-term employee benefits		$ 9,800,000	$ 9,300,000
Share-based payments		5,100,000	3,600,000
Related party compensation		14,900,000	12,900,000
Board of Directors
Disclosure of transactions between related parties [line items]
Retainers and fees		1,100,000	900,000
Share-based payments		200,000	300,000
Related party compensation		1,300,000	$ 1,200,000
Fairfax India
Disclosure of transactions between related parties [line items]
Amounts receivable, related party transactions		$ 47,800,000
Performance fee revenue	$ 114,400,000

Subsidiaries (Details)

Subsidiaries (Details)	Nov. 29, 2019	Apr. 17, 2019	Dec. 14, 2018	Aug. 31, 2018	Jul. 05, 2018	Mar. 09, 2018	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Northbridge Financial Corporation (Northbridge)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Odyssey Group
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Hudson Insurance Company (Hudson Insurance)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Newline Holdings UK Limited (Newline)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Crum & Forster Holdings Corp. (Crum & Forster)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Zenith National Insurance Corp. (Zenith National)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Brit Limited (Brit)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary			88.90%		88.00%		89.30%	88.90%
Allied World Assurance Company Holdings, Ltd (Allied World)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary	67.80%						70.10%
Limited Liability Company FFH Ukraine Holdings (Fairfax Ukraine)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							70.00%
Polskie Towarzystwo Reasekuracji Spólka Akcyjna (Polish Re)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Colonnade Insurance S.A. (Colonnade Insurance)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
ARX Insurance Company (ARX Insurance)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Private Joint Stock Company Insurance Company Universalna (Universalna)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Fairfax Brasil Seguros Corporativos S.A. (Fairfax Brasil)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
La Meridional Compañía Argentina de Seguros S.A. (La Meridional Argentina)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
SBS Seguros Colombia S.A. (SouthBridge Colombia)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
SBI Seguros Uruguay S.A. (SouthBridge Uruguay)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Southbridge Compañía de Seguros Generales S.A. (SouthBridge Chile)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Bryte Insurance Company Ltd (Bryte Insurance)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
CRC Reinsurance Limited (CRC Re)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Wentworth Insurance Company Ltd. (Wentworth)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Falcon Insurance Company (Hong Kong) Limited (Falcon)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
The Pacific Insurance Berhad (Pacific Insurance)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							85.00%
PT Asuransi Multi Artha Guna Tbk (AMAG Insurance)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							80.00%
Fairfirst Insurance Limited (Fairfirst Insurance)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							78.00%
TIG Insurance Company (TIG Insurance)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
RiverStone Insurance (UK) Limited (RiverStone (UK))
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
RiverStone Managing Agency Limited
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Advent Capital (Holdings) Ltd.
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
TIG Insurance (Barbados) Company
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Hamblin Watsa Investment Counsel Ltd. (Hamblin Watsa)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Recipe Unlimited Corporation
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							47.90%
Proportion of voting rights held in associate							61.60%
Keg Restaurants Ltd. (The Keg)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							47.90%
Groupe St-Hubert Inc. (St-Hubert)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							47.90%
Original Joe's Franchise Group Inc. (Original Joe's)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							42.70%
Pickle Barrel Holdings Limited (Pickle Barrel)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							47.90%
Praktiker Hellas Commercial Societe Anonyme (Praktiker)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Toys R Us (Canada) Ltd. (Toys R Us Canada)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Sporting Life Group Limited
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							65.10%
Sporting Life Inc. (Sporting Life)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary				65.10%			65.10%
Golf Town Limited (Golf Town)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary				65.10%			65.10%
Kitchen Stuff Plus, Inc. (Kitchen Stuff Plus)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							55.00%
William Ashley China Corporation (William Ashley)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Fairfax India
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary						33.60%	33.80%	30.20%
Proportion of voting rights held in associate							93.80%
National Collateral Management Services Limited (NCML)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							30.30%
Fairchem Speciality Limited (Fairchem)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							16.50%
Saurashtra Freight Private Limited (Saurashtra Freight)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							17.20%
Thomas Cook India
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							66.90%
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited (Sterling Resorts)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							66.90%
Fairfax Africa Holdings Corporation (Fairfax Africa), which owns:
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of voting rights held in associate							98.50%
Consolidated Infrastructure Group (CIG)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							30.60%
AGT Food and Ingredients Inc. (AGT)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary		59.60%					59.60%
Dexterra Integrated Facilities Management (Dexterra)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Boat Rocker Media Inc. (Boat Rocker)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							59.10%
Mosaic Capital Corporation (Mosaic Capital)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							0.00%
Proportion of voting rights held in associate							62.00%
Pethealth Inc. (Pethealth)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Rouge Media Group Inc. (Rouge Media)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							65.00%
Recipe Unlimited Corporation | Keg Restaurants Ltd. (The Keg)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Recipe Unlimited Corporation | Groupe St-Hubert Inc. (St-Hubert)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Recipe Unlimited Corporation | Original Joe's Franchise Group Inc. (Original Joe's)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							89.20%
Recipe Unlimited Corporation | Pickle Barrel Holdings Limited (Pickle Barrel)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Sporting Life Group Limited | Sporting Life Inc. (Sporting Life)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary				100.00%			100.00%
Sporting Life Group Limited | Golf Town Limited (Golf Town)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary				100.00%			100.00%
Fairfax India | National Collateral Management Services Limited (NCML)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							89.50%
Fairfax India | Fairchem Speciality Limited (Fairchem)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							48.80%
Fairfax India | Saurashtra Freight Private Limited (Saurashtra Freight)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							51.00%
Thomas Cook India | Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited (Sterling Resorts)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							100.00%
Fairfax Africa Holdings Corporation (Fairfax Africa), which owns: | Fairfax Africa Holdings Corporation (Fairfax Africa), which owns:
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							62.00%
Fairfax Africa Holdings Corporation (Fairfax Africa), which owns: | Consolidated Infrastructure Group (CIG)
Disclosure of subsidiaries [line items]
Proportion of ownership interest in subsidiary							49.30%

Uncategorized Items - ffh-20191

Label	Element	Value
Ordinary Shares, Multiple Voting Shares [Member] | Issued capital [member]
Common Stock, Value, Voting Shares	ffh_CommonStockValueVotingShares	$ 3,800,000