Consolidated Sponsored Funds (Tables)
 6 Months Ended
Apr. 30, 2017
Consolidated Sponsored Funds Table [Abstract]  
Summary of consolidated sponsored funds
 (in thousands)  April 30, 2017 October 31, 2016
 Investments   $ 424,440 $ 248,036 
 Other assets    11,700   10,984 
 Other liabilities    (46,599)   (23,947) 
 Redeemable non-controlling interests    (122,006)   (24,474) 
 Interest in consolidated sponsored funds$ 267,535 $ 210,599