The Variable Annuity

A variable annuity, as distinguished from a fixed annuity, provides monthly payments based on the value of units which fluctuate to reflect the investment results of the equity securities used to fund the annuity. The annuitant bears the entire investment risk under a variable annuity since there are no guarantees of investment return. The study covers the variable annuity; its development; its various methods of funding; its legal requirements and regulations; and pertinent taxation aspects of it. The long-range inflationary, economic trend and the increased interest in retirement income planning are explanations of why the variable annuity will continue to be of interest to investors