Very few financial products have generated as much controversy as variable annuities. Many brokers and planners view them as indispensable retirement planning tools, while other financial experts warn ...

Annuities have become an increasingly popular option for people who want to diversify their retirement funds. With an annuity, you make investments and then receive money in a series of payments that ...

The Securities and Exchange Commission and the NASD have three words for investors purchasing variable annuities: Watch your back. OK, they didn't exactly say this, but that's essentially what a new ...

The two main types of annuities are "fixed" and "variable." Fixed annuities pay interest rates comparable to bank CDs in the accumulation phase, while during the payout phase, or annuitization, the ...

Variable annuities are subject to market fluctuation, investment risk and loss of principal. Guarantees are subject to the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company ...

Annuities are often purchased to help secure a reliable stream of income in retirement. Life insurance companies are the primary provider of annuities. Each company on our list offers a variety of ...

If the recent market swoon has made you nervous about your retirement funds, an annuity may help calm your nerves and protect you against giant swings in the market if used right, some financial ...