Annuities and mutual funds may offer similar investment options, but they are definitely not the same
Annuities and mutual funds often work in similar ways and can provide similar benefits. However, because of their similarities, there are many instances where the two can be confused.
Function
The purpose of annuities and mutual funds is to increase an investor’s wealth. Annuities, both fixed and variable, are intended for retirement investing only, whereas mutual funds are not typically restricted or limited in such fashion.
Features
Both variable annuities and mutual funds pool investor deposits into pre-existing portfolios of stocks and bonds. Fixed annuities do not risk investor deposits in the market, but instead provide a pre-determined flat interest rate.
Time Frame
Fixed and variable annuities are retirement products, and any money deposited into such accounts cannot be withdrawn without penalty prior to age 59½. Mutual funds, on the other hand, contain no such restrictions and can be liquidated at any time.
Benefits
Variable annuities and mutual funds provide the opportunity for significant increases, yet also the possibility of severe declines. Fixed annuities, however, offer a stable and predictable rate of return.
Misconceptions
Fixed and variable annuities are always retirement investments. However, mutual funds can be purchased individually in a brokerage account, or within an IRA, where their liquidation falls under similar rules to those of annuities.
This article is a Twisted Nonsense Exclusive! (10/27/2009)
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