Understanding How Stock Market Fluctuations Impact Your Annuity

If you’re considering investing in an annuity or already own one, you might be wondering how the stock market’s performance could affect your investment. The truth is, the impact of stock market fluctuations on your annuity depends on the type of annuity you have. In this article, we’ll dive into the different types of annuities and how they’re influenced by the stock market’s ups and downs.

Fixed Annuities: Immune to Market Volatility

Fixed annuities, also known as multi-year guaranteed annuities (MYGAs) or traditional fixed annuities, are not affected by the stock market’s performance. When you purchase a fixed annuity, the insurance company invests your premium in a portfolio of bonds and other conservative, income-producing instruments. This means that none of your money is directly invested in the stock market.

The key benefit of fixed annuities is that they provide a guaranteed rate of return, regardless of how the stock market performs. Your principal and interest earnings are protected from market downturns, ensuring that you won’t lose any money due to market volatility. Insurance companies are legally required to maintain sufficient cash reserves to cover all outstanding fixed annuity premiums, further safeguarding your investment.

Fixed Indexed Annuities: Partial Market Exposure

Fixed indexed annuities (FIAs) are a hybrid product that combines features of fixed annuities and variable annuities. With an FIA, your principal is protected from market losses, but your potential gains are linked to the performance of a specific market index, such as the S&P 500.

When the index performs well, your FIA may earn interest based on a portion of the index’s growth. However, if the index declines in value, you won’t experience any losses to your principal investment. It’s important to note that FIAs don’t directly invest in the stock market; instead, they use options or other derivatives to track the index’s performance.

While FIAs offer some exposure to market growth potential, they are still considered fixed annuities and are not directly affected by stock market crashes or downturns.

Variable Annuities: Direct Market Exposure

Variable annuities are the only type of annuity that can be directly affected by stock market performance. With a variable annuity, your premium is invested in subaccounts that hold various mutual funds, similar to a 401(k) or IRA. These subaccounts can invest in stocks, bonds, and other securities, exposing your investment to market fluctuations.

If the stock market performs well, the value of your variable annuity may increase. Conversely, if the market experiences a downturn or crash, the value of your variable annuity could decrease. It’s essential to remember that with variable annuities, you bear the investment risk and could potentially lose a portion of your principal investment due to market volatility.

Guaranteed Income Riders: A Safety Net

Many variable annuities offer optional guaranteed income riders, which can provide a stream of guaranteed income payments regardless of market performance. These riders essentially create a separate “income account” within your annuity, which is used to calculate your future income payments based on a predetermined growth rate.

Even if your variable annuity’s value decreases due to market downturns, the guaranteed income rider can ensure that your future income payments remain unaffected. However, it’s important to note that these riders typically come with additional fees and may have specific terms and conditions.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to annuities and the stock market, the level of exposure and risk depends on the type of annuity you own. Fixed annuities, including MYGAs and traditional fixed annuities, are not affected by stock market performance, providing a guaranteed rate of return and principal protection. Fixed indexed annuities offer partial market exposure, while variable annuities are directly impacted by market fluctuations.

If you’re concerned about market volatility and want to protect your retirement savings, fixed annuities or fixed indexed annuities with guaranteed income riders may be worth considering. However, if you’re willing to take on more risk for the potential of higher returns, a variable annuity could be an option, albeit with the possibility of losing a portion of your investment.

Ultimately, the decision to invest in an annuity and the type of annuity that best suits your needs should be based on your risk tolerance, investment goals, and overall financial plan. It’s always advisable to consult with a qualified financial advisor who can help you navigate the complexities of annuities and ensure that your investment aligns with your retirement objectives.

Is An Annuity Affected By The Stock Market?

FAQ

Are annuities safe if the stock market crashes?

That guaranteed rate ensures that your money will grow steadily, even in a recession when the stock market is performing poorly. That’s why fixed annuities are one of the safest financial products, regardless of whether there is a market downturn.

Is an annuity tied to the stock market?

Key Takeaways. A variable annuity, regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), is a retirement product in which funds are directly tied to the market.

Does an annuity lose money in the stock market?

The short answer is yes, while most types of annuities can provide a safe haven in volatile markets, in specific circumstances they can lose money. Annuities can be a safe option for people saving for retirement and looking for guaranteed income once retirement begins.

Do annuities fluctuate with the market?

Variable Annuities. While fixed annuities typically guarantee a minimum rate of interest and minimum periodic payments, variable annuities fluctuate with the market and may be made up of a variety of investments, such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.