What is variable annuity and there sub-accounts?

What is variable annuity and there sub-accounts?
A variable annuity is a contract with an insurance company that guarantees payments for life. Variable annuities include the option to invest in a wide variety of different asset classes known as subaccounts which can consist of different stock and/or bond portfolios.
The payments from a variable annuity can fluctuate up or down based on the performance of the assets held in the subaccounts chosen.
Variable annuities can offer different payment guarantees based on the terms of the contract. For example, if the purchaser of a variable annuity thinks there is a risk of poor performance in the subaccounts chosen it is possible to receive a guarantee of a minimum income payment in return for the payment of a fee.
The benefit of investing in a variable annuity is the opportunity for growth in the benefit payment if the underlying subaccounts perform well. By contrast, investors in a fixed income annuity have the security of a guaranteed payment for life or a fixed period of time but may suffer due to a loss of purchasing power. Diversification is one of the golden rules of investing which is why many financial advisers recommend putting some of your money into both variable and fixed income annuities.