Which of the following is generally not a characteristic of a variable annuity?

A key characteristic of variable annuities is that they typically involve variable premiums rather than fixed premiums. This means that the amount you pay can fluctuate based on the investment choices made and market conditions. In contrast, fixed premiums are more commonly associated with fixed annuities, where the premium amount remains the same throughout the contract.

Moreover, variable annuities allow for a diverse range of investment options, offering the potential for higher returns linked to market performance, but also bringing market risk, which can result in financial loss. Therefore, variable annuities are designed to give investors flexibility in terms of funding and investment strategy, while also exposing them to the risks and rewards of the market. This is why the notion of fixed premiums stands out as not characteristic of variable annuities.