Annuity comparison
RILA vs. FIA
Both link crediting to an index, but only the FIA protects contract value from index losses. A RILA trades defined downside exposure for different upside potential.
FeatureRILAFIA
Market-loss exposureLinked segments can lose valueIndex losses do not reduce contract value under the 0% index-crediting floor
Downside ruleBuffer absorbs the first part of a loss; floor caps the segment loss0% index-crediting floor
Upside limitsCap, participation, spread, fees, and segment termCap, participation, spread, trigger, or fixed account
RegistrationSEC-registered; read the prospectusInsurance product; not SEC-registered as a security
Best fitBuyer accepting defined downside risk for more upside potentialBuyer prioritizing protection from index-driven loss
The key distinction
RILA principal is not protected. A 10% buffer and a −10% floor are not interchangeable: the buffer is stronger in a shallow decline, while the floor limits a severe segment loss.