Annuities aren't bad and your right about it. I think the key is most financial products are not understood by people. Asset managers also tend to lack tranparency. Annuities should ve part of one's diversified portfolio and someone who isn't from a financial background should never put all their wggs in one basket, be it mutual funds or annuities. For someone thinking of retirement planning annuities may be a great thing. And then a part of wealth should be put in mutual funds. The right way is to go to a financial advisor who offers a range of financial products. Also, check with a number of financial advisors and friends in finance. This will help remove any doubts about the advice of the FA itself.

Great article.