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Recession watch

Will the U.S. economy soon be in a recession? It's the trillion-dollar question that even experts don't know the answer to. Here's how to prepare for a potential downturn, and how one could impact you.

Insights from our expert analysts

“Economic uncertainty is a time for reducing debt and boosting savings, not the other way around.”

– Greg McBride, CFA

Do's and don'ts of saving during a recession

To help you navigate saving during a recession, we asked a number of experts what some of the most helpful things to do are, as well as some things you should try to avoid at all costs.
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Recessions & your money

Illustration of a person holding a house with a rain cloud over it
How might a recession affect the housing market?
A middle-aged couple looks out to the beach from their van
Here are some tips to help make sure your retirement savings are protected in the event of a recession.
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The once-booming labor market is starting to face some trouble.

Experts in all things finance

Our expert reporters and editors bring the news and analysis you need—backed by data and firsthand experience.

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Greg McBride

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Chief Financial Analyst

Sarah Foster

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Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

Mark Hamrick

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Senior Economic Analyst

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Latest articles

Exterior of Federal Reserve building
Does the Fed interest rate affect car loans? Yes, it does: It has a domino effect that can raise or lower auto loan rates.
Outside of the Federal Reserve building
The Federal Reserve just lowered interest rates for the first time in four years.
A Black couple talk to a salesperson at a car dealership.
Auto rates will likely not decrease this year. Consider how to still save.
If you’re looking at HE loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
US-ECONOMY-FEDERAL RESERVE-RATE-POWELL
The Fed’s rate hold means loans costs are sticking. Here’s what it means for your business.
Federal Reserve Eccles Building illustration
Bankrate analyzed the Fed’s historic rate moves for clues on what might come next.
U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell delivers remarks at a news conference.
The best way for most investors to approach this type of market is to stick to their long-term plan.
Distressed woman holding a baby looking for jobs on a laptop
Overwhelmed state unemployment offices have left Americans without aid for weeks, if not longer.
Fed Chair Jerome Powell speaks at a news conference.
Rates are falling, and finance pros say it may be time for Americans to rethink some strategies.
Federal Reserve Eccles Building illustration
Bankrate analyzed the Fed’s historic rate moves for clues on what might come next.
Bank of America location
Looking for a nearby Bank of America location or ATM? Here’s how to find the closest ones.
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Here’s how multiple savings accounts can help you reach your financial goals.
Distressed woman holding a baby looking for jobs on a laptop
Overwhelmed state unemployment offices have left Americans without aid for weeks, if not longer.
Aerial view of a group of residential boat docks from homes along the Halifax River in Ormond Beach, Florida near Daytona
Managing your finances and choosing the right bank can be daunting, especially in a state as big and diverse as Florida.
Fed Chair Jerome Powell is superimposed over the Fed Building, looking pensive
Powell is dealing with the most intense division of his eight years as Fed chair.
Illustration of a US Federal Reserve ink stamp
Every financial decision you make is impacted by the Federal Reserve.
Image of a torn apart one hundred U.S. dollar bill with a red jagged graph line running through the the torn pieces.
Workers still have less purchasing power today than at the beginning of 2021.
woman using laptop in the kitchen
These tips can help maximize your savings using certificates of deposit.
A person researches on a laptop.
Learn when a CD is worth it, when it is not, and alternatives to consider in 2025.
It just might be. But don’t forget the fundamentals of how home equity loans work.
Federal Reserve Chair Powell Holds Press Conference On Interest Rates
Bankrate’s experts are reacting live to the Fed’s latest interest rate decision.
New Friends Walking on University Campus
The Federal Reserve’s actions can influence student loan interest rates.
A wide-angle image of the front of the Federal Reserve HQ in Washington, DC. The U.S. flag is prominently displayed on the front of the building.
Despite political pressure, the Fed is expected to maintain interest rates.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell standing behind President Donald Trump.
Trump wants lower interest rates now, but Fed Chair Jerome Powell says inflation remains too hot.
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