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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.
Learn more

Recessions & your money

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How might a recession affect the housing market?
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I give this advice to all of my clients who are approaching retirement.
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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.

About Bankrate
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

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New Friends Walking on University Campus
The Federal Reserve’s actions can influence student loan interest rates.
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The Federal Reserve held rates steady at its January 2026 meeting.
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Auto rates will likely not decrease this year. Consider how to still save.
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.
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How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
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Savers can stash their cash in a brokerage these days to rack up returns.
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Looking to use Zelle for a transfer? Here are the Zelle limits at various banks.
Federal Reserve Eccles Building illustration
Bankrate analyzed the Fed’s historic rate moves for clues on what might come next.
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Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
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As the old saying goes: “Everything is bigger in Texas.” And that’s also true of your list of options when choosing a bank or credit union in the state.
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If you’re looking to save with a credit union, here are the top rates available.
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Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
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Interest is the price you pay to borrow money or the cost you charge to lend money.
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.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell speaking behind a podium.
Here’s what investing pros said about Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s performance while heading up the Federal Reserve.
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Bankrate’s experts are reacting live to the Fed’s latest interest rate decision.
Fed Chair Powell Holds News Conference Following FOMC Rate Decision
This Fed communication tool is important, but be cautious when interpreting it.
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Credit card interest rates have a high mark up over the prime rate. Why are card APRs so high?
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Bankrate’s experts are reacting live to the Fed’s latest interest rate decision.
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Subprime borrowers are particularly affected by interest rate changes. Here’s how to prepare.
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Here are five of the best inflation hedges to help protect your portfolio against inflation.
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