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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? Find out what the experts think.
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.
Illustration of worker with a brief case
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

Calculate your savings

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Latest articles

Fed chair Jerome Powell walks into a conference
The Federal Reserve announced that it’s lowering interest rates following its September 17-18 meeting.
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.
Fed Chair Powell Holds News Conference Following FOMC Rate Decision
This Fed communication tool is important, but be cautious when interpreting it.
Home decorated for autumn
It just might be. But don’t forget the fundamentals of how home equity loans work.
Couple buying a car
Auto rates will likely not decrease this year. Consider how to still save.
Student walking through college campus.
The Federal Reserve’s actions can influence student loan interest rates.
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The Fed’s latest cut means cheaper business loans. Here’s what it means for you.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell speaking at a podium with an American flag in the background.
The best way for most investors to approach this type of market is to stick to the long-term plan.
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Looking for a place to park your savings? Here’s why a MMA might be appealing.
A young woman researches on her phone at a cafe.
Short answer? Yes. Here’s what you need to know.
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Getting into the habit of paying yourself first is hard. Here are some ideas to help you start.
Mother with baby paying bills online.
Budgeting is key to understanding where your household’s money is going.
Capital One Bank signage in New York City
Banks are cutting overdraft fees in response to consumers and regulators’ demands.
A long spiral staircase.
Step-up CDs can help you potentially earn a higher rate of return later on.
Cropped shot of a businessman using his computer in his home office
Find out which CD term is best for your financial goals in a lower rate environment.
Whimsical illustration of a hand putting a quarter into a miniature but realistic high end safe. As if it were a piggy bank
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Outside of the Federal Reserve building
The Federal Reserve just lowered interest rates for the first time in four years.
Picture of the front of the Federal Reserve building
A look at what a bank bailout is with some examples of notable bank bailouts from the past.
Man working on laptop and cellphone simultaneously
If you’ve been thinking of getting a longer-term CD, you may want to make a move.
Fed Chair Jerome Powell speaks during a news conference
Fed officials are trying to prevent an economic slowdown from getting worse.
Illustration of Fed Chair Jerome Powell
Tune in to Bankrate’s live coverage of the Fed’s first rate cut since 2020.
Man using credit card while online
Credit card interest rates have a high mark up over the prime rate. Why are card APRs so high?
If you’re looking at HE loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
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For savers, here’s what to consider when the Fed raises interest rates.
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