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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

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Latest articles

Traders work after the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange
The U.S. economy looks far different now than it did when the expansion first began in June 2009.
Shoppers checking out at Costco
Nearly 3 in 10 adults would be at a loss if they suddenly needed to cover a costly expense.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell at a press conference
Here’s what the Fed said on interest rates and the economy.
Federal Reserve seal
Is it still too soon for the Fed to cut rates?
Gated housing development
Even though nationwide economic numbers paint a rosy picture overall, many Americans have been left behind.
President Donald Trump talking
Here’s why Fed officials are so concerned about the trade war right now.
Man in a manufacturing plant
Employers created fewer jobs than expected, and the numbers for April were revised down.
American consumers with big shopping bags
Bankrate’s latest Economic Indicator survey finds economists are revisiting Fed policy predictions.
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.
Woman watering plants.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
distressed woman with laptop
Here are some smart ways to protect yourself if your digital bank account stops working.
Illustration of calculator and stacks of cash
If you have $2,500 to invest in a CD right now, here’s how much you could earn.
Woman texting on her smart phone and smiling
The smartphone in your hand can help you better manage your money.
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.
Women using digital tablet to check her finances at home office
For savers, here’s what to consider when the Fed raises interest rates.
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