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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

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With a possible recession looming, here’s what savers should know about CDs.
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These tips can help maximize your savings using certificates of deposit.
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Rising prices have definitely made it more difficult to get ahead, but a credit card can be a valuable tool when it comes to saving money or getting free stuff.
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Follow these tips to manage your finances and relieve some stress.
The most common sign of financial success is living comfortably, Americans say.
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Here are five of the best inflation hedges to help protect your portfolio against inflation.
Federal Reserve seal
Now a cornerstone of Fed policy, the balance sheet has big implications for your wallet.
Federal Reserve Bank Chair Jerome Powell at the Fed's post-meeting press conference
The Fed hopes to prevent major market disruptions that could cause rates to spike.
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Looking for a place to park your savings? Here’s why a MMA might be appealing.
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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.
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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.
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The Federal Reserve just lowered interest rates for the first time in four years.
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A look at what a bank bailout is with some examples of notable bank bailouts from the past.
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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.
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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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