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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?
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.

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

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell speaks at post-meeting press conference
The Fed has more in its back pocket than just cutting interest rates.
Airline industry workers hold signs during a protest in Chicago
Another round of job losses similar to what Americans witnessed back in March may soon wreak havoc.
Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell speaks at a press conference
The Fed will continue to stay on the sidelines when it comes to rates.
People wearing face masks walk in front of a closed theatre.
Out of work due to coronavirus? Here’s what you can do to help lessen the financial blow.
Business people chat on a video conference call.
It’s going to be a competitive labor market for Americans looking to get back to work.
Illustration of American casting a ballot.
More than half of Americans say they are spending less because of those risks.
People sit and watch a broadcast of the first debate between President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden.
Either candidate will have to wrestle with a potentially slow rebound while in the Oval Office.
A women wearing a facemask talks on the phone while crossing the street
While economists were more optimistic, they weren’t without doubts about the risks to the outlook.
Woman reaching in to the air for cash
Prices rise and fall all the time in the U.S. economy. It’s not always inflation.
Illustration of safe with money
CD rates may seem attractive, but in 2025’s uncertain environment, they create a lose-lose scenario that could cost you money.
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APYs on high-yield savings accounts remain competitive after Fed rate decision.
Financial manager meeting with couple in bank branch office
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Woman working from home with a child in the background
A new Bankrate analysis shows mothers earned 31 percent less in wages than fathers in 2023.
Image by Getty Images, Illustration by Bankrate
Recession risks are rising. Learn six smart savings strategies to protect your money before it hits.
A hand making an "OK" sign, a bank vault, and a check
An extra paycheck in the month can be a game-changer for your finances.
Woman watering plants.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
Woman reaching in to the air for cash
Prices rise and fall all the time in the U.S. economy. It’s not always inflation.
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?
The Federal Reserve’s decisions have ripple effects, including for mortgages.
Design element including image of Jerome Powell
Bankrate’s experts are reacting live to the Fed’s latest interest rate decision.
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The Fed’s rate hold means loans costs are sticking. Here’s what it means for your business.
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Subprime borrowers are particularly affected by interest rate changes. Here’s how to prepare.
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The Fed has hit the pause button on rates. How will it affect the housing market?
If you’re looking at HE Loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
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