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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

Illustration of a person holding a house with a rain cloud over it
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.

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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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Jerome Powell Federal Reserve Chairman
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Consumers are about to enter another year with historically elevated interest rates.
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Knowing how fixed and variable expenses differ can help you improve your finances.
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Stay on top of your money with the right balance between your checking and savings.
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Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
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Prices rise and fall all the time in the U.S. economy. It’s not always inflation.
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It just might be. But don’t forget the fundamentals of how home equity loans work.
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This Fed communication tool is important, but be cautious when interpreting it.
Jerome Powell, chair of the US Federal Reserve, speaks during a news conference following a Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting.
Uncertainty over President Donald Trump’s policies is keeping the Fed on the sidelines, at least for now.
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The Federal Reserve’s actions can influence student loan interest rates.
The Federal Reserve’s decisions have ripple effects, including for mortgages.
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The Fed’s rate hold means loans costs are sticking. Here’s what it means for your business.
If you’re looking at HE Loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
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