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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? 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.

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

Calculate your savings

Use our Savings Calculator to help you quickly and accurately estimate the growth of your investment. Set a goal and figure out how much you need to save each month to hit the mark.

Latest articles

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The housing market in Q4 2024 will see high prices but lower rates.
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Financial stress is common during the holidays. These tips can help.
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A new credit card, timed right and used strategically, can help you fight high prices.
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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Here are some places to look for a source of funds.
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Here’s how to boost your savings.
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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
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Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
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Here are some of the best savings accounts you can sign up for as a business owner.
Six Bankrate experts share the career moves that let them get ahead financially.
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Not paying fees and an easy way to bank should all be priorities. Here are some of our favorites.
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Here are 11 creative ways to save money, regardless of your financial goals.
Federal Reserve Eccles Building illustration
The key benchmark has been as high as 20 percent — and as low as 0 percent.
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.
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It just might be. But don’t forget the fundamentals of how home equity loans work.
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Auto rates will likely not decrease this year. Consider how to still save.
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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.
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