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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?
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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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.
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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
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Walk away with stacks of cash just for opening a checking or savings account.
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Being scammed can have devastating effects on your finances. Here’s how to stop it.
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Protecting your financial data can help keep your money safe from fraudsters.
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Inflation slowed much faster than expected last year, but economists are still wary.
For three straight surveys, economists have upgraded their job market forecasts.
Economists say the risks of a downturn are still high, even as the economy stays strong.
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You can find a CD account that significantly out-earns the national average if you shop around among banks.
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If you have credit card debt, your interest rates are likely to remain high in 2024.
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The biggest reason behind Americans’ financial pessimism continues to be inflation.
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The decision adds to suspicions that officials are done raising rates.
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