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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.
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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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It isn’t always about two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth.
Warren Buffett, chairman and chief executive officer of Berkshire Hathaway
Warren Buffett halves Apple stake: What investors can learn from the move.
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Borrowers have a window of opportunity to get or refinance a mortgage.
Federal Reserve Chair Powell at a podium
As the job market weakens, some economists say the Fed should’ve cut rates already.
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Here’s how to financially prepare for the possibility of sudden unemployment.
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The Federal Reserve is poised to cut rates in September. Will it be enough to entice homebuyers?
Jerome Powell speaking at a podium
These policymakers will influence the crucial debate of when to cut interest rates.
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These tips can help maximize your savings using certificates of deposit.
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Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Woman watering plants.
Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
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If you’re looking to save with a credit union, here are the top rates available.
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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.
Home decorated for autumn
It just might be. But don’t forget the fundamentals of how home equity loans work.
Fed Chair Powell Holds News Conference Following FOMC Rate Decision
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.
US-ECONOMY-FEDERAL RESERVE-RATE-POWELL
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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Subprime borrowers are particularly affected by interest rate changes. Here’s how to prepare.
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