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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.

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

Jerome Powell at press conference
The Fed continues to delay any interest rate moves amid persistently low inflation.
Federal Reserve chair
The Fed will most likely hold interest rates steady, but here’s how it could still impact your wallet.
Jerome Powell Fed FOMC Decision Day
The Fed voted to leave interest rates alone for the second-straight meeting.
Homes in Chicago neighborhood
Two-thirds of economists surveyed say the U.S. central bank will increase borrowing costs again in 2019.
Wall Street in New York City
Experts are betting that a recession will occur by the end of 2021, a new survey suggests.
Chairman of the Federal Reserve nominee Jerome Powell is sworn in during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee
Learn all about Jerome Powell, who is presiding over his first FOMC policy meeting.
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How many bank accounts are too many? Use the rule of two hours to find out.
Recession risks are rising. Learn six smart savings strategies to protect your money before it hits.
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Stop wasting time writing checks. Learn the faster, safer way to pay.
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Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
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Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
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Check out the latest CD rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey of banks and thrifts.
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Split direct deposit is a simple way to painlessly boost your savings.
Money next to flashing sirens
Over 1 in 3 people tapped emergency savings in the past year, per a new Bankrate survey.
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.
New Friends Walking on University Campus
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.
Calm focused female freelancer in casual clothes revising reports while sitting on soft couch at table and using computer in light contemporary apartment
Subprime borrowers are particularly affected by interest rate changes. Here’s how to prepare.
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