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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? 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.

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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

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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Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.
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Here are some places to look for a source of funds.
family financial planning
Here’s how to boost your savings.
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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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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.
Federal Reserve Jerome Powell gives a post-meeting press conference
The Fed’s move is the biggest increase since 1994 and undoubtedly raises the risks of a recession.
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The online-only bank’s savings rate tops many competitors.
Shopper amid inflation surge
A surge in inflation is pushing the Fed to act — and mortgage borrowers could feel the pain.
Worried about surging inflation?
Experts expect inflation to cool, but how soon that happens will be key.
ederal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell testifies at a Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee hearing
The Fed is withdrawing stimulus at the fastest pace in decades.
Facade of a new home
Until inflation is tamed, mortgage rates are likely to keep rising.
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Job creation is expected to be almost two times slower over the next 12 months.
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Consumers will likely have to keep paying more for almost everything they buy.
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