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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

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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.
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The once-booming labor market is starting to face some trouble.

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Latest articles

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell speaks at the June post-meeting press conference
The Fed hasn’t raised rates this much in a single year since 1994.
Fed Chair Jerome Powell speaks at a March business conference
The economy doesn’t need the punchbowl anymore, but raising rates will still bring pain.
A customer shops at a grocery store.
Americans are desperately waiting for some relief from inflation.
People walk by the New York Stock Exchange
The results highlight experts’ concerns about the U.S. economy.
Illustration of person at a kitchen table frustrated over finances
Americans are finding it impossible to avoid inflation.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell speaks at press conference
The majority put the economy’s recession chances at 50 percent or more.
A man fills up his gas tank at high gas prices
Here’s what the pros say you can do to protect your money.
Fed Chair Jerome Powell testifies before Congress
In a survey, market pros expect the 10-year Treasury yield will continue higher over the next year.
A man uses his phone at an ATM.
Here’s how to use your smartphone — rather than a bank card — at an ATM.
Federal Reserve Chair Powell Holds A News Conference Following The Federal Open Market Committee Meeting
Emergency rate cuts are rare, but some economists believe one may be coming soon.
Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange
It isn’t always about two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth.
father working on finances with his daughter sitting next to him
This budgeting rule of thumb can help make tracking everyday spending easier.
Federal Reserve Chair Powell at a podium
As the job market weakens, some economists say the Fed should’ve cut rates already.
People walk by a Western Union location in New York.
Wire transfer fees can be expensive, but here are ways to send money for less.
Financial manager meeting with couple in bank branch office
Get the latest rates on top-yielding money market accounts.
Whimsical illustration of a hand putting a quarter into a miniature but realistic high end safe. As if it were a piggy bank
Comparing savings rates can ensure you get the best return on your savings.
Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange
It isn’t always about two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth.
Federal Reserve Chair Powell at a podium
As the job market weakens, some economists say the Fed should’ve cut rates already.
If you’re looking at HE loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
The Federal Reserve’s decisions have ripple effects, including for mortgages.
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.
Portrait of a happy woman smiling outdoors and looking thoughtful
The Federal Reserve is poised to cut rates in September. Will it be enough to entice homebuyers?
Student walking through college campus.
The Federal Reserve’s actions can influence student loan interest rates.
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The Federal Reserve raised interest rates several times. These interest rate changes are likely to affect the rates of personal loans.
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