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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?
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I give this advice to all of my clients who are approaching retirement.
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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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How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
The Federal Reserve’s decisions have ripple effects, including for mortgages.
If you’re looking at HE loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
A Black couple talk to a salesperson at a car dealership.
Auto rates will likely not decrease this year. Consider how to still save.
Exterior of Federal Reserve building
Does the Fed interest rate affect car loans? Yes, it does: It has a domino effect that can raise or lower auto loan rates.
Outside of the Federal Reserve building
The Federal Reserve held rates steady at its January 2026 meeting.
Federal Reserve Eccles Building illustration
Bankrate analyzed the Fed’s historic rate moves for clues on what might come next.
U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell delivers remarks at a news conference.
The best way for investors to deal with the Fed’s interest rate changes? Focus on your long-term investment plan.
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Can you guess which bank has the most branches in your state?
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Transfer funds to friends and family without leaving the house.
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California is a large state, and so is your list of banking options in the Golden State. Truth is, there’s no one “best” bank — the best option is the one that fits your specific needs. But we’ve [...]
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Over time, ATM fees have climbed. Here’s what you need to know.
A little girl gets a vaccination.
Setting aside pretax dollars in an HSA can help you defray future medical costs.
Young Woman Checking Her Finances At Home
Finding the account number on a check is easy — if you know where to look.
Members of the media interview a Silicon Valley Bank customer outside of the bank office
Silicon Valley Bank’s failure caused quite a stir. Here’s what’s going on there now.
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For younger generations, the economy may feel like it’s never worked in their favor.
Chair Jerome Powell speaks at Fed's post-meeting press conference
The Fed remains focused on battling inflation.
Jerome Powell speaking at podium
Fed officials are warning interest rates could rise higher than previously expected.
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Low joblessness isn’t the only indicator of a healthy labor market.
Facade of the Marriner S. Eccles building of the United States Federal Reserve in Washington, D.C.
The complicated nature of the Fed’s job can perpetuate some wild claims.
Fed Chair Jerome Powell speaks to journalists at a post-meeting news conference
Fed officials will have decide how much of a slowdown they want to see before calling it quits on rate hikes.
Federal Reserve Headquarters building
The Fed’s job is often to make the difficult choice between low unemployment or low inflation.
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