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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?
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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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Prices are rising. A rewards credit card, timed right and used strategically, can help you fight inflation.
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The Fed’s policy toolkit has changed almost as much as interest rates itself.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell holds a news conference after a Federal Open Market Committee meeting in Washington, DC, on Jan. 31
How will the Fed juggle hotter inflation with a rising unemployment rate?
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The Fed plays a role in influencing every financial decision you make.
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The share of single women homebuyers continues to outpace the share of single men in the housing market.
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Americans’ credit woes might not turn around until the Fed eventually cuts rates.
Members of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors stand with Fed Chair Jerome Powell after he was sworn in for his second term.
The Fed’s board has a powerful influence over interest rates and monetary policy.
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Many young adults feel they’ve had a harder time growing wealth than their parents.
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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.
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Setting aside pretax dollars in an HSA can help you defray future medical costs.
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Finding the account number on a check is easy — if you know where to look.
close up of hands signing a check
Checks aren’t as ubiquitous as they once were, but you may still have to write one.
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How Reg. D impacts your savings account and why it pays to check with your bank.
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Being able to open a checking and savings account can help build financial security.
man using an atm
ATMs are useful for depositing money, checking your balance, and more, but be aware of possible issues that may arise.
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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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