February 1, 2023

Recession?? What It Is and Why It Matters.

Are you wondering what a recession is and why it matters to you? You’re in the right place! Let’s dive in.

Recession?? What It Is and Why It Matters.

Hey friends!

Are you wondering what a recession is and why it matters to you? You’re in the right place! Let’s dive in.

A recession is a period of economic downturn that typically lasts for several months. It is characterized by high unemployment, low consumer spending, and a decrease in business activity. Recessions can have serious consequences for individuals and communities, as they can lead to job loss, reduced income, and a general sense of economic uncertainty.

But why should you care about a recession if you’re just a regular person? Well, even if you’re not a business owner or an investor, a recession can still have a significant impact on your daily life. If you lose your job or experience a reduction in your income, it can be difficult to make ends meet. You may have to cut back on expenses or dip into savings in order to get by. Additionally, a recession can lead to an overall decrease in the value of assets like stocks, real estate, and even your home.

So, what can you do to prepare for a recession? Here are a few tips:

  1. Build up your emergency savings: Having a cushion of cash set aside can help you weather financial storms, including a recession. Aim to have at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses saved up in a high-yield savings account or a money market fund.
  2. Reduce your debt: If you have high-interest debt, such as credit card balances, it’s a good idea to pay them down before a recession hits. This will help you have more financial flexibility if your income takes a hit.
  3. Diversify your investments: If you have investments, consider spreading them out across different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate. This can help reduce your risk and protect your portfolio from market downturns.
  4. Look for ways to boost your income: If you’re worried about a potential recession, it might be a good idea to explore ways to increase your income. This could involve taking on extra work, starting a side hustle, or negotiating for a raise at your current job.

A recession can be a challenging and unsettling time, but by being proactive and taking steps to protect your financial well-being, you can weather the storm and come out stronger on the other side. With MoneyUp, you are able to get access to saving tools and financial information that can help you prepare for times like these.

We hope this helps give you a better understanding of what a recession is and why it matters to regular people like you and me. Stay informed and stay prepared!

The opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not reflect the views or opinions of MoneyUp's sponsor banks, or any of its financial partners.