Is a Recession Coming? What to Do (and Avoid) With Your Finances

Erika Galaviz
May 28, 2025

Economic uncertainty is once again making headlines. From slowing growth forecasts to persistent inflation and global volatility, the word “recession” is back in conversations. But while downturns are part of every economic cycle, your response can make all the difference.

At FinWitcher, we believe in proactive, calm, and data-driven financial planning. Here's a professional guide to what you should do—and avoid—to keep your finances strong and stable if a recession hits.

✅ What to Do

1. Strengthen Your Emergency Fund

Cash on hand is your first line of defense. Aim to cover 3–6 months of essential expenses in a liquid, high-yield savings account.

FinWitcher can help you calculate your ideal emergency fund based on spending patterns and lifestyle.

2. Trim Non-Essential Spending

Now is the time to optimize your budget. Evaluate subscriptions, discretionary purchases, and lifestyle inflation.

Use FinWitcher’s automated insights to identify cost-saving opportunities and redirect funds toward safety and growth.

3. Prioritize High-Interest Debt Repayment

Debt becomes even more burdensome during economic slowdowns. Paying off high-interest credit cards and loans reduces financial risk.

4. Reassess and Diversify Your Investments

Volatile markets call for diversified strategies. Reevaluate your portfolio’s risk exposure and consider more defensive assets if needed.

FinWitcher’s AI tools can rebalance your portfolio and recommend asset classes aligned with your risk profile.

5. Invest in Resilience

Consider enhancing your skills, certifications, or professional development. In uncertain job markets, adaptability is a valuable asset.

❌ What to Avoid

1. Making Emotional Financial Decisions

Reacting to headlines can lead to costly mistakes—like panic selling or abandoning long-term plans.

FinWitcher delivers calm, AI-powered recommendations to help you act on data, not emotion.

2. Taking on New Fixed Expenses

Avoid locking yourself into large financial commitments—such as a new car, luxury purchase, or loan—unless your income is secure.

3. Letting Your Money Sit Idle

While cash is important, you don’t want inflation to erode your savings. Explore stable, low-risk investment options that offer returns without exposing you to excessive volatility.

💡 Bonus: What if the Recession Doesn’t Happen?

Then you’ve still strengthened your financial foundation—and positioned yourself to grow from a place of stability. These actions aren’t just defensive; they’re strategic.

FinWitcher is designed to guide you through any economic climate. With real-time financial monitoring, personalized recommendations, and smart automation, we help you make better decisions—even when the future is uncertain.