Oakland, CA | East Bay; Financial Planning and Advice on Anticipating Recessions

Is the Recession Coming?

Yes, we’ll likely have a recession at some point but not starting in the next few months without something currently unknown rearing its head.

Recessions are good. They clean the system of excesses allowing a new cycle to begin with better educated, more efficient and experienced players.

We’re in the longest growth cycle ever in the U.S. and there are a lot of reasons why our growth cycles may continue to get longer. But just because we’re in record territory doesn’t mean we have to have a recession right away. The general fear may actually be helping to prevent one because a little caution in the system helps curb excesses.

There are risks in the current global economy. Europe and China are not doing well but the problems are known and attempts are being made to ease a steeper slide. One could very easily argue both of those economic systems will always be at greater risk without significant systemic reform, especially in Europe.

Recessions can present wealth creation opportunities. When things are at their worst and people need to sell assets because they didn’t enter into the recession prepared, assets may be acquired at a significant discount. Being a buyer or a capital provider at these times of duress can help move the system along to a curative state.

For general personal financial health, it’s good to either run a pool of cash, the size of which depends on your circumstances, or have access to capital in case of emergency. Home equity, margin on investment accounts or loans from life insurance can be sources of capital for emergency or time sensitive investment opportunities. Rates on home equity or margin will most likely be relatively low.

If you are looking for financial guidance, whether it be for a one-time financial plan or continuing advice on your investments, we invite you meet with us here at First and Main Financial for a free consultation.  We would be more than happy to sit down with you, assess your current financial situation and review our services to help you plan for a better future.