Grand Rapids Business Daily

Recession? Are we in a recession? If I remember correctly from my college economics class there is a precise definition to a recession. Something like multiple quarters without growth. It seems to me this should be a simple answer. There was either growth for the required time or there was not. Why are some people saying that we are in a recession and some are saying that we are not? Does anyone know what the definition of a recession is and have the numbers to back it either way?

recession??? I hear talk of a possible recession in Aus, but I was not around when the last one occurred. Can someone tell me what excactly ( I know that it has an impact on the eccomony ) but what sort of impact does it have on the individual or family? Any info will be helpful thanks

What is the recession and how does it affect families? I have to write an essay about the recession that america is in, right now, and how it affects families. There for, I need to know what a recession is. What is a recession? What is the difference between a recession and a depression? How is the recession affecting you and your family?

How does a recession affect the average person? I keep seeing news about the fact that a recession may be coming. I am curious as to how this affects a normal person, not involved with the stock market etc. For instance, will prices go up for food, clothing, etc? Are there any ways to prepare for a recession? Any ways to benefit from a recession?

When was the last recession in US and housing recessions and how long before either market rebounded? I am looking to see how the technology sector performed after the last recession and inparticulary after the last housing recession. Thank you.

How would a recession affect the average American? The last time the US was in a recession, as I remember as a young child was in the early 90's under the first Bush. I don't understand how exactly a recession affects the economy, and how it differs from a depression.

Is the recession good for poor people who still have jobs, but bad for others who have lost their jobs? During a recession, gas price goes down because people drive less. The cost of consumer goods also goes down because the cost of transportating those goods is less, and because people spend less money and buy less. This makes consumer goods more affordable for poor people who still have jobs. Agree or disagree?

Will the recession make America less charitable for foreign disaster relief? Like everyone else I heard about the disaster in Myanmar. The problem is that I personally cannot afford to donate any money to Myanmar disaster relief. I was in the same position after Hurricane Katrina. One of the greatest problems with the recession is that when a disaster happens either here or somewhere else, many Americans honestly cannot afford to donate to disaster relief. I am now getting to a point where I don't want to see any foreign disasters on TV or online anymore.

How has the current economic recession affected farmers in the United States and beyond? i have heard a lot about the current economic recession in how it has affected various businesses, big and small, but what I haven't heard so much about is how farmers have been affected. So, the title of my question states: How has the recession affected farmers? Has it affected different types of farms differently? Such as small, local, farms vs. corporately owned farms? I would very much appreciate any help on this matter that anyone can give me!

How the Recession has affected the adoption of Animals? I have a speech to do on how the recession has affected the adoption of animals and the shelters. If anyone has any trustworthy sites or statistics it would be much appreciated. Anything will help. Thank you!

How would a recession in Britian affect the United States? 10 points best answer? 20,000 jobs in Britain have been lost last month. If Britain enters a recession someday, what are the possible effects it will have on the United States?

How will the recession affect job prospects for new college graduates? I will be graduating cum laude from my University in June 2008, and this is when economists have declared the recession to begin. How will this affect my (and other new graduates) perspectives for employment?

Can the democrats scam of telling us the recession is over actually work? Our government is lying to us and telling us the recession is over when it clearly is not. Will this scam work? By getting people to think the recession is over, can it actually cause people to spend more and actually end the recession for real?

How will the recession, peak oil and enviro issues affect arcraft engineering in the near future? My boyfriend works as an aircraft engineer, as a contractor. He has just taken a few months off work after the birth of our child, but now there is no work available in our city and he hasn't been able to find work anywhere in neighbouring cities and even now he's looking further afield, there's still nothing. Is this because of the recession/enviro/peak oil? What is the future for aircraft engineering? Should he try to transfer his skills and if so, to what? Thanks.

What are the best statistics to measure the recession? I am looking to do a report on how the recession has effected Denver Colorado. I feel as if a good place to start would be to compile what statistics are important when measuring a recession. Also, what websites, are keeping track of the recession's impact. Specific City information would be helpful as well.

What are the recession proof jobs someone could get with a business degree? Are there any recession proof jobs that someone right out of college with a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration with concentrations of either Management, Finance, Economics, Human Resouces can get into? Is this a good degree to get in these economic times?

How does a recession and depression effect the possibility leasing a home? A trusted financial adviser friend of ours says he and several of his colleagues expect the economy be in recession for at least another year and then possibly a depression for ten years. Given this scenario, would the price of leasing a home increase or decrease, and at which point? So in a market slump is it better to own a home or lease?

How is the recession affecting people on a personal level? What drastic changes are people making in their daily lives to cope with the effects of the recession?

How does a recession hurt the airline industry? I just recently landed my dream job with a major airline as an aircraft technician...I don't start my first day of school till March and I heard that we could slide into a bad recession. Could this have a negative impact on my job?...thank you

When does an economic recession become an economic depression? An economic recession is defined as two consecutive quarters of no growth in the GDP, or negative growth in the GDP. What is the definition of "Depression"?

What are the factors which contributed to the recent recession the world over? Almost all the countries in the world are under the impact of ongoing recession. What are the reasons for such recession and how long such recession will continue?

How does more government spending during a recession increase the demand for something? Even if gov spending let to the production of more tractors - who would buy the tractors during a recession? How does government spending during a recession create more demand for a product?

What separates an excessive recession from a minor depression? The news and economists keep telling us we're going to have an excessive recession; but no one is willing to call it a depression. So what is the defining line?

What effect is the recession having on those in the Media? Do you work in the creative industry? Is the recession effecting your work or income?

What needs to happen to make the end of a recession official? What is the official signal our government uses to determine when a recession ends? Is it based off of unemployment figures? 2 consecutive periods of GDP growth? It is easy to find out what determines the beginning of a recession, but I have not been able to find out what signals the official end of a recession.

'Why recession happened suddenly,what is the reason and Cause of it?How to manage and overcome recession? How to avoid recession in Future?Please reply i need a Valuable Feedback and Comments

What impact does this recession have on us globally? I hear all this hype about a "global recession" and from what I've gathered, it seems like: a) prices rise and b) wages don't increase Therefore: Everyone has less money to buy the things they need. However, I've been reading a bit, and on the Resolved Questions, it seems that recessions generally lead to items that cost LESS. Now I'm very confused. Could somebody please explain the implications of a recession?

What is a good small business to start during a recession? Former Treasury Secretary Greenspan said today America is due for another recession and that it would likely start the end of this year, 2007. During a recession, what kind of small businesses stand the best chance of making a profit AND in some part due to the recession?

What does recession have to do with people losing their jobs? The cause of the high unemployment rate is the recession, so I ask you all. How is recession the cause?

What do you do with your money in recession, possibly global recession? I think U.S in already in recession. With dollar shrinking by the day and fear that the whole world might go down with the U.S, what do you do? Commodity prices are all time high too.

How long is the current recession in the United States projected to last? Please provide sources, and if possible, some opposing viewpoints/differing opinions on how long the recession is projected to last before things get better and the job market gets better. Please leave your personal opinions for political forums. I'm interested in facts or the educated opinions of economists or other experts.

What happens during an economic recession? I hear talk of how we're on the brink of going into a recession, and I was wondering how that would affect jobs, prices of goods, etc, in our everyday life.

How is the Vancouver job front doing since the recession? I have been planning to live and work there for a good while now before the recent global recession began to been planning I hoped to live work there for a year possibly longer, so now I am wondering whats happening over there on the job front since this dark recession, I am in the UK and the jobs have been hit very hard Over here just like America, How is it for Vancouver and the rest of Canada? I was over in Vancouver last December- January 2008 and the jobs there were plentiful, how so now?

What is the difference between a recession and a depression? We know we're in a recession - but what are the signs of a depression and are we there yet?

What is a recession and what will happen if Australia goes into recession? With all this talk about the global economic crisis and australia may go into recession, what does this mean exactly and how will it affect us and what will it do to improve our economy? I'm very glad barack obama is the new president, but do you think that he can fix this economic condition we are all in?

How will a recession effect the average person? Except for the rising gas prices and maybe the cost of milk I haven't felt too "pinched". I've read about the depression but am having a difficult time understanding what kind of impact a recession will have on my life. (I was a kid in the last recession but now have four kids of my own.)

What causes a recession and how does a recession end? How did the United States' recession start & how does an economy move out of one?

What's the difference between recession and depression? My friend keeps calling it a depression. I tried correcting her its a recession. Whats the difference? Isn't a depression worse?

How is the recession climate in Middle east? How is the general recession climate in middle east? I have got a new job offer from Quatar, but am a bit concerned about joining because of the recession. Used to hear from people about lay offs, long leaves, losing jobs after a trip to home and the likes. Folks, your experiences please. By the way how to learn a few languages spoken there by the labour class, preferably through Malayalam.

What is the difference between a Recession and a Depression ? Recession is 6 months of negative growth. Depression is a prolonged decline in economic activity. Now lets be more specific. How many percent the economy has to decline per annum, and for how many years the decline has to last before we can call it a Depression?

How will Republicans spin the coming recession to make it the Democrats fault? Will Republicans take responsibilty for the recession? Bernanke says addition rate cuts may well be necessary, but he says the economy is ok. Is it part of his job to lie?

What is a definitive way to know if we are in a recession or not? There seems to be at least three prevalent trains of thought : we're in a recession, we're headed towards a recession, or that the worst is behind us. I realize certain people such as Ben Bernanke have likely avoided using the term, for fear of how it would affect the market (as it did yesterday, when he spoke before Congress), but is there any true, tell-tale sign to know if we are in -- or headed toward -- a recession?

How long will the Pelosi recession last? Any ideas? It's called the "Pelosi recession" because it was caused by DEMOCRATS. Note that the recession started when DEMOCRATS took over congress. Six years of Republican congress = no recession. As soon as the Democrats came in = RECESSION. Therefore to be fair and balanced the recession should be called the PELOSI RECESSION.

What is a smart way to make big bucks during recession? Buy a lot of houses? Because I hear recession goes in cycles and prices will rise again, so is smart to buy an extra house or 2 during a recession?

How common is gum recession with a lip piercing? I want to get a lip piercing very badly, but my parents are saying no because they read it causes awful gum recession. I need to know how common the chances are of gum recession. Also are there any studs/rings that have backs to them that won't rub on the gums as much?

What happens to construction costs in a recession? Lets say I want to construct a building, would it cost more during a recession? I was guessing less because the amount of construction people on the market is higher than usual.

What do you think about the unemployment rates during the recession? How would the measured levels and changes in the unemployment rate during a recession be affected if discouraged workers were counted as unemployed? Explain. How does the length of the recession affect your answers?

Whats the difference between (ecomonic) Depression and Recession. Seeking basic easy to understand definition? . Looking it up on-line it stated that if the financial events go on for three or more quarters, etc. Yet, I still found it challenging to comprehend the difference between economic recession and depression. Sights I read sounded like "government" language. Seeking more "regular citizen" language for comprehension. Any added examples for easier understanding is appreciated. Thanks. . . When it shows to be "obvious" to citizens that environment of recession, or depression, is going on, why is it stated by the president at the time that the country is not in a recession, or depression ? Just to calm the citizens ? .

How do precious metals do in a recession? With the stock market not looking so good (depending what happens tmrw and the rest of the week) I was just wondering how do precious metals tend to do during a recession? Im talking about actual bullion not stocks in the precious metal industry.

How much time is required to overcome recession? Recession has effected almost all countries. When is it expected to be back to normal stage?

How early can gingival recession occur from using Snus tobacco? I just recently started using the new smokeless tobacco product Snus. I have heard that it can cause gingival recession. I am not a consistent user. I use about two packets a day about 3-4 days a week. Sometimes I do not even use all week. How early can gingival recession occur? Please let me know. I use tobacco as a stress-reliever, having a huge amount of stress in my life. Please be serious about the answers, I will report any inappropriate answers. Thank you very much.

How has the economic recession affected your marriage? Over the last year, I'm seeing homes broken up and I'm noticing more divorces of people I know. Could this be related to the recession? Has the recession adversely affected your marriage?

How has the recession affected the way you file taxes? The recession has affected most of us in one way or another. Did you lose your job and if so, will you file a tax return? What have you done differently this year versus past years due to the recent economic instability?

What's the difference between a recession and a depression? Recession is 2 quarters of loss? I know a depression is worse, but what exactly is the difference and does the US have a chance of expierencing one anytime soon?

How the Recession has affected the adoption of Animals? I have a speech to do on how the recession has affected the adoption of animals and the shelters. If anyone has any trustworthy sites or statistics it would be much appreciated. Anything will help. Thank you!

What is the difference between a recession and a depression? What defines either? When do we know that we are in either a recession or a depression? What barometer is used?

I need to make some money during the recession. Would opening a church be a good way to get revenue? We all know that the christianity scam is a good earner. I reckon with the upcoming recession the gullible will be more susceptible to religious mania. There are gaps in the market. What do you think?

How would Canada be affected in the Recession? If so, approximately how long would the recession last? Ok...I'm kind of worried about the economy. So how is the recession going to affect Canada? Would we actually go into a Depression? Or is it just another Recession that will recover? And how long would this last?

How can a teenager save money during this recession? How can I save money during this recession. Im 15 and have no job. I don't plan on getting a job yet since I am still in high school. I might get a summer job, but that's too far ahead. For now, do you have any tips for saving money?

Having difficulty finding work in Sydney since the recession? Especially casual teaching work? I have just graduated from teaching and I have had trouble getting casual work. I am looking to work in special schools across Sydney. I have had experience with students with additional needs. Anyone else having trouble, is it because of the recession?

How could Obama take us from a simple recession to a full fledged Depression? Under President Bush we had a very manageable and easy to recover from recession. But Obama has taken us to a point of no return!

What happens when the economy goes in to recession? I was readding today that Greenspan warns "US economy may fall into recession later this year.".What does that mean for the general population and how will this affect us? Yes, I was reading today that was typo.

Are there any ways to avoid the global recession towards which the world is heading? Global Recession is comming and 2008 is predected to be the worst year for US software market.If this becomes reality the impact on the other sectors is inevitable and the world economy is bound to crash.Are there any ways that this can be avoided?

What are the recession proof jobs one can get with a business degree? Are there any recession proof jobs that someone right out of college with a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration with concentrations of either Management, Finance, Economics, Human Resouces can get into? Is this a good degree to get in these economic times?

What are good sectors to invest in during a recession? The economy may be heading into a recession, and I was wondering what sectors would safe plays? Should I invest in CD's and Bonds? I think Energy has made a great run, but will it go higher? Looking for some advice and help. Thanks in advance.

How would an economic recession affect sporting events ? How would an economic recession affect sporting events ? Weather its football , Basketball, or any other sport ?

What will happen to student loan repayments if there is a recession? If you have a UK student loan which is taken directly from your salary and is linked to the rate of inflation, what is likely to happen if there is a recession, and the knock-on effects this would have? Can anyone enlighten me?

Are video games recession proof? Would buying more video games or systems help us get out a recession? I have to write a proposal argument for my writing class and I want to try doing something satirical and propose that Americans begin buying more video games to get us out of the recession. I'm not taking any econ classes nor do I know a lot about economics, so I don't really have a good understanding of the current economic situation in the US. With that in mind, let me know if such a proposal is too outlanding and impossible. Thanks!

What are the best things to invest in to make your portfolio recession proof? Assuming there is an impending US recession in the next few years, how should I invest my money now so that I won't be affected? CDs, commodities and foreign markets?

What is the cause of the predicted American recession? I've just picked up this week's issue of the economist. Anyway, it's clear that America's economy is going downwards. Whether it will turn into a recession or not will be another debate. However, my question is what is the cause of this? For example, I know house prices are going down and car sales are going down. Why? Where did this originate from. Thanks.

How will the recession or dollar devaluation affect my 401K &Roth investments? Should I sell off, buy euros? Considering all I'm reading about this recession, I don't want to lose gains or especially capital I've invested into SEP, IRA, and rollover 401K accounts. If the stock market crashes or if the dollar devalues , what will happen to those investments? Could I lose my capital ? Should I cash them now and put that money into a money market account? Or perhaps buy euros or yen?

What does a recession really mean for us, society? I remember hearing that the definition of recession is something like 3 successive quarters of negative growth. Well why is that such a big problem? How much will that effect us?

How often does a correction in the stock market turn into a recession? I'm interested in "leveraged indexes" (ex., SSO) that imitate the general movement of the stock market with increased power. However, if the market plummets, I'm twice as in trouble as I'd normally be. I know that predicting the market is a difficult if not impossible task, but are there any early "warning signs" to warn me of an upcoming recession? Historically, how many times have corrections (10% drop in the market) turned into a true, full-blown recession (20% drop or more in the market)? Thanks for your help! Correction: By "recession" I meant a bear market. Sorry for the confusion of terms.

With the pending Recession upon us worldwide, what factors do we consider the most important to reduce impact? Are people the main key to reducing Recession impact? Are the answers solely economic based as politicians and business leaders want us to believe, or is there something more deeper and meaningful than just politicians and economists playing around with interest rates and money markets.The world has become obsessed with wealth and greed and so this is possibly a "correction" to address imbalances in world economies. Maybe this is no different to how Nature reacts when mankind interferes to much with the natural causes of laws of the universe and attraction. Any ideas on how we collectively will pull through the current situation? Only genuine answers please.

How often does a correction in the stock market turn into a full-blown recession? I'm interested in "leveraged indexes" (ex., SSO) that imitate the general movement of the stock market with increased power. However, if the market plummets, I'm twice as in trouble as I'd normally be. I know that predicting the market is a difficult if not impossible task, but are there any early "warning signs" to warn me of an upcoming recession? Historically, how many times have corrections (10% drop in the market) turned into a true, full-blown recession (20% drop or more in the market)? Thanks for your help!

Is the housing slump going to put the economy into recession? What are possible solutions? I am writing a paper for my econ class and am totally brain farting. Can't find good articles on this topic. I need to list reasons why the housing market is in a slump, is it going to put the economy into recession any why? And possible solutions. Please share your thoughts, they will much appreciated!

Will a recession affect the stock market? If so whats the worst that can happen? I have been hearing all about this recession that will be coming in the near future and I was wondering if the recession will affect the stock market and if so how bad will it get.

Should I hold off on any major purchases cause of the recession? CNN says you should hold off making any major purchaces cause of the recession. That makes no sence to me? Wouldn't people spending money on major purchaces help the economy? This year I am planning on buying a new motorcycle and new furniture.