Robert T. Green C.P.A. P.C.

(865) 482-4211

Investment Read Time: 3 min

The Business Cycle

What has upswings and downturns, troughs, peaks, and plateaus? Though such terms could easily describe a roller coaster ride, they are also commonly used to describe the business cycle.

The business cycle – also known as the economic cycle – refers to fluctuations in economic activity over several months or years. Tracking the cycle helps professionals forecast the direction of the economy. The National Bureau of Economic Research makes official declarations about the economic cycle based on specific factors, including the growth of the gross domestic product, household income, and employment rates.

Recovery & Recession

Business Cycle

An upswing, or recovery, occurs when the economic indicators improve over time. A recession occurs when the same indicators go through a contraction. A particularly long or severe recession is referred to as a depression.

Despite being called a cycle, it’s important to understand that the business cycle is not regular or even cyclical. Its pattern resembles the movement of waves, and those waves don’t consistently undulate at set, periodic intervals. Some recoveries have lasted several years, while others are measured in months. Recessions, too, can last for a number of years or be as short as a few months.

Moving in Waves

Wave Chart

Stages of Cycle

So, how should investors look at information about the business cycle?

Investors who understand that the economy moves through periods of recovery and recession may have a better perspective on the overall cycle. During recovery, understanding whether the economy is at an early or late stage of the cycle may influence certain investment decisions. Conversely, during a recession, deciphering whether the economy is passing through a shallow or deep cycle may be influential as well.

The business cycle will transition from recovery to recession – and recession to recovery – over several months. Understanding that the economy travels through cycles may help you put current business conditions in better perspective.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

What You Should Do About Insurance Following a Divorce

What You Should Do About Insurance Following a Divorce

In the face of divorce, making changes to insurance coverage may be overlooked.

The Utility of Sector Investing

The Utility of Sector Investing

Successful sector investing is dependent upon an accurate analysis about when to rotate in and out.

Fallen Tree Damage—Who Pays?

Fallen Tree Damage—Who Pays?

Your liability for damages that occur when a tree on your property falls on your neighbor’s property is not clear cut.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Starting a Roth IRA for a Teen

This early financial decision could prove helpful over time.

How Stocks Work

Understanding how a stock works is key to understanding your investments.

The ABC’s of Auto Insurance

What kind of auto insurance should you have? Do you know?

View all articles

Contributing to an IRA?

Determine if you are eligible to contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA.

Inflation & Retirement

Estimate how much income may be needed at retirement to maintain your standard of living.

What Is My Current Net Worth?

Use this calculator to estimate your net worth by adding up your assets and subtracting your liabilities.

View all calculators

An Inside Look at Retirement Living

A number of questions and concerns need to be addressed to help you better prepare for retirement living.

5 Smart Investing Strategies

There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives

Your Cash Flow Statement

A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.

View all presentations

Working With A Financial Professional

A financial professional is an invaluable resource to help you untangle the complexities of whatever life throws at you.

Rightsizing for Retirement

What does your home really cost?

Should You Tap Retirement Savings to Fund College?

There are three things to consider before dipping into retirement savings to pay for college.

View all videos