The stock market stumbles, tariffs create uncertainty for US economy — here’s what you should do ahead of a recession

Mar 23, 2025
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Victoria Vesovski

7 min read

The stock market stumbles, losing $5 trillion in just three weeks, and tariffs cast uncertainty over the US economy — here are 10 things you should stock up on in the event of a recession

The stock market stumbles, losing $5 trillion in just three weeks, and tariffs cast uncertainty over the US economy — here are 10 things you should stock up on in the event of a recession

When a recession looms, every dollar matters. Prices are rising, markets are wavering and what used to feel like a routine trip to the store now comes with sticker shock.

The S&P 500 has dropped by 10%, erasing trillions in market value, making once-reliable investments feel anything but secure. As inflation chips away at household budgets, smart financial moves become more crucial than ever — including knowing what to stock up on before prices climb even higher.

From pantry staples to pet essentials, here are 10 key things to prioritize during uncertain economic times.

CAnned food grocery aisle.

Jeff Greenberg/Getty Images

As grocery prices climb to heights no one swiped their Amex for before, stocking up on nonperishable food items is essential. For example, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Producer Price Index for canned dry beans rose from 173.200 in February 2020 to 225.050 in February 2025, reflecting a significant increase over five years.

By stocking up on pantry essentials like canned goods, rice and pasta before a recession hits, you can protect your pantry and your wallet from these escalating costs. Unlike perishable items, these staples boast long shelf lives — allowing you to buy in bulk and sidestep frequent, potentially pricey trips to the store.​

Produce seed packages.

Albany Times Union/Hearst Newspapers/Getty Images

Fresh produce was never supposed to be a luxury item, yet with rising prices, debating whether a bag of spinach is really worth it has become a reality. Between 2020 and 2024, U.S. food prices surged by 23.6%, according to the USDA Economic Research Service — making even a simple bag of greens an increasingly costly purchase.

Growing your own vegetables offers a way to sidestep the rising price tags, while ensuring a steady supply of nutrient-dense food. Unlike a pantry with canned goods, a well-tended plot of produce is the gift that keeps on giving, offering both financial relief and a steady supply of fresh, healthful ingredients.

Nine silver bars.

Craig F. Walker/Getty Images

As the stock market stumbles and recession fears surround the U.S. economy, investors aren’t embracing the age-old adage of buying low. Instead, they’re looking for safer ground and something more tangible.


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