New Power Generation Inc. 
NPG Financial Services Inc.
4700 Millenia Blvd

Suite 500 Fifth Floor 
Orlando, FL 32839

npgfs1@gmail.com 

Chrislopez@npglife.us


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

When Do You Need a Will?

When Do You Need a Will?

When do you need a will? The answer is easy: Right Now.

Estimate Your RMD

Estimate Your RMD

Help determine the required minimum distribution from an IRA or other qualified retirement plan.

The Wild West of Data Theft

The Wild West of Data Theft

Learn about cyber liability insurance in this entertaining video.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Data Breach: Your Security To-Do List

This article provides a checklist of steps to take if you experience a data breach.

The Three Keys to a Great Password

Have fun and learn how to craft the perfect password with the help of this highly engaging infographic.

Questions to Ask About Medicare

Take the guesswork out of your IEP or SEP with this helpful article.

View all articles

Roth 401(k) vs. Traditional 401(k)

This calculator compares employee contributions to a Roth 401(k) and a traditional 401(k).

How Much Home Can I Afford?

With a few simple inputs you can estimate how much of a mortgage you may be able to obtain.

Paying Off a Credit Card

Enter various payment options and determine how long it may take to pay off a credit card.

View all calculators

Managing Your Lifestyle

Using smart management to get more of what you want and free up assets to invest.

Investment Strategies for Retirement

Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.

Protecting Those Who Matter Most

The importance of life insurance, how it works, and how much coverage you need.

View all presentations

Timing Your Retirement

This short video illustrates why knowing when to retire can be a crucial part of your strategy.

Retirement Plan Detectives

A couple become Retirement Plan Detectives, searching records from old employers.

18 Years’ Worth of Days

The average retirement lasts for 18 years, with many lasting even longer. Will you fill your post-retirement days with purpose?

View all videos