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Recession Briefing 5.27

What you need to know today to survive and thrive in the recession.

“The recession is cramping the style of hip-hop artists and wannabes — many of whom are finding it difficult to afford the diamond-encrusted pendants and heavy gold chains they have long used to project an aura of outsized wealth.” (Wall Street Journal)

During the first quarter of 2009, more bicycles were sold in the US than cars and trucks. While the Great Recession is hurting bike sales, they didn’t fall as fast as automobiles. (Huffington Post)

The majority of top economists believe the recession will be over by the end of this year. (Christian Science Monitor)

There have been some promising economic signs lately, but the U.S. could be at risk of a recession relapse after the massive dose of government stimulus wears off. (Reuters)

“Ethicist” columnist Randy Cohen looks at whether layoffs are ever unethical, and in what circumstances. (New York Times/Moral of the Story)

People who have lost their employer-provided health insurance are turning to a little-known strategy to get coverage: forming a small business, or using an existing one, to buy a group policy. (Wall Street Journal)

Some Washington policymakers are taking a fresh look at a money-making idea long considered politically taboo: a national sales tax. (Washington Post)

The recession lexicon is expanding, as more slang from the downturn is entering the American vernacular. (ABC News) (Also, see Recessionwire’s Recession Lexicon.)

Some tips on how to beat the recession by saving money on your fitness routine. (Chicago Tribune) (See Recessionwire‘s tips for frugal fitness.)

State agencies and nonprofit organizations that make student loans and sponsor loan forgiveness programs are being forced to cut back. (New York Times)

If you come across a good article or blog post about the recession pass it on. To receive Recession Briefing in your inbox, subscribe to our daily email.

Tags: bicycles, bling, fitness, health care, layoffs, student loans, tax