News

Recession Briefing 6.8

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

Budget weddings are in vogue this recession. The average cost of a wedding in the U.S. was $19,212 in the first quarter, down from $21,814 last year and $26,450 in 2005. (Wall Street Journal) Tips to recession-proof your wedding here.

Evidently the recession means that some semi-employed hipsters in their mid-20s can no longer rely on a monthly check from their parents. (New York Times)

“Motorists unable to afford payments on pricey cars and gas-guzzling sport utility vehicles in this recession are turning to a time-tested financing solution: matches.” (Los Angeles Times)

The recession’s grip loosened slightly this spring as seasonal hiring picked up and helped offset rising bankruptcies and foreclosures. But predictions on when the recession will end continue to vary. (Associated Press, Recessionwire)

Studies show that would-be entrepreneurs have it tougher in this recession than in past downturns, largely because of a credit crisis that has made financing scarce. (USA Today)

Tensions are simmering among President Obama’s economic advisers as they take steps to deal with the effects of the recession. (New York Times)

With tightened personal budgets, more people are taking books out of libraries. (Associated Press)

In today’s jittery markets, good news on one front can have surprisingly bad effects elsewhere. At stake is the fragile confidence that’s been restored in the financial system. (Wall Street Journal)

More than Obama, more than Geithner, more than anyone, it is once-maligned Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke who has saved us from the second Great Depression, writes Jim Cramer. (New York Magazine)

The recession is taking a bite out of auctions of wild horses — leaving states like Colorado with more animals to care for and taxpayers with a bigger bill. (Aspen Daily News)

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: budgets, obama, weddings