This article appeared in SoFi's On the Money newsletter. Not getting it? Sign up here.

The war in the Middle East is doing more than dominating the headlines — it’s reshaping the U.S. economic outlook.

We’re already seeing the cost of gas and airfare rise, and suddenly inflation is the big threat again. Beyond the pump, higher energy costs can act as a hidden tax on all sorts of things that need to be transported, from the groceries in your cart to the packages on your doorstep.

These inflation risks muddy the outlook for the Federal Reserve, which means benchmark interest rates are less likely to go down anytime soon. In fact, traders are even starting to predict rates might go up rather than down.

While this suggests borrowing costs for credit cardholders and prospective homebuyers are less likely to fall, there’s a pretty big silver lining to interest rates staying put: yields on our savings are more likely to stay put too. And building a financial cushion is always a smart defensive move when the economic outlook is unclear.

“With all the uncertainty in global markets — and the spike in oil prices — interest rates may stay put for longer than expected,” said Brian Walsh, SoFi’s head of advice & financial planning. “But this rewards savers with higher APYs. It’s one way to turn the unpredictable financial climate into a positive for your personal finances."

So what?

We don’t know what will happen in the Middle East or how deep the effects will run here at home. But a great way to maintain some control is to prepare for anything. It may even be a good time to revive those “revenge saving” tactics, given we’re facing a less-than-predictable economic climate. (The U.S. personal saving rate — the monthly percentage of disposable income that people save vs. spend — ticked back up to 4.5% in January after steadily drifting down for much of last year, according to Fed data.)

Some ideas to embrace your inner-saver:

•  The biggie: Put your money in a high-yielding account. If you have your money in a regular savings account, you’re probably leaving money on the table. Their average interest rate is 0.39%, compared to high-yield accounts offering 3%-4% or more. And get this: A 2025 Morning Consult survey of U.S. savers showed just 20% were using a high-yield or money market savings account. Seventy percent said they didn’t even realize higher APYs were a thing. (They are at SoFi.)

•  If you’re just starting to save, build an emergency buffer first. Whether you’re worried about higher prices, losing your job, or something else, an in-case-of-emergency stash can go a long way to easing your mind. A good rule of thumb is to have enough tucked away to cover three to six months’ worth of your basic living expenses, but don’t be daunted by whatever that figure is. Just start saving. (Almost half of Americans wouldn’t be able to cover a sudden $1,000 expense, according to a December survey by Bankrate.)

•  Use buckets to stay on target and organized. Once you’ve got a healthy emergency savings, consider earmarking savings for specific goals like replacing your aging hot water heater or making it to your bestie’s destination wedding in the fall. Giving each goal a name and target amount, sometimes referred to as establishing a “sinking fund,” can help you maintain momentum and track your progress.

•  Automate. The dad-like mantra of “pay yourself first” is easier said than done when the budget is tight and you have multiple savings goals. Rather than waiting to see what’s available at the end of the month, automate the process by scheduling transfers to your savings account(s) every payday. This removes the guesswork and the temptation to spend the leftovers. Think of it like auto-pay, but it’s auto-save.

Related Reading

How to Save $10,000 in a Year With the '$27.39 Rule' (Yahoo! Finance)

Cheaper Is Cooler: Cutting Back Is Trending (SoFi)

Many People Are 'Revenge Saving'—Should You? (Investopedia)

Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

OTM20260327SW