While investing in a long term financial instrument, we all dream about the profits that the interest will bring us at the end of the term. Many times such investments do bear fruits. But sometimes that dreaded thing called recession raises its deadly hood to strike at the very base of all our investment plan making all predictions go for a toss.

Investment options should be considered taking into account the effect that recession might have on them. It is now an accepted fact that the world economy does follow a wave pattern with a booming economic growth  almost always followed by long periods of recession. The latest financial doom that has affected the world economy has  reflected very badly on the annual report of company performance of major players in the market.

In worse case scenarios, a few major financial institutions have bitten the dust and  have been forced to close shop. However, for people who look forward to  investing  in such times there are many investment opportunities  available. One needs to exercise prudence and financial discipline.

Investing in gold, silver and platinum is a good option as their performance parameters in the markets are rock steady even when other instruments plunge southwards. They are a tried and tested source of investment for those who are looking to exit the stock market.

Real estate is another solid performer and has given steady returns over the years.While investing in real estate, it is important to concentrate on cash flow and not think much in terms of appreciation. Rental properties and mobile home parks are good investment opportunities.

The weakening economy has affected the performance of the dollar. Investing in foreign currencies is a great option. The Euro and some currencies of Asian countries are very strong investment tools. The money markets of Asian countries in particular have held very strongly against the onslaught of recession. Investing in such markets has a potential of yielding great returns.

Recession is not exactly a favorable time for large scale investment plans. The economic scenario is fraught with innumerable uncertainties. It is impossible for even experts to predict what the future holds. Personal investment plans must follow strong fundamentals and risk factors pruned to bare minimum levels.