The crude oil market is extremely liquid, volatile and it plays a major role in the global economy. The volatility can be translated into profits by discerning traders, which is one of the reasons why you could choose crude oil for your investment. It offers a unique opportunity to gain from nearly any market condition. Brent plays a significant role in the global oil industry by acting as a benchmark crude against which most other crude grades are priced. Brent is important as a regional benchmark for many light sweet crude oils produced in the North Sea.