Trading in futures by brokers on crude oil Light Sweet Crude Oil held in New York Stock Exchange on the NYMEX. This brand - the most popular among all, which are traded (Brent traded in London Stock Exchange ICE; Urals in the Russian OTC market).

From crude oil producing other energy - gasoline, fuel oil, diesel. Of the three barrels of crude oil produced two barrels of gasoline and one barrel of oil.

Fundamental factors. Prices of gasoline and fuel oil may have an impact on the price of crude oil. Oil demand is most active during the summer and winter months. In the summer it is due to vacation season (increased demand for gasoline), and in winter with the need of additional heating (increased demand for heating oil). Since both the energy source produced from oil, its price can go up. Commission Decision of OPEC (OPEC) to increase or decrease oil production is also significantly affect its price.

Follow the political situation in the territories involved in the production and storage of petroleum products, as well as the financial condition of the consumer. Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United States is the largest oil producer. The difficult situation in the Middle East often leads to a strong and unpredictable fluctuations in stock prices around the world.

Alternatives. Current oil futures for brokers (NYMEX Crude Oil Financial), traded electronically. The parameters are similar to the contract deliverable, but physical delivery is not available - only a financial settlement on the last day of trading. Stock Symbol: WS.

Mini futures on crude oil (NYMEX miNY Light Sweet Crude Oil), trading takes place electronically. The contract is two times less - 500 barrels, so the margin deposits are reduced, which is useful for active trading. Type of contract - the settlement. Stock Symbol: QM.