Housing, stocks, gold and oil: Hot or not in 2012?

During the second half of 2011, oil prices slid as the U.S., the world's biggest energy consumer, showed signs that it was headed for another recession amid the backdrop of a deepening debt crisis in Europe. But even if the U.S. economy continues to slog through in 2012, that's not likely going drive oil prices down much.

In December, Goldman Sachs forecast the price for Brent oil, which is currently trading at around $108 a barrel, will reach $127.50 by end of 2012 as supply remains tight. This is partly due to Libya's loss of oil production for the foreseeable future, geopolitical risks and other factors.

NEXT: Oil: Bear