1. Investment. Nope. Not in any real amounts. Investors like security and the bitcoin is pretty much the opposite of secure. They also like secure exchanges and the bitcoin exchanges are pretty shady compared to mainstream exchanges. That is kind of an understatement really.
It may not be completely reliable, but it offers a staggering degree of potential profit. And VirWoX is very trusted. If you really want security (and the ability to use PayPal), then VirWoX is a valid choice, but the fees will probably be higher.
I really disagree with the bitcoins as an investment angle. There is too much of a chance for bitcoin to basically go to zero. Government intervention would do it. If anyone really had a sizeable account they would be an awesome target for organized crime. There are so many good ways to invest money I just don't see anyone with a chunk of money wanting to put it into bitcoin.