Energy prices are volatile, swinging from highs to lows, often in swift and dramatic fashion. Right now, oil is on the rise, leading investors to bid up the stock prices of companies like ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM).

Have you missed out? That depends on a lot of factors, but it might not be the best way to think about this energy leader. Here's what you need to know.

Oil and natural gas prices, though impossible to predict, often track along with the global economy. Being cyclical isn't the only factor here, though, because supply and demand, geopolitical conflicts, and large trading groups (notably OPEC) can all influence energy prices. While not shocking, with energy prices up from their recent lows, stocks like Exxon have been rising.

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Source Fool.com