The following video is part of our "Motley Fool Conversations" series, in which senior analyst Michael Olsen discusses topics around the investing world.

In today's video, Mike discusses Halliburton's earnings -- which provided some welcome surprises to investors, who'd expected that slowing natural gas drilling and capacity constraints would crimp growth and margins. While that possibility still exists and potential liability from the BP Gulf spill lingers, Mike sees great potential in Halliburton's transformation of its North American segment, and the stickiness of its product offerings.

As oil prices climb, investors can find opportunities to ride the wave of surging profits for energy companies. Take a look at the top oil stocks recommended by Motley Fool analysts in a recent special free report: "3 Stocks for $100 Oil." The report won't be available forever, so we invite you to enjoy a free copy today. You can access it by clicking here. Fool on!