Poker Glossary
Poker glossary

ICM

ICM (Independent Chip Model) calculates the monetary value of chips in a tournament.

Full explanation

ICM (Independent Chip Model) calculates the monetary value of chips in a tournament.

Explanation. ICM estimates how chip counts convert to payout equity by factoring remaining field and prize distribution. The abbreviation ICM is used universally. It differs from raw chip EV by considering risk of elimination and payout jumps. Advanced players use ICM to make decisions near the bubble and in deals.

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