ICM (Independent Chip Model)
A mathematical model used to assign a real money value to tournament chip stacks based on the prize structure. ICM recognizes that tournament chips have diminishing value: doubling your stack does not double your equity in the prize pool. ICM heavily influences tournament strategy, especially near the money bubble and at final tables.
Example
Three players remain and the payouts are $1,000/$600/$400. The short stack shoves, and ICM says you should fold A♠J♣ — the risk of busting in 3rd outweighs the gain from eliminating them.
Where this matters
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Glossary pages explain the language. Use the links below to see how the term affects room choice, rakeback value, or payment tradeoffs on the commercial side of the site.
Related Terms
See Also
- ROI (Return on Investment)- The percentage return on tournament buy-ins over time. ROI is calculated as (total winnings - total ...
- ITM (In the Money)- Finishing a tournament in a position that pays prize money. ITM percentage is the rate at which a pl...
- Guaranteed Tournament- A tournament where the poker room guarantees a minimum prize pool regardless of the number of entrie...