Internet Computer (ICP) Historical Price and Returns Analysis: Should I Buy ICP Now?

Abstract

This article comprehensively reviews the historical price movements and market volatility of Internet Computer (ICP) since its inception, combining data from bull and bear market phases to assess potential returns for investors purchasing 10 ICP tokens. Through this analysis, we address the critical question: “Should I buy ICP now?” to help both newcomers and long-term investors identify optimal entry points and growth opportunities.

Early Market Launch and Initial Cycles: Historical Price Review (2021 to 2022)

Internet Computer (ICP) is a decentralized cloud blockchain that can host secure and resilient applications, websites, and enterprise-level systems while supporting trustless cross-chain interactions. According to CoinMarketCap records, ICP’s early trading price was approximately $433.83 in 2021.

Below are the price changes for ICP during its early market phases:

2021

• Opening Price: $433.83
• Closing Price: $27.29
• Highest Price: $433.83
• Lowest Price: $22.65
• Annual Return: -93.71%

2022

• Opening Price: $36.15
• Closing Price: $4.02
• Highest Price: $36.15
• Lowest Price: $3.60
• Annual Return: -88.88%

An investor who purchased 10 ICP tokens at the early stage in 2021 and sold today would face a potential loss of $4,301.31.

Bear Market Adjustment and Recovery Phases: Returns and Risk Analysis (2023 to 2024)

During this period, ICP experienced significant price volatility, with notable recovery in 2023 followed by modest gains in 2024.

Below are the potential returns for investors who purchased 10 ICP tokens during this phase:

• 2023: -$4.16
• 2024: -$75.79

2023

• Opening Price: $4.12
• Closing Price: $13.30
• Highest Price: $13.30
• Lowest Price: $2.92
• Annual Return: 223.16%

2024

• Opening Price: $11.28
• Closing Price: $12.11
• Highest Price: $18.78
• Lowest Price: $6.82
• Annual Return: 7.38%

Recent Market Cycle: Should I Buy ICP Now? (2025 to 2026)

In recent years, ICP has experienced renewed price volatility with significant downturns in 2025 followed by modest recovery in 2026.

2025

• Opening Price: $10.23
• Closing Price: $3.27
• Highest Price: $10.23
• Lowest Price: $3.04
• Annual Return: -68.03%

2026

• Opening Price: $3.15
• Closing Price: $3.70
• Highest Price: $3.90
• Lowest Price: $3.15
• Annual Return: 17.32%

Potential returns for investors purchasing 10 ICP tokens during this period:

• 2025: -$65.32
• 2026 to present: $5.46

Summary: Bull Markets, Bear Markets and Investment Timing Analysis

Through analysis of ICP’s historical prices and potential returns, we observe a pattern of extreme volatility characterized by dramatic early losses followed by periods of recovery and renewed decline. The data reveals that ICP has faced significant long-term headwinds since its 2021 peak, with cumulative returns from the earliest entry point remaining deeply negative. This analysis provides investors with a framework for evaluating whether current price levels present opportunities for strategic positioning or warrant continued caution given the asset’s historical volatility and downward price trajectory.