Internet Computer (ICP), the native token of the Dfinity blockchain, aims to compete with Ethereum as a decentralized global computing platform. Currently ranked #33, ICP has the following key metrics:

Comparing ICP to Top Smart Contract Platforms

With a market cap of $1.8 billion, ICP is much smaller than leaders like Ethereum ($190 billion) and Solana ($7.6 billion). ICP comprises just 0.144% of total crypto market cap dominance.

24 hour trading volume is also light at $16 million, equating to just 0.88% of ICP's market cap. This trails Ethereum's 1.09% ratio and Solana's 1.93% by a wide margin.

Over the past year, ICP has plunged 41.1%, underperforming versus Ethereum's -57% and Solana's -81%. However, ICP has shown stability recently.

ICP Technical Analysis

Over the past week, ICP has traded between $3.95 and $4.49, currently sitting around $4.12. This represents a respectable 3.9% rally over the last 7 days.

Zooming out shows ICP remains down 99.41% from its staggering all-time high of $700 reached in May 2021 immediately after its launch. It has stabilized since hitting its all-time low of $3.40 in December 2022.

Currently, ICP appears to be establishing a base around the $4 level after its massive decline. Signs of a bottoming pattern appear to be forming, but further consolidation is needed.

Prediction: ICP Sideways Chop Near-Term

Given ICP's lackluster volume and recent stabilization, I expect the token to trend sideways in coming weeks between $3.50 and $4.50 absent major catalysts.

Longer term, ICP could regain its footing if development advances and the platform sees utilization. But regaining prior highs seems unlikely given loss of momentum. Execution and real-world adoption are critical to reviving ICP from its weakened state. The next 6-12 months will be very telling for its outlook.

What is the Internet Computer blockchain and how does ICP work?

The Internet Computer is a novel blockchain that aims to become a decentralized global computing platform and alternative to centralized cloud services. ICP works as follows:

• ICP is the native token that secures the network via staking and provides governance voting rights.
• The Internet Computer network runs at web speed and provides unlimited capacity.
• Developers can build decentralized apps, enterprises, and IT systems directly on the blockchain rather than using servers.
• Dapps and systems have unstoppable websites hosted natively on-chain.
• Users access apps and websites directly on the Internet Computer just like normal web 2.0 apps and sites.

By innovating a blockchain that runs natively on the web, the Internet Computer aims to bring all IT to Web3. ICP powers this next-gen computing network.

What catalysts could restore ICP's former highs?

ICP faces an uphill battle to reclaim former highs above $700. Some potential catalysts that could revive ICP include:

• Significantly expanded development and adoption of apps built on the Internet Computer
• Real world enterprise usage and integration for systems like supply chain and ERP
• Burn mechanisms that permanently reduce ICP's circulating supply over time
• Major protocol improvements and differentiation versus Ethereum and other smart contract platforms
• Increased staking activity and engagement as validator rewards attract investors
• High profile DAOs and crypto projects launching on or migrating to Internet Computer
• Strategic partnerships and integrations that boost ICP's interoperability
• Resurgence of interest and speculation in higher risk assets if crypto markets turn bullish

However, with its steep losses and diminished hype, it may take years and flawless execution for ICP to regain favor and reach former peaks.