Franklin Templeton completes the acquisition of 250 Digital and launches a new crypto division.
Franklin Templeton, an asset management company with $1.78 trillion in assets, has officially completed the acquisition of 250 Digital on June 22, 2026. As a result, a new division, Franklin Crypto, has been created, which will focus exclusively on managing digital assets. This is not just another purchase, but a strategic move demonstrating the giant's long-term intentions in the crypto sphere.
The deal, announced on April 1, 2026, is now fully closed. A key element is the integration of the 250 Digital team and all liquid crypto strategies previously managed through CoinFund under the direct control of Franklin Templeton. The company will now directly invest its own capital in these strategies, underscoring a high level of confidence in the acquired assets.
Key team of the new division
Christopher Perkins has been appointed head of Franklin Crypto, and Seth Ginns has become chief investment officer. They will work in partnership with Franklin Templeton Digital Assets veteran Tony Pecora. The division reports to Sandy Kaul, head of innovation. CEO Jenny Johnson noted that the experience of the 250 Digital team enhances the company's capabilities in digital assets and positions Franklin Templeton among the few global asset managers with their own institutional crypto strategy team.
Institutional scale and active crypto strategies
As of May 31, 2026, Franklin Templeton's assets under management reached $1.78 trillion. Franklin Crypto leverages the digital team's own expertise, focusing on fundamental research, active portfolio management, and an institutional approach to risk management. The division targets institutional clients interested in active cryptocurrency strategies, operating within a regulatory framework and broad geographic presence.
By combining professional execution in the crypto market with Franklin Templeton's proven infrastructure and client base, the new division plans to launch active cryptocurrency strategies for institutional investors worldwide. The company will now be able to offer sophisticated digital solutions to institutions that are increasingly allocating capital to this asset class through established managers.
My analysis: This acquisition is a clear signal to the market: traditional finance is moving from experimentation to full integration. Franklin Templeton is not just buying technology but acquiring a team and ready-made strategies, which multiplies their path to leadership in institutional crypto management. I expect this will spur other giants to take similar actions.