Franklin Templeton completes acquisition of 250 Digital and launches Franklin Crypto — a new institutional frontier
Global asset manager with a $1.78 trillion portfolio, Franklin Templeton, has officially completed the acquisition of crypto investment platform 250 Digital. The closing took place on June 22, 2026, and simultaneously, the company announced the launch of a new specialized division — Franklin Crypto. This is not just a rebranding, but a strategic move to integrate its own digital asset developments with institutional infrastructure to meet growing demand from large investors.
Integration of Team and Capital
As part of the deal, the entire team of 250 Digital and the liquid cryptocurrency strategies previously managed through CoinFund come under the direct control of Franklin Templeton. The company also intends to directly invest its own capital in these strategies. Recall that the upcoming acquisition was announced on April 1, 2026. This step confirms Franklin Templeton's long-term plans in the digital asset space, where the company has been experimenting with blockchain technology since 2018, launching one of the first funds in the US to use public blockchains for operations and recording ownership rights.
Key Appointments in the New Division
The new division will be led by Christopher Perkins, appointed as head of Franklin Crypto. Seth Ginns has been named 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 emphasized 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 strategies team.
Institutional Scale Meets Active Crypto Strategies
Franklin Crypto is focusing on fundamental research, active portfolio management, and an institutional approach to risk management. The new division targets institutional clients interested in active cryptocurrency strategies within a regulated framework and broad geographic presence. By combining professional execution in the crypto market with Franklin Templeton's proven infrastructure and client base, the division plans to launch active cryptocurrency strategies for institutional investors worldwide.
My analyst comment: This acquisition marks another stage in the "institutionalization" of the crypto market. Franklin Templeton is not just buying technology but acquiring a team with a proven track record and ready-made strategies. In an environment where large funds seek not just exposure to Bitcoin but complex, actively managed products, this move gives Franklin Templeton a significant competitive advantage over those asset managers still in the "exploration" phase of the market.