Franklin Templeton launches Franklin Crypto: a strategic move by the $1.78 trillion giant under management
Asset management firm Franklin Templeton, with $1.78 trillion in assets under management, has officially completed the acquisition of 250 Digital and launched a new division — Franklin Crypto. This is not just a routine acquisition, but a clear signal to the market: traditional finance is moving from experimentation to full-fledged institutional expansion into digital assets.
The deal, announced on April 1, 2026, closed on June 22, 2026. All liquid cryptocurrency strategies previously managed through CoinFund are now under the direct control of Franklin Templeton. The company will invest its own capital in these strategies, underscoring its long-term commitment to the sector. Notably, Franklin Templeton began experimenting with blockchain technologies as early as 2018, launching one of the first U.S. funds to use public blockchains for operations and record-keeping of ownership rights.
Key team of the new division
Franklin Crypto is led by Christopher Perkins, with Seth Ginns appointed as acting Chief Investment Officer. They 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 an in-house team for institutional crypto strategies.
Institutional scale and active strategies
Franklin Crypto focuses on fundamental research, active portfolio management, and an institutional approach to risk management. The new division targets institutional clients interested in active cryptocurrency strategies, with consideration for regulation and broad geographic presence. Essentially, it serves as a bridge between professional execution in the crypto market and Franklin Templeton's proven infrastructure.
My comment: This is not just another acquisition — it is a strategic maneuver that places Franklin Templeton alongside BlackRock and Fidelity in the race for institutional capital in the crypto space. Integrating an in-house team for active strategies signals that the company sees long-term potential not in passive ETFs, but in complex, actively managed products. The market has gained another powerful player, which will intensify competition for service quality and returns.