Franklin Templeton creates Franklin Crypto: a strategic move by the $1.78 trillion management giant
A major player in traditional finance has firmly established itself in the digital assets market. Franklin Templeton, an asset management company with $1.78 trillion in assets under management, completed the acquisition of 250 Digital on June 22, 2026. The result was the official creation of Franklin Crypto — a separate division fully focused on managing cryptocurrency strategies.
This is not just a team acquisition. As part of the deal, all liquid cryptocurrency strategies previously managed through CoinFund are transferred under the direct control of Franklin Templeton. Moreover, the company will directly invest its own capital in these strategies. The deal, announced on April 1, 2026, is now closed, confirming Franklin Templeton's long-term intentions in the digital assets space. It is worth noting that the company has been experimenting with blockchain technologies since 2018, launching one of the first funds in the U.S. to use public blockchains for operations and recording ownership rights.
Key team of the new division
Christopher Perkins has been appointed head of Franklin Crypto, and Seth Ginns has taken the position of investment director. They are working 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 team for institutional cryptocurrency strategies.
Institutional scale and active strategies
Franklin Crypto leverages the expertise of Franklin Templeton's own digital team, focusing on fundamental research, active portfolio management, and an institutional approach to risk management. The division is aimed at institutional clients interested in active cryptocurrency strategies, operating within a regulatory framework and a broad geographic presence. Plans include launching active cryptocurrency strategies for institutional investors worldwide. The integration strengthens the company's position, allowing it to offer sophisticated digital solutions to institutions that are increasingly allocating capital to this asset class through reputable managers.
Analyst's comment: This is a landmark event. Franklin Templeton is not just buying technology but integrating an entire team of professionals with proven strategies. For the market, this signals that institutional capital is moving from passive ETFs to more complex, actively managed products. The creation of Franklin Crypto is preparation for a new wave of capital inflows from major players seeking access to digital assets through regulated and trusted channels.