Franklin Templeton completes the acquisition of 250 Digital and launches Franklin Crypto — a new institutional frontier
Franklin Templeton, an asset management firm with $1.78 trillion in assets under management, officially completed the acquisition of 250 Digital on June 22, 2026. As part of this integration, a new division — Franklin Crypto — is entering the market, created to manage digital assets and active cryptocurrency strategies. This move marks a strategic strengthening of the giant's position in the digital assets space, combining its own developments with institutional infrastructure.
Deal Closing and Team Integration
As a result of the deal, the 250 Digital team and all liquid cryptocurrency strategies previously managed through CoinFund are transferred to direct management by Franklin Templeton. The company will directly invest its own capital in these strategies. The deal, announced on April 1, 2026, is now completed, confirming Franklin Templeton's long-term plans for growth in the digital assets sector. The company has been experimenting with blockchain technologies since 2018 and has already launched one of the first funds in the U.S. operating using public blockchains for purchase and sale transactions and recording ownership rights to shares.
Key Team of the New Division
Christopher Perkins has been appointed head of Franklin Crypto, and Seth Ginns has become investment director. 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 this is an important addition for Franklin Templeton, strengthening its capabilities in digital assets and positioning the company among the few global asset managers with an in-house team for institutional cryptocurrency strategies.
Institutional Scale and Active Crypto Strategies
Franklin Crypto directly leverages the expertise of its own digital team, 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. Franklin Crypto combines professional execution in the crypto market with Franklin Templeton's proven infrastructure and client base. Plans include launching active cryptocurrency strategies for institutional investors worldwide.
Expert Commentary: The acquisition of 250 Digital is not just a team purchase but a strategic move to transform Franklin Templeton into a full-fledged operator in the digital assets market. Integrating proprietary active strategies with an institutional platform creates a unique offering for large investors seeking a reliable bridge between traditional finance and cryptocurrencies. This signals to the market: the largest asset managers no longer view crypto assets as an experimental class but are integrating them into their core business processes.