Franklin Templeton completes acquisition deal of 250 Digital and launches Franklin Crypto
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 strategic deal, Franklin Crypto was launched — a new division fully dedicated to digital asset management. This event marks a significant strengthening of the traditional financial giant's position in the cryptocurrency space.
As part of the integration, all liquid cryptocurrency strategies previously managed through CoinFund are transitioning to direct management by Franklin Templeton. The company will directly invest its own capital in these strategies. Thus, the deal announced on April 1, 2026, has finally closed, confirming Franklin Templeton's long-term plans for development in the digital asset space. It is worth recalling 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 trading operations 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 the 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 Crypto 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 new division targets institutional clients interested in active cryptocurrency strategies within a regulated environment and broad geographic presence. The division combines professional execution in the crypto market with Franklin Templeton's proven infrastructure and client base.
The launch of active cryptocurrency strategies for institutional investors worldwide is planned. This integration significantly strengthens the company's position, allowing it to offer sophisticated digital solutions to institutions that are increasingly allocating capital to this asset class through established asset managers.
My comment: This is not just another acquisition, but a clear signal to the market that traditional finance is moving from passive observation to active management of crypto assets. Creating a specialized division with its own team and direct investments is a step that elevates Franklin Templeton to the league of leading institutional players capable of competing with crypto-native funds.