Franklin Templeton launches Franklin Crypto: a new era of institutional investment in digital assets
Asset management giant Franklin Templeton, which oversees $1.78 trillion in assets, completed the acquisition of the 250 Digital platform on June 22, 2026. This move marked the official launch of Franklin Crypto — a new, fully independent division specializing exclusively in digital asset management. This is not merely a portfolio expansion, but a deep integration of proprietary crypto strategies with institutional infrastructure, allowing the company to meet growing demand from large investors.
Deal closed: integration of teams and capital
As part of this strategic deal, the 250 Digital team and all liquid cryptocurrency strategies previously managed through CoinFund come under the direct control of Franklin Templeton. The company will invest its own capital directly into these strategies, confirming long-term plans for growth in the digital asset space. Notably, Franklin Templeton has been experimenting with blockchain technology since 2018 and is one of the pioneers, having launched one of the first U.S. funds to use public blockchains for trading operations and recording ownership rights of shares.
Key team of the new division
Christopher Perkins has been appointed head of Franklin Crypto, while Seth Ginns has taken the role of 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 emphasized: "This is an important addition for Franklin Templeton. The experience and approaches of the 250 Digital team enhance our capabilities in digital assets and position Franklin Templeton among the few global asset managers with their own institutional cryptocurrency strategies team."
Institutional scale and active crypto strategies
Franklin Crypto directly 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 framework and broad geographic presence. It combines 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.
Expert commentary: This move by Franklin Templeton is not just another acquisition, but a clear signal to the market. The creation of a dedicated Franklin Crypto division with its own team and capital demonstrates that traditional giants are moving from targeted experiments to a systematic play in the crypto market. The integration of 250 Digital's active strategies into Franklin Templeton's institutional framework creates a powerful precedent that is likely to spur other asset managers to take similar actions, intensifying competition for institutional capital in the digital asset sector.