Franklin Templeton completes the acquisition of 250 Digital: launch of Franklin Crypto and a new phase of institutional expansion
Global asset management giant Franklin Templeton officially completed the acquisition of 250 Digital on June 22, 2026. Immediately after the deal closed, the creation of a separate division — Franklin Crypto — was announced, which will be responsible for all digital asset operations. This step marks a strategic shift: the company, with $1.78 trillion in assets under management, is moving from an experimental phase to full institutional integration of cryptocurrencies.
As part of the deal, the entire 250 Digital team, as well as the liquid cryptocurrency strategies previously managed through CoinFund, come under the direct control of Franklin Templeton. The company will now invest its own capital in these strategies rather than hiring external managers. Thus, the deal first announced on April 1, 2026, has been closed.
Key Team of the New Division
Christopher Perkins has been appointed head of Franklin Crypto, and Seth Ginns has taken the role of Chief Investment Officer. They will work in partnership with Franklin Templeton Digital Assets veteran Tony Pecora. The division reports to Sandy Kaul, head of innovation. CEO Jenny Johnson stated: "This is an important addition for Franklin Templeton. The experience and approaches of the 250 Digital team enhance our capabilities in the digital asset space and position Franklin Templeton among the few global asset managers with their own institutional cryptocurrency strategy team."
Institutional Scale and Active Crypto Strategies
As of May 31, 2026, Franklin Templeton's assets under management totaled $1.78 trillion. 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.
Franklin Crypto 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. The integration strengthens the company's position — Franklin Templeton will now be able to offer sophisticated digital solutions to institutions that are increasingly allocating capital to this asset class through established managers.
My comment: This is not just a team acquisition — it's the creation of a full-fledged crypto division with its own capital. For the market, this signals that the largest players are moving from passive investing through ETFs to active management of digital assets. Institutional adoption of cryptocurrencies is reaching a new level, and Franklin Templeton is setting the tone here.