Franklin Templeton launches Franklin Crypto: a strategic move by the $1.78 trillion asset management giant
Asset management firm Franklin Templeton, with assets under management reaching $1.78 trillion as of May 31, 2026, has officially completed the acquisition of 250 Digital, which took place on June 22, 2026. This move marked the creation of a new division — Franklin Crypto, which will handle digital asset management and integrate proprietary crypto strategies into institutional infrastructure.
Deal Details and New Team
As part of the acquisition, first announced on April 1, 2026, the entire team from 250 Digital and their liquid cryptocurrency strategies, previously managed through CoinFund, are now under direct control of Franklin Templeton. The company will invest its own capital in these strategies, underscoring the giant's long-term commitment to the digital asset market. Franklin Templeton has been experimenting with blockchain technologies since 2018, and this step is a logical continuation, given that the company launched one of the first funds in the U.S. to use public blockchains for buy-sell operations and ownership record-keeping.
Key Appointments and Structure
Christopher Perkins has taken the role of head of Franklin Crypto, while Seth Ginns has become acting 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 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 Strategies
Franklin Crypto focuses on fundamental research, active portfolio management, and an institutional approach to risk management. The new division targets institutional clients interested in active crypto strategies within a regulatory framework and broad geographic presence. It 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.
Cryptalist Analysis: This move by Franklin Templeton is not just a team acquisition but a strategic creation of a full-fledged hub for institutional crypto asset management. An in-house team for active strategies and direct company capital signal that traditional giants no longer want to be passive observers. This strengthens market confidence and could trigger a wave of similar acquisitions among other asset management firms seeking to compete for institutional capital in the digital space.