Franklin Templeton completes acquisition of 250 Digital and launches Franklin Crypto: A new era of institutional crypto strategies
A major player in traditional finance, asset management firm Franklin Templeton, with $1.78 trillion in assets under management, officially completed the acquisition of 250 Digital on June 22, 2026. This move marks not just an expansion, but a strategic reshaping of its approach to digital assets. As a result of the deal, a new specialized division — Franklin Crypto — has been created to directly manage cryptocurrency strategies.
Integration of Team and Capital
As part of the acquisition, the entire team from 250 Digital and their liquid crypto strategies, previously managed through CoinFund, come under the direct control of Franklin Templeton. The company will now invest its own capital in these strategies, underscoring the seriousness of its intentions. The deal, announced on April 1, 2026, confirms Franklin Templeton's long-term plans for growth in the digital assets space. It is worth noting 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 of shares.
Key Team of the New Division
Christopher Perkins has been appointed head of Franklin Crypto, and Seth Ginns has become its 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 noted that the experience and approaches of 250 Digital enhance the company's capabilities in digital assets and position Franklin Templeton among the few global asset managers with their own team dedicated to institutional crypto strategies.
Institutional Scale and Active Strategies
Franklin Crypto 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. The division plans to launch active cryptocurrency strategies for institutional investors worldwide.
Cryptalist Analysis: This move by Franklin Templeton is a clear signal to the market. Integrating the professional team from 250 Digital and creating a separate Franklin Crypto division is not just about playing catch-up with spot ETFs. It is about building a full-fledged infrastructure for active digital asset management, placing Franklin Templeton alongside pioneers like Fidelity. For the market, this means the arrival of even more complex and structured products that will attract capital not only from retail investors but also from large institutional investors seeking diversification and professional risk management.