Franklin Templeton completes acquisition of 250 Digital: launch of Franklin Crypto and a new phase of institutional expansion
On June 22, 2026, Franklin Templeton officially closed the deal to acquire 250 Digital, launching a new specialized division — Franklin Crypto. This move marks not just an acquisition, but a deep integration of institutional infrastructure and the crypto strategies of the giant with $1.78 trillion in assets under management.
Strategic Integration and Management Change
As part of the deal, the entire 250 Digital team and its liquid cryptocurrency strategies, previously managed through CoinFund, come under the direct management of Franklin Templeton. The company will invest its own capital in these strategies, underscoring a long-term commitment to digital assets. Notably, Franklin Templeton has been experimenting with blockchain technologies since 2018, launching one of the first funds in the U.S. to use public blockchains for operations and recording ownership rights.
New Team and Structure
Christopher Perkins has been appointed head of Franklin Crypto, and Seth Ginns as 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 of the 250 Digital team enhances the company's capabilities in digital assets and places Franklin Templeton among the few global asset managers with its own institutional crypto strategy team.
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 regulatory framework and broad geographic presence. Plans include launching active cryptocurrency strategies for institutional investors worldwide.
My analysis: This acquisition is not merely a portfolio expansion, but a strategic move that allows Franklin Templeton to take a leading position in the institutional crypto services segment. The integration of 250 Digital gives the company a unique combination of traditional asset management scale and expertise in active crypto strategies, which is critical for attracting large institutional money.