The asset manager is creating a new unit ‘Franklin Crypto’ to expand beyond ETFs and target institutional demand for active digital asset strategies.
1 avr. 2026, 1:47 p.m.
Translated by IA
Wall Street asset management giant Franklin Templeton is launching a dedicated cryptocurrency division as it strengthens its commitment to digital assets, supported by a proposed acquisition of cryptocurrency investment firm 250 Digital.
The new unit, called Franklin Crypto, will bring together the 250 Digital team and its liquid crypto strategies – previously managed by CoinFund – under a single structure aimed at institutional investors, the company said Wednesday.
Former CoinFund executive Christopher Perkins will lead the division, with Seth Ginns serving as chief investment officer alongside Tony Pecore, digital assets executive at Franklin Templeton. The group will report to Sandy Kaul, head of innovation at the company.
The move builds on Franklin Templeton’s existing digital assets business, which manages approximately $1.8 billion, and marks a move toward an increased offering of crypto-active investment strategies to complement its current products.
“This is an exciting addition for Franklin Templeton,” said CEO Jenny Johnson, adding that this deal strengthens the company’s ability to offer dedicated crypto expertise to its clients globally.
The launch of Franklin Crypto reflects a broader trend among large asset managers that are moving beyond passive exposure, such as exchange-traded funds, to develop in-house capabilities.
Perkins said this effort aims to meet that demand. “Crypto’s institutional moment has arrived,” he said, highlighting growing interest from large investors seeking structured exposure to digital assets.
The transaction also includes an experimental element: part of the consideration will be paid in BENJI tokens, linked to the Franklin Templeton US Government Money Fund on chain. The fund uses blockchain infrastructure to process transactions and record ownership.
This approach suggests the first steps towards completing M&A using tokenized assets, with settlement occurring more directly on blockchain infrastructures.
The acquisition is expected to close during the second quarter of 2026, subject to approvals and other conditions. Financial terms were not disclosed.
