Franklin Templeton, a prominent asset management firm, is establishing a new cryptocurrency division named Franklin Crypto, aimed at enhancing its digital asset offerings. This initiative follows the planned acquisition of the crypto investment firm 250 Digital, signaling a strategic shift towards active investment strategies in the digital asset space.
The Franklin Crypto unit will integrate the team from 250 Digital, which previously managed its liquid crypto strategies in collaboration with CoinFund. Christopher Perkins, a former executive at CoinFund, will lead this new division, supported by Seth Ginns as chief investment officer and Tony Pecore, who oversees digital assets at Franklin Templeton. The group will report to Sandy Kaul, the firm’s head of innovation.
This move builds on Franklin Templeton’s existing digital asset portfolio, which currently manages approximately $1.8 billion. The firm aims to provide more active investment strategies in the cryptocurrency market, responding to increasing demand from institutional clients.
CEO Jenny Johnson expressed enthusiasm about the new division, stating that it enhances the firm’s capability to deliver specialized crypto expertise globally. Perkins emphasized the growing interest from large investors in structured digital asset exposure, declaring, “Crypto’s institutional moment has arrived.”
The acquisition will also feature an innovative payment method, with part of the transaction being settled using BENJI tokens. These tokens are associated with Franklin Templeton’s on-chain U.S. Government Money Fund, which utilizes blockchain technology for transaction processing and ownership recording. This approach indicates a potential shift towards using tokenized assets in mergers and acquisitions, facilitating more direct settlements on blockchain platforms.
The deal is projected to finalize in the second quarter of 2026, pending necessary approvals and conditions. Financial details regarding the acquisition have not been disclosed.
Franklin Templeton is launching a dedicated cryptocurrency division, Franklin Crypto, to enhance its digital asset strategies. This initiative includes the acquisition of 250 Digital and aims to cater to institutional investors seeking active investment options in the cryptocurrency market.