Franklin Templeton Launches Franklin Crypto Unit After CoinFund Spinoff Purchase

Global asset manager Franklin Templeton is set to deepen its digital asset presence by acquiring 250 Digital, a spinoff from crypto-native investment firm CoinFund. The acquisition will support the creation of a new division called Franklin Crypto, aimed at strengthening institutional crypto investment services once the deal is finalized.

The move follows CoinFund’s earlier decision to spin out its liquid strategies business into 250 Digital, allowing the firm to focus more closely on venture investments. The transaction includes the 250 Digital investment team along with all liquid cryptocurrency strategies previously operated by CoinFund. Franklin Templeton also plans to allocate capital into these strategies as part of the agreement.

Leadership Structure and Institutional Strategy

Christopher Perkins will lead Franklin Crypto, with Seth Ginns serving as chief investment officer alongside Tony Pecore, a veteran in Franklin Templeton’s digital assets operations. The structure reflects the firm’s continued focus on expanding investment offerings tailored to institutional clients.

The integration will also include BENJI tokens, which represent ownership shares in the Franklin OnChain US Government Money Fund (FOBXX), a tokenized money market fund introduced in 2021.

Market Timing and Industry Positioning

The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, subject to client approvals and standard closing requirements. Franklin Templeton’s digital asset division currently manages about $1.8 billion in assets and has been active in the crypto industry since 2018.

The expansion comes during a period of market weakness, with Bitcoin trading roughly 45% below its peak above $126,000 recorded in October 2025. According to company leadership, the recent downturn has created favorable conditions to attract talent and build long-term digital asset infrastructure.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.