Franklin Templeton and SBI Holdings Establish Joint Venture to Explore Digital Asset Opportunities in Japan

Franklin Templeton, a leading US asset manager, and Tokyo-based financial conglomerate SBI Holdings have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a joint venture in Japan aimed at exploring digital asset opportunities. This partnership combines Franklin Templeton’s expertise in tokenized money market funds and digital asset-backed exchange-traded funds (ETFs) with SBI’s extensive knowledge of Japan’s digital asset market and its robust distribution and integrated financial services capabilities. 

The joint venture will leverage Franklin Templeton’s successful track record in the US digital asset space and SBI’s strong brand presence and reach among younger investors in Japan. This collaboration is set to provide innovative investment solutions tailored to the needs of a new generation of investors. 

This agreement follows the recent landmark approval in the US for Ether ETFs, with Franklin Templeton among the authorized applicants. 

Jenny Johnson, president and CEO of Franklin Templeton, commented, “The extensive reach of SBI’s iconic brand among younger audiences in Japan aligns well with our commitment to help this new generation of investors achieve their goals through our future-focused investment solutions.” 

This partnership marks a significant step forward in the global expansion of digital asset investment opportunities and highlights the growing importance of collaborative ventures in the evolving financial landscape.