Franklin Templeton, a global investment manager, has partnered with DBS Bank to introduce Singapore’s first tokenised retail fund, the Franklin Onchain U.S. Dollar Short-Term Money Market Fund. Approved by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, the fund is available to DBS wealth clients and accredited investors, with retail access expected in early 2026. This initiative aims to democratise investment by allowing fractional ownership and lowering the minimum investment to US$20.
The fund leverages Franklin Templeton’s Benji Technology Platform, which integrates blockchain for real-time data, improved liquidity, and daily yield accrual. This technology ensures secure and transparent investment tracking, enhancing the fund’s appeal by offering high-quality, short-term U.S. dollar assets with the benefits of blockchain’s speed and efficiency.
The collaboration between Franklin Templeton and DBS Bank combines the bank’s digital infrastructure with Franklin Templeton’s expertise in tokenised assets. Tariq Ahmad, Head of APAC at Franklin Templeton, highlighted the growing interest in tokenised funds, stating, “We are excited to collaborate with DBS to bring this tokenised fund to the retail market.”
James Tan, Group Head of Investment Products & Advisory at DBS Bank, noted the transformative potential of tokenisation, saying, “By availing Singapore’s first tokenised retail fund to our customers, we are making it simpler and more convenient for them to start investing.”
This partnership marks a significant step in advancing financial inclusion and innovation in Singapore’s digital asset ecosystem, with Franklin Templeton continuing to integrate blockchain capabilities into traditional asset management.