(NAFB.com) – Corn and soybean basis levels across much of the Midwest have been steady to slightly stronger since the start of 2026, though sharp regional differences persist, market analysts said. In many crop reporting districts from Iowa to Ohio, basis to March futures has held at or above historical averages, reflecting improved demand and tighter local supplies. However, Iowa remains a notable exception, with both corn and soybean basis levels still well below long-term norms despite modest recent gains. Corn basis in Indiana, Ohio and Michigan has climbed above the three-year average, with some areas posting unusually strong levels. In east-central Indiana, cash corn prices have even moved to a positive basis against March futures. Illinois basis levels are largely in line with recent history, generally ranging from 20 to 30 cents under futures, though a few localized outliers remain. In Iowa, corn basis has strengthened over the past month but continues to lag. In northwest Iowa, basis sits at 38 cents under March futures, among the weakest levels seen since the 2018-19 marketing year.