Branch Manager & Commodity Broker

Meet Chris Swanstrom

Chris Swanstrom leads the Yankton, South Dakota branch of Midwest Market Solutions, where he works directly with producers to develop practical, results-driven marketing and risk management strategies. His approach centers on helping clients integrate cash sales, futures, options, and crop insurance decisions into a cohesive marketing plan designed to support long-term profitability and operational stability.

With a strong understanding of production agriculture and market dynamics, Chris takes a hands-on, producer-focused approach to risk management. He emphasizes clear communication, disciplined execution, and strategies that align with each producer’s unique goals, cost structure, and risk tolerance. Rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions, Chris focuses on building flexible plans that can adapt as markets, weather, and operational conditions change.

By combining local insight with broader market intelligence, Chris helps producers manage downside risk while remaining positioned to take advantage of market opportunities. His commitment to education, transparency, and consistent follow-through has made him a trusted resource for producers navigating today’s increasingly volatile agricultural markets.

Commodity Broker

Meet Doug Conti

Doug Conti is a licensed Commodity Broker and Market Analyst with Midwest Market Solutions, bringing decades of experience in livestock and grain marketing. Licensed since 1995, Doug began his career as a hog buyer, where he developed a strong, firsthand understanding of livestock markets and price dynamics.

Today, Doug specializes in building customized agricultural marketing and hedging strategies for producers, with a particular focus on cattle and hog markets. His background in production agriculture allows him to approach risk management from a practical, real-world perspective, helping farmers make informed decisions in volatile market conditions.

Known for his hands-on approach and straightforward communication, Doug works closely with producers to align marketing plans with their operations and risk tolerance. His deep industry knowledge and long-standing market experience make him a trusted resource for producers seeking disciplined, effective strategies in today’s fast-moving ag markets.



Commodity Broker

Meet Howard Kathol

Howard Kathol brings more than three decades of hands-on farming experience and a strong background in agricultural marketing to his role as a Commodity Broker with Midwest Market Solutions. A lifelong resident of Yankton, South Dakota, Howard graduated from Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon, Iowa, before beginning his farming career in 1990.

Today, Howard operates approximately 1,600 acres of corn, soybeans, and alfalfa in the Gayville area. His firsthand experience in production agriculture gives him a practical, producer-first perspective when working with clients. He understands the real-world challenges farmers face and focuses on building marketing strategies that help manage risk, protect margins, and support long-term farm sustainability.

Howard values strong relationships and clear communication, working closely with producers to align marketing decisions with their individual operations and goals. His deep ties to the local ag community and commitment to agriculture allow him to serve as both a trusted advisor and a knowledgeable resource in today’s volatile markets.

Commodity Broker

Meet Jeff Simonsen

Jeff Simonsen is a Broker and Market Analyst with Midwest Market Solutions, where he provides clients with clear, data-driven marketing strategies and disciplined trade execution. A native of Yankton, South Dakota, Jeff earned his Bachelor’s degree in Finance from University of South Dakota in 2002 after completing his studies at the Beacom School of Business.

With a strong financial background and deep understanding of agricultural and commodity markets, Jeff helps producers and investors navigate market volatility, identify opportunities, and manage risk through well-structured marketing plans. He is known for his analytical approach, clear communication, and ability to translate complex market data into practical, actionable insights.

Jeff has built long-standing relationships throughout the region by focusing on trust, consistency, and client-specific solutions. He works closely with clients to align market strategies with their individual goals, operations, and risk tolerance. Jeff and his wife reside in Yankton, South Dakota, where they are raising their two children and remain active in the local community.