The downturn was supported by investors’ portfolio readjustment ahead of first quarter earnings results. Specifically, the All-Share Index declined by 221.98 points or 0.57 per cent to close at 39,045.13, compared with 39,267.11 posted on Tuesday. Also, the market capitalisation dropped by N116 billion, closing at N20.428 trillion, from N20.544 trillion. The market loss was driven by price depreciation in large and medium capitalised stocks, amongst which are MTN Nigeria Communications (MTNN), Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Glaxo Smithkline Consumer, Access Bank and Guaranty Trust Bank. Market sentiment remained negative with 24 stocks in contrast with 18 gainers. Daar Communications led the losers’ chart in percentage terms, losing 8.70 per cent to close at 21k per share.