Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB (Sony Ericsson) announced today that its net sales and net income before taxes in the first quarter of 2009 continue to be negatively affected by weak consumer demand as well as de-stocking in the retail and distribution channels.
As reported Ericsson is rumored to get out of the joint venture with Sony. If the results continue to be bad then Sony might be actually able to afford to buyout Ericsson.

Although final results may differ, Sony Ericsson plans to ship approximately 14 million phones during the first quarter of 2009 with an estimated ASP (average selling price) of EUR 120 (~$165).
Net income before taxes is estimated to be a loss in the range of EUR 340 – 390 million (~$461-$529), excluding restructuring charges in the range of EUR 10 – 20 million (~$13-$26).
Via this Sony Ericsson announcement.

Palm also reported a loss for its third-quarter. The difference to Sony Ericsson is that Palm has an upcoming hot smartphone with the Pre and Sony Ericsson has nothing.