Accounting firm finds reforms hindering economic growth

A quarterly study from the accounting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers found that 73 percent of respondents believed legislative or regulatory reforms could hinder economic growth over the next 12 months. 

"Many companies are projecting positive growth throughout the year, however, increased concerns over legislative and regulatory pressures may inhibit the rate of growth in the short term," said Barry Misthal, a manufacturing analyst at the firm, in prepared remarks.

Concern over reforms trumped worries that a lack in demand could hurt growth. The survey found that only 63 percent of respondents believed declines in demand remain a chief barrier to an economic rebound.  

The survey was conducted between Jan. 13, 2010 and April 6, 2010, and tapped the opinions of 60 senior executives at large, U.S. multinational manufacturing companies. The accounting firm conducts this survey every quarter.