Lingering concern about the overall state of the economy has many CIOs forecasting a slowdown in IT spending in 2007, according to a new survey from analyst firm Merrill Lynch. The survey of 75 U.S. and 25 European CIOs reveals that users expect 5.2 percent spending growth in 2006 and 4.8 percent in 2007. American execs predict only 4.4 percent spending growth over the coming 12 months, compared to their more bullish international counterparts who expect 6.1 percent growth. American execs predict only 4.4 percent spending growth over the coming 12 months, compared to their more bullish international counterparts who expect 6.1 percent growth.