XCEC(SH:600777) Zhong Guo Jing Ying Bao·2025-08-04 03:32Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing trend of listed companies suing accounting firms over dissatisfaction with audit services, highlighting the structural weaknesses faced by accounting firms in their relationships with these companies [1][5]. Group 1: Frequency of Lawsuits - Since the beginning of 2024, at least six listed companies have filed lawsuits against accounting firms due to dissatisfaction with their audit services [1]. - *ST Xinchao has sued Lixin Accounting Firm for 3.501 million yuan, claiming negligence in their audit work [2]. - Other companies, including *ST Hengli and Gongzhi Tui, have also initiated legal actions against various accounting firms for similar reasons [4][6]. Group 2: Structural Weakness of Accounting Firms - Experts indicate that the lawsuits reflect a fundamental weakness in the position of accounting firms when dealing with listed companies, suggesting a need for reforms to enhance audit independence [1][5]. - The relationship between accounting firms and listed companies is characterized by a conflict of interest, where firms may feel pressured to compromise their independence due to their reliance on these companies for fees [7][8]. Group 3: Suggestions for Improvement - Experts propose several reforms to strengthen the independence of accounting firms, including trialing third-party payment for audit services and implementing mandatory rotation of accounting firms [9][10]. - The introduction of a three-dimensional system combining economic separation, functional isolation, and process control is suggested to enhance audit independence [11].