In a survey of 4,000 wealthy mutual fund investors by US market researcher Cogent Research, Vanguard Group had a wide lead over its rivals in terms of investor loyalty. Survey participants were asked to rate firms they currently invest in. Areas covered included overall satisfaction, the likelihood of investing more with the firm and whether they were likely to recommend the fund family to others. They were also grouped into detractors, supporters and those who had no strong opinions either way. The group total was an average score of minus 12. The high was Vanguard's positive 44. Second was Dodge & Cox with a plus 29 score. Charles Schwab scored 26 and T Rowe Price 21. Researchers also asked investors questions to determine what was behind their actions. Chris Brown from Cogent said: "It's the consistency of fund performance that drives their loyalty. Fund companies can attract new customers with strong short-term records. But if they can't keep producing, it's evident that eventually they'll turn to a more reliable long-term performer.”