Hello everyone,

A Societe Generale blog…what kind of idea is that? Here at Societe Generale, just like everywhere else, we want to express ourselves and let the people who really make up the Group have their say. Maybe this is your chance to see a different company behind the logo, the numbers, and all of the current news stories. Most important, this could be the chance to re-start the dialogue between those of us who work for the group every day and all of you, whoever you may be!

A blog is, of course, meaningless if it is devoid of sharing, discussions and debates. Let's be direct, avoid stonewalling, and talk about our group in a resolutely human way.  On this blog, we will talk about everything…but never about nothing. While we won't post regularly, we will post frequently, especially when the news or interest requires it.

We have chosen Dagmar Garroux to start off this blog. Ms. Garroux, who has dedicated her life to serving others in the favelas of Sao Paolo, is an example to us all. Like many other Group employees, I met her last week and was both moved and impressed. Since the creation of Casa de Zezinho, the charity which she runs, she has taken in more than 10,000 children who were abandoned in the streets to a life of drugs and violence. Only 20 of them have been unable to turn the page and find a new meaning for their lives…she says that it's 20 too many! What a life lesson! I am very proud that Societe Generale has supported her for so many years.