The new definition of unfair secret fundraiser on bitcointalk seems to be anything I didn't personally know about, or take the time to research, or take the risk to participate in.

Even if you hire marketing professionals, speak at bitcoin conferences, get mentioned in major publications, and post announcements everywhere.

Counterparty proof of burn just robbed the project and investors of development funds.  Imagine investing in a company by everyone getting together and awarding shares based on how much cash you throw in a bonfire, it makes just about that much economic sense.