Secret Societies: My Favorite Mechanism

About Secret Societies, from BoardGameGeek:

For centuries Earth's Secret Societies have waged a hidden war vying for control of the world's territories. But now, a final truce has been agreed: one auction will decide it all. Don't be fooled, this is no friendly peace. Each society will do everything in their power to sway the balance of the auction in their favour. Those who are successful will be able to harness the already existing industry of their countries for their own enrichment or set the citizens to work on their own nefarious projects! The time has come… Who will control the Earth when the final hammer falls? The aim of Secret Societies is to gain the most Power by outbidding and outsmarting your opponents to establish your institute as the one most deserving of total governance. Step into the role of a highly unique Secret Society, equipped with various tools and abilities to help give you the edge over the competition. Over 7 Rounds you will gain Income, Bid for Deeds, deploy Agents, start Projects, make Investments, and seek to control the all-important Conferences. Not all lands are created equal! It will be your task to utilise your unique skills and advantages to claim the Deeds that best suit your agenda. -description from the publisher